Springfield Armory/Insight XML Tac Light

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Written by JT McAvoy

     When the subject of tactical lights is mentioned it conjures up all types of images and discussions.  The typical image it brings to mind is a carbine or full size pistol with a big black light with an awkward mount.  When it is cut on you can hear it buzz and it has the power to light a small parking lot.   This is not the opinion of all however.   I have found that there are two type of people, type one is they type I have mentioned above.  Type two wants the most powerful light possible in the smallest package possible but able to mount to anything.  This discussion can divide even the closest of Tactical units and partners

I fall into type number two.  I want the brightest most, powerful light in the smallest, most compact package possible.  It also has to fit all standard picatanny rails yet be small enough to fit most compact and subcompact pistols.   While it is not important to everyone for me (as I am left handed) an important feature is that the light has ambidextrous controls.  The battery life on the light has to last a significant amount of time.  Nothing would suck more to be in the middle of using it and have it go dead and only after a few hours.  While this list does not seem complicated at all, it turned out to be a long search to find this light. 

I found everything I wanted in the Springfield Armory/Insight XML Tac Light.  At first glance this light does not look like much at all nor does it feel like much.  The very first thing I thought when I picked it up was that I was going to break it.   After examining it, taking it apart, and finally placing it on a weapon my opinion changed drastically.  It had a rugged, slim construction that makes this light as tough as it is small.   This light runs off a 3V lithium battery, which not only has a peak output of 50 lumens.  This is provided by a high output Xenon bulb, not the typical LED found in most lights today.  Again this does not sound like much but for a light that is not an LED and as small as it is I consider this great.   It also has all the other features that are important.  The XML has an ambidextrous moment and constant on switch, a patented slide-lock interface, fits any standard picatanny rail.  In addition to this the XML will also fit the Springfield XD, Micro 1911, Walther p99C, and the HK P2000 sub compact and others.  All of this is packed into a light that is only 2.32/1.56 inches overall.

  This little light is not to be underestimated, it packs quite a punch.  I am not going to light a small parking lot or an entire room with this light.  For close quarters engagement and/or a sub compact pistol this light fits the bill perfectly.   Like anything made by Springfield Armory or Insight it is tough and reliable.  For the price, power, and compact size is hard to beat.  I would not trade mine for any other type now.