Several months ago, I had the opportunity to test and review the new Streamlight TLR-7A weapon mounted light.  It was everything that I had hoped it would be and more!  http://spotterup.com/streamlight-tlr-7a-a-compact-yet-powerful-weapon-mounted-light/  Recently, I received another new Streamlight, the TLR-9.  Unlike the TLR-7A, this light cannot be considered compact by any stretch of the imagination.  This is a Weapon Mounted Light for a full size handgun, no question about it.  The TLR-9 actually sticks out past the barrel of my Glock 17 about a quarter of an inch more than my TLR-1 does.

 

That being said, what Streamlight has managed to do with that extra ¼” is add 700 more Lumens to my existing duty gun.

The Streamlight TLR-9 sports a powerful 1000 lumens, powered by two CR123 batteries.  If that wasn’t enough, I don’t even have to change my duty holster as the TLR-9 fits perfectly in the same one I have for my TLR-1.

Just like the smaller TLR-7A, the TLR-9 comes standard with two switch configurations that can be changed based on your shooting style and grip.  A quick tap of the switch turns the light on to constant mode; another tap will turn it off.  If the button is held in, the light stays on until you release it.  The “High Switch” comes installed on the light and I find this one more natural to where I rest my finger on the frame of the weapon.  The “Low Switch” puts my finger too close to the middle of the trigger guard to activate it, making me move more than I like to when drawing down on a target.

 

I love the fact that Streamlight has made different size lights with the same actuator switches so whether I am carrying my full size Glock 17 or compact Glock 19, nothing changes when it comes to activating my weapon mounted light if needed.  This allows the shooter to train one way, without having to deal with equipment differences under stress.

I have access to two indoor ranges (25 Yards and 50 Yards) where the lights can be turned off for complete darkness and the TLR-9 lit them both up like it was daytime.  There isn’t much else to say about a weapon mounted light for a pistol.

Currently, Amazon is selling the TLR-9 for about $170 which is about $40 more than the TLR-1 and $30 more than the TLR-1HL which also has 1000 lumens.  I prefer the new switches on the TLR-9 and that alone is worth the cost difference.

From the Streamlight Website:

  • 1,000 lumens; 200m beam; runs 1.5 hours
  • Custom optic produces a concentrated beam with optimum peripheral illumination
  • Ambidextrous on/off switch
  • Uses two CR123A lithium batteries (included)
  • Safe off feature prevents accidental activation; saves batteries
  • Rail grip clamp system securely attaches/detaches quickly and safely with no tools and without putting your hands in front of muzzle
    • Securely fits a broad range of full-sized handguns
  • Durable, anodized machined aluminum construction
  • User enabled strobe function
  • 3.87″ (9.82 cm); 4.26oz (120.9g)
  • IPX7 waterproof to 1m for 30 minutes
  • Limited lifetime warranty
  • Assembled in USA

Material Disclosure:

*The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the original authors and contributors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of Spotter Up Magazine, the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

By Kevin Quinn

Kevin Quinn is a 26 year Law Enforcement Veteran in Arizona. He is an AZPOST Certified Instructor in Firearms, Patrol Rifle, High Risk Vehicle Stops and Defensive Tactics. Kevin has worked in Patrol, Crime Scene, School Resource Officer and Training. He is his agency Cadet Coordinator, SWAT Team Logistical Support and backup Public Information Officer. Kevin is a frequent instructor for his department in-service training as well as at the Police Academy. IG: @kq_consulting

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