Weapon-mounted lights and lasers are two popular modifications designed to help quickly identify targets in low-light environments. These attachments offer many key benefits, but many shooters may prefer to keep their firearm setup simple without the added bulk of multiple accessories. If you’re looking for an all-in-one light and laser combo, the Streamlight TLR-6 might be the perfect addition to your handgun. Here is everything you need to know about this tactical gun light.
What is Streamlight TLR-6?
The Streamlight TLR-6 is a weapon-mounted light made to attach directly onto the trigger guard for subcompact handguns. It can fit designated models from Glock, Smith & Wesson, M&P Shield, Kahr, Sig Sauer, Kimber, Springfield Armory, Taurus, Colt, Remington, and Para USA. The weapon-mounted light is also comparable with select rail-mounted 1911 models. To ensure the TLR-6 fits your firearm properly, it is recommended to review the compatibility list on Streamlight’s website.
Advertisement — Continue Reading Below
The TLR-6 is available with or without the red laser, but models with the laser have three modes such as LED, LED/laser combination, or laser only. The light requires two CR-1/3N Lithium batteries, providing 100 lumens of brightness and a beam distance of 89 meters. The LED and LED/laser modes have an hour of run time while the laser-only option can operate up to 11 hours. Depending on the model, the TLR-6 weighs 1.12 to 1.27 ounces, and is available in the colors Flat Dark Earth Brown or Black.
First Impressions
My first impression of the TLR-6 was that it was compact in design, making it perfect for my Taurus Gx4. The kit itself was simple, containing instructions, a preassembled weapon-mounted light and laser, two CR-1/3N batteries, and a small hex wrench. Once establishing that my firearm was clear and ammunition-free, I quickly got to work de-assembling the light into two halves. In order to do this, I first had to remove the three screws, making sure I placed them off to the side of my workspace until they were needed.
Advertisement — Continue Reading Below
The next task, and in my opinion, the most difficult part of the application process, was getting the battery compartment latch open. While Streamlight designed the battery door to be tight and secure to prevent it from accidentally opening, I found the latch a struggle to unlock. After many failed attempts using my fingers, I eventually had to use a tool, which in my case happened to be a coin, to give myself some leverage opening the door. A flat head screwdriver can also be used.
Installation Process
Once I swung the battery door open, I then proceeded to separate the two halves of the housing, removing the module and setting that off to the side. Placing my Taurus flat against the table, I fit the first half around the trigger guard, inserting the module into the molded surface, making sure the LED was facing towards the opening. With the second half, I aligned it onto the trigger guard, applying minimal pressure to ensure the two sections joined together, feeling surprised at how easy the installation process was.
Advertisement — Continue Reading Below
Next, I inserted both batteries into the compartment before closing the door. One aspect I enjoyed about this accessory was that you did not need to completely remove the module in order to replace the batteries.
My last and final step was to tighten the three mounting screws back into place, being careful not to overly tighten them per Streamlight’s instructions. Observing the finished product in front of me, I could not help but feel proud that I had not only successfully mounted the TLR-6 to my firearm, but I had done it all by myself without any assistance.
On the Gun: Real-World Performance
As I established a firm grip on my Taurus, I wasted no time getting to work to familiarize myself with how the TLR-6 operated. One of the first features I noticed was the ambidextrous switch located on both sides of the unit, quickly learning that a single tap will turn the device ‘on’ or ‘off.’ This weapon mounted light also provides momentary activation when a user presses and holds the switch. To cycle between the light, laser, and light/laser combo modes, simply press and hold one switch while tapping the other. Once a mode is chosen, it will automatically save when the unit is turned off. To conserve battery, the device will shut off after ten minutes.
Advertisement — Continue Reading Below
As I scanned my surroundings, the light provided clear, effective illumination. In complete darkness, it’s easy to see how the brightness could disorient a target.
As for the laser, it was easy to spot, ideal to use in dim conditions or at night, and allowed for rapid target identification. Based on my experience, I would not recommend using this device outdoors or for long distances, but rather for home self-defense or situations where close range is required.
Advertisement — Continue Reading Below
Final Take: Who the TLR-6 Is Built For & Where It Shines
Overall, the TLR-6 was simple to install, and more importantly, straightforward to operate. The biggest struggle I faced was getting the battery door open, but besides that, I had no other difficulties. When it comes to handgun modifications, I have never felt comfortable enough to install them myself and always ask for help to avoid any error.
When installing the TLR-6, I felt like I did not need to ask for assistance and could conquer it on my own, which allowed me to gain a new sense of confidence. If you are looking for a weapon-mounted light and laser for your subcompact handgun, I highly recommend the Streamlight TLR-6. The light and laser combo not only adds a sleek and modern appearance to a handgun, but it is also highly practical to use for self-defense situations, making it the perfect beginner-friendly modification to consider.
Advertisement — Continue Reading Below
WHY OUR ARTICLES/REVIEWS DO NOT HAVE AFFILIATE LINKS
Affiliate links create a financial incentive for writers to promote certain products, which can lead to biased recommendations. This blurs the line between genuine advice and marketing, reducing trust in the content.
