The Walther P99 is a highly regarded firearm known for its reliability, ergonomics, and advanced features. To fully maximize its potential, a high-quality weapon light is essential. After extensive research and hands-on testing, I have compiled a list of the best lights for the Walther P99.
Here, I will share my personal experiences with these lights, highlighting their specifications, features, pros, cons, and online customer feedback. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of which light best suits your Walther P99 and your specific needs.
Top 7 Best Lights for Walther P99 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. SureFire X300U-B
Specifications
Beam Distance: 213 meters Weight: 4.0 oz (with batteries) Dimensions: 3.6 x 1.4 x 1.3 inches Best Features
High Output: 1,000 lumens provide exceptional brightness and range. Durable Construction: Made from aerospace aluminum with a Mil-Spec hard anodized finish. Ambidextrous Switches: Easy to operate with either hand. Universal Fit: Compatible with a wide range of handguns and rail systems. Pros
Extreme Brightness: The 1,000-lumen output is incredibly bright, ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Robust Build Quality: SureFire’s reputation for durability is well-deserved with this model. Ease of Use: The ambidextrous switches are intuitive and responsive. Cons
Weight: Slightly heavier than some competitors, which might affect balance. Price: Higher cost compared to other options. Experience and Fit
When mounted on the Walther P99, the SureFire X300U-B offers an unparalleled illumination experience. The light is easy to attach and detach, and the ambidextrous switches are conveniently placed for quick activation. While the added weight is noticeable, it does not significantly disrupt the gun’s balance. The light’s high lumen output ensures that any dark environment is thoroughly illuminated, providing clear visibility and enhanced target acquisition.
Online Customer Comments
Many customers praise the SureFire X300U-B for its reliability and brightness. Common feedback includes appreciation for the light’s robust construction and longevity. Some users mention the higher price point but agree that the quality justifies the cost.
2. Streamlight TLR-1 HL
Specifications
Beam Distance: 245 meters Weight: 4.18 oz (with batteries) Dimensions: 3.39 x 1.47 x 1.44 inches Best Features
High Brightness: 800 lumens provide excellent visibility. Strobe Mode: Useful for disorienting threats. Durable Build: Machined aluminum housing with an anodized finish. User-Friendly Design: Quick-detach rail clamp system for easy attachment and removal. Pros
Powerful Illumination: Bright enough for most tactical situations. Sturdy Construction: Can withstand rough handling and harsh environments. Affordable Price: Great value for the features offered. Cons
Size: Slightly bulkier than some other options. Battery Life: Could be longer, especially at high output levels. Experience and Fit
The Streamlight TLR-1 HL is a solid choice for the Walther P99, providing a balance of brightness, durability, and value. The quick-detach system makes it easy to mount and remove, and the strobe mode is a useful feature for tactical scenarios. Although it is a bit bulkier, the overall performance and affordability make it a worthwhile investment.
Online Customer Comments
Users often highlight the Streamlight TLR-1 HL’s brightness and durability. Many reviews note its effectiveness in real-world scenarios, with some mentioning the slightly larger size as a minor drawback. Overall, the consensus is that it offers great performance for its price.
3. Olight PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie
Specifications
Beam Distance: 100 meters Dimensions: 2.07 x 1.26 x 1.28 inches Battery Type: Built-in rechargeable battery Best Features
Compact Design: Small and lightweight, perfect for concealed carry. Adjustable Rail: Fits a wide range of pistols. Rechargeable: Convenient built-in battery with magnetic charging. Pros
Compact and Lightweight: Minimal impact on the firearm’s handling. Rechargeable Battery: No need for disposable batteries. Affordable: Reasonably priced for the features offered. Cons
Lower Lumen Output: Not as bright as some other models. Battery Life: Limited to 1 hour of continuous use. Experience and Fit
The Olight PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie is an excellent choice for the Walther P99 if you prioritize a compact and lightweight design. The adjustable rail ensures a secure fit, and the magnetic charging system is incredibly convenient. While the 600-lumen output is not as high as some other options, it is sufficient for most self-defense situations, especially in close quarters.
Online Customer Comments
Customers frequently praise the Olight PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie for its compact size and ease of use. The rechargeable battery is a standout feature, although some users wish for longer battery life. Overall, it is well-received for its practicality and performance.
4. Inforce WILD1
Specifications
Dimensions: 2.43 x 1.17 x 1.06 inches Best Features
Compact Design: Specifically designed for compact pistols. Integrated Mounting System: Quick and secure attachment. Ergonomic Activation: Ambidextrous and easy to operate. Pros
Lightweight and Compact: Minimal impact on handling. Durable Construction: Made from glass-reinforced polymer. User-Friendly: Simple to attach and use. Cons
Lower Brightness: 200 lumens may be insufficient for some users. Battery Type: Uses CR2 batteries, which can be less common. Experience and Fit
The Inforce APLc is a great match for the Walther P99 if you need a light that is unobtrusive and easy to use. The 200-lumen output is adequate for most indoor situations, and the compact size ensures that it does not hinder the firearm’s handling. The integrated mounting system is a breeze to use, making this light a convenient addition to your P99.
Online Customer Comments
Feedback for the Inforce APLc often mentions its compact and lightweight design. Users appreciate its ease of use and the secure attachment mechanism. However, some express a desire for higher lumen output, especially for outdoor use.
5. Crimson Trace CMR-208
Specifications
Beam Distance: 110 meters Dimensions: 2.7 x 1.25 x 1.25 inches Best Features
Adjustable Rail: Fits a variety of firearms. Multiple Modes: High, low, and strobe modes. Instant Activation: Ambidextrous activation buttons for immediate use. Pros
Versatile Modes: Multiple settings for different situations. Adjustable Fit: Compatible with numerous rail systems. Durable Build: Rugged construction for reliable performance. Cons
Battery Life: Limited to 1 hour on high mode. Weight: Heavier than some other compact lights. Experience and Fit
The Crimson Trace CMR-208 is a versatile and durable option for the Walther P99. The multiple modes offer flexibility, and the adjustable rail ensures a secure fit. While the battery life is somewhat limited, the light’s performance and build quality make it a reliable choice for various scenarios.
Online Customer Comments
Users appreciate the Crimson Trace CMR-208 for its versatility and robust construction. The different modes are frequently highlighted as a valuable feature, though some users wish for longer battery life. Overall, it is well-regarded for its performance and reliability.
6. Viridian X5L Gen 3
Specifications
Output: 500 lumens (white light), 5mW (green laser) Beam Distance: 120 meters Dimensions: 2.84 x 1.45 x 1.4 inches Best Features
Dual Light and Laser: Combines a powerful white light with a green laser. Instant-On Technology: Activates instantly when drawn from a holster. Multiple Modes: Offers multiple light and laser modes. Pros
Dual Functionality: Combines light and laser for enhanced targeting. Instant Activation: Immediate response upon drawing the firearm. Durable: Built to withstand tough conditions. Cons
Complex Setup: Requires some setup and practice to master. Price: Higher cost due to dual functionality. Experience and Fit
The Viridian X5L Gen 3 is a feature-rich option for the Walther P99, providing both a powerful light and a green laser for enhanced targeting. The Instant-On technology is particularly impressive, ensuring that the light and laser activate as soon as you draw your firearm. While the setup can be complex, the benefits of dual functionality and immediate activation make it a top contender for tactical applications.
Online Customer Comments
Many users commend the Viridian X5L Gen 3 for its innovative features and dual functionality. The Instant-On technology receives high praise, though some users mention the need for practice to get accustomed to the setup. Overall, it is well-reviewed for its advanced capabilities.
7. Nightstick TWM-850XL
Specifications
Beam Distance: 245 meters Dimensions: 3.75 x 1.5 x 1.25 inches Best Features
High Lumen Output: 850 lumens for bright illumination. Strobe Function: Effective for disorienting threats. Durable Construction: Aircraft-grade aluminum body with a Type III hard anodized finish. Pros
Bright Illumination: High lumen output for excellent visibility. Robust Build: Designed to withstand rough use. Good Battery Life: Longer runtime compared to some competitors. Cons
Size and Weight: Slightly larger and heavier. Mounting System: Can be a bit tricky to install. Experience and Fit
The Nightstick TWM-850XL is an excellent choice for those who need a bright, durable light for their Walther P99. The high lumen output ensures that you have ample illumination, and the strobe function is useful for defensive situations. While the size and weight are noticeable, the overall performance and battery life make it a strong contender.
Online Customer Comments
Customers often highlight the Nightstick TWM-850XL’s brightness and durability. The longer battery life is appreciated, though some users find the mounting system a bit challenging. Overall, it is well-regarded for its performance and build quality.
How to Choose the Best Light for Your Walther P99
Choosing the best light for your Walther P99 involves considering several factors to ensure you get a light that meets your specific needs and preferences. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
1. Brightness (Lumens)
The lumen output determines how bright the light is. Higher lumens mean brighter light, which can be beneficial for target identification and disorienting threats. However, extremely high lumens can sometimes cause excessive glare in close quarters.
2. Beam Distance
Consider the beam distance, especially if you plan to use the light outdoors. A longer beam distance allows you to see further in low-light conditions.
3. Battery Life
Battery life is crucial, especially for tactical applications. Look for lights with longer battery life to avoid frequent recharging or battery replacement.
4. Size and Weight
The size and weight of the light can affect the handling and balance of your Walther P99. Compact and lightweight lights are ideal for concealed carry, while larger lights may offer more features but can be bulkier.
5. Mounting System
Ensure the light has a secure and easy-to-use mounting system compatible with your Walther P99. Quick-detach systems are convenient for rapid attachment and removal.
6. Durability
Durability is essential for a weapon light. Look for lights made from robust materials like aluminum or reinforced polymer and those with water and shock resistance.
7. Additional Features
Consider any additional features that may be useful, such as strobe modes, laser sights, or adjustable settings. These can enhance the light’s versatility and functionality.
FAQs
Q: Can I use any weapon light with my Walther P99?
A: No, not all weapon lights are compatible with the Walther P99. Ensure that the light you choose is designed to fit the rail system of your firearm.
Q: How do I install a weapon light on my Walther P99?
A: Most weapon lights come with mounting instructions specific to their design. Generally, you need to align the light with the rail, slide it into place, and secure it with the built-in locking mechanism.
Q: Is it necessary to have a strobe function on my weapon light?
A: While not essential, a strobe function can be useful for disorienting threats and signaling for help. It adds an extra layer of versatility to your weapon light.
Q: How do I maintain my weapon light?
A: Regularly check the batteries and replace them as needed. Clean the lens to ensure maximum brightness, and inspect the light for any damage or wear. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations.
Q: What is the benefit of a rechargeable weapon light?
A: Rechargeable weapon lights eliminate the need for disposable batteries, reducing long-term costs and ensuring you always have a fully charged light available.
Conclusion
Selecting the best light for your Walther P99 depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize brightness, compactness, or additional features like a laser sight, there is a suitable option available. The SureFire X300U-B stands out for its exceptional brightness and durability, while the Olight PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie offers a compact, rechargeable solution. Each light on this list has its strengths and is well-regarded by users. By considering the factors outlined in this guide and evaluating your requirements, you can find the perfect light to enhance your Walther P99's performance.