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Archive for the ‘Lights’ Category

Streamlight Launches Sidewinder Compact III

Wednesday, August 27th, 2025

Ultra-Compact, Multi-Fuel Flashlight with 185° Tilting Head, Mounting Options, and a User-Configurable LED Option

EAGLEVILLE, PA, August 26, 2025 – Streamlight® Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting, announced the launch of the Sidewinder Compact® III, an ultra compact, high-performance, multi-fuel flashlight with multiple LED sources. This light is engineered to meet a variety of hands-free task illumination requirements with various color LEDs that are operable at varying outputs and run times. With its 185-degree tilting head, durable build, gear and helmet mounting capabilities, the Sidewinder Compact III delivers powerful performance in a lightweight, highly versatile form.

The new Sidewinder Compact III features a user-configurable model with LED options that allows users to select two of three color LEDs (red, green or blue) in addition to standard white and infrared (IR) outputs. The military model includes white, red, blue and IR LEDs, while the aviation model contains white, green, red and IR LEDs. Each LED operates at multiple brightness levels, and includes a strobe mode. The light uses either one AA alkaline or one 3-volt CR123A lithium battery, offering flexible power options and extended run time in extreme environments.

“We engineered this light with versatility at its core,” said Michael F. Dineen, President of Streamlight. “It offers a powerful combination of compact design, high performance, and rugged reliability. Whether it’s mounted on a helmet, clipped to a vest, or used handheld, the Sidewinder Compact III is ready to perform.”

The light’s white LED provides up to 275 lumens and 3,200 candela on High with a beam distance of 113 meters. Run times range from 70+ hours on Low when using an AA battery, and 100+ hours when a CR123A battery is inserted. The light’s color and IR LEDs also offer long run times and are ideal for preserving night vision, signaling, or task-specific visibility needs.

The Sidewinder Compact III was designed with a compound On-Off mode selector switch that separates the On-Off, dimming, strobe and LED-selection functions. The rotary selector knob features a tactile IR indicator and pull-to-turn locking design that provides easy operation even with gloves, while also preventing accidental mode changes. The light also features an unbreakable polycarbonate lens with scratch-resistant coating.

The Sidewinder Compact III includes a durable belt/gear clip with integrated helmet mount features, which fits existing Sidewinder® helmet mounts adapters. A cord attachment hole on the clip supports up to 25 lbs. pounds of load.

Constructed from high-impact nylon, the Sidewinder Compact III is built to withstand rugged use. It is IPX7 waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes and impact-tested to 3 meters.

Measuring 3.1 inches long, the light weighs 3 ounces with a AA battery and 2.7 ounces when using one CR123A lithium battery. The light has an MSRP that ranges from $137.47 to $198.22, depending on the model. The Sidewinder Compact III is available in Coyote and comes with Streamlight’s One-Year Limited Warranty.

Ops-Core RAILINK Partner Spotlight: Princeton Tec

Wednesday, July 30th, 2025

In the latest contribution to our series on the Ops-Core RAILINK ecosystem we discuss Princeton Tec and their Switch MPLS. This isn’t the first time these two trusted companies have worked together. In fact, the Switch MPLS (Modular Personal Lighting System) uses technology developed for use with the ARC RAIL but now optimized for seamless integration with RAILINK.

The Switch MPLS provides a lightweight, mission-adaptable lighting solution fully integrated into the Ops-Core RAILINK system, emphasizing ease-of-use, modularity, and battlefield reliability.

Integrated into a streamlined helmet system with RAILINK, the light remains powered, secure, and always ready, reducing the risk of gear failure during long shifts. That common power means lighter weight and every ounce on the head matters.

The Railink Switch MPLS is a low light/IR easy to operate directional lighting solution that works with the Gentex Railink powered rail system. Weighing in at only 13 grams with its easy-to-operate glove friendly buttons gives the end user a fail-safe lighting solution for all their low light and IR lighting needs.

It provides 6 lumens of Red and IR light for up close illumination which won’t give the operator away at long distances. The directional beam allows users to perform map reading or equipment checks without compromising their position with a broad flood of light thanks to the flexible boom which puts the light where you want it.

Glove friendly buttons allow you to control it with ease, even in cold and wet conditions. Speaking of wet conditions, with an IPX7 rating, the light is protected from the effects of temporary immersion in water.

The advantages are many. Operators can switch between Red and IR output depending on visibility requirements while maintaining stealth, all without needing to remove gloves or fumble with cables.

Features:

Integrated Power: Switch MPLS draws power directly from the Ops-Core RAILINK system, eliminating the need for onboard batteries.

Dual Spectrum Output: Equipped with Red and IR LEDs, this light meets the demands of both visible and covert operations, supporting mission flexibility without equipment changes.

Directional Illumination: Precisely aim light to where it’s needed, ideal for administrative tasks, reading maps, checking gear, or maintaining light discipline in tactical environments.

Lightweight Design: At only 13 grams, the light delivers essential capability with minimal burden on the helmet system, supporting long-wear comfort and operational mobility.

Ambidextrous Mounting Options: Can be configured on either side of the helmet, ensuring compatibility with other RAILINK-enabled accessories and user-specific setups.

To learn more about the Ops-Core RAILINK System, visit shop.gentexcorp.com/railink

NEXTORCH New Green Edition of TA30C: Lightning-Fast Tactical Response with One-Step Strobe

Friday, July 25th, 2025

Seattle, WA – (July 16th, 2025) – NEXTORCH North America, the primary U.S. distributor of global manufacturer NEXTORCH Industries, proudly introduces the TA30C Tactical Flashlight –Green Edition. Designed for tactical professionals and personal defense users alike, this updated model delivers instant strobe activation, rugged reliability, and a bold new finish.

Engineered for Rapid, Intuitive Response

In high-pressure situations, speed and simplicity save lives. That’s why the TA30C features NEXTORCHs patented one-step strobe activation—a dedicated tail cap switch that instantly engages variable-frequency strobe with a single press, helping disorient threats when every second counts. A half-press activates a powerful 1600-lumen beam for rapid threat identification or area search, while a full press unleashes the disorienting strobe. With a max beam distance of 328 yards (300 meters) and USB-C direct recharge capability, the TA30C offers professional-grade performance in a compact, everyday-carry form.

Built to Outlast, Designed to Perform

Precision-machined from 6061-T6 aerospace-grade aluminum, the TA30C is coated in a durable green anodized finish, IPX8 rated waterproof and drop test rated to 6.5 ft. that make it stands out in the field while withstanding the harshest environments. The lens is framed by a titanium strike bezel embedded with nano-ceramic beads for glass-breaking power second only to diamond. Its magnetic rotary mode selector offers smooth, and highly durable operation compared to traditional mechanical switches. A tail cap LED battery indicator keeps you mission-ready at a glance.

Key Features:

• Patented one-step strobe tail cap switch

• Magnetic rotary mode selector for reliability and precision

• 1600 lumens / 328-yard beam distance

• Nano-ceramic glass breaker bezel

• USB-C rechargeable 18650 battery (included)

• IPX8 waterproof / 6.5 ft impact resistance

MSRP: $98.99

Tactical Accessories (Sold Separately):

– FR-1 Tactical Finger Ring – enables rapid draw and superior grip control

– V35 / V55 Quick-Draw Holsters – ideal for on-duty or concealed carry scenarios

Ops-Core RAILINK Partner Spotlight: SureFire  

Wednesday, July 16th, 2025

In the third installment of Soldier Systems Daily’s look at the Ops-Core RAILINK ecosystem we present a spotlight on partner brand SureFire.

One of the first companies to integrate with RAILINK, SureFire’s HL2-A Light was developed via direct end-user feedback.

The SureFire HL2-A Light is a compact, high-performance lighting solution engineered for seamless integration with the RAILINK system. With dual output capabilities (white light and infrared) the HL2-A offers flexible illumination options for varied operational environments the HL2-A offers flexible illumination options for varied operational environments in a sleek, low-profile footprint. Designed with mobility, adaptability, and ease of use in mind, this tactical light is ideal for professionals requiring lightweight gear with reliable functionality.

The HL2-A features dual output modes with simple switching between white light and infrared (IR) illumination. Additionally, two output levels (high/low) are available for both white and IR modes, allowing users to adapt to mission-specific lighting needs such as administrative applications, with the high intensity for when you really need to push the light out there. The intuitive button design ensures quick, reliable activation between functions, even while wearing gloves.

The swivel head design rotates 115° (90° upward, 25° downward) for precise light placement without shifting body position. Rotating the head straight up allows for “umbrella” lighting, bouncing the light off ceilings or parachute canopy. This is useful in both white light and with IR conditions while using NVGs.

You can also angle the head forward for more traditional use to aid navigation/searching even while mounted on bikes.

The HL2-A’s slim profile and mounting design pair effortlessly with the RAILINK system for streamlined use with seamless integration, offering plug and play with instant power. Weighing just 20 grams (0.7 ounces) the light has minimal impact on headborne loadout with amazing illumination possibilities.

To learn more about the Ops-Core RAILINK System, visit shop.gentexcorp.com/railink.

NEXTORCH UT61 Tactical Helmet Light with Smart Link Technology

Saturday, July 12th, 2025

Cleveland, TN – (July 8th, 2025) – NEXTORCH North America, the primary U.S. distributor of global manufacturer NEXTORCH Industries, is proud to announce the UT61 Tactical Helmet Lightutilizing Smart-Link™ encrypted communication where multiple devices can be interconnected to synchronize color and strobe pattern for coordinated operations.

The NEXTORCH UT61 helmet light is equipped with five color light sources red, blue, green, white and infrared (IR). It also offers various strobe and constant-on modes, along with a red-blue flashing signal mode. The UT61 is ideal for tactical operations, patrol, search & rescue etc. and more. This incredible helmet light provides 3600 visibility and a range of up to 1,093 yards. With an eye-catching translucent frosted shell, the UT61 has 8 multi-light source LED’s and three independent switches providing precise one-handed operation, even with gloves on.

Designed and engineered for extreme use, the UT61 is robust with an IP67 dustproof and a IPX7 waterproof rating this durable helmet light can withstand a drop impact of 6.5 ft. Its three independent switches provide tactile and auditory confirmation for precise one-hand operation, even with gloves on, in the darkness. The UT61 Helmet light offers flexible mounting options: Velcro for optimized helmet attaching and a detachable clip allowing for various mounting applications.Equipped with a USB-C rechargeable 16340 Li-ion battery, the tactical helmet light provides up to 74 hours of runtime. It’s also compatible with CR123A batteries. There is a battery status indicator for the 16340 batteries only. The UT61 is backed by a 10-year warranty.

Technical Specifications:

– Construction: Polycarbonate

– Runtime: Up to 74 hrs.

– Dimensions: 2.7” x 12.4” x .78”  

– Weight: 1.5 oz.

MSRP: $69.99

To learn more about the complete product offerings from NEXTORCH, please visit www.nextorch.com and follow them on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram.

Streamlight Launches the ProTac 2.0 HP

Friday, July 11th, 2025

Optimized for Peak Performance, this Handheld Light Delivers High Lumen Output and Significantly Increased Candela over the Previous Model

EAGLEVILLE, PA, July 10, 2025 – Streamlight® Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting, introduced the ProTac® 2.0 HP tactical flashlight, delivering 85,000 candela for powerful downrange illumination, nearly five times the distance output of its predecessor, the ProTac 2.0. This new rechargeable light produces 2,000 lumens for situations where exceptional brightness is needed. 

The ProTac 2.0 HP offers the latest in LED technology and provides three operating modes – High, Medium and Low. On High, it delivers 2,000 lumens and 85,000 candela; on the Medium setting, it provides 550 lumens and 22,500 candela; on Low, it offers 100 lumens and 4,400 candela. Run times range from 31 hours on Low to 2.5 hours on High. The light’s strobe features a two-hour run time.

The light also features a TEN-TAP® programmable switch, which allows for user selection from among three programs: high/strobe/low (factory default); high only; or low/medium/high.

The ProTac 2.0 HP is powered by a Streamlight SL-B50®, a 4,900mAh protected Lithium-Ion USB rechargeable battery that is accessed by the light’s sliding sleeve. The battery is keyed to ensure proper alignment of the USB-C charging port, and features LED status lights to indicate charging status, including red for charging and green for fully charged. An integrated safety circuit protects the battery from accidental overcharge or discharge.

“This latest addition to the ProTac® series of tactical handheld lights provides first responders, security units, outdoor enthusiasts, and others a light that combines balanced brightness – both distance illumination and ultra-bright light – without sacrificing run times,” said Streamlight President, Michael F. Dineen. “Users will appreciate the convenience and ease of charging the battery pack either inside or outside of the light.”

Fabricated from 6000 series machined aircraft aluminum with an anodized finish, the ProTac 2.0 HP also features an anti-roll head and a gasket-sealed lens. Its multi-function, push-button tactical tail switch permits one-handed operation of the momentary, variable intensity or strobe modes. The light also comes with a sturdy, removable pocket clip, holster and USB-C charge cord.

The ProTac 2.0 HP is 6.10 inches in length and weighs 8.25 ounces with one included SL-B50 rechargeable battery. The light has an IP67-rated design for dust-tight and waterproof operation to one meter for 30 minutes and is impact resistance tested to two meters.

Available in black, the ProTac 2.0 HP has an MSRP of $218.40. It comes with Streamlight’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.  

streamlight.com

Streamlight Introduces ProTac HP-X USB and ProTac HP-X

Wednesday, July 9th, 2025

Illuminate the Distance with Tactical Lights Delivering 105,000 Candela, Long-Range Beam Distance, and Multi-Fuel Options

EAGLEVILLE, PA, July 8, 2025 – Streamlight®, Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting, launched the ProTac® HP-X USB and ProTac® HP-X, powerful handheld flashlights designed to deliver high candela, a focused beam and long-distance illumination in a tactical-sized body.

Both models deliver 800 lumens, 105,000 candela, and a beam distance of 648 meters. These lights offer pure candela performance, built for search, precision, and perimeter control, making them ideal for a variety of applications where throw and brightness are critical. 

“The new ProTac HP-X series delivers the high intensity beams and versatility that professionals such as those in law enforcement, search and rescue, security, and industrial operations depend on,” said Michael F. Dineen, Streamlight President. “Whether powered by USB rechargeable or disposable batteries, these lights provide robust, long-distance illumination with the durability and features our users have come to expect.”

The ProTac HP-X USB includes a Streamlight SL-B26®-protected Li-Ion USB rechargeable battery pack, featuring an integrated USB-C charge port for on-the-go charging. This USB model provides up to 31 hours of run time and recharges in five hours.

The ProTac HP-X includes two CR123A lithium batteries, offering flexibility for users who prefer or require disposable power sources, and delivers up to 24 hours of run time.

The series includes a multi-function tactical tail cap switch for momentary or constant-on operation and TEN-TAP® programming, allowing users to select from three different programs: high/strobe/low, high only, or low/medium/high. Additional features include an anti-roll face cap and unbreakable pocket clip and holster.

Built from 6000 series machined aircraft aluminum with a Type II MIL-Spec anodized finish, the lights are impact-resistant to two meters, and IP68-rated for dust-tight and waterproof operation to two meters.

The ProTac HP-X USB weighs 5.9 oz with SL-B26 battery, and the ProTac HP-X weighs 5.4 oz with two CR123A batteries.

The ProTac HP-X USB and ProTac HP-X have MSRPs of $198.21 and $178.39, respectively. Available in black, both come with Streamlight’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.  

streamlight.com

Ops-Core RAILINK Partner Spotlight: CORE Survival

Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025

We recently reintroduced you to Ops-Core’s RAILINK with a promise to begin offering in-depth coverage of the multiple enablers which work with this headborne integrated power and data system.

CORE SURVIVAL was one of the first companies to partner with Ops-Core on this project, developing the HEL-STAR Rail Strobe specifically to integrate with the RAILINK system.

The HEL-STAR Rail Strobe miniaturizes the high performance expected from a CORE Survival product. Powered by the RAILINK’s centralized Battery Pack+, the HEL-STAR Rail Strobe features dual compact, lightweight lights.

Features:

Small Footprint with Four Settings – High and low visibility in both White and IR. Built with CORE Survival’s patented technology for maximum performance in a low-profile, snag-resistant package.

Tactile Operation – Switches are designed for positive operation by a gloved hand while the helmet is donned. Patented double-switch blocks inadvertent switching between visible and IR functions.

Left & Right-Hand Installation – Strobe modules attach to both the left and right side of the helmet-mounted rails. Communication to synchronize function between the strobes is achieved via the RAILINK system’s data capability.

Familiar Sliding Button Operation – Settings for Off, Dim and Bright operation for both the Visible and IR functions.

You might think that a strobe light wouldn’t leverage RAILINK’s data capabilities, but the HEL-STAR Rail Strobe uses it to coordinate device communication at the physical layer—transmitting raw data signals between devices without interpretation. This allows the strobes to blink in unison, synchronize between visible and IR modes, and adjust light intensity in real time.

Aside from using the RAILINK’s common power distribution, the strobe is optimized for low power consumption, ensuring seamless integration with other low-power devices without placing a significant power burden on the overall platform.

To learn more about the Ops-Core RAILINK Power and Data ARC Rails System, visit shop.gentexcorp.com/railink