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Top 6 Best Lights for Glock 42 of 2024

The Glock 42 is a compact and reliable handgun, making it a popular choice for concealed carry. To maximize its utility, adding a weapon light is an excellent decision, especially for low-light scenarios. Having tested and researched various options, I've compiled a list of the best lights for the Glock 42, offering a blend of reliability, performance, and value. Here's a detailed look at the top products on the market, along with personal insights, pros and cons, and customer feedback.

Top 6 Best Lights for Glock 42 on the Market

Note: The following advice comes from my personal perspective. What works for me might not work for you, but hopefully it sparks some ideas!

1. Streamlight TLR-6

Streamlight-TLR-6-IMG1.png
Specifications:
Lumens: 100
Battery Life: 1 hour
Weight: 1.27 oz
Dimensions: 2.2 x 2.02 x 1.12 inches
Battery Type: CR1/3N lithium batteries
Best Features:
Compact and lightweight design
Integrated red aiming laser
Ambidextrous operation
Tool-free battery replacement
Pros:
Easy to install and use
Enhances target acquisition with the laser
Fits the Glock 42 perfectly
Durable and reliable performance
Cons:
Battery life could be longer
Laser adjustment can be tricky
Personal Experience: The Streamlight TLR-6 is a standout for the Glock 42 due to its compact size and the inclusion of a laser. Installing it was a breeze, and the ambidextrous operation made it user-friendly. The light provided sufficient illumination for indoor use, and the laser significantly improved my target acquisition speed. However, I found the battery life to be a bit short for extended use, and adjusting the laser required some patience.
Customer Comments:
"Perfect fit for my Glock 42. The light is bright enough for home defense."
"Laser makes target acquisition faster, but I wish the battery lasted longer."

2. Crimson Trace LL-810

Crimson-LL-810-IMG1.png
Specifications:
Lumens: 110
Battery Life: 2 hours
Weight: 1.2 oz
Dimensions: 2.4 x 1.8 x 1.0 inches
Battery Type: One CR2 lithium battery
Best Features:
High visibility red laser
Instinctive activation
Integrated holster included
User-adjustable windage and elevation
Pros:
Immediate activation upon grip
Long battery life
Comes with a custom holster
Highly visible laser
Cons:
Slightly bulkier than some competitors
Laser adjustment can be finicky
Personal Experience: The Crimson Trace LL-810 impressed me with its instinctive activation feature, which turns on the laser as soon as you grip the gun. This feature is particularly useful in high-stress situations. The light was bright and effective, and the laser was easy to see even in daylight. The included holster was a nice bonus, ensuring a perfect fit. However, the bulkier design might not appeal to everyone, and adjusting the laser was a bit challenging.
Customer Comments:
"Love the grip activation. It's very intuitive."
"The holster fits great, but the laser adjustment took some time."

3. Olight PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie

OLIGHT-PL-Mini-2-Valkyrie-IMG1.png
Specifications:
Lumens: 600
Battery Life: 1 hour
Weight: 2.57 oz
Dimensions: 2.07 x 1.26 x 1.28 inches
Battery Type: Built-in rechargeable battery
Best Features:
High lumen output
Adjustable rail mount
Magnetic USB charging
Quick-release design
Pros:
Extremely bright light
Convenient recharging method
Adjustable mount fits various firearms
Easy to attach and detach
Cons:
Heavier than other options
Shorter battery life due to high output
Personal Experience: The Olight PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie is one of the brightest lights I've tested for the Glock 42. The 600-lumen output was impressive, providing excellent illumination in dark environments. The magnetic USB charging was incredibly convenient, eliminating the need for battery changes. The adjustable rail mount allowed for a perfect fit on my Glock 42, and the quick-release design made it easy to remove when needed. The only downside was its heavier weight and shorter battery life, but these are trade-offs for such high performance.
Customer Comments:
"The light is super bright, and I love the magnetic charger."
"A bit heavier than I expected, but the brightness is worth it."

4. Viridian Reactor R5-R

Viridian Reactor R5-R IMG1.png
Specifications:
Laser: Red
Battery Life: 6+ hours (constant), 12+ hours (pulse)
Weight: 0.78 oz
Dimensions: 1.87 x 1.11 x 0.83 inches
Battery Type: 1/3N lithium battery
Best Features:
Long battery life
Compact and lightweight
Instant-on activation with ECR holster
Windage and elevation adjustments
Pros:
Excellent battery life
Lightweight and compact design
Instant-on feature with the included holster
Easy to adjust laser
Cons:
No light, only laser
Requires specific holster for instant-on
Personal Experience: The Viridian Reactor R5-R stands out for its long battery life and compact design. The laser was bright and easy to adjust, and the instant-on feature with the included holster was very convenient. However, this product only includes a laser, not a light, which may be a drawback for those looking for illumination as well. Despite this, the lightweight design made it a great addition to my Glock 42.
Customer Comments:
"Great laser, very compact. The instant-on feature is fantastic."
"Wish it had a light, but the laser works perfectly."

5. SureFire XC1-B

Surefire-XC1-B-IMG1.png
Specifications:
Lumens: 300
Battery Life: 45 minutes
Weight: 1.6 oz
Dimensions: 2.375 x 1.125 x 1.0 inches
Battery Type: AAA NiMH rechargeable battery or AAA lithium battery
Best Features:
High output in a small package
Ambidextrous switching
Durable aluminum construction
IPX7 waterproof
Pros:
Bright light in a compact size
Durable and rugged build
Waterproof and weather-resistant
Easy to operate
Cons:
Shorter battery life
Slightly higher price point
Personal Experience: The SureFire XC1-B is a top-notch light with a bright 300-lumen output in a very compact design. The aluminum construction felt sturdy and durable, and the waterproof rating provided peace of mind for all-weather use. The ambidextrous switching was smooth, and the light was easy to operate. The main drawback was the shorter battery life, but the overall performance made up for it. It's a bit pricier, but you get what you pay for in terms of quality.
Customer Comments:
"Super bright and compact. Worth the investment."
"Battery life could be better, but it's incredibly durable."

6. Inforce WILD1

Inforce-WILD1-IMG1.png
Specifications:
Lumens: 200
Battery Life: 1.5 hours
Weight: 2.0 oz
Dimensions: 2.43 x 1.23 x 1.0 inches
Battery Type: CR2 lithium battery
Best Features:
Integrated rail mount
Ambidextrous activation
Glass-reinforced polymer body
Tight beam for precise targeting
Pros:
Lightweight and durable
Easy to mount and use
Good battery life
Precise beam
Cons:
Polymer body may not appeal to all
Not the brightest light
Personal Experience: The Inforce APLc offers a balanced performance with a 200-lumen output and good battery life. The lightweight, glass-reinforced polymer body felt robust, though some might prefer a metal construction. The ambidextrous activation was smooth, and the tight beam was perfect for precise targeting. While not the brightest light, it offered a good blend of performance and durability, making it a solid choice for the Glock 42.
Customer Comments:
"Lightweight and easy to use. The beam is very precise."
"Would prefer a metal body, but it's very durable."

How to Choose the Best Light for Your Glock 42

When selecting the best light for your Glock 42, consider the following factors:
Brightness (Lumens): Higher lumens mean a brighter light, but also consider the beam pattern and focus.
Battery Life: A longer battery life ensures the light lasts through extended use without frequent replacements.
Size and Weight: The light should be compact and lightweight to maintain the Glock 42's balance and ease of use.
Durability: Look for lights with robust construction, such as aluminum or reinforced polymer, and weather resistance.
Ease of Use: Features like ambidextrous controls, quick-release mounts, and intuitive operation can enhance usability.
Additional Features: Integrated lasers, adjustable mounts, and recharging options can add value and functionality.

FAQs

1. Can I use a light designed for other Glock models on my Glock 42?
Yes, many lights are designed to fit various Glock models. Ensure the light is compatible with the dimensions and rail system of the Glock 42.
2. How important is the laser feature in a weapon light?
A laser can significantly enhance target acquisition speed, especially in low-light conditions. However, it's a matter of personal preference and intended use.
3. What is the ideal lumen range for a Glock 42 light?
A range of 100 to 600 lumens is generally sufficient for most purposes, balancing brightness and battery life.
4. How do I maintain and clean my weapon light?
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance. Regularly check and replace batteries, clean the lens, and ensure all adjustments are secure.
5. Are rechargeable batteries better than disposable ones for weapon lights?
Rechargeable batteries can be more convenient and cost-effective in the long run. However, disposable batteries may offer longer shelf life and are readily available in emergencies.

Conclusion

Choosing the best light for your Glock 42 can enhance its performance and your overall shooting experience. Whether you prioritize brightness, battery life, or additional features like lasers, there's a perfect option out there for you. From the compact and versatile Streamlight TLR-6 to the high-performance Olight PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie, each of these lights offers unique advantages. Consider your specific needs and preferences to find the ideal light for your Glock 42, ensuring you’re prepared for any situation.
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