Olight PL-2 Valkyrie LED weapon light review

In the never-ending search for quality, performance and value in the market for every day carry, there is often little to separate certain products from one another.  For weapon lights, one of the best I have found is the Olight PL-2 Valkyrie.  It has those little qualities that make it stand out for me.  I’ve previously written about my preference for an exclusive weapon light over one that includes a laser.  Nothing has changed my opinion.  A light allows you to acquire your target faster without having to find the light.

The PL-2 Valkyrie uses a CREE XHP35 high-lumen LED with up to 1200 lumens and is powered by two CR123A batteries.  Batteries can only be replaced when the light is unmounted.  The light is advertised as using a TIR optic lens for a 235-meter-long focused beam.

It is very well machined and has a solid construction and compact design. The heavy-duty quick attach and release mounting system is one of my favorite features compared to similar products on the market.  Once attached there is absolutely no movement.  The system makes installation and removal a literal snap instead of having to hand screw a bolt.  It comes with two adapters for mounting with a 1913 or Glock style rail.

My other favorite feature is the ambidextrous switch that allows the user to continue to use their preferred grip while utilizing a temporary on, constant on, or strobe setting.  I particularly like the buttons instead of the levers that some competing models offer.  The buttons are easy to access and use and they don’t offer the chance of breaking or falling off like a lever.

I think this is one of the better-looking weapon lights on the market due to its simplicity and finish.  As far as battery life, waterproof ability, beam quality, and overall function, it performs just as well or better than other lights with a $100 price-point.  At the range, the light held up to the rigors of shooting and I trust it to perform in real-life scenarios as well.

*Featured image courtesy of Olightworld.com.  All other photos courtesy of author.