What is a night-time hunting trip without a suitable hunting flashlight? Flashlights fall into three categories, industrial, tactical, and general use, and choosing a flashlight depends on its type, features, lumen count, and price.
It is also essential to determine which features are necessary for your hunting style before purchasing a flashlight. This article will provide some crucial components to consider, such as light output, battery type, modes, and more, to ensure your hunting season is not a bust!
Best Hunting Flashlight Overall: Surefire G2X Pro
The Surefire G2X Pro is a jack of all trades. This flashlight has many great features, including how versatile it is, and it’s built like a tank ensuring durability.
Specs:
- Weight: 4.4 oz.
- Lumens: 600
- Size: 15.2 inches
- Batteries: Two CR123A
- Battery life: 52 hours/Low power
Pros:
- The run time is on par with the manufacturer’s claim.
- It can be mounted onto a weapon.
- The compact design makes it easy to carry in pockets of hunting vests and jackets.
- Affordable
Cons:
- Not as bright as most flashlights on this list
- Only two brightness settings
Full Review:
The Surefire G2X Pro is a great example of a tactical flashlight with precision reflectors. The hybrid beam reflector’s design provides a wide-angle peripheral and distant direct light.
This handheld flashlight has two outputs, 600 lumens for maximum brightness and 15 on its lowest setting. However, the highest peak beam is 8,700 candela, which is the perfect setting for deer hunting at night.
Surefire claims that the G2X Pro is indestructible, and they are not wrong. It is constructed of Nitrolin polymer and aluminum materials and sealed with a mil-spec hard anodized finish. This means that the flashlight won’t rust, is exceptionally durable, and is weather-resistant.
A key feature of the G2X flashlight is how versatile it is. The compact, lightweight feature ensures that you can hunt with precision. It is a mountable gun flashlight, ideal for scoping and spotting your prey.
It is easy to understand why the Surefire G2X is popular amongst the military, police force, and hunters. It is resilient, provides precision lighting, and is a durable flashlight.
Best Affordable Flashlight for Hunting: iPROTEC Inspector Light Pro
The iProtec Inspector Pro penlight has a simple, sleek design that packs a punch for a fraction of the price.
- Weight: 2.3 oz.
- Lumens: 180
- Size: 8.23 x 3.62 x 0.75 inches
- Batteries: 2 AAA batteries
- Battery life: 8 hours on low, 2 hours on high
Pros:
- It is a reliable flashlight
- It has adjustable zoom light settings
- It is impact and water-resistant
- Exceptionally affordable
Cons:
- It is not rechargeable and has a short battery life.
- The highest power output drains the batteries within 2 hours.
Full Review:
A no-fuss flashlight at a budget-friendly price, this flashlight is the perfect addition to any hunting kit. Ridiculously cheap and small, this handheld flashlight also comes in a camouflage finish, so it’s perfect for concealment.
The iProtec Inspector Pro comes with a power output of only 180 lumens, the lowest illumination setting on this list; however, it provides sufficient illumination to light up your path without alerting animals of your presence. The most impressive feature of this flashlight is the three adjustable lighting zoom settings. This includes:
- A strobe light that reaches out to 246 feet
- A flood light that reaches a distance of 151 feet
- A flash on/off setting that reaches out to 246 feet
The one drawback is the use of alkaline batteries. For a flashlight with a low power output of 180 lumens, it drains the AAA batteries a little too quickly for a hunting trip. Overall it is a great addition to your hunting kit; however, it may be better suited for everyday carry than hunting big game.
Best Rechargeable Flashlight for Hunting: Streamlight ProTac HL-X Dual Fuel Tactical Flashlight
Streamlight’s ProTac HL-X tactical flashlight is a military-grade flashlight with impressive multiple brightness settings.
Specs:
- Weight: 4 oz.
- Lumens: 1,000
- Size: 5.43 x 1 x 1.44 inches
- Batteries: USB rechargeable Lithium-ion batteries
- Battery life: Low output- 20 hours/ High output- 1 hour
Pros:
- It is incredibly affordable for a high-end flashlight.
- It has high, medium, and low light settings with a strobe mode.
- It has an IPX7 rating making it incredibly waterproof.
- The battery versatility is insane.
Cons:
- A little expensive.
- Some hunters complained about the batteries draining too quickly.
Full Review:
Streamlight ProTac HL-X Dual Fuel tactical flashlight is a must-have in your hunting arsenal. As one of the best hunting flashlights on the market, it is incredibly durable, waterproof, and long-lasting.
Two standout features make this tactical light an incredible choice. The first is the different brightness settings. The power output you can expect are:
- Maximum illumination and run time of 1.5 hours: 1,000 lumens, 27, 100 candelas, and the beam reaches a distance of 330 meters.
- Medium illumination and run time of 3 hours: 400 lumens, 10,000 candelas, and reaches a distance of 200 meters.
- Low illumination and run time of 20 hours: 65 lumens, 1,600 candelas, and reaches a max distance of 80 meters.
- Strobe mode runs for 2.5 hours: Signals or disorients with ease.
The second feature that stands out is the dual battery versatility. I would also add that this flashlight’s dual function makes it a game-changer for hunters who want to hunt all night long. There are two battery options, which is incredible. When it runs out, you can easily swap out the 18650 USB rechargeable battery for the CR123A lithium battery.
Overall, the incredible battery and power output versatility of the Streamlight ProTac HL-X makes this one of the best hunting flashlights of 2023.
Best Flashlight for Bow Hunting: Ledlenser P7R Core Flashlight
A streamlined, compact, and programmable flashlight, the Ledlenser P7R Core Flashlight is made by one of the most trusted names in the hunting industry.
Specs:
- Weight: 12.6 oz.
- Lumens: 1,400 High/20 Low
- Size: 3.35 x 2.83 x 8.27 inches
- Batteries: Micro-USB rechargeable battery
- Battery life: 3.5 hours
Pros:
- The hard anodized coating makes it exceptionally durable.
- The distance covered with various settings is impressive.
- The brightness and the focus are best suited for bow hunting.
- Has a programmable rear remote switch.
Cons:
- Expensive
- Water-resistant and not waterproof
Full Review:
Ledlenser has designed a small handheld flashlight that is easy to grip and compactable. Although there is nothing special about the P7 Core, the sturdy construction and the distance it can cover more than makes up for it.
One key feature is the distance it can reach. Out of Ledlenser’s Core range, the P7 can reach the second longest distance of 300 feet with a maximum output of 1,400 lumens. This makes it an incredible flashlight for bow hunters.
It is important to note that the P7 Core has an IPX4 rating, which makes the flashlight water-resistant, something that is not suitable for waterfowl or duck hunting.
Ledlenser’s advanced focus system and muti-core optics technology give the P7 Core the extra bit of push it needs. The combination of the two provides a consistent spotlight beam and a flood light when needed.
The one drawback, though, is the low battery life when the flashlight is used at its maximum output capacity. Other than that, it is an efficient, durable, and reliable flashlight.
Best Handheld Flashlight for Hunting: Fenix PD40R V2.0
There’s a reason why the Fenix PD40R is the best small flashlight for hunting. Despite its small size, this flashlight packs a punch with the highest lumen output, perfect for elk and deer hunting.
Specs:
- Weight: 4.3 oz.
- Lumens: 3,000
- Size: 1.3 inches
- Batteries: Rechargeable battery
- Battery life: 88 hours
Pros:
- Very bright
- It has a fast-charging USB port
- It has a fantastic run time
- It comes with three brightness levels
Cons:
- Very expensive
- When used in turbo mode, the flashlight gets hot
Full Review:
Considering its price point, the Fenix PD40R is an excellent flashlight for hunting elk and deer. Without a doubt, this tiny flashlight is a tactical beast regarding the distance it can cover and how bright this flashlight is.
When this powerful light is at its maximum output of 3,000 lumens, it covers 442 yards with a wide beam. To top that off, the Fenix PD50R has four different light settings, including a strobe, making it perfect and the best flashlight for the woods.
Here, the highlight is the mechanical rotating switch that can be turned to adjust the brightness level to your liking. There is no need to fumble with buttons or switches on the tail cap to change brightness levels.
Durability and comfort are guaranteed with anodized aluminum. The Fenix PD40R can withstand extreme weather elements. Choosing this flashlight as the best handheld flashlight is based on size and weight.
With a footprint smaller than a smartphone and a weight of only 4.3 pounds, it could fit into most pockets. You can be assured that this will not get in the way of your big game hunting.
Best Led Flashlight for Hunting: SureFire Fury DFT Dual Fuel Tactical LED Flashlight
The Surefire rechargeable dual-purpose LED flashlight is designed by tactical and law enforcement personnel, making it the perfect hunting tool for coyote, elk, and deer hunting.
Specs:
- Weight: 6.5 oz.
- Lumens: 1,500 with rechargeable battery/1,100 with CR123A batteries
- Size: 5.6 inches
- Batteries: One SF18650B lithium-ion rechargeable or two 123A lithium-ion batteries
- Battery life: 3.5 hours
Pros:
- Rugged and durable design
- It has a hard, adonized finish, making it resistant to corrosion.
- Quick charging USB port
Cons:
- Some hunters feel the run time is too short for a tactical flashlight
- Incredibly expensive.
Full Review:
Hunting enthusiasts will find the Fury DFT flashlight to be an excellent choice due to its dual functionality. Featuring a power output of 1,500 lumens and a peak beam of 25,200 candelas, the flashlight can run on two CR 123A batteries, delivering a lower 1,100-lumen output.
The rugged design ensures durability and a flashlight that will last a few hunting seasons. Crafted from aerospace aluminum construction, the grip of the flashlight has small ridges on the surface, enabling a better grip.
Additionally, the lens is constructed with a tempered window that is remarkably durable, which, when accidentally dropped, won’t crack or break. It is also equipped with an O-ring design to keep out the elements.
Possibly one of the best features is the options of a rechargeable battery and Lithium-ion batteries. Using the rechargeable SF18650B batteries, on the max output, this flashlight can reach out to 315 meters. Switching over the two Lithium-ion batteries, the reach is minimized, and the distance covered is only 255 meters.
For a flashlight designed by tactical military and policing teams, it is definitely one of the better LED flashlights on the market.
Best Green/Blue/Red UV Hunting Light: Nitecore SRT7GT CREE
Nitecore has upped their game and so far created the best green flashlight for hunting. The green light delivers exceptional results, is the best blood tracking light, and is ideal for following blood trails.
Specs:
- Weight: 6.1 oz.
- Lumens: 1,000
- Size: 6.221 inches
- Batteries: CR123A, RCR123A, 18650
- Battery life: 240 hours
Pros:
- Exception green, red, and blue UV lights for tracking a blood trail
- Preserves night vision
- It provides incredible weather resistance
- It has a long battery life
- Surprisingly affordable
Cons:
- This flashlight is not compact
- It is a little heavy
- Some hunters feel there is a gap in brightness
Full Review:
Among the most technologically progressive flashlights on the market, Nitecore is one of the big brands with a comprehensive range. By rotating the dial, you can easily adjust the brightness of the light infinitely between 0.5 and 1000 lumens. Even more impressive is while wearing gloves, the selector ring of the SRT7GT has been improved with a better grip texture.
One of its most notable features is its numerous LED settings. The SRT7GT has four more colored LEDs:
- Red
- Blue
- Green
- Ultraviolet
This allows for three separate outputs: strobes, beacons, and red/blue police alert signals. Night vision and hunting are made possible by red and green LEDs, blood tracking and security are made possible by blue LEDs, and ultraviolet LEDs control deception.
There are many applications for the SRT7GT, and it has an incredibly long lifespan. Waterfowl hunters won’t be concerned about water damage since this flashlight has an IPX-8 rating. Given all the practical features this flashlight has, its price seems reasonable.
How We Chose the Best Hunting Flashlights of 2023
When hunting season rolls around, you need a reliable light source for everything, and flashlights are an important aspect of your hunting gear. Among other factors, I based the top picks on the battery life, brightness, lumens, and whether or not it can withstand harsh conditions and terrain.
Brightness
The most important factor to consider when buying a hunting flashlight is the brightness. Your flashlight should be able to provide adequate illumination in low-light conditions. You will need a hunting flashlight with various brightness settings, whether you need to light up a specific area, explore the environment, aim, shoot, or search for wildlife.
Battery Type
Demanding hunts can last longer than expected, and your flashlight dying on you while hunting at night is less than ideal. When choosing a flashlight, you need to consider the type of battery.
Most rechargeable flashlights use Li-ion batteries. In addition to being more compact, Li-ion rechargeable batteries last ten times longer than traditional alkaline AA batteries. Moreover, Li-ion batteries charge faster, typically taking 2 to 3 hours to charge fully, and are estimated to last 300 to 500 charges.
Lumens
The quantity of light a flashlight radiates is measured in lumens. However, a high number of lumens does not mean you can see over long distances. The best flashlight for good visibility over a wide area is one with a high candela rating instead of a hunting flashlight.
Light intensity in a given direction is measured in Candelas. Increasing the range of candelas will enable a clearer view of a greater distance. A flashlight’s candela rating is essential to provide clear illumination at a distance. [1]
While brighter lights help locate your hunting position, lower illumination levels provide better visibility for close-up shots. This is why most hunters prefer flashlights with adjustable brightness settings.
Beam Types
Another consideration to make is the type of your flashlight needs to be. There are typically three beam options; however, modern flashlights have now come with a multi-beam option.
- Adjustable Beam: Adjustable beam lights bring the best of both worlds together for hunters. This allows hunters to narrow, broaden, and adjust the distance range the flashlights can reach. Adjustable beams are typically found on flashlights that have various brightness settings.
- Spot Light: There is a higher distance range with spotlight beams, such as a few hundred feet, because they are precise, narrow, and focused. Flashlights can nicely illuminate long-distance targets with spot beams.
- Flood Light: Flood light beams are designed to light up the immediate area and typically come with a broader beam setting that allows you to light up the surrounding area.
- Multi-beam lights: The unique feature of multi-beam flashlights is the fact that they can be used simultaneously or separately. Because multi-beam flashlights can be adjusted according to the distance between you and your target, they tend to be very expensive.
Design and Style
The design, style, weight, and size of a hunting flashlight are essential factors to consider. A lighter flashlight model would be best if you hunt using a tree stand or ground blind.
Many hunting flashlights come with accessories, which make them quite versatile. The type of flashlight depends on how it is carried or used, for instance, a firearm light, a pistol light, or bow hunting gear.
In addition, consider whether you want to purchase a one-piece multicolor flashlight or an accessory pack that includes mounts, filters, and batteries.
Waterproofing
Most flashlights list their level of waterproofing with an IP rating, making them more durable and likely to last longer in extreme hunting conditions. A flashlight that has a higher IPX number is more water-resistant.
Generally, anything above IPX3 should handle rain, but if you think you’ll be walking through swamps, you might want a flashlight rated between IPX6 -8, which can handle submersions. [2]
FAQS
What is a good lumen for a flashlight for hunting?
A good hunting flashlight should at least be between 200 and 600 lumens at its highest setting. The lower the output, the more light you will get without becoming blinded when working close-up.
How many lumens do you need for night hunting?
Hunting at night requires a powerful, bright flashlight of at least 1250 to 2500 lumens that can act as a blinding and disorienting weapon. With a complete view of your surroundings, you will always be aware of what’s around you.
Why do hunters use green lights?
The human eye is more receptive to green light than to red light, so hunters can see further and more clearly at night with green hunting lights. [3] It provides a better chance of spotting the game at longer distances, which could be the difference between a successful or unsuccessful night hunt.
Last Tips
The following tips will help you choose the best flashlight and keep you safe during your hunt in the field:
- Consider using a mountable gun flashlight that covers long distances while hunting with a weapon at night. In the dark, you can spot an animal’s eyes more easily with a hunting light that has a long, focused throw.
- Understand what the colored lights are for. A blue flashlight works for spotting blood trails, red light is the best for preserving night vision, and green light is ideal for blood tracking and for deer hunting. They can’t spot the color and improves your night vision.
- Safety first! With or without moonlight, navigating after dark can be challenging. If you are hurt, a powerful white light is essential for traveling safely to and from your destination. If you’re injured, white light may keep you safe by frightening animals away.
The Bottom Line
Every flashlight that has made our list is incredibly versatile and practical and works for most hunting styles. Our top pick, however, is the Surefire G2X Pro due to the rugged and durable design and ability to mount to your weapon. If you prefer a flashlight with multiple filters, my top pick is definitely the impressive Nitecore SRT7GT CREE.
For hunters looking for something more specific, check out our guide to the best hog hunting lights.
