The HL3 tactical light generates a remarkable 1,100 lumens at 36,000 candelas. The front and rear have semi-aggressive strike bezels that would make an effective weapon. The body is very comfortable to grip. Many of the other Streamlights such as the HL, PolyTac, 1L-1AA produce a beam with a very hot center and the light decreases significantly towards the outer edges of the beam. The HL3 has a very noticeable hotspot but it produces a brighter and more even beam for the entire diameter of the beam.
- Construction: The HL3 is machined from aircraft grade aluminum, has semi-aggressive striking bezels on both the head and tail, threads are tight and smooth, and sealed with an O-ring.
- Size: The HL3 is large (7.4″ long) and would work well on a service belt.
- Waterproof: The HL3 is rated at IPX7 waterproof.
- Features: Has high, strobe, and low modes. You can also change the light mode using the Ten-Tap programming feature.
- Batteries: Uses three CR123 lithium batteries.
- Light Output: (high) 1,100 lumens at 36,000 candelas for 2 hours, (low) 35 lumens at 1,200 candelas for 43 hours.
- Beam Pattern: 40″ x 7″ at 3′ (Beam Scale)
- Power Fail: No low battery indicator and the flashlight will significantly dime when the CR-123 battery gets to 2.84v.
Things I like about this ultra high-power flashlight:
- The beam pattern is very nice. There is a definite hotspot but entire diameter of the beam is bright
- While this is a large flashlight it is still a manageable size for a utility belt
- Nice tactical belt holster included
Recommendations
If you are looking for a high-power tactical light then this is a good choice. This would be a good choice for first responders that do not use the light extensively. The CR123 batteries are still a bit expensive and with a runtime of only 2 hours on high power it could get expensive to operate if it were used extensively.
