When it comes to enhancing your shooting experience with the Benelli SBE2, equipping your shotgun with the right light can make a world of difference. Whether you're hunting in low-light conditions or needing better visibility for home defense, a good tactical light is essential.
In this article, I will guide you through some of the best lights for the Benelli SBE2, providing detailed reviews of more than five top products. We'll cover specifications, best features, pros and cons, personal experiences, and online customer comments. By the end, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed choice.
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 DSF-870
Specifications:
Lumens: 600
Runtime: 1.5 hours
Battery Type: 123A lithium (2 included)
Weight: 18.2 ounces
Material: Aerospace aluminum
Best Features:
The SureFire DSF-870 offers a powerful 600-lumen output, providing bright and consistent illumination. Its dual-switch system allows for easy activation, either via a momentary-on feature or a constant-on mode. The light is constructed from durable aerospace aluminum, ensuring resilience in harsh conditions.
Pros:
High lumen output
Dual-switch system
Durable construction
Easy installation
Integrated pressure pad
Cons:
Relatively short runtime
Higher price point
Experience:
Using the SureFire DSF-870 on my Benelli SBE2 has significantly improved my shooting accuracy in low-light conditions. The bright beam covers a wide area, making it easier to identify targets. The dual-switch system is intuitive and allows for quick adjustments based on the situation. Although the runtime is shorter compared to some competitors, the reliability and performance make it a worthwhile investment.
Online Customer Comments:
Many users praise the SureFire DSF-870 for its brightness and durability. One user commented, "This light has never let me down in the field. It's bright, sturdy, and easy to use." However, some noted the high price and short battery life as minor drawbacks.
The Streamlight TLR-1 HL is known for its impressive 1000-lumen output, which ensures excellent visibility in any lighting condition. The light features a rail grip clamp system, allowing for easy attachment and detachment without tools. Its IPX7 waterproof rating guarantees reliable performance even in wet conditions.
Pros:
Extremely bright
Easy installation
Lightweight
Waterproof
Affordable price
Cons:
Shorter runtime
Mounting can loosen over time
Experience:
The Streamlight TLR-1 HL has been a game-changer for my nighttime hunting trips. The 1000 lumens provide exceptional brightness, illuminating even the darkest environments. The light is lightweight, ensuring it doesn't add significant weight to my Benelli SBE2. While the mounting can sometimes loosen, a quick check before each outing ensures it's secure.
Online Customer Comments:
Customers frequently highlight the TLR-1 HL's brightness and ease of use. One review stated, "This light is incredibly bright and mounts securely. It's perfect for my shotgun." Some users have mentioned needing to re-tighten the mount periodically, but this minor inconvenience is often overshadowed by the light's performance.
The Inforce WMLx White Gen 2 offers an excellent balance of brightness and battery life, with an 800-lumen output and a 2-hour runtime. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to handle, and the ambidextrous activation switch is user-friendly. The light is constructed from a durable fiber composite, ensuring longevity.
Pros:
Balanced brightness and runtime
Lightweight
Ambidextrous switch
Durable construction
Cons:
Limited to white light only
Mounting system can be finicky
Experience:
The Inforce WMLx White Gen 2 has proven to be a reliable addition to my Benelli SBE2. The 800 lumens are more than sufficient for most situations, and the 2-hour runtime is adequate for extended use. The ambidextrous switch is particularly convenient, allowing for easy operation regardless of hand preference. While the mounting system took some getting used to, once properly secured, it has remained stable.
Online Customer Comments:
Users appreciate the Inforce WMLx White Gen 2's light weight and ease of use. One customer mentioned, "This light is perfect for my shotgun. It's bright, easy to use, and lightweight." Some users have had issues with the mounting system, but most agree that the performance outweighs this minor inconvenience.
The Elzetta ZSM Shotgun Flashlight Mount Kit offers a versatile and durable mounting solution for a variety of flashlights. It fits most 12-gauge shotguns and is made from high-quality polymer and stainless steel. The mount is designed for easy installation and allows for secure attachment of your preferred flashlight.
Pros:
Versatile compatibility
Durable materials
Easy to install
Lightweight
Secure fit
Cons:
Requires separate flashlight purchase
Not as sleek as integrated options
Experience:
The Elzetta ZSM Mount Kit has allowed me to customize my Benelli SBE2 with the flashlight of my choice. The mount is straightforward to install and provides a secure fit for various flashlights. While it's not as sleek as integrated light options, the versatility and durability make it an excellent choice for those who prefer to choose their own flashlight.
Online Customer Comments:
Customers often highlight the versatility and durability of the Elzetta ZSM Mount Kit. One review noted, "This mount is rock solid and fits a variety of lights perfectly." Some users mention the added step of purchasing a separate flashlight, but most appreciate the customization options this allows.
The Olight Baldr Pro is a powerful light and laser combo, boasting a 1350-lumen output. It features a green laser for improved targeting accuracy and a robust aluminum alloy construction. The quick-release mount ensures easy attachment and detachment, while the light is both water-resistant and impact-resistant.
Pros:
High lumen output
Green laser for accuracy
Durable construction
Quick-release mount
Water and impact resistant
Cons:
Shorter battery life
Heavier than some competitors
Experience:
The Olight Baldr Pro has exceeded my expectations in terms of brightness and accuracy. The 1350 lumens provide exceptional illumination, and the green laser significantly enhances targeting precision. The quick-release mount is convenient for rapid attachment and detachment. While the battery life is shorter, the overall performance and features make it an excellent choice for my Benelli SBE2.
Online Customer Comments:
Users frequently commend the Olight Baldr Pro for its brightness and laser accuracy. One reviewer stated, "The combination of light and laser is unbeatable. It’s bright, durable, and the laser is spot on." Some users noted the shorter battery life, but the light's capabilities generally outweigh this downside.
When selecting the best light for your Benelli SBE2, several factors should be considered:
Brightness (Lumens): The lumen rating indicates the light's brightness. Higher lumens provide better visibility but may reduce battery life.
Battery Life: Consider the runtime of the light. Longer battery life is crucial for extended use, especially during hunting trips.
Durability: Look for lights made from durable materials like aluminum or high-quality polymer. Waterproof and impact-resistant features are also important.
Ease of Installation: Choose a light that can be easily mounted and detached from your shotgun. Quick-release mounts and user-friendly designs are beneficial.
Weight: A lightweight light won't significantly affect the handling of your shotgun.
Additional Features: Some lights offer additional features like laser targeting. Consider these based on your specific needs.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use any flashlight with the Benelli SBE2?
Not all flashlights are compatible with shotguns. Ensure the flashlight is designed for tactical use and can be securely mounted on the Benelli SBE2.
Q2: How do I mount a flashlight on the Benelli SBE2?
Most tactical lights come with specific mounting systems. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for secure attachment. Some lights may require additional mounting kits.
Q3: Are there specific lights recommended for hunting with the Benelli SBE2?
Lights with higher lumens and longer battery life are recommended for hunting. Features like green or red lasers can also enhance targeting accuracy in low-light conditions.
Q4: How do I maintain my shotgun light?
Regularly check the light for secure attachment and clean it as needed. Replace batteries as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure optimal performance.
Q5: What should I consider regarding battery type?
Consider the availability and cost of replacement batteries. Rechargeable options can be more cost-effective in the long run.
Conclusion
Choosing the best light for your Benelli SBE2 depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize brightness, battery life, or additional features like lasers, there are several excellent options available. From the robust SureFire DSF-870 to the versatile Elzetta ZSM Mount Kit, each product offers unique benefits. By considering the factors outlined in this guide and reviewing customer comments, you can make an informed decision that enhances your shooting experience.