The Benelli SBE3 is renowned for its reliability, precision, and versatility in various shooting conditions. To maximize its potential, equipping it with the right light can make a significant difference, especially in low-light or nighttime shooting scenarios.
Whether you are a seasoned hunter or a tactical enthusiast, choosing the best light for your Benelli SBE3 is essential. In this article, I’ll review several top-notch options, delve into their specifications, features, pros, cons, and user experiences to help you make an informed decision.
Top 6 Best Lights for Benelli SBE3 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:
Material: Aerospace aluminum Best Features:
High output LED providing 1,000 lumens. TIR lens for a far-reaching beam. Ambidextrous switch for easy operation. Quick-detach rail clamp system. Pros:
Excellent beam distance and peripheral illumination. Reliable and consistent performance. Easy to mount and dismount. Cons:
Slightly heavier than some other options. Experience When Using the Product: Using the SureFire X300 Ultra on my Benelli SBE3 was a game-changer during nighttime hunts. The powerful 1,000-lumen beam illuminated vast areas, making it easier to spot and track targets. The TIR lens did an excellent job of focusing the light, ensuring a clear view of the surroundings. Its durability and water resistance meant it could handle the rugged outdoor conditions without any issues.
Why It Fits the Gun: The SureFire X300 Ultra's robust build and high performance make it an ideal match for the Benelli SBE3. The quick-detach system ensures the light can be swiftly mounted or removed, catering to various shooting scenarios.
Online Customer Comments: Many users praise the SureFire X300 Ultra for its reliability and brightness. One user mentioned, "This light is incredibly bright and durable. Perfect for my Benelli SBE3 during late-night hunts."
2. Streamlight TLR-1 HL
Specifications:
Material: Anodized aluminum Best Features:
High-intensity beam with a peak output of 800 lumens. Rail clamp system for easy attachment and detachment. Ambidextrous on/off switch. Strobe mode for tactical situations. Pros:
Good balance of brightness and runtime. Strobe feature adds versatility. Cons:
Some users find the strobe feature unnecessary. Experience When Using the Product: The Streamlight TLR-1 HL provided excellent illumination during my shooting sessions. The 800-lumen beam was powerful enough to cover a wide area, and the strobe mode was particularly useful for disorienting game or potential threats. The light's ambidextrous switch made it easy to operate, regardless of the shooting hand used.
Why It Fits the Gun: The Streamlight TLR-1 HL’s sturdy construction and versatile features make it a great fit for the Benelli SBE3. Its quick attachment system ensures it can be easily mounted on the gun’s rail, making it ideal for rapid deployment.
Online Customer Comments: Many customers appreciate the balance of brightness and durability. One review highlighted, "The TLR-1 HL is a solid choice for any shotgun. It’s bright, reliable, and fits perfectly on my Benelli SBE3."
3. Olight Baldr Pro
Specifications:
Best Features:
High output of 1,350 lumens. Integrated green laser for improved targeting. Quick-release mounting system. Adjustable windage and elevation. Pros:
Integrated laser adds targeting precision. Easy to mount and adjust. Cons:
Green laser may be overkill for some users. Slightly heavier than competitors. Experience When Using the Product: The Olight Baldr Pro was impressive with its high lumen output and the added benefit of an integrated green laser. During nighttime shooting, the 1,350-lumen beam was more than sufficient to illuminate targets, and the laser helped in quickly acquiring targets. The light was easy to mount and stayed secure throughout my shooting sessions.
Why It Fits the Gun: The Olight Baldr Pro’s powerful light and additional laser targeting make it a versatile tool for the Benelli SBE3. This combination ensures quick target acquisition and effective illumination, enhancing overall shooting performance.
Online Customer Comments: Users frequently mention the light’s brightness and the utility of the green laser. One user commented, "The Baldr Pro is a fantastic light and laser combo. It’s made my SBE3 even more effective in low light."
4. Inforce WMLx
Specifications:
Material: Fiber composite Best Features:
Ergonomic design for easy activation. Safety lever prevents accidental activation. Pros:
Easy to activate with a natural grip. Cons:
Slightly lower lumen output compared to others. Experience When Using the Product: The Inforce WMLx Gen 2 was incredibly user-friendly, thanks to its ergonomic design. The 800-lumen output was sufficient for most of my shooting needs, and the light’s compactness ensured it didn’t add unnecessary bulk to my Benelli SBE3. The safety lever was a thoughtful addition, preventing any accidental activation.
Why It Fits the Gun: The Inforce WMLx Gen 2’s lightweight and ergonomic design make it an excellent match for the Benelli SBE3. Its easy activation and secure attachment ensure it is both practical and reliable in various shooting scenarios.
Online Customer Comments: Customers often highlight the light’s ergonomic design and ease of use. One reviewer noted, "The WMLx Gen 2 is perfect for my SBE3. It’s light, bright, and very easy to use."
5. Feyachi FL11-MB
Specifications:
Battery Type: 1x 18650 rechargeable or 2x CR123A Best Features:
High brightness of 1,200 lumens. Dual mounting system (Picatinny and M-LOK). Rechargeable battery option. Remote pressure switch included. Pros:
Versatile mounting options. Cons:
Heavier compared to other lights. Lower water resistance rating. Experience When Using the Product: The Feyachi FL11-MB stood out for its brightness and versatility. The 1,200-lumen output was excellent for illuminating large areas, and the dual mounting system was convenient. I appreciated the option to use a rechargeable battery, which provided a longer runtime during extended shooting sessions.
Why It Fits the Gun: The Feyachi FL11-MB’s high brightness and versatile mounting options make it a suitable companion for the Benelli SBE3. Its affordability and performance balance are particularly appealing for shooters looking for a cost-effective yet powerful light.
Online Customer Comments: Users frequently praise the light’s brightness and value. One comment stated, "For the price, the FL11-MB is unbeatable. It works great on my Benelli SBE3 and has a fantastic battery life."
6. Crimson Trace Rail Master Universal
Specifications:
Best Features:
Compact and lightweight design. Universal fit for most rails. Easy to install and remove. Pros:
Easy to mount and operate. Universal rail compatibility. Durable polymer construction. Cons:
Lower lumen output compared to other options. Experience When Using the Product: The Crimson Trace Rail Master was a breeze to install on my Benelli SBE3. Despite its lower 100-lumen output, it provided sufficient illumination for close-range shooting and home defense scenarios. Its compact design ensured it didn’t add any noticeable weight to my setup.
Why It Fits the Gun: The Crimson Trace Rail Master’s lightweight and easy-to-use design make it a practical choice for the Benelli SBE3. It’s perfect for those who need a basic, reliable light without the extra bulk or advanced features.
Online Customer Comments: Customers appreciate its simplicity and light weight. One user remarked, "The Rail Master is perfect for what I need. It’s small, easy to use, and fits my SBE3 perfectly."
How to Choose the Best Light for Your Benelli SBE3
When selecting the best light for your Benelli SBE3, consider the following factors:
Brightness: Ensure the light has sufficient lumens to illuminate your target area. Higher lumens are better for longer distances. Battery Life: Opt for a light with a good runtime to avoid frequent battery changes, especially during extended use. Durability: Choose lights made from robust materials like aluminum or high-quality polymers. Water resistance is also important for outdoor use. Mounting System: Ensure the light can be easily mounted and dismounted from the SBE3. Quick-detach systems are particularly useful. Weight: Lighter lights are preferable as they won’t significantly alter the balance of your gun. Additional Features: Consider features like strobe mode, laser integration, and adjustable settings based on your specific needs. FAQs
Q: How many lumens do I need for a shotgun light? A: Typically, 800-1,200 lumens are sufficient for most applications. However, higher lumens provide better illumination at longer distances.
Q: Can I use a rechargeable battery for my shotgun light? A: Yes, many lights support rechargeable batteries, offering longer runtimes and cost savings over time.
Q: What type of mounting system is best for the Benelli SBE3? A: A quick-detach rail clamp system is highly recommended for its ease of use and secure attachment.
Q: Are laser-integrated lights worth it? A: Laser-integrated lights can enhance targeting accuracy, making them useful for tactical situations and hunting.
Q: How important is water resistance for a shotgun light? A: Water resistance is crucial, especially if you plan to use the light in wet or harsh outdoor conditions.
Conclusion
Choosing the best light for your Benelli SBE3 depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize brightness, durability, or additional features, there’s a suitable option available. The SureFire X300 Ultra stands out for its robust performance, while the Streamlight TLR-1 HL and Olight Baldr Pro offer excellent alternatives. For those on a budget, the Feyachi FL11-MB provides great value. Consider your requirements and the factors outlined above to make an informed decision and enhance your shooting experience with the right light.