STREAMLIGHT TLR-6: A TINY FIGHTING LIGHT
I saw a picture from Sage Dynamics labeled "No excuses" showing a Glock 43 with a TLR-6 attached. I was confused at first, but learned the TLR-6 has been around for a while and the higher-end model also includes a laser. After researching and thinking it over, I chose to get one. If you have a single-stack pistol, Streamlight might have a model for your gun, and you might want to consider getting it based on the reasons I’ll share here.
FEATURES
The TLR-6 is specifically designed to be ideal for small, single-stack pistols. Its slim and compact light fits flush with the muzzle, allowing for a sleek profile that enhances concealability. This design also makes it much easier to create custom holsters tailored to this setup. We’ll cover more details on holster options and compatibility later in the discussion.
One feature that some users might not find ideal is that this light has buttons on both sides to turn it on or off. You can press and hold the button for a temporary light, or press and release it quickly to keep the light continuously on. Many users tend to prefer a lever mechanism combined with a nearby button that makes one-handed operation easier and more intuitive. I will share my personal experience and insights regarding this design choice later in the article.
Many people, myself included, appreciate that this light is straightforward and convenient to both attach and remove. It features three screws with Allen key heads for secure mounting, and Streamlight thoughtfully includes the Allen key along with batteries right in the box. Even after several months of regular use, the batteries continue to perform reliably without noticeable decline. Additionally, there is a latch located at the bottom which not only keeps the batteries firmly in place but also holds the light panels securely together, ensuring everything stays intact even if the screws happen to loosen over time.
When you get a small flashlight, don’t expect 1000 lumens or 60,000 candela. This light, with 2 new CR1/3N batteries, gives UP TO 100 lumens. That’s enough to clearly see your target. The light has a large bright spot and a wide, sharp-edged spill. It spreads out well, covering a large area. The picture below shows the light output from about 15 feet (5 yards) from my garage. The light covers 14 feet wide. This provides good coverage for positive ID, even in the spill, out to 30 feet (10 yards). The batteries weren’t fresh in these pictures, but they did last a long time. Luckily the batteries are easy to find and affordable to keep on hand.
THE PISTOL IS LAYING ON THE GRILL , AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PICTURE, AT EXACTLY 15 FEET.
30 FOOT ILLUMINATION
HOLSTER OPTIONS
Weapon lights are becoming more popular, and manufacturers have listened. The following Manufacturers are trusted makers of holsters:
Alien Gear Holsters
Vedder Holsters
Craft Holsters
Black Scorpion Gear
Dara Holsters
Tulster
Crossbreed
A hybrid holster like the Alien Gear can be adjusted just right and gives you long lasting comfort for all day carry, also, all I needed to do was send Alien Gear my old holster shells and they upgraded me to the most current model with the shell for my pistol with the TLR-6, for a small fee under $10 for shipping. Mind you, there are several options out there on the market, but I have found that I prefer a hybrid design that spreads the load of my pistol out and distributes the size over a larger area, giving the pistol more concealability and comfort.
MY EXPERIENCES AND REALIZATIONS
I've often stressed the importance of using a snap cap and practicing regularly. I frequently wear my holster and practice drawing with this pistol and light setup. A common issue I face is reaching the light switch. The buttons are sensitive and have a cutout that guides your finger. If I stretch with my trigger finger, I can just barely press the button lightly to turn it on. This works well if I only have one hand free.
During practice, the light screws have stayed tight. I left them a bit loose to avoid them sticking and to test durability. After a few hundred rounds, they’re still holding, but that might change after many more shots. The light has worked fine even after shooting strong reloads. However, I wonder if it would behave differently on the .40S&W Shield since that caliber is known to cause problems with the Streamlight TLR-7. I might switch to a .40S&W Shield later, so it’s something to consider.
I learned a few things while training with this light on the range and in close quarters. In my experience, this light works better as a backup rather than the main light right out of the holster. I suggest starting close-range encounters with one hand holding a handheld light because it's hard to quickly and reliably turn on the weapon light. Once you can use both hands, turn on the weapon light and put away the handheld. For clearing rooms, the light controls are okay but I don’t like the momentary-on function—it’s tough to hold the button while shooting small pistols. Instead, turn on your light, look around, then turn it off before moving. This method is simple and reliable, and if you find the need to shoot, you can do so easily with the light on. These are just some things I figured out through repeated practice.
MY OPINION
Using a weapon light is significantly easier and more efficient because it allows me to concentrate fully on both tactical maneuvers and effective lighting without the constant distraction of having to manage handheld light positioning. The TLR-6, in particular, eliminates that specific hassle for your micro-9mm pistol, making it an obvious and highly practical choice that greatly enhances your overall readiness, situational awareness, and operational ability in a variety of scenarios.