Firefighter Flashlights
One of the key tools for a firefighter is a flashlight which can be quickly and easily operated when needed. With so many options out there how does anyone know which one to buy? Look no further. Here is a list of excellent options for you to consider.
1. Streamlight 88900 Vantage® 180 LED Multi-Function Flashlight
The Streamlight Vantage 180 is a versatile high lumen flashlight clocking in at 250 lumens, with the highest lumen count on this list. What really places it as the best firefighter flashlight is its versatility as a headlamp and handheld flashlight. It can be turned into a headlamp by clipping to helmets in seconds and removing just as quickly. The Streamlight Vantage 180 can also be clipped to one's body for different angles. Its rear LED also has two modes, blue and white, which allow for visibility in heavy smoke and shine light at your feet to carve a path ahead.
It runs for 4 hours at high power with a 7,200-candela beam distance of 170m.
2. Streamlight Knucklehead Div 2 Spot Alkaline - Orange 90744
The Streamlight Knucklehead Div 2 is an excellent option as a handheld or clip-on flashlight. This bright flashlight combines the latest LED technology with a deep-dish parabolic reflector to produce a highly focused 12,900-candela beam of 210 meters. This makes it one of the best flashlights for smoke. Made from extremely durable nylon polymer, this flashlight has an impact resistance of 2 meters. It boasts a 210-degree articulating head that rotates 360 degrees, making it perfect as a clip-on searchlight. For batteries, it can use a rechargeable battery pack which can be bought with or 4 AA batteries.
On the highest setting of 180 lumens, the Streamlight Knucklehead Div 2 has a battery life of 3.5 hours.
3. Streamlight PolyTac 90 - Orange 88832
The Streamlight PolyTac 90 is a fantastic affordable flashlight. This bright flashlight packs a punch with 170 lumens, 5400 candelas, and a range of 147 meters on the highest mode. It is a primarily handheld flashlight but can be clipped to the body in several different mounting positions. This flashlight features a 36” tether, which can be used for hanging the light or protection from dropping. The PolyTac 90 has been one-meter impact resistance tested, making it a durable choice overall.
On the highest mode, the PolyTac 90 has a battery life of 3.75 hours.
How many lumens should my flashlight be?
A firefighter flashlight does not need to have the extremely high lumen count that many other tactical flashlights boast. It should have at least 150 lumens and have at least a 5,000-candela count. A high candela account is more important because this indicates the brightness perceived by the human eye and the intensity of the light beam.
Will I be able to use these even with my gloves?
Yes, all three of the flashlights listed have an easy use button that is very accessible even with gloves.
What kind of batteries should I use in my flashlight so it lasts the longest?
That will change depending on the type of battery your flashlight needs. We have a whole page dedicated to batteries where you can browse the best batteries for your specific flashlight.