Surefire XC-1 Ultra-Compact LED Pistol Light

By
Ben Battles
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Giving the reader a good idea of just how small the XC-1 is, here it is shadowed by the outline of the standard-sized, but much bigger, SureFire X300V. The body of the XC-1 is only slightly longer than the AAA battery that powers it.
Giving the reader a good idea of just how small the XC-1 is, here it is shadowed by the outline of the standard-sized, but much bigger, SureFire X300V. The body of the XC-1 is only slightly longer than the AAA battery that powers it.

None of these drawbacks are present on the XC-1.

Keeping your carry rig light and low-profile are key. The Surefire XC-1 not meets these criteria, it is also amazingly powerful for its size. The SC-1 features a high-performance, 200-lumen MaxVision LED beam with a special multifaceted reflector that produces an evenly distributed pattern (no bright center) for maintaining optimal situational awareness and identifying threats at close range. Stretching the distance out to 50 yards and slightly beyond, all testers were able to easily and accurately identify a target and make a threat assessment (if these were not defenseless steel-plate targets) in pitch-black darkness using the XC1.

If you can see your target after dark, night sights will be of little help in a defensive situation. A source of white-light illumination is a crucial component to your every-day-carry kit, and the XC1 fills this need in a small, light, powerful package—and importantly—weapon-attached fashion.
If you can see your target after dark, night sights will be of little help in a defensive situation. A source of white-light illumination is a crucial component to your every-day-carry kit, and the XC1 fills this need in a small, light, powerful package—and importantly—weapon-attached fashion.
The Raven Concealment Systems Phantom holster has long stood for top-tier Kydex craftsmanship, and as of this writing, is one of the very few available holsters that incorporate the new XC-1 as a mold-option. With an adjustable ride-height and a low profile to minimize bulk and “printing,” it is convertible to IWB carry via optional soft-loops that take the place of the belt loops. Other highlights include “just the right amount” of retention and ultra-thin yet nearly indestructible construction.
The Raven Concealment Systems Phantom holster has long stood for top-tier Kydex craftsmanship, and as of this writing, is one of the very few available holsters that incorporate the new XC-1 as a mold-option. With an adjustable ride-height and a low profile to minimize bulk and “printing,” it is convertible to IWB carry via optional soft-loops that take the place of the belt loops. Other highlights include “just the right amount” of retention and ultra-thin yet nearly indestructible construction.

That is more than adequate performance for a defensive handgun. For testing, we mounted the XC-1 on a Glock 19 and paired it with Raven Concealment Systems’ OWB Phantom Kydex holster molded specifically for the gun/light combo. Raven is one of the few companies currently offering a holster that will accommodate the XC-1. Fortunately, they are also one of the best options in the business. Check them out at www.rcsgear.com.

We love the fact that a single, inexpensive, and commonly available AAA battery powers the XC-1. The O-ring-sealed battery cap can be removed with a coin or flat-blade screwdriver.
We love the fact that a single, inexpensive, and commonly available AAA battery powers the XC-1. The O-ring-sealed battery cap can be removed with a coin or flat-blade screwdriver.

Machined from aerospace-grade aluminum and powered by a single AAA battery (included, runtime 1.5 hours), the XC-1 measures only 2.375 inches long by 1.10 inches wide, and projects down from the rail only 0.75 inches. “Loaded weight” (with battery) is a scant 1.60 ounces. The light has a constant-on function, plus left- and right-side mounted momentary switches at the rear, making it truly ambidextrous.

In sum, the SureFire XC-1 removes any and all excuses not to mate your rail-equipped carry gun with a weaponlight. See the new XC-1 in person at your nearest SureFire dealer, or for more information contact Surefire, LLC; Tel.: (800) 828-8809: Web: www.surefire.com

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