Why you should carry a Tactical Torch

As most of you are aware already, having a torch with you or in your EDC/BOB is critical. It’s one of those items that can be used more often than you imagine and is sorely missed if you don’t have one.

Torches have come so far in such a short time - When I was younger a torch was a simple bulb; tubing and some D cell batteries. Ours mainly lived in the food pantry for power outages and as they were so bulky and heavy they didn’t really have many other uses.

Today’s torches are now smaller, brighter and use a lot less energy thanks to the LED. They’re also packed full of accessories and mode features. 

What is a Tactical Torch?

A tactical torch is designed using different features to your run of the mill torch that you might find at a discount store or supermarket.

They are typically made of durable aircraft-grade aluminium and hard-anodized materials, have textured grips, are shock resistant, lightweight, water proof and have different levels of brightness and beam modes. The really good ones usually are scope/rifle mountable, can have different filters attached, and have a compatible remote pressure switch.  

Why should you carry a Tactical torch?

1.    Emergencies/Power Outages – The most common of use for a good torch is a power outage. We’ve all experienced one however I’m sure a lot of people have also had to rummage round in kitchen draws and cabinets looking for those spare candles or batteries for the torch that’s been lying around unused all year! Having an EDC torch means no more rummaging – its easy instant access!

2.    Threats – We all hear the odd ‘bump in the night’ which depending on the circumstances can be concerning. Having a Tactical Torch handy can assist you with identifying if there is a threat or not. We’ve all seen the movie scenes where the guy walks round the house with a baseball bat etc however they’re never carrying a torch! Trust me it’s not going to be that bright in your home when you have to check out said ‘bump in the night’. Having a torch with you can also ensure that you keep some distance between you and that ‘bump’ as they can have beams that throw out as far as 500 meters.

3.    Self Defence – torches make great self defence aids. They are very bright which mean if you shine them into a possible attacker’s eyes it can give you the opportunity to get away or manoeuvre into a better position. A lot of Tactical torches also have bezel crowns (sometimes referred to as DNA Catchers) which can be used for striking into an attacker’s head – which, I can assure you, can be quite painful when done forcefully.

What you should look for when buying a Tactical Torch

1.    Look at the Lumens – the high the lumens the brighter the light and the further the distance of the beam.

2.    Buttons – more buttons usually mean more futures. Most have a rear button for on/off operations and a secondary one located on the battery tube for switching modes. I recommend getting a torch with several modes of brightness and strobe. The different levels of brightness will essentially shorten or lengthen your batteries life i.e. brighter the beam the shorter then life.

3.    Casing – always check what materials are used. A plastic casing is going to be much help in a self defence situation and wouldn’t be very impact resistant. Look for high grade aluminium and hard-anodized materials.

4.    Battery – there are so many battery types out there now. I recommend finding a torch that will take rechargeable batteries and non rechargeable. My EDC torch only takes one AAA batteries so I can pick up a replacement from any service station or supermarket. My BOB and home torches all take rechargeable and non rechargeable 123A lithium batteries as most new Tactical torches use these. 

Suggested Torches

The most popular I have found are Surefire, Fenix and Nitecore.

I personally carry  Fenix and Nitecore. Both torches utilise simular technology however have a lot of features differences and accessories range.

Although Surefire has an outstanding reputation and my boss has had his Surefire torch for nearly 15 years without issue – I can’t personally justify the huge price tag.

I hope that my brief outline of some Tactical Torch benefits can help guide you in your next Torch purchase and highlights the importance of a good Tactical Torch.

Hope for the Best, Prep for the Worst! 

You can purchase some of the Fenix and Nitecore range from Aussie Prepper.