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Top 6 Best Lights for Glock 45 of 2024

When it comes to enhancing the performance of your Glock 45, a reliable tactical light is an essential accessory. Whether you're using it for self-defense, law enforcement, or recreational shooting, the right light can make all the difference.
In this comprehensive guide, I'll take you through the best lights for the Glock 45, detailing their specifications, features, pros, cons, and my personal experience with each. Plus, you'll find insights from online customer reviews to help you make an informed decision.

Top 6 Best Lights for Glock 45 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-1 HL

Streamlight-TLR-1-HL-IMG1.png
Specifications:
Lumens: 800
Battery Type: Two CR123A lithium batteries
Runtime: 1.25 hours
Material: Anodized aluminum
Mounting System: Rail grip clamp system
Weight: 4.18 ounces
Best Features:
High lumen output for excellent visibility
Durable, impact-resistant construction
Ambidextrous momentary/steady on-off switch
IPX7 waterproof rating
Pros:
Powerful illumination
Robust build quality
Easy to mount and remove
Versatile for various environments
Cons:
Slightly bulky for some users
Battery life could be better
Experience: Using the Streamlight TLR-1 HL on my Glock 45 has been a game-changer, especially in low-light scenarios. The 800-lumen output provides a clear and wide beam that illuminates the target area brilliantly. The durable construction gives me confidence that it can withstand rigorous use. The ambidextrous switch is intuitive and easy to operate, even in high-stress situations.
Why it Fits the Glock 45: The Glock 45 is a full-size pistol that can accommodate a larger light without affecting its balance or handling. The TLR-1 HL's robust build and high output complement the Glock 45's capabilities perfectly.
Customer Comments: Many users on forums and online reviews praise the TLR-1 HL for its brightness and durability. Some have noted that while it adds a bit of weight, the trade-off is worth it for the enhanced performance.

2. SureFire X300 Ultra

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Specifications:
Lumens: 1000
Battery Type: Two CR123A lithium batteries
Runtime: 1.25 hours
Material: Aerospace aluminum
Mounting System: Rail-lock system
Weight: 4 ounces
Best Features:
Extremely bright 1000-lumen output
High-strength aerospace aluminum body
TIR lens for focused beam
Weatherproof O-ring and gasket sealing
Pros:
Superior brightness
Lightweight yet durable
Excellent beam focus
Reliable in various weather conditions
Cons:
Expensive
Can be overly bright for indoor use
Experience: The SureFire X300 Ultra is a powerhouse of a light. When I first mounted it on my Glock 45, I was impressed by the sheer brightness and the quality of the beam. It's lightweight, which means it doesn't add much to the overall weight of the gun, maintaining good handling. The TIR lens provides a focused beam that is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
Why it Fits the Glock 45: The SureFire X300 Ultra's lightweight yet robust design is ideal for the Glock 45. It complements the pistol's performance without compromising on durability or functionality.
Customer Comments: Online reviews highlight the X300 Ultra's exceptional brightness and build quality. Some users mention the high price but agree that the performance justifies the cost.

3. Olight PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie

OLIGHT-PL-Mini-2-Valkyrie-IMG1.png
Specifications:
Lumens: 600
Battery Type: Built-in lithium polymer
Runtime: 1 hour
Material: Aluminum alloy
Mounting System: Adjustable rail mount
Weight: 2.57 ounces
Best Features:
Compact and lightweight design
Adjustable rail for perfect positioning
Magnetic USB charging
Quick attach/detach mechanism
Pros:
Compact size
Easy to charge
Adjustable mounting position
Affordable
Cons:
Shorter battery life
Less powerful than some competitors
Experience: The Olight PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie is incredibly compact, making it a great choice for those who prefer a smaller light. The adjustable rail system is fantastic for finding the perfect fit on the Glock 45. Charging is a breeze with the magnetic USB system, eliminating the need to remove the battery. While it's not the brightest light on the market, its compactness and ease of use make it a favorite for everyday carry.
Why it Fits the Glock 45: The Glock 45 benefits from the PL-Mini 2's compact design, as it keeps the setup lightweight and maneuverable, which is ideal for quick draws and close-quarters situations.
Customer Comments: Customers appreciate the PL-Mini 2's compact size and adjustable rail system. However, some have noted that the battery life is relatively short, requiring frequent recharging.

4. Inforce WILD1

Inforce-WILD1-IMG1.png
Specifications:
Lumens: 200
Battery Type: One CR2 lithium battery
Runtime: 1.5 hours
Material: Fiber-reinforced polymer
Mounting System: Rail mount
Weight: 1.87 ounces
Best Features:
Ultra-lightweight construction
Simple and intuitive switch operation
Low-profile design
Water-resistant
Pros:
Extremely lightweight
Easy to use
Durable polymer body
Good battery life
Cons:
Lower lumen output
Not ideal for long-range illumination
Experience: The Inforce APLc is a no-frills, lightweight light that excels in close-quarters situations. Its polymer construction ensures that it adds minimal weight to the Glock 45. The 200-lumen output is sufficient for most indoor applications, and the simple switch operation is intuitive and reliable.
Why it Fits the Glock 45: The APLc's lightweight and low-profile design make it a suitable match for the Glock 45, ensuring that the pistol remains easy to handle and quick to deploy.
Customer Comments: Many users praise the APLc for its lightweight design and ease of use. However, some wish for a higher lumen output for better long-range visibility.

5. Viridian C5L

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Specifications:
Lumens: 100 (white light), 5mW (green laser)
Battery Type: One CR2 lithium battery
Runtime: 4 hours (laser), 1 hour (light)
Material: Aircraft-grade aluminum
Mounting System: Rail mount
Weight: 2.34 ounces
Best Features:
Combination of white light and green laser
Compact and lightweight
Instant-On activation
Multiple operating modes
Pros:
Dual light/laser functionality
Instant-On feature
Lightweight and compact
Long battery life for laser
Cons:
Lower lumen output for light
More complex operation
Experience: The Viridian C5L is a versatile tool, combining a white light and a green laser in one compact package. The Instant-On feature is particularly useful for quick deployment. While the 100-lumen light isn't the brightest, the addition of the laser makes it a great choice for precise targeting. The various operating modes add to its versatility, though they require a bit of getting used to.
Why it Fits the Glock 45: The Glock 45 benefits from the C5L's dual functionality, providing both illumination and laser targeting in a compact form factor.
Customer Comments: Users generally appreciate the C5L's combination of light and laser, with many highlighting the Instant-On feature as a standout. Some, however, find the light output to be on the lower side.

6. Nightstick TWM-850XL

Nightstick-TWM-850XL-IMG1.png
Specifications:
Lumens: 850
Battery Type: Two CR123A lithium batteries
Runtime: 1.75 hours
Material: Aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum
Mounting System: Rail mount
Weight: 5.4 ounces
Best Features:
High lumen output
Durable construction
Dual-function momentary/constant-on switch
IPX7 waterproof rating
Pros:
Bright illumination
Rugged build
Easy to operate
Long battery life
Cons:
Heavier than some competitors
Bulky design
Experience: The Nightstick TWM-850XL offers excellent brightness and durability. It's heavier and bulkier than some other options, but the trade-off is worth it for the 850-lumen output. The dual-function switch is easy to operate, and the light has held up well in various weather conditions, thanks to its waterproof rating.
Why it Fits the Glock 45: The TWM-850XL's robust build and high output are ideal for the Glock 45, providing reliable illumination in a durable package.
Customer Comments: Reviews for the TWM-850XL often highlight its brightness and sturdy construction. Some users mention its bulk as a minor drawback, but overall, it receives high marks for performance.

How to Choose the Best Light for Your Glock 45

When selecting a light for your Glock 45, consider the following factors:
Brightness (Lumens): Higher lumens provide better illumination but can also affect battery life. Consider your typical use case (indoor vs. outdoor, close-range vs. long-range).
Battery Type and Runtime: Look for lights with reliable battery life that suits your usage. Rechargeable options can be convenient, but replaceable batteries may offer longer overall life.
Mounting System: Ensure the light is easy to mount and remove. Compatibility with your Glock 45's rail system is crucial.
Durability: Lights should be constructed from high-quality materials like aluminum or polymer. Weatherproofing can also be important if you plan to use the light in various conditions.
Size and Weight: Consider the light's impact on your pistol's balance and handling. A more compact, lightweight option might be preferable for everyday carry, while a larger light might be better for tactical use.
Additional Features: Features like strobe mode, laser integration, and momentary/constant-on switches can enhance the light's functionality.

FAQs

Q: How many lumens do I need for my Glock 45? A: It depends on your use case. For indoor use, 200-600 lumens are typically sufficient. For outdoor or tactical use, 600-1000 lumens or more may be preferable.
Q: Can I use rechargeable batteries in my weapon light? A: Many lights offer rechargeable batteries, providing convenience and long-term cost savings. However, ensure the light's runtime meets your needs.
Q: Are combination light/laser units worth it? A: Combination units can offer added versatility, particularly for quick target acquisition. However, they may be more complex to operate and might come at a higher cost.
Q: How important is waterproofing for a weapon light? A: Waterproofing can be crucial if you plan to use your Glock 45 in various weather conditions. Look for lights with at least an IPX7 rating for reliable performance.
Q: Is a higher lumen output always better? A: Not necessarily. While higher lumens provide more brightness, they can also cause more glare and reduce battery life. Consider the balance between brightness and practicality for your needs.

Conclusion

Selecting the best light for your Glock 45 involves balancing brightness, durability, and ease of use. Whether you choose the robust Streamlight TLR-1 HL, the versatile SureFire X300 Ultra, or the compact Olight PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie, each of these top picks offers unique advantages tailored to different needs. Consider your specific requirements and preferences to find the perfect light that enhances your Glock 45's performance and usability.
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