Coyote hunting can be a thrilling experience, but success often hinges on having the right gear. One essential piece of equipment is a reliable hunting light. These aren’t your average flashlights; they’re designed to help you spot coyotes in the dark, often utilizing specific colors that are less likely to spook them. Picking the right one can make all the difference between a successful hunt and going home empty-handed. Let’s look at some of the best options out there.
Product Overview / Quick Summary:
- Streamlight TLR-1 HL: Bright, durable, weapon-mounted.
- Orion Predator H30: Affordable, versatile, comes with multiple colored lenses.
- Nightfox 960 Night Vision Binoculars: Digital night vision, good for scanning.
- Wicked Lights A67iC: Premium, long-range, adjustable focus.
- Fenix TK22 V2.0: Compact, powerful, dual switch operation.
Top 5 Best Coyote Hunting Lights
1. Streamlight TLR-1 HL
The Streamlight TLR-1 HL is a powerful weapon-mounted light, popular for its extreme brightness and durability. It’s designed to attach securely to your firearm, providing a hands-free lighting solution when you need it most. This light is built to withstand harsh conditions and deliver consistent performance.
Pros:
- ✅ Extremely bright, illuminating targets at a distance.
- ✅ Durable construction, built to withstand recoil and tough conditions.
- ✅ Secure weapon mounting, providing hands-free operation.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be bulky on smaller firearms.
- ❌ Requires a weapon with a rail system.
- ❌ No colored lens options.
Verdict: If you need a super bright, weapon-mounted light that can take a beating, the Streamlight TLR-1 HL is a solid choice. It’s ideal for hunters who prioritize durability and maximum illumination.
2. Orion Predator H30
The Orion Predator H30 is a versatile and affordable hunting light that comes with interchangeable colored lenses. This allows you to switch between red, green, and white light depending on the situation and what works best for attracting (or not spooking) coyotes in your area. I remember one hunt where the red light was a total bust, but switching to green seemed to make all the difference – coyotes just didn’t react to it the same way.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price point.
- ✅ Includes multiple colored lenses (red, green, white).
- ✅ Adjustable focus for different distances.
Cons:
- ❌ Brightness is not as high as some premium options.
- ❌ Build quality is good, but not as rugged as higher-end lights.
- ❌ Lens changes can be a bit fiddly in the field.
Verdict: The Orion Predator H30 is a great option for hunters on a budget who want the flexibility of multiple colored lenses. It’s a solid all-around performer for the price.
3. Nightfox 960 Night Vision Binoculars
These aren’t technically a “light” but the Nightfox 960 Night Vision Binoculars are a great addition to your coyote hunting setup. They are digital night vision binoculars that allow you to scan your hunting area without alerting your prey. They are perfect for pre-dawn scouting or observing coyote behavior from a distance.
Pros:
- ✅ Allows for hands-free scanning of large areas.
- ✅ Digital night vision is less susceptible to damage from bright light than analog.
- ✅ Can record video and take photos.
Cons:
- ❌ Image quality isn’t as good as high-end analog night vision.
- ❌ Requires batteries or external power.
- ❌ Not ideal for very close-range identification.
Verdict: If you want to see what’s out there before you start calling, or if you hunt in areas where coyotes are easily spooked by light, the Nightfox 960 Night Vision Binoculars are a valuable tool.
4. Wicked Lights A67iC
The Wicked Lights A67iC is a premium hunting light known for its long-range capabilities and adjustable focus. It allows you to dial in the perfect beam width for spotting coyotes at various distances. If you’re serious about nighttime hunting and willing to invest in top-tier equipment, this is a light to consider.
Pros:
- ✅ Extremely long-range illumination.
- ✅ Adjustable focus for precise beam control.
- ✅ High-quality construction and durable design.
Cons:
- ❌ Higher price point compared to other options.
- ❌ Can be heavier than some other lights.
- ❌ Requires some practice to master the adjustable focus.
Verdict: The Wicked Lights A67iC is a top-of-the-line hunting light for serious hunters who demand the best performance and long-range visibility. This is a great light for open areas.
5. Fenix TK22 V2.0
The Fenix TK22 V2.0 is a compact and powerful handheld flashlight that’s a great all-around option for coyote hunting. It features a dual-switch operation, allowing for easy access to different brightness levels and modes. It’s a good balance of power, size, and usability.
Pros:
- ✅ Compact and easy to carry.
- ✅ High light output for its size.
- ✅ Intuitive dual-switch operation.
Cons:
- ❌ Beam distance is not as long as dedicated long-range lights.
- ❌ Doesn’t come with colored lens options.
- ❌ May need a separate mount for weapon use.
Verdict: The Fenix TK22 V2.0 is a great choice for hunters who want a powerful and reliable handheld flashlight that’s easy to use and carry. It’s perfect as a backup light, or for situations where you need a versatile light source.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right coyote hunting light depends on your specific hunting style, terrain, and budget. Here are a few things to consider:
- Brightness: Measured in lumens, brightness is crucial for spotting coyotes at a distance. Consider the terrain you’ll be hunting in. Open fields require more brightness than wooded areas.
- Color: Red and green lights are commonly used because they are less likely to spook coyotes than white light. Experiment to see what works best in your area.
- Beam Distance: How far the light can effectively illuminate. Long-range lights are ideal for open areas, while shorter-range lights are better for close-quarters hunting.
- Mounting Options: If you plan to mount the light on your firearm, make sure it’s compatible with your weapon’s rail system.
- Battery Life: Consider the battery life of the light and whether it uses rechargeable batteries or disposable ones.
- Durability: Look for a light that’s built to withstand recoil, moisture, and other harsh conditions.
- Budget: Hunting lights range in price from affordable to premium. Determine your budget and choose a light that offers the best value for your money.
FAQs
What color light is best for coyote hunting?
Red and green lights are the most popular choices, as they are less likely to spook coyotes than white light. Some hunters prefer red, while others swear by green. Experiment to see what works best in your area.
How many lumens do I need for a coyote hunting light?
A good starting point is around 500 lumens, but for open areas, you may want to consider a light with 800 lumens or more. The key is to have enough brightness to spot coyotes at a distance without being so bright that you spook them.
Should I choose a weapon-mounted light or a handheld light?
This depends on your hunting style and preferences. Weapon-mounted lights provide hands-free operation, while handheld lights offer more flexibility and can be used for other purposes. Some hunters use both, with a weapon-mounted light for aiming and a handheld light for scanning.
Are night vision binoculars worth it for coyote hunting?
Night vision binoculars can be a valuable tool for scouting and observing coyote behavior, especially in areas where coyotes are easily spooked by light. They allow you to see in the dark without alerting your prey.
How important is adjustable focus on a hunting light?
Adjustable focus allows you to dial in the perfect beam width for different distances. This can be particularly useful if you hunt in a variety of terrains, from open fields to wooded areas.
Conclusion
Choosing the best coyote hunting light comes down to personal preference and the specific conditions of your hunt. Consider your budget, hunting style, and the terrain you’ll be hunting in. Whether you opt for a weapon-mounted light, a handheld light, or even night vision binoculars, having the right lighting solution can significantly increase your chances of success. Good luck out there!
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