Welcome back to the 54th installment of my blog, in which I don’t claim to be an expert, in fact, the opposite. I’m a new user of the AR platform and want to share my findings and experiences as I go through and build rifles as well as being the Operations Manager at Tyrant Designs.

When it comes to carrying a concealed firearm legally, one must have the proper training and licensing. I don’t think this aspect of conceal carry is debatable . To some degree it is important to demonstrate that you are a responsible person capable of carrying a firearm. Even though some states make it very difficult.

But what about carrying a flashlight (not to be confused with fleshlight)? There is little to no debate on this subject as it is in everybody’s right to carry this piece of equipment. I for one always see pictures of peoples pocket dumps - which seemingly always include some kind of flashlight.

So, I started pondering, what are some of the reasons carrying a flashlight is important? At this point I'd like to preface the difference between a utility flashlight and a “tactical” flashlight. The Tactical flashlight will more than likely produce over 500 lumens, while the utility light will be under 500 lumens. To put it in lamens terms, a lumen is a unit of measurement which indicates how much light you are getting from the bulb. Think more lumens equals more light and vice versa.

Cory’s 3 reasons to carry a tactical flashlight.

1. To illuminate the darkness (duh)

This is probably the most important and most practical reason to own and carry a flashlight regularly. Maybe you drop your keys under your car at night, or you hear a rustling in the bushes in front of your home. Having something to help you find your way in darkness is always a smart move. In my opinion, the flashlight on your phone is not practical. It isn’t very bright, and the last thing you want to do is be fumbling around with your phone when you need a quick source of light.

2. Self Defense

It might be possible that the bright light of your flashlight is enough to temporarily blind an attacker, giving you the advantage in defending yourself. Most tactical flashlights have a strobe feature which is very disorientating to the person looking at it. Often, a good tactical flashlight will be made of some type of aluminum and may even have sharp edges that can be used as a weapon. Many times you will see these sharp edges referred to DNA collectors.

3. Legal to carrying

Depending on your State laws and local ordinances, it may be difficult for you to legally carry a gun or knife. I’m not saying a flashlight is a good substitute, but it is better than nothing. To my knowledge, tactical flashlights are legal to carry in every state.

My question for you is, why do you carry a flashlight? What flashlight do you carry? Let me know in the comments below.