While there is a general consensus on a weapon-mounted light (WML) on a long gun, running a light on your pistol remains somewhat controversial. However, there is no denying their advantages given certain circumstances. Like your choice of concealed carry pistol, several factors apply—where you live, what you do, how you dress, and your willingness to carry all the time.

Pros and Cons of Running a Weapon-Mounted Light on Your CCW

It’s important to point out that a WML should never “replace” a handheld light. Carrying a handheld flashlight is a must for any CCW and, in my opinion, anyone else as well. The likelihood you will use a light in a gunfight or shooting is nil to non-existent. However, a day seldom goes by when my handy pocket light is unused.

Everyone should have a light nearby, in a pocket, or immediately accessible. But adding a weapon-mounted light to your carry pistol is a completely different question.

Flashlights

Improvements in quality and output of flashlights have been dramatic over the last few years. Lights (handheld or WML) vary from enough to see in a closet to PID (Positive Identification) on a threat 100 yards away. There are dozens of choices, with many capable of hard use. Prices range from $50-$500 or more.

Not everyone needs a light that burns a hole through space and time. A 100-lumen light is plenty for most. Purpose-driven weapons lights start at 500 Lumens, although that is also controversial.

Basically, more lumens equal more light. Correspondingly, candela is more about ‘focused” light. While outdoors, candela can be critical, but across the room, less so. Handhelds for use with your handgun should be powerful yet small enough to carry.

Advantages/Disadvantages

The greatest advantage of a WML is “confirming” PID when searching for known threats. When looking for someone trying to kill you, the weapon-mounted light rules. Contrary to naysayers, with proper technique, you can search without muzzling everyone.

Once the threat is positively identified, you can engage without having to shoot one-handed. Should it be your primary light? Probably not. But it’s there when needed.

Used improperly, you are pointing a gun at people when you shouldn’t. In some states, that’s assault or aggravated assault. Not good. Most of the horror stories involve a lack of training or outright stupidity. That’s not the tool’s fault. But improper use can be remedied. If you are incapable of properly using it, leave it off or get proper training.

They add weight and bulk, although not nearly as much as they used to. If adding a light prevents you from carrying concealed, lose the light and carry the gun. Proper concealed carry takes work. But it is even more work with a light.

Holsters for weapon-mounted lights can be bigger and bulkier, and not every carry pistol handles them well. I have been carrying a Surefire XR1 on my Gunsite Double Stack (2011 Commander) in a QVO Tactical IWB holster lately. It took some getting used to, but after a couple of days it went pretty much unnoticed and has become my primary carry method. On the other hand, attaching one to my H9 is a whole other story.

Why a Weapon-Mounted Light for CCW?

People carry concealed for different reasons. It may be off-duty carry or plain clothes. Maybe you are working executive protection or security. You may carry at night or in an environment where low light is an issue. Remember, it is not just about day/night, but light/dark.

You can work at night and never be in a dark environment. However, you may work during the day in an area where things get dark all the time. The time of day is irrelevant.

What is the likelihood you will need to fight your way out of a place where darkness is an issue? In such a scenario, it’s not just searching for threats. In fact, that is unlikely. You are far more likely to be fighting your way to safety. If that involves dark rooms or hallways, a WML is a huge advantage.

Not everyone has a dedicated pistol next to the bed. So, a WML is an excellent idea if your daily carry pistol is also your home defense pistol. In general, if you think you may need it and/or want the advantages, consider carrying one. If not, don’t. It’s that simple.

Bottom Line

Even “qualified” experts get pretty dogmatic about this subject—don’t get sucked in. Absolutes are generally useless unless you are a Sith Lord. Make your decision based on what you need, not what the latest guru tells you.

If you choose to add a WML, there are dozens of viable options for just about any carry gun you can buy. In many cases, you will not even notice the difference until you need it. If you decide you never need one, then fine. Just make certain you are always carrying a handheld light that is designed for fighting, not just looking under your seat.

They are just tools. Used properly, they are great. Used improperly, not so much. Just choose wisely, get trained, and practice. It just may save your, or someone else’s, life.