SR9c light recommendation?

[Kevin S]

Hey there folks! I've had my Ruger SR9c for a while now; love the way it shoots, performs (2 FTF in 2k+ rounds).

Anyway, I'd like to dress her up a little for HD purposes. What light do y'all use with yours or similar compact 9mm? My budget is flexible, don't mind paying for quality/reliability.

I've never had a light on any handgun, and am concerned about size/fit on a compact frame, reliability, and ease of operation.

Anyone feel like schooling a light noob? Thanks all in advance for the help.
-K

[JeremyS]

I have THIS ONE, which is also sold by other brands but I'm 99% sure is made in the same overseas factory. Some companies claim 35 lumens, some claim up to 190 (clearly same light, same wattage, etc).

I can tell you that, despite the common hate on NC Star, this light is extremely bright (blinding, disorienting... even if it's daytime) and, compared to various nice flashlights I have that claim up to 180 lumens, I think the estimate of 35 from NC Star is way, way under reality.

I've had mine for 1.5 years and it still works like new despite having been dropped a bunch of times and carried in packs on camping trips, etc.

It's really small, light, and the width is perfect. It looks like it was made to fit my gun.

Sure, one day I'd like to own a $200 example from a top brand name company but I really can't imagine improving on this unit... except it's just on/off and there's no strobe function maybe.

Hope that helps?

[Kevin S]

Thanks Jeremy! Very much appreciate the detailed recommendation.

Looking at the price and reviews on Amazon now; seems like a really good buy for the money. For $25 + Prime delivery, it's almost a no-brainer to try out...

[thaiphob25]

I also have a Ruger SR9c but use a Safariland RLS mount with a coast 125 lumen 5 LED light on it. the mount is ment for a full size gun but does the job.

[slowxturtle]

I wouldn't recommend that cheap one. I bought one at a gunshow for $40 a few years ago. I still have it but don't use it. It works OK but the fitment is off on the rail. I had to file the rail adapter down on mine because it was too tight. Though it slides on, it's still a bit too tight and could use some more filing. I would guess the lumen is around 60.

Look into the Streamlight TLR-3. It's small and relatively inexpensive at around $70? It should fit your compact gun nicely and it's 90 lumens.

My favorite is the Surefire X300 because it's bright at 175 lumens and very good quality but it costs around $200 and is pretty long compared to the TLR-3, so it will protrude out a lot.

*I own the X300 and used to own a Viridian C5L laser/light

[ThiZZ]

I use the Streamlight TLR-3. Its very very good.

[Kevin S]

Thanks folks for all the input; great to know there are several good choices and price points.

Now it's down to the hardest part of all; making a decision...

Always appreciate the experienced and helpful advice I get around here, thanks again!
-K