Strobe lights on tac-lights?

[Oscar 319]

Streamlight just released the TLR1s, which boasts a claimed 160 lumen output and a new strobe feature activated by 2 momentary taps to the paddle. Sounds interesting.

I know the disorienting effects of a strobe, and how it could be used to gain a tactical advantage.

My question is; Does this feature have a place on a weapon mounted light, specifically a handgun?

I know many of you have carried them (Procyon). Have you actually employed this feature in a real-world dynamic situation? What was the result? Is this a desirable feature, or just another "bell and whistle"?

I feel it interferes with the KISS theory, which is important with a defensive handgun IMO. I am curious to hear input on this.

[ToddG]

I've used them in FOF and found them to be more effective than solid light for:

1. disorienting opponents
2. cloaking direction/distance of movement

I've strobed a handheld light in a confrontational situation to good effect once, as well. Opinions may differ, but I'm a believer.

[Oscar 319]

I've used them in FOF and found them to be more effective than solid light for:

1. disorienting opponents
2. cloaking direction/distance of movement

I've strobed a handheld light in a confrontational situation to good effect once, as well. Opinions may differ, but I'm a believer.

And I agree with its usefulness in a hand held light.

What about in room clearing type scenarios? What is its effect on the shooter being behind the gun? Does it interfere with sight acquisition? I've never played with one in the dark.

Hell, I've done nothing more than play with one.

[ToddG]

I don't find that it interferes with my ability to get an acceptable sight picture.

[Oscar 319]

Thanks Todd. As always, you helped quench my thirst for knowledge.

I would like to hear from NCpatrol (Procyon hater ). I know, sans the problems, his Department was issuing them.

I was prepared to purchase an X300, then I saw the new TLR1s and its features/price. It has me thinking again.....

[Oscar 319]

Botach is selling the TLR-1s for $120, minus 10% with the "stimulus" promo code. http://www.botachtactical.com/sttltali.html

Anyone have any experience with this light (the "strobe" version, not the standard TLR-1)?

http://www.streamlight.com/product/product.aspx?pid=178

[FFK]

I have not used a strobing light on a pistol but I have used one on an M4 and handheld in a law enforcement capacity. I have found them to work well to disorient, etc and my only complaints are with the reliability/longevity of the particular model we used and the use of them in a team environment. I do not particularly care for very powerful lights because in small, darkened rooms with light colored walls the light tends to reflect and bite both ways. When working as a team and collapsing sectors of fire or working in contact/cover pairs I found the strobe distracting. With these limitations in mind I think they are a definite advantage. YMMV.

[Sidewinder6]

I think they are great for strip clubs.

[Oscar 319]

I have not used a strobing light on a pistol but I have used one on an M4 and handheld in a law enforcement capacity. I have found them to work well to disorient, etc and my only complaints are with the reliability/longevity of the particular model we used and the use of them in a team environment. I do not particularly care for very powerful lights because in small, darkened rooms with light colored walls the light tends to reflect and bite both ways. When working as a team and collapsing sectors of fire or working in contact/cover pairs I found the strobe distracting. With these limitations in mind I think they are a definite advantage. YMMV.

Insight Procyon?

I think they are great for strip clubs.

...may cause seizures.

[FFK]

No, we have/had rail mounted Gladius lights.