A military torch is particularly robust, waterproof and shockproof. It offers a long burn time and additional functions such as red light or the memory function, which starts the torch in the last mode used.
What makes a good military torch?
During military exercises and operations, torches sometimes have to withstand a lot of stress: falls, blows, heat or cold and moisture. When choosing a torch, therefore, pay attention to these basic characteristics:
- High luminous flux of at least 600 lumens
- Sturdy, shock-resistant housing made of aluminium or shatterproof plastic
- High IP protection class, recommended: IP68 (dustproof and permanently waterproof)
- Focusing, i.e. concentrating the light beam on a point in the distance
- Wide light beam for extensive illumination of the area of operation
- Red light: Barely visible from a distance, so as to remain undetected
Robust construction of military torches
A reliable torch is characterised by:
- Sturdy, shock-resistant housing made of aluminium or shatterproof plastic
- High IP protection class, recommended: IP68 (dustproof and permanently waterproof, even when submerged)
- Chemical resistance if you work with fuels, petrol, diesel or oil.
Tip: The first number of the IP protection rating indicates the protection class against foreign bodies and dust, the second number indicates the protection against water. IP68 therefore means:
- Dustproof 6: completely protected against the ingress of dust.
- Waterproof 8: protected against permanent submersion in water to a depth of 1.5 metres for 30 minutes.
→ Here you will find chemical-resistant torches with IP68 protection.
Operating a military torch with gloves
The layout and size of the switches on the torch must be such that you can operate them even when wearing gloves. The following features are helpful in this regard:
- Large switches and buttons in general, especially on the long side and back of torches
- Smooth-running focus system for switching between close-range and long-range light
- Helpful: A memory function so that the torch immediately starts in the last mode set after being switched off.
Military torch with attachment options
Your torch must be able to be attached to your equipment or vest and held securely, even when walking, running or in combat.
However, this attachment must be easy to release securely as soon as you need the torch.
- Torch with clip for your belt
- Torch with pouch or holster
- Angle light with attachment option for your vest and equipment
Military torch with rechargeable or regular battery
During long exercises or missions, there is no time to recharge a torch. Therefore, the battery should already have a high capacity and thus a long runtime.
Choose a torch whose battery you can replace with a full one. This way, you can easily double or multiply the runtime.
The battery life must always be evaluated in relation to the light output. For example, it is advantageous if you can access a luminous flux of 900 lumens in boost mode, but the battery lasts for several hours at medium power and 240 lumens.
If you expect to have no or very limited opportunities to charge batteries and can reliably obtain batteries instead, a suitable torch is the right choice for you.
The main Bundeswehr flashlight: robust, high lumen value, useful features
The design of the one Bundeswehr model is very reminiscent of what private users imagine a military flashlight to be. It is a lamp that produces a powerful luminous flux of up to 1,000 lumens, offers an infrared and strobe mode, and can even be operated remotely. Furthermore, the Bundeswehr's standard lamp is optimized for rough combat use, as it can be attached to the Bundeswehr's assault rifle, for example, and thus used as a target marker in the dark as well as in poorly lit buildings. For naval missions, such as for combat divers, it is waterproof down to a depth of 30 meters and has an impact-resistant and shockproof housing.
The small sidekick to the main Bundeswehr flashlight in detail
The Bundeswehr's second lamp model is also designed to be attached to a weapon and supports the soldier's vision with a bright white light, infrared light and a laser for target detection that casts a small, focused spot of light on an object over several hundred meters. This military flashlight is designed more as a supplemental targeting device than as a flashlight. It has a luminosity of around 650 lumens, is also waterproof to a depth of 30 meters and can also be controlled by remote control.
Are flashlights banned by the military?
In Germany, it is forbidden to attach a light source to a weapon, which makes most concepts of military flashlights obsolete for sport shooting or for hunters. However, it is generally allowed to buy a military flashlight and use it as a light source during outdoor and other activities.
Military torch – Frequently asked questions and answers
Aluminium or shatterproof plastic housings and high protection ratings such as IP68 are often used. The overall construction should be able to withstand shocks, water, dust and, if necessary, chemicals.
Yes, private users can also buy and use such torches, as they do not have any features or functions that are exclusively reserved for the military.
Red light preserves human night vision better than white light. It makes the user less visible and is suitable for map reading or signalling.
Yes, most models have large, easy-grip switches. This means they can also be operated in cold conditions.