Quick Tip: Weapon Light Mounting with SureFire
Introduction
Caleb from Brownells is joined by Andrew from SureFire to talk about proper weapon light mounting for rifles, specifically focusing on the SureFire Scout Light Pro. They cover mounting theory, common mistakes, and best practices for optimizing your AR-15 setup.
Where to Mount Your Weapon Light
The first step in mounting a weapon light is understanding where your support hand naturally rests. Andrew recommends gripping the rifle as if you’re going to shoot it and marking that spot on the rail using a pencil. This helps ensure the light does not interfere with your normal shooting grip. The goal is to mount the light so it works around your grip, not the other way around.
Choosing the Best Position for Grip and Control
Maintaining control of the firearm is the top priority. A weapon light should not disrupt your grip or handling. Andrew suggests keeping the light clear of areas where your hand needs to go. Proper placement ensures the shooter maintains full control of the rifle, especially during defensive or high-pressure scenarios.
Benefits of Top-Mount Light Placement
Mounting the weapon light at the 12 o'clock position or near the top of the handguard has several advantages. A high-mounted light is less likely to cause the rifle to tip over when supported on a barricade or flat surface. It also provides easier access to activation switches, especially when using a shrouded tailcap that protects against accidental activation during sling use.
Suppressor and Accessory Considerations
When using suppressors, Andrew emphasizes avoiding positions that block quick-detach buttons or controls. The Scout Light Pro’s rotating mount allows you to reposition the light easily to accommodate suppressor clearance or other accessories. Flexibility in placement helps maintain full function of your rifle setup.
Pressure Switches Overview
SureFire offers several pressure switch options to optimize light activation. These include models like the SR07, which combines a momentary pad with a constant-on switch and mounts directly to a Picatinny rail. Pressure switches allow the light to be mounted out of the way while still enabling fast and intuitive activation.
Tailcap and Switch Compatibility
To use a pressure switch with a SureFire Scout Light, you need a compatible tailcap. The DS switch includes both a button and a plug-in port for a remote switch. Other models include the CSP and CSM, which are designed to mount directly to M-LOK or Picatinny rails. All switches offer both momentary and constant-on functionality.
Third Party Pressure Switch Options
Andrew also points out that other manufacturers make compatible pressure switches for SureFire lights. For example, Unity Tactical produces switches that work seamlessly with the Scout Light system. This opens up more customization possibilities for those using additional devices like IR lasers or aiming modules.
Final Thoughts and Summary
The biggest takeaway is to prioritize shootability and comfort. The weapon light should not compromise your grip or control. Andrew advises shooters to experiment with placement and adjust based on experience. Range testing is essential for fine-tuning your setup, and it’s perfectly acceptable to move things around until the placement works best for you.
Community Tips and How to Get Help
Caleb and Andrew encourage experienced shooters to share their own light mounting strategies in the comments. For those needing help with weapon light setups or any AR-15 configuration, Brownells offers expert support through their tech line. Viewers are reminded that tuning your gear is part of building a reliable and effective rifle.
