Streamlight TLR-2 Review

M

Mrgunsngear

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I've had multiple handgun lights over the years from the $25 Protac's to the Surefire X400s of the world but I keep coming back to the Streamlight TLR series. They're just great lights for the money. The TLR-2 can be had new for around $220 and used for $170 (ish). Tough to beat that for a 160 lumen light that durable and incorporates a powerful laser. Here are some hits and misses for the TLR-2:

Pros:
-Durable. I have one of these lights that was smashed pretty hard into the ground during some training and it still works as good as new (evidence of that in the video below).
-Bright enough to disorient someone if shined in their face (160 lumen)
-2.5 hour constant on battery life
-Uses 2 CR123 batteries (pretty common these days)
-Has the ability to use light only, laser only, or light/laser combo
-Temporary activation switch as well as a constant on mode
-Easily actuated controls
-Includes keys for Glock-style, Picatinny, Beretta 90two, S&W 99 and S&W TSW
-The laser windage/elevation controls are mounted inside brass bushings to protect them from being moved unintentionally
-The laser is bright enough to be easily seen in sunlight regardless of the color of the target
-Comes with a 2 year warranty

Cons:
-Weight. It weighs 4.7oz. (this could be a pro or con as it does help reduce muzzle flip when mounted on a handgun)
-Cost. Most people (rightly so) will opt for the TLR1 or TLR1s for half the cost of this light/laser combo

Here's a video running the light on my G22, some daylight shooting using only the laser on a white background, a demonstration/comparison of the light's luminosity at night time, and some discussion of the pros and cons of the light:

TLR-2 HD Video Review Link

A note on using Streamlight's on Glocks... I had one of the G22's back in the late 90s/early 00s that wouldn't work properly with any weapon mounted light. I've found that since Glock has changed the follower and mag springs I've never had an issue. I also don't use any tools to tighten the light down; finger tighten only.

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Like you said, I wanted to get a light with a laser on it, but I couldn't spend that kind of money. So I ended up with the TLR-1s. I love it. It's stupid bright and the strobe function is great.

I bought two Nebo brand lights with strobe function from Wal-Mart, but they were both DOA. You get what you pay for. One great light is better than two non functioning ones....
 
Either of you have issues with the strobe feature? I have the TLR-1s on my Sig, and after the first day, the strobe feature activating seems really hit or miss...


Honestly not a HUGE deal for me, as I tend to only use the light feature, but I did pay for the thing...
 
I have a few of the 1s---no issues at all with the strobe working. I'd call Streamlight and have them fix it but if you don't mind it then I guess it's not a big deal...
 
I would definitely pursue getting it corrected. Isn't the strobe the reason you shelled out a couple extra $$$$?

FWIW I have not had a problem with my strobe function.
 
Thanks (again) for the interesting and informative video. I'm considering buying a Streamlight TLR-2S unit for my SIG model 226. Do you know if the Steamlight will fit the rails on my SIG? Thanks,
 
Well, I ordered one (the TLR-2S unit) from Natchez. They have it on sale for $241.99, which seemed like a pretty good price from what I could determine from my shopping "research". Hope it works out for me. And, again, thanks for all the helpful advice.
 
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