Choosing the Right Light or Laser for Your Everyday Carry:

What to Know Before You Buy

We get it—a lot of people want to add a laser or light to their handgun. Whether it’s for the cool factor or practical reasons, a light or laser can be a great addition to certain setups. But when it comes to everyday carry (EDC) handguns, adding accessories like a light isn’t always the best choice for everyone. Choosing the Right Light for your handgun requires some research. Let’s dive into some real-world considerations, the pros and cons, and the importance of choosing quality accessories that work for your lifestyle.

Do You Really Need a Light on Your EDC?

There’s no doubt that a light can be incredibly useful in low-light situations, and in some cases, it can make all the difference. However, for most people carrying an EDC handgun, a separate flashlight might actually be more practical. This is especially true if your lifestyle or body type makes it challenging to conceal a larger setup with an attached light.  More Concealed Carry Essentials can be found on our Blog.

I personally carry a Sig Sauer P365 Macro with a Streamlight TLR-7 Sub at appendix carry. Being around 5’10” with a bit more weight, I can work with the bulk of a light-equipped holster in this position. But for those with a slimmer waist or different preferences, the added width and bulk of a light can make appendix carry—or any carry—less comfortable and less concealable. Some people attempt to carry a Glock 19 with a TLR-1, but this setup is bulkier and harder to conceal for most people’s daily routines. In these cases, a more compact option like the TLR-7A might be a better fit.

Why Quality Matters: Choose Reputable Brands

In the world of firearm accessories, quality really does matter. Off-brand lights might be tempting, especially if you find them at a super discount store. But here’s the thing: these budget options often fall short in terms of durability, brightness, and battery life. Worse yet, you may struggle to find a quality holster that fits properly with an off-brand light. When you buy from reputable brands like Streamlight, SureFire, or Crimson Trace, you’re getting a light that’s not only reliable but also compatible with many holster options from manufacturers like MK-Tek Holsters.  Choosing the Right Light for your handgun requires research.

It’s common to think, “Big Gun, Big Light” or “Small Gun, Small Light,” and there’s some wisdom to this approach. Larger lights often suit full-sized handguns better because they balance the weight and offer more surface area for attachment, while compact lights work best for smaller firearms, keeping things proportionate and avoiding barrel shadowing.

Understand the Purpose of the Light: Make an Informed Choice

Most firearm-mounted lights are designed with specific uses in mind. A duty-grade light on a compact EDC handgun, for example, might provide more power than necessary and add unnecessary bulk. Think about why you want the light on your handgun. Do you foresee needing it for home defense, where a larger light could be an asset? Or do you just want additional visibility when carrying on the go, which may call for a compact option?

Make a Pro and Con list based on your lifestyle and needs. Consider factors like:

• Concealability: Will the added bulk compromise your ability to keep the firearm concealed?
• Ergonomics: Can you comfortably carry and access your handgun with the added accessory?
• Battery Life: Will the light provide enough battery life for your needs?
• Holster Compatibility: Is there a good-quality holster available for your chosen light and handgun combination?

If your primary goal is self-defense in public, a light might not be essential since public areas are often lit. However, for low-light home defense, a brighter and more robust light could be ideal.  Choosing the Right Light for your handgun is not a decision to be taken lightly. 

The Drawbacks of Cheap Lights: Why “Bargain” Options Often Fall Short

While it’s natural to look for deals, it’s important not to let price alone dictate your choice of a firearm-mounted light. Budget lights may lack the durability, clarity, and dependability that reputable brands offer. Here’s what you risk with off-brand lights:

• Poor Build Quality: In a high-stress situation, you need a light that won’t malfunction. Cheap lights might fail you when you need them most.
• Compatibility Issues: Off-brand lights might not fit your handgun well and may not work with quality holsters, leaving you without proper carrying options.
• Lack of Support: Should you encounter issues, it’s much harder to get repairs or replacements for budget lights, while reputable brands often have great support and warranties.

When you invest in a solid light from a trusted brand, you’re buying peace of mind along with it.

Think About Your Lifestyle and Carry Preferences

Ultimately, you know your lifestyle best, and that knowledge is invaluable when choosing accessories. If you’re often in low-light environments or want extra security in case of an unexpected situation, a handgun light could be a worthwhile addition. For those who don’t have a need for constant illumination on their EDC, a small, powerful handheld flashlight might be just as effective and far more convenient for daily use.

For those who do choose a light, sticking with mainstream options like the Streamlight TLR-7 Sub for compact pistols or the TLR-1 HL for larger models makes it easier to find high-quality holsters designed for your specific setup. At MK-Tek Holsters, we craft holsters that fit these popular combinations, ensuring secure retention and smooth draw every time.  A quality holster does not scratch your pistol or light. 

The Bottom Line: Make Your Decision Wisely

A light or laser can add a lot of functionality to a handgun—but only if it’s the right choice for your firearm and lifestyle. Take the time to weigh the pros and cons, choose a quality brand, and make sure there are holster options available for your setup. When you’re deliberate about your choices, you’ll find the setup that’s perfect for your needs without compromising on comfort, concealment, or reliability.

So, next time you’re tempted by the allure of adding a light or laser, remember: it’s not just about having it; it’s about choosing wisely to enhance your carry experience, not hinder it.