Premium Choice
Best Overall
Best Value
The Importance of Survival Flashlights
Having a source of light available in dark and unpredictable environments (e.g after a disaster or in the wild) could mean the difference between life and death. Being stuck in a survival situation without a light source is (rightfully) everyone’s nightmare. That’s the reason why a survival flashlight is one of the most important pieces of kit in your survival toolbox.
Survival flashlights come in all shapes and sizes. You’ll see everything from premium aircraft-grade aluminum flashlights that can fit in your pocket, to flashlights with 1,000 lumen output that can blind aggressors, to mechanically-powered hand cranking flashlights for emergencies. Whatever it is you’re looking for in a flashlight, you’re likely to find it on this list somewhere.
Whether you’re hunting or camping, biking, or doing DIY, it’s important to get the right kind of flashlight for your specific needs. Most survival flashlights are designed to help get you out of dangerous situations, whether they’re going to be used in wilderness situations, during urban disasters like blackouts, or even during self defense scenarios… so make sure you understand the different features various models of flashlight can offer.
Key Features to Consider For Survival Flashlights
These are some of the more important considerations you’ll want to take into account when searching for the best survival flashlight for your needs. Pay close attention – your life might depend on it!
Output
Survival flashlights come in a range of outputs, measured in lumens. The more lumens the flashlight has, the brighter the light. Top-end flashlights have 1,000-lumen maximum outputs, while less expensive flashlights tend to top out between 300 and 500 lumens.
Most survival flashlights have more than one output mode. Most of the flashlights have three options – high, medium, and low. Some models have more output modes, and there are even options with programmable switches so you can customize your flashlight’s output.
The lower the output, the less energy required, so low-output modes are ideal for survival situations where battery life is a important consideration. Higher outputs burn through batteries but provide a powerful beam that can be used to alert others, signal for help, or blind aggressors.
Lens
The high-end survival flashlights come with glass lenses and are coated and tempered for added strength and reducing reflective glare. More budget flashlights options tend to have plastic lenses.
Top-end survival flashlights also have gasket-sealed lenses to help protect the bulbs over the long-term. This also helps to make the flashlight more dust-proof and waterproof.
Weight and strength
Keep an eye on the weight of the survival flashlight as its another feature that varies widely across the models. There’s everything out there from flashlights weighing 2 or 3 ounces, ideal for clipping to your keys or your belt, all the way up to flashlights that weigh over a pound. Some of these flashlights are designed with the idea that they might be used as batons in self defense as well so they can have some heft.
High-end survival flashlights are made from aircraft-grade aluminum or other similar super-durable materials, giving them strength while also keeping them nice and lightweight. Less premium flashlights tend to rely on plastic to keep their weight down, but this compromises the strength, just something to keep in mind.
Compact or heavy-duty
Some of the flashlights you’ll see can easily fit in your pocket. Others are more suitable for keeping in your car/truckor in the cupboard under the sink.
Keep an eye on the overall dimensions of the flashlights, because they vary drastically in size and design, from compact, pocket-size flashlights to big and bulky, heavy-duty flashlights.
Batteries
Most of the flashlights on the list are battery-powered. Some use a single AA battery, while others use two CR123A lithium-ion batteries.
Some survival flashlights come with rechargeable batteries, USB chargers, and recharging kits while with others, the batteries are not included.
Extras
Some survival flashlights come with added features. You’ll see a few flashlights with pocket clips and nylon pouches, while others come with strike bezels for breaking glass and self-defense.
Some flashlights have textured non-slip grips. There are also some survival flashlights that come with great warranties, so read the fine print!
The 8 Best Survival Flashlights: Our Recommended Flashlights for 2020
Check out these top 8 survival flashlights out there. We’ve included a wide range of designs, features, and price points, and we’re sure that one of them will be the perfect flashlight for your specific survival (or other) needs.
Features:
- 1000-lumen max. brightness
- Anodized aluminum construction
- Gasket-sealed glass lens
- Anti-reflective coating
- Pocket clip
- Waterproof
- Impact-resistant
- Multi-function on/off switch
- TEN-TAP programmable
The Streamlight 88085 is an absolute beast. Its 6000-Series machined aircraft aluminum construction with anodized finish makes it one of the strongest flashlights on the planet. Even its removable pocket clip is unbreakable.
The gasket-sealed glass lens has a nice anti-reflective coating, so you’re not seen until you want to be. Plus, it’s waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes and 2-meter impact resistant.
The Streamlight 88085 is “multi-fuel”. It can be powered by a single rechargeable 18650 USB battery (one included) or two CR123A lithium batteries. The USB battery takes 5 hours to recharge.
There’s a nice multi-function, push-button tactical tail on/off switch with one-hand operation. Users can switch between 1,000-lumen brightness (1.5-hour run time), 400-lumens (3.5-hour run time), and 65-lumens (23-hour run time), as well as a strobe for signaling or disorienting (3.25-hour run time).
One of the coolest features of the Streamlight 88085 is the TEN-TAP programmable switch that allows users to select one of the three programs and customize their flashlight. The Streamlight 88085 goes above and beyond its competitors and is definitively our choice for the best survival flashlight overall.
Check price of the Streamlight 88085
- Super bright
- Well built
- Super tough
- Respectable battery life
- Rechargeable battery included
- No negatives here, that’s why its our top choice
Features:
- Dual output levels
- TIR lens
- Coated tempered window
- Dual-output tail cap click switch
- High-strength lightweight aluminum body
- Crenelated strike bezel
- Pocket clip
The Surefire Defender is an awesome flashlight made by one of the most reputable companies when it comes to flashlights. It has two output levels high (600 lumens) and low (5 lumens), perfect for extended runtime
The powerful main beam of the Defender lights up a whole room. At 600 lumens, it’s also bright enough to blind someone or something looking directly into it, and the Defender is a popular flashlight for self-defense.
The TIR lens produces a powerful, tight center beam that also gives a nice dispersement and plenty of surround light, so there’s plenty of peripheral vision. The coated and tempered glass lens is super strong and offers impact resistance while remaining lightweight.
The crenelated strike bezel and scalloped tail cap on the butt of the Defender can be used for self-defense. The Defender is incredibly hefty and would do real damage if used as a weapon The dual-output tail cap click switch is easy to use, allowing users to flash momentarily or have a constant light on high or constant low.
The Defender’s Mil-Spec hard-anodized aerospace-grade aluminum body is lightweight and extremely durable. The Surefire Defender feels bombproof and is a perfect addition to your survival toolkit, and it’s easily our Premium Choice Survival flashlight.
Check price of the Surefire Defender
- Reputable company
- Powerful beam
- Dual output
- Strike bezel
- Ultra-compact – 5.6 inches
- Lightweight – 4.6 ounces
- Lifetime warranty
- Rechargeable batteries not included
- Chews through batteries
Features:
- 1000-lumen output
- 50,000-hour lifespan
- Aircraft-grade aluminum body
- Multi-fuel
- Tactical tail switch
- Momentary on function
- Multiple modes
- Nylon case
The Fenix PD35 is a sweet tactical flashlight with a Cree XP-L LED that has a powerful 1,000-lumen maximum brightness and a 50,000-hour lifespan. With 1,000 lumens, you can not only light up a room but use it for self-defense.
The Fenix PD35 also a multi-fuel flashlight. You can power it using one rechargeable lithium-ion battery or two 3V CR123A lithium batteries (it comes with 2).
There’s an easy-to-use tactical tail switch with a momentary on function. The Fenix PD35 has multiple modes, including tactical and outdoor, offering a range of outputs from 8-lumens Eco Mode (with a battery life of 140 hours) all the way up to Turbo Mode with 1,000 lumens (1 hr 10 min battery life).
The PD35 fits nicely in your palm, weighing 3 ounces and measuring 5.4 inches. It has an anti-roll, slip-resistant body design made from durable aircraft-grade aluminum. Plus, the PD35 has a premium Type III hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish.
The PD35 isn’t only tough and durable. It’s also waterproof up to 6.5 feet for 30 minutes. Plus, it comes with a handy nylon case for extra protection while you’re transporting it. The PD35 packs a powerful 1,000-lumen output at a great price, and it’s our Best Value Survival Flashlight.
- Super bright, 1,000-lumen output
- Great value for money
- Light and compact
- Easy to switch modes
- 2-year warranty
- Good customer service
- Rechargeable batteries not included.
Features:
- 130-lumens max. output
- Single AA battery
- Waterproof
- Aircraft-grade aluminum body
- Total internal reflection lens
While the Fenix E12 doesn’t compete with the high-level outputs of the previous flashlights, it’s still a decent little low-output flashlight. It has three modes: high with 130 lumens (1-hour battery life), medium with 50 lumens (6.5 hours), and low with 8 lumens (40 hours).
The E12 has an aircraft-grade aluminum body and is waterproof up to 2 meters for 30 minutes. It’s operated by an easy-to-use tail switch and uses a single AA battery for power, making it super convenient. The E12 comes with a disposable AA battery which you can easily switch out for a rechargeable.
One of the nice things about the Fenix E12 is how small it is. It’s 3.5 inches long and weighs less than 2 ounces, making it definitely small enough to fit into your pocket. The Fenix E12 is a decent, inexpensive survival flashlight that’s great for everyday use.
- Single AA battery
- Compact and lightweight
- Low cost
- Limited lifetime guarantee
- Relatively low max output
- Low weight compromises strength
- Case not included
- Rechargeable battery not included
Features:
- 200-lumen max output
- One mode
- Inbuilt rechargeable battery
- Solar-panel and hand-crank recharging
- Carabiner clip
- 3 LEDs
The MECO Rechargeable Flashlight is a little different from the previous survival flashlights. Instead of using external batteries, the MECO’s inbuilt NiMH battery recharges using the solar panel on one side of the flashlight or by using the hand crank.
Six minutes of cranking gives 1 hour of light, making the MECO a great flashlight for survival situations. While it doesn’t compare to the 1,000-lumen output flashlights, its three LEDs have a 200-lumen output.
There’s a handy inbuilt Carabiner clip to clip the MECO to your belt or pack. Plus, you get a choice between black or green models. There’s a nice 40-day money-back guarantee to ensure you’re satisfied with the product.
The MECO Rechargeable Flashlight is a useful tool if you’re looking for a mechanically-powered survival flashlight, and it’s great to throw in your glove box in case of emergencies. This is the flashlight you want as a backup to your flashlight – it’ll give you enough light to comfortably start a fire if need be, and thanks to the way it charges, you can generate light on demand.
Check price of the MECO Rechargeable Flashlight
- No batteries
- Mechanically powered
- Good for emergencies
- Inexpensive
- Easy to use
- Plastic parts
- Not suitable for extended use
- Not suitable for self-defense
- Low lumen output
- Better as a backup flashlight
Features:
- 500-lumen max. output
- 3 modes
- Multi-fuel
- Aircraft-grade aluminum
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Abrasion-resistant
The Streamlight 88062 is similar to the Best Overall Streamlight 88085, just with a lower maximum output and price point. The 500-lumen maximum output is still powerful-enough for most people’s uses.
Like the 88085, the Streamlight 88082 is multi-fuel and comes with two CR123A batteries. You can also power the 88082 with one Streamlight Rechargeable Kit, a nice rechargeable battery sold separately.
The 88082 is made from lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum. The body weighs just over 4 ounces with the battery. It’s super durable, dust-tight, abrasion-resistant, and waterproof up to 2 meters. If you’re looking for longevity, then Streamlight won’t let you down.
Check price of the Streamlight 88062
- Decent output – 500 lumens
- 3 modes
- Sturdy build
- Multi-fuel
- Not as good as its sibling, the Streamlight 88085 which is better on every front
- Can’t compete with the 1,000-lumen outputs
- Rechargeable battery not included
Features:
- 300-Lumen max. output
- Adjustable focus range
- 3 modes
- Single AA battery
- Aircraft-grade aluminum
The J5 Tactical V1 Pro has a decent 300-lumens maximum output seeing as it’s powered by one AA battery. Plus, it has a nice adjustable focus feature so you can zoom in for an intense beam or out for a wider field of illumination.
The J5 flashlight has three output modes, high (1-hour battery life), low (hours), and strobe (ideal for cycling or survival situations). It’s 3.5 inches long and weighs just over 2 ounces, making it easy to fit in your pocket. There’s also a pocket clip for convenience.
The J5 Tactical V1-Pro can’t compete with some of the top-end models in its maximum output or the quality of its build. If you’re looking for a simple, budget survival flashlight option, though, you won’t be disappointed. It’s perfect for keeping in the car or the kitchen drawer.
Check price of the J5 Tactical V1-Pro
- Inexpensive
- Great value for money
- Works like a charm for what it is
- Simple and effective
- Feels relatively cheap
- Unsuitable for self-defense
Features:
- 35 Watt LED
- 6,000-lumens max.output
- 2 modes
- Illumination range up to 800 meters
- Waterproof
- Long-lasting battery
The CSNDICE is by far the largest survival flashlight on the list, and it’s a different design to most other models. If you’re looking for a beast that lasts for hours, then you’ve found the flashlight for you. This flashlight is something entirely different from the others on this list, and we included it because we like offering a variety of recommendations.
The CSNDICE’s ABS plastic body is explosion-proof, dust-proof, shock-proof, and waterproof, making it one of the sturdiest flashlights out there. Plus, the rechargeable 4.3 volt 18,500 lithium-ion battery lasts 20 hours.
The CSNDICE is a heavy-duty survival flashlight, weighing in just over a pound, so don’t expect to clip it to your belt or fit in your pack. The CSNDICE is more suitable for keeping in your car or basement in case of emergencies.
Check price of the CSNDICE 35W Handheld Flashlight
- Strong and durable
- Heavy-duty
- Built like a rock
- Long battery life (20 hours)
- Rechargeable battery included
- Plastic parts
- Heavy
- Not at all sleek or portable
Best Survival Flashlight Buyer’s Guide
There’s a huge range of options when it comes to finding the right survival flashlight for you. At first, you might think that ‘a flashlight if a flashlight’ – but once you start comparing specifications, features lists, and price points, the choice gets harder and harder.
Don’t stress, though. There are a few questions you can ask yourself to help find the right survival flashlight for your needs. What are you going to use it for, what’s your budget? Does it need to be compact or heavy-duty?
Take a look at these useful buyer’s guide questions to help identify the best survival flashlight.
What’s your survival flashlight for?
If you’re buying a survival flashlight for a long-distance hiking and camping trip, you’re going to want a very different type of flashlight to the one you’d get for keeping in your basement for emergencies.
If you’re looking to buy half a dozen inexpensive survival flashlights to scatter around your house, garage, and vehicles, then you’ll probably end up buying a different one than if it’s your primary flashlight on a hunting trip.
Try to think about how you’re actually going to use your survival flashlight to help determine which one is right for you.
Maximum output?
As you’ve seen, there’s a decent range out outputs when it comes to survival flashlights. While a 100-lumen output is enough to read a map and light up a trail at night, if you want a survival flashlight for signaling or self-defense, you’ll want a higher maximum output.
The high-end survival flashlights have between 500 and 1,000-lumens maximum output. If you need a survival flashlight for self-defense, make sure you check the brightness of the flashlight or its maximum lumen output.
What’s your budget?
The prices of survival flashlights vary greatly. There are some on the list that are cheap enough to not worry much about. There are also some that are worthwhile investments. It might look like they cost a lot, but if it’s your primary flashlight for self-defense or survival, then is a hundred bucks really that much?
Let your intended use dictate your flashlight’s price. If you’re buying it to use once a year on a family camping trip, you probably don’t need a premium flashlight. If your life might depend on it, you might want to splash out a little.
Lightweight or heavy-duty?
If you want to be able to fit your survival flashlight in your pocket or on your belt, make sure you look for a compact survival flashlight. These tend to be less than 5 inches long and weigh less than 4 ounces.
On the other hand, if you’re going to keep it in the back of your truck or in your garage, then you can afford to get a big and bulky heavy-duty flashlight.
Whatever the reason you’re getting a survival flashlight, hopefully now you’ve got a much better idea of which is the right flashlight for you. There’s a good range of options in this list of our 8 favorite survival flashlights, so there should definitely be something in here that will work well for you.
Our Top Posts About Survival Gear
More Information about Survival Gadgets and Electronics
Best Rocket Stove To Buy for Outdoor Adventures
Best Off Grid Generators For Preppers (That Use Fuel)
20 Cool Survival Gadgets You (Literally?) Can’t Live Without
Best Hand Crank Radio for Emergencies
Best Compass for Survival & Wilderness Navigation 2020
Best Handheld Ham Radio for Survival 2020
The 6 Best Portable Solar Generators for Preppers
The 7 Best Personal Locator Beacons for Wilderness Emergencies 2020
Best Survival Two Way Radios in 2020
The first 72 hours after a disaster are the most critical for survival. Enter your email below to get a checklist of essential items you need in your 72 hour emergency get home bag…
Why You Can Trust Us
Secrets of Survival has been around since 2002 (almost 20 years) and our survival knowledge is the real deal. We were writing and discussing survival and prepping before people even knew what the word “prepping” meant. We also preceded the trendiness of survival media nowadays… for example, we were arround before Bear Grylls filmed his first episode of Man vs Wild.Our contributors and writers over the years have included survival experts of all stripes – including a Green Beret Special Forces Medic, a former Navy SEAL, a leading survival instructor who’s been featured on National Geographic and PBS. Every article is either written or reviewed by someone who is an expert in either survivalism, prepping, or homesteading (or all three) and our goal is to be as practical and educational as possible.
While some of our writers and contributors use pseudonyms in order to protect their privacy (never a bad idea in these times where out of control surveillance is a growing problem), you can trust that everybody who gets to write for us has been vetted for their knowledge and passion when it comes to survival.
Click here to learn more about Secrets of Survival and our writers and contributors.
Leave a Reply