Flashlights have always been our savior in the dark. With advancements in technology, our needs are changing, and we are replacing some old tools with new ones. Most people are now using their mobile phones as flashlights, but it doesn’t mean that flashlights are not required anymore. People still prefer choosing a tactical flashlight for many reasons.

Before I discuss the five reasons to carry a tactical flashlight, we should know about the flashlights and get familiar with the older and modern flashlights.

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The Older Flashlights

Some years back, flashlights were not as powerful as tactical flashlights present in the market now. Their flash intensity was low, and their batteries were small, mainly disposable, or rechargeable and were not strong enough. You can mainly use them to see the path ahead of you or during a power breakdown or camping. They failed to provide a controllable amount of light when needed. With the problems mentioned above, they needed to make a better flashlight.

Old metal flashlight. Photo by RG-vc via iStock by Getty Images

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The Modern Flashlights

Tactical flashlights are different from ordinary flashlights. They are the result of advances in flashlight technology. The tactical flashlights are a treasurable multipurpose tool that can be more valuable than a self-defense weapon. They should be included in everyday carry (EDC).

Today’s tactical flashlights are waterproof, strong, and have bright LED light. Photo by Cavan Images via iStock by Getty Images

These modern flashlights are a good source of light backed by strong LED bulbs and high-capacity rechargeable batteries. Other qualities to distinguish them from the ancestral flashlights are their water-proof aluminum body, small size, and controllable brightness.

Reasons to Carry a Tactical Flashlight

Now that we know about tactical flashlights, let us look at some of the reasons to carry them.

A Source of Light In an Emergency Setting

Suppose, unfortunately, you are stuck in a power outage or you are lost in the dark. If this happens, you can rely on your emergency friend to shine some light. You should keep your tactical flashlight handy as you never know when you will need it. Many people argue about using cell phone flashlights for the purpose, but it is not a good idea. A mobile’s flashlight is not intense, plus you don’t want to risk draining your phone’s battery in an emergency. It is always good to have a source of light in unfavorable conditions to keep danger away.

A tactical flashlight is a good idea if you’re stuck out in the dark. Photo by joachimbago via iStock by Getty Images

A Self-defense Tool

The intensely powered LED bulb of a tactical flashlight is good enough to stop anyone rushing towards you, but you can use it the other way around if it fails. The tactical flashlight is made up of an aluminum body, and its outer structure is not smooth. Due to its structure, you can use it to hit anyone. Moreover, its edges are oblique; they can also collect a DNA sample of the attacker. Both qualities justify this simple-looking gadget as a markable self-defense tool.

A Tool with No Legal Obligation

There are many legal obligations in carrying a self-defense tool along with you. You cannot even carry a nail-cutter with you during an air trip. Additionally, not every state allows you to carry tools for personal safety. But for a tactical light, there is no such obligation. 

No worries if you cannot carry a weapon with you; a good-quality tactical flashlight can help you out. You should look at the features of tactical lights offered by different companies and select the one that suits you best. 

It Can Fend Off a Fight

A tactical flashlight is a good option to use if you ever need to defend yourself. It can help prevent a fight. In a bad situation, it should be your first option for self-defense. It’s better to have it with you in time of your need. A tactical flashlight’s intensity is strong; it can force anyone to stop or turn around if you shine the light in the attacker’s eyes. And even if you have to fight, you should fight with someone unable to see you. Many tactile flashlights have an additional feature to emit intense flashing light for a short period; the feature can disorient the attacker.

To Scare Away Animals

If you are on a camping or hiking trip, you need a flashlight not only to illuminate your way during the night but also to protect yourself from intruders. Most animals are scared of bright lights, and when you are holding a flashlight in your hand, they won’t bother to come closer to you. Hence, you are much safer.

Camper with a flashlight. Photo by welcomia via iStock by Getty Images

After reviewing all the above-mentioned reasons you might want to purchase a high-quality and durable tactical flashlight for your own safety. Luckily, choosing a tactical flashlight for you becomes easy when there are companies such as FlashlightWorld or REI that specialize in lighting or survival equipment. When you have everything you need and are ready to head out on your outdoor adventure, be sure to check what our Wander writers recommend for great outdoor adventures.