Surefire XC3-B Weaponlight, The XC3 Upgraded

SureFire XC3B: More Output From a Compact Handgun Weapon Light

Caleb from Brownells is joined by Trevor from SureFire to talk handgun lights and the latest update to the SureFire XC3.

The new revision is the XC3B, and the big change is output. SureFire has increased the compact weapon light to 1,000 lumens and 13,000 candela when it's powered by the company's new rechargeable RCR123 battery.

For shooters who like the size of the XC3 but want additional output, the XC3B represents a substantial running upgrade.

SureFire XC3B Output

The previous XC3A was rated at 550 lumens and 7,200 candela.

The updated XC3B reaches 1,000 lumens and 13,000 candela with the new RCR123 battery.

That means the update isn't limited to additional lumens. Candela also increases, providing greater beam intensity along with the higher overall output.

All of that comes from the same general compact XC3 platform.

New SureFire RCR123 Rechargeable Battery

A major part of the XC3B update is the RCR123 battery.

In the past, rechargeable batteries could sometimes mean accepting reduced performance compared with primary lithium batteries.

Trevor explains that the new SureFire RCR123 takes the opposite approach in the XC3B. The rechargeable battery is what allows the light to reach its full 1,000-lumen and 13,000-candela output.

USB-C Rechargeable

The RCR123 includes USB-C charging capability.

Instead of continually replacing disposable batteries, the included RCR123 can be recharged and reused.

Caleb compares the concept to larger rechargeable battery formats used in other lights, except the RCR123 maintains the compact dimensions needed for the XC3.

Can the XC3B Use a Standard CR123 Battery?

Yes.

According to Trevor, the XC3B can still operate with a standard CR123 battery.

There is a performance difference, however. With the standard CR123 installed, output drops to 550 lumens.

To get the full 1,000 lumens and 13,000 candela from the XC3B, the new rechargeable RCR123 battery is required.

The good news is that the rechargeable battery comes with the light.

RCR123 Compatibility With Other Equipment

Caleb also asks whether the RCR123 can be used in other equipment designed around CR123-size batteries.

Trevor explains that the battery can be used in other compatible equipment, but older lights may not produce the same increased output.

The device needs to be designed to take advantage of the battery's capabilities.

As with any rechargeable battery, verify compatibility with the manufacturer of the specific device before using it.

XC3A vs. XC3B

The XC3B isn't being treated as an entirely separate weapon light family.

Instead, Trevor describes it as an inline or running change to the XC3.

Moving forward, SureFire XC3 production will transition to the updated specification.

Externally, the two versions remain very similar. Trevor notes that engraving on the top of the light identifies whether you're looking at an XC3A or the newer XC3B.

XC3B Lockout Setting

The updated XC3 retains the practical features Caleb likes about the platform.

One is the lockout or safe position.

This setting prevents accidental light activation, which can be useful when the firearm is being transported or stored appropriately.

It's a simple feature, but one that adds practical utility to a handgun-mounted light.

Changing the XC3B Battery

Battery access is also straightforward.

The light head can be removed to access the battery without removing the entire XC3B from the handgun.

That means routine battery changes or charging don't require disturbing the weapon light's mounting position.

Compact Size With Increased Output

The combination of size and output is what makes the XC3B update interesting.

The XC3 was already intended to provide a compact handgun weapon light. The XC3B now increases that platform to 1,000 lumens and 13,000 candela with the RCR123 installed.

Trevor compares the updated output with SureFire's larger handgun light offerings, giving shooters another option when they want substantial illumination without moving to a larger weapon light.

SureFire XC3B Final Thoughts

The XC3B takes the existing SureFire XC3 concept and gives it a significant output upgrade.

The new RCR123 battery is USB-C rechargeable and allows the light to reach 1,000 lumens and 13,000 candela. Standard CR123 battery compatibility remains available, although at reduced output.

Add in the lockout setting, battery access without removing the light, and compact form factor, and the XC3B looks like a meaningful evolution of the XC3 platform.

If you have questions about the SureFire XC3B or handgun weapon lights, leave them in the comments. As always, if you need help selecting equipment for your firearm, give the Brownells Tech Line a call. We'll be happy to help.