Choosing the right weapon light can be tricky. The Streamlight Protac HL-X and Rail Mount 2 are popular options for gun owners. Both lights offer good performance, but they have some key differences.
The Streamlight Protac HL-X provides 1,000 lumens of brightness, while the Rail Mount 2 offers 625 lumens. This makes the HL-X better for lighting up larger areas. The HL-X is also a bit heavier and larger than the Rail Mount 2. This can affect how a gun feels and handles.
Both lights mount to Picatinny rails. They use different battery types. The HL-X can use either CR123A or 18650 rechargeable batteries. The Rail Mount 2 only uses CR123A batteries. This gives the HL-X more flexibility in power options.
Key Takeaways
- The HL-X is brighter but heavier than the Rail Mount 2
- Both lights mount to Picatinny rails and are made for weapon use
- The HL-X offers more battery options compared to the Rail Mount 2
Overview of the Streamlight Protac HL-X
The Streamlight Protac HL-X is a powerful weapon-mounted light designed for long guns. It boasts 1,000 lumens of brightness, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
This light comes with a fixed mount that fits MIL-STD-1913 (Picatinny) rails. It also includes an M-LOK mount for compatibility with other rail systems.
Users can operate the Protac HL-X with either a remote pressure switch or a standard push-button tail cap switch. This flexibility allows for easy customization based on personal preference.
The light is versatile in terms of power sources. It can run on either two CR123A batteries or a single 18650 rechargeable battery.
Key features of the Protac HL-X include:
- 1,000 lumen output
- Multiple mounting options
- Dual switch types
- Compatible with different battery types
- Useful light range up to 80 yards
The Protac HL-X is known for its durability and reliability. It’s built to withstand harsh conditions, making it a popular choice among law enforcement and military personnel.
Overview of the Streamlight Rail Mount 2
The Streamlight Rail Mount 2 is a lightweight, low-profile tactical gun light designed for use on long guns. It features a fixed mount that attaches securely to Picatinny rails, making it easy to install on various firearms.
This compact light boasts a powerful 625-lumen output on its highest setting. It uses Streamlight’s C4 LED technology, which provides a bright, focused beam for improved visibility in low-light conditions.
The Rail Mount 2 offers versatility with its multiple light modes. Users can choose between high, low, and strobe settings to suit different tactical situations. The low setting produces 60 lumens, which is useful for conserving battery life during extended use.
One notable feature is the Ten-Tap programming. This allows users to customize the light’s activation sequence according to their preferences. Options include low-high, high-strobe, or high-only modes.
The light’s beam has a rated distance of 297 meters, making it effective for medium-range target identification. Its 22,000 candela output ensures a strong, concentrated beam that can penetrate darkness effectively.
Built for durability, the Rail Mount 2 is constructed to withstand harsh conditions. It’s designed to be reliable and long-lasting, even in challenging environments often encountered by law enforcement and military personnel.
Comparative Analysis
The Streamlight ProTac HL-X and Rail Mount 2 differ in several key areas. These include their physical design, light output capabilities, power sources, and mounting flexibility. Let’s examine how these two popular weapon lights compare across important factors for users.
Design and Build Quality
The ProTac HL-X has a longer and slightly thicker body than the Rail Mount 2. It measures 5.43 inches in length compared to the Rail Mount 2’s 5 inches. Both lights feature durable aluminum construction with impact-resistant tempered glass lenses.
The HL-X weighs 6.4 ounces, while the Rail Mount 2 is lighter at 5 ounces. This small weight difference may impact weapon balance for some users.
Both models have an IPX7 waterproof rating, allowing submersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. They also use Streamlight’s Ten-Tap programming for customizable mode selection.
Light Output and Beam Distance
The HL-X produces a maximum of 1,000 lumens with 27,600 candela. This gives it more powerful output and longer throw than the Rail Mount 2.
The Rail Mount 2 offers 625 lumens and 21,500 candela. It creates a more focused beam pattern with a tighter hotspot.
At 25 yards, the HL-X provides a large hotspot with usable spill. The Rail Mount 2 maintains a defined hotspot but less peripheral illumination.
The HL-X can reach targets up to 332 meters away. The Rail Mount 2 has an effective range of 293 meters.
Battery Life and Power Source
The HL-X uses either two CR123A lithium batteries or one 18650 rechargeable battery. On high mode, it runs for 1.25 hours with CR123As or 1.5 hours with an 18650.
The Rail Mount 2 takes two CR123A batteries only. It provides 2 hours of runtime on high.
Both lights feature low-battery indicators. The HL-X’s dual fuel capability offers more flexibility, while the Rail Mount 2 has longer runtime on its highest setting.
Mounting Options and Versatility
Both lights come with rail grabber mounts for attaching to Picatinny rails. The HL-X includes a remote pressure switch, while it’s optional for the Rail Mount 2.
The HL-X is compatible with Scout-style mounts. This allows for a wider range of mounting positions and accessories.
The Rail Mount 2’s smaller size makes it suitable for compact weapons like pistol-caliber carbines. The HL-X’s higher output is often preferred for full-size rifles.
Both models can be weapon-mounted or used as handheld lights. The HL-X’s increased versatility comes at the cost of larger size and weight.
Operational Differences
The Streamlight ProTac HL-X and Rail Mount 2 have some key operational differences. The HL-X offers higher lumens and a more powerful beam compared to the Rail Mount 2. This makes the HL-X better suited for longer-range illumination.
Battery options also differ between the two models. The HL-X can use both CR123A lithium batteries and rechargeable 18650 batteries. The Rail Mount 2 is limited to CR123A batteries only.
Mounting systems vary slightly. While both lights attach to Picatinny rails, the HL-X comes with additional mounting options:
- Picatinny rail mount
- M-LOK mount
- Scout-style mounting
The Rail Mount 2 typically uses only the Picatinny rail attachment method.
Weight and size are another point of difference. The HL-X is slightly heavier and larger than the Rail Mount 2. This can affect weapon balance, especially on smaller firearms.
Both lights feature similar controls, including momentary and constant-on modes. They also both offer strobe functionality for tactical situations.
Pricing and Value for Money
The Streamlight ProTac HL-X and Rail Mount 2 have different price points. The HL-X typically costs more than the Rail Mount 2.
For the extra money, the HL-X offers higher lumen output at 1,000 lumens compared to the Rail Mount 2’s lower output.
The HL-X also provides more versatility in mounting options. It comes with both rail and M-LOK mounts, giving users flexibility in attaching it to different weapon systems.
Battery options are another factor to consider. The HL-X can use either disposable CR123A batteries or rechargeable 18650 batteries. This saves money long-term for frequent users.
The Rail Mount 2 is a solid choice for those with simpler needs or tighter budgets. It still offers good performance for its price.
Durability is comparable between the two models. Both are built to withstand recoil and harsh conditions, adding to their value.
When deciding between these lights, users should weigh their specific needs against the price difference. The extra features of the HL-X may justify its higher cost for some, while others may find the Rail Mount 2 perfectly adequate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Customers often have questions about the differences between the Streamlight ProTac HL-X and Rail Mount 2 models. These FAQs address key aspects like performance, user experiences, mounting options, and beam characteristics.
What are the main differences between the Streamlight ProTac HL-X and the ProTac Rail Mount 2 in terms of performance?
The ProTac HL-X offers higher lumen output and longer beam distance compared to the Rail Mount 2. The HL-X produces 1,000 lumens, while the Rail Mount 2 generates 625 lumens.
The HL-X has a wider beam pattern, making it suitable for flood lighting larger areas. The Rail Mount 2 has a tighter beam with better throw, ideal for focusing light on distant targets.
How do user experiences with the Streamlight ProTac HL-X compare to the Rail Mount 2 based on reviews?
Users praise the HL-X for its brightness and rechargeable battery option. Some report issues with pressure pad functionality in certain HL-X units.
The Rail Mount 2 receives positive feedback for its compact size and reliable performance. Users appreciate its durability and ease of mounting.
Can the Streamlight ProTac HL-X be easily attached to an M-LOK system?
The ProTac HL-X can be attached to M-LOK systems using compatible mounts. Streamlight offers specific M-LOK mounting kits for the HL-X.
Users can also find third-party M-LOK mounts designed for the HL-X, providing flexibility in mounting options.
What are the beam distance and brightness level differences between the Streamlight ProTac HL-X and the ProTac Rail Mount 2?
The ProTac HL-X boasts a beam distance of 330 meters, while the Rail Mount 2 reaches 200 meters. This difference is due to the HL-X’s higher lumen output.
The HL-X produces 1,000 lumens compared to the Rail Mount 2’s 625 lumens. This higher output gives the HL-X an advantage in illuminating larger areas.
Is the Streamlight ProTac HL-X compatible with scout mounts?
Yes, the ProTac HL-X is compatible with scout mounts. It uses a standard 1-inch body diameter, allowing it to fit most scout-style mounts.
This compatibility gives users flexibility in mounting options and allows for easy integration with existing setups.
What does the ‘HL’ designation signify in the Streamlight series?
The ‘HL’ in ProTac HL-X stands for “High Lumen.” This designation indicates that the light is part of Streamlight’s high-output series.
HL models typically offer increased brightness and beam distance compared to their standard counterparts in the Streamlight lineup.