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How to Choose a Flashlight

Choosing the Right ASP Tactical Flashlight

When selecting a flashlight for law enforcement, security, or everyday preparedness, it’s important to consider how various design features translate into real-world benefits. This guide will help you make sense of specs, terminology, and ASP's lineup of lighting tools—whether you're outfitting a department or your personal duty belt.

Key Features & What They Mean in the Field

Lumens

  • Lumens measure total light output. A 100-lumen light is fine for reading a map, but officers responding to a call need something in the 300–1000+ lumen range to navigate low-light situations, identify threats, or disorient attackers.

Beam Pattern

  • Flood beams cover wide areas—great for clearing rooms or searching large spaces. Tight spot beams throw light farther and are ideal for long-range identification. ASP lights are engineered with real-world beam shapes for tactical balance.

Dual Fuel Technology

  • ASP’s rechargeable flashlights come with 18650 lithium-ion batteries but can also run on disposable CR123A batteries—ideal for extended deployments or emergency backups.

Switch Types

  • Tail switches offer a traditional grip and rapid momentary-on. Bezel switches give you control while holding in a variety of positions. Many ASP lights remember your last-used mode, reducing the need to toggle in the field.

Build Materials

  • Machined aluminum is durable and impact-resistant. Polymer lights are lighter for those who prioritize weight savings or carry backups.

PLATO & Lighting Standards

ASP follows standards set by PLATO (Portable Lights American Trade Organization), ensuring trustworthy performance ratings. PLATO sets testing protocols for:

  • Lumens: Total output measured at 30 seconds
  • Run time: Until output drops to 10% of initial brightness
  • Beam distance: How far light reaches at 0.25 lux
  • Impact resistance: Drop-tested from defined heights
  • Water resistance: IPX4/IPX7 testing under controlled conditions

When comparing lights, always check for PLATO compliance to ensure you’re not being misled by inflated specs.

Glossary of Terms

  • ANSI FL1: A standardized performance rating protocol for flashlights
  • Tailcap switch: Button located on rear end of light, often for tactical use
  • Strobe mode: High-speed flashing mode to disorient attackers
  • USB-C/USB Direct: Recharge light or battery via USB port without a cradle
  • TLC: Tactical Light Case—belt-mounted flashlight carrier compatible with ASP lights
  • Dual Fuel: Light accepts both rechargeable and disposable battery options

Choosing the Right Light Type

ASP offers three categories of flashlights designed around real-world needs. Here’s how to choose based on your use case:

Everyday Carry (EDC)

For off-duty officers, detectives, or civilians needing a powerful compact light.

  • Key Features: Pocket-size, USB recharge, up to 500 lumens
  • Best For: Backup lighting, administrative duties, or personal safety

Duty Lights

These are designed for patrol officers and first responders. Their balance of brightness, ruggedness, and ease of access (via TLCs) makes them field-ready.

  • Key Features: Mid-to-high lumen output, tail switches, rechargeable
  • Best For: Daily patrol, night shifts, and professional carry

Strategic Lights

When visibility and output are critical—such as for tactical teams or search-and-rescue—strategic models deliver the most lumens and specialty options like color modes.

  • Key Features: 1000+ lumens, long throw, multi-mode, color output
  • Best For: Tactical entries, long-range ID, traffic control

Questions?

Our team is staffed by retired and active-duty professionals who understand field needs. Let us help you choose the right flashlight for your role or team.

Email: info@asp-usa.com
Web: Shop All Tactical Lighting

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