Strike the perfect balance of bright light performance and lightweight durability with these everyday carry flashlights.
You never know when you'll need to shine some light on a flat tire, dark trail, or would-be perpetrator. Keeping an LED light on you at all times can keep you safe and prepared.
The idea is to have something small and compact, light enough to carry in a pocket or go bag, and powerful enough to do its duty in the dark of night. They're part of being prepared, whether it's a power down situation or an evacuation for a weather emergency.
These three are options are so compact, you might forget you're even carrying them.
Fenix PD25
Featuring a Cree XP-L V5 LED, the ultra-compact Fenix PD25 produces 550 lumens of super bright light on Turbo output mode with a beam distance of 427 feet via a 16340 micro-USB rechargeable Li-ion battery (and also works with the 3V CR123A Lithium battery type). At just 3.7 inches long and 1.7 ounces, this EDC light can double as a tactical flashlight. It boasts extreme durability with an aircraft-grade aluminum body, anodized abrasion-resistant finish, and a toughened ultra-clear glass lens. The PD25's tail cap switch allows for quick powering up, and the side switch lets you adjust output. This LED flashlight also comes with a lanyard, holster, and body clip for hands-free carrying.
Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA
This water-resistant everyday carry flashlight/tactical light sports an anodized aluminum construction with impact-resistant lens, an unbreakable pocket clip, and a rubber push-button tail switch. Powered with a CR123A lithium battery, the ProTac 1L-1AA produces up to 350 lumens of light output on high or 40 lumens on low for 14 hours of run time. It can also accept an alkaline or lithium AA battery and has an emergency strobe mode. Solid State power regulation guarantees optimal performance on each light mode throughout the battery life. The ProTac 1L-1AA also comes with a lifetime limited warranty.
ThruNite Ti4 V2
For an affordable EDC pen light you can slip into your pants pocket, the Ti4 V2 can't be beat. It weighs just 2 ounces with an aircraft grade aluminum construction, anti-abrasive finish, and IPX8 waterproofing. It can run up to 137 hours on firefly mode with two AAA batteries and also features high, low, and strobe modes. If you're looking for a keychain flashlight, check out ThruNite's Ti3.
Remember that an everyday carry flashlight doesn't need to be big and pricey, but going too small or inexpensive can lead to quality compromise. Find a healthy middle ground, and focus on features like clips or multi-modes if you want to spend a little more.
Above all, be sure you add a light to your EDC kit, because you never know when one will come in handy.
Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our writers and editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
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