The FN 509 Tactical (FN 509t) is a versatile, rugged, and reliable handgun. Whether you're a law enforcement officer, a military professional, or a civilian gun enthusiast, having the right light for your FN 509t can significantly enhance your shooting experience, especially in low-light conditions. In this article, I'll share my top picks for the best lights for the FN 509t, provide detailed reviews for each, and guide you through choosing the perfect light for your needs.
Top 6 Best Lights for FN 509t 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 X300 Ultra
Specifications
Beam Distance: 200 meters Dimensions: 3.6 x 1.4 x 1.4 inches Mount Type: Universal and Picatinny rail Best Features
High output of 1,000 lumens Durable aerospace aluminum construction TIR lens for a focused beam Pros
Extremely bright and effective in all lighting conditions Robust and reliable build quality Compatible with a wide range of holsters Cons
Shorter battery life compared to some competitors Experience
The SureFire X300 Ultra stands out for its intense brightness and rugged durability. When mounted on my FN 509t, it provided exceptional illumination, making target identification easy even in complete darkness. The ambidextrous switches allowed for effortless operation with either hand. Despite its higher price, the reliability and performance justify the investment for serious users.
Customer Comments
Online discussions highlight the X300 Ultra's superior build quality and brightness. Many users appreciate its compatibility with various holsters and the trusted brand reputation. However, some mention the battery life as a minor drawback.
2. Streamlight TLR-1 HL
Specifications
Beam Distance: 283 meters Dimensions: 3.4 x 1.5 x 1.4 inches Mount Type: Glock-style and Picatinny rail Best Features
High-intensity 1,000 lumens output Durable anodized aluminum construction Strobe mode for tactical use Pros
Excellent brightness and range Easy-to-use ambidextrous controls Affordable compared to similar high-end lights Cons
Slightly heavier than some competitors Strobe mode activation can be unintuitive Experience
The Streamlight TLR-1 HL offers impressive brightness and range, making it a reliable choice for tactical situations. Its rugged construction ensures it can withstand harsh conditions. When mounted on my FN 509t, the light provided clear visibility over long distances, and the ambidextrous controls were intuitive. The strobe mode adds versatility, though it took some practice to activate it quickly.
Customer Comments
Users often praise the TLR-1 HL for its brightness and durability. Many appreciate its value for money and robust design. Some users find the strobe mode a bit tricky to use but still recognize its utility in emergencies.
3. Olight PL-Pro Valkyrie
Specifications
Beam Distance: 280 meters Battery Type: Built-in rechargeable Dimensions: 3.27 x 1.42 x 1.3 inches Mount Type: Glock-style and Picatinny rail Best Features
Extremely high output of 1,500 lumens Built-in rechargeable battery Pros
Convenient rechargeable battery Lightweight and compact design Easy to mount and operate Cons
Rechargeable battery might not appeal to everyone Experience
The Olight PL-Pro Valkyrie is one of the brightest lights available for the FN 509t. Its 1,500 lumens output is outstanding, providing ample illumination for any scenario. The built-in rechargeable battery and magnetic USB charging are incredibly convenient, eliminating the need for spare batteries. The light's lightweight design ensures it doesn't add unnecessary bulk to the firearm. However, the slightly shorter runtime means you'll need to recharge it more frequently.
Customer Comments
Many users rave about the PL-Pro Valkyrie's brightness and the convenience of its rechargeable battery. It's often recommended for its performance and value. Some users mention the shorter runtime but appreciate the ease of recharging.
4. Inforce WILD1
Specifications
Beam Distance: 150 meters Dimensions: 2.43 x 1.17 x 1.07 inches Best Features
Compact and lightweight design High-impact polymer construction Easy-to-use activation switches Pros
Durable and impact-resistant Cons
Lower brightness compared to other lights Experience
The Inforce APLc is an excellent option for those seeking a compact and lightweight light for their FN 509t. Despite its lower lumen output, it provides adequate illumination for most indoor and close-quarter scenarios. The high-impact polymer construction ensures durability without adding significant weight. Its simple operation makes it user-friendly, though it may not be suitable for those needing a high-output light.
Customer Comments
Users appreciate the APLc for its compact size and ease of use. It's often recommended for everyday carry and home defense due to its lightweight design. Some users mention the lower brightness but find it sufficient for their needs.
5. Crimson Trace CMR-208
Specifications
Beam Distance: 110 meters Dimensions: 3.5 x 1.3 x 1.2 inches Mount Type: Universal and Picatinny rail Best Features
Dual output modes (high and low) Aerospace aluminum construction Easy-to-activate switches Integrated rail clamp system Pros
Simple mounting and operation Cons
Experience
The Crimson Trace CMR-208 offers a good balance of brightness and durability. Its dual output modes allow for versatility, catering to different lighting needs. When using it on my FN 509t, I found the light easy to mount and operate. The aerospace aluminum construction adds to its ruggedness, though the moderate brightness might not be ideal for all users.
Customer Comments
Many users highlight the CMR-208's versatility and ease of use. It's often recommended for those looking for a durable and reasonably bright light. Some users wish for longer battery life but find the light sufficient for most applications.