Surefire XSC Review: Pocket Sized Power

If you’ve got a handgun on the smaller side, you may be in need of a micro-compact pistol light. 

Surefire are the Kings of weapon-mounted lights and so it’s no surprise that they are currently dominating the category of sub-compact lights; a relatively new addition to this WML space.

Let me start off by saying this, this weapon mounted light isn’t my first choice for pistol lights. So let’s take a look at the Surefire XSC review below and what I like and dislike about this potential upgrade to your firearm.

Surefire XSC

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Surefire XSC Review

Let’s start with its size. Because the XSC is so compact, it’s concealable and lightweight which allows me to have it ready to go without it being bulky and potentially being caught on a holster or clothing.

The weight is great, and it doesn’t feel like I’ve added an accessory that weighs my pistol down. This is something that I like about the Surefire XSC.

The light runs at 350 lumens with a 2000 candela output. You’re not going to be blown away by the range of this light but it’s a fairly strong light for its size and it’s fine for close quarters scenarios.

It wouldn’t be a Surefire if it wasn’t virtually indestructible and despite its micro size, this is no different. Durable and strong.

With all the rough handling and wet weather I get myself into while shooting, I am confident that the XSC will be ready to go when I need it.

Like most of these weapon mounted lights, it has a rechargeable battery adding to its compact nature and ensuring that you’re not wasting money on batteries, although this light has a very short runtime, having some replaceable batteries might have been a better option. 

For a weapon mounted light, I prefer something that doesn’t require a lot of maintenance, and with the battery run time being quite low, I’m not a fan of keeping up with charging cycles. Overall it’s not my everyday carry option, but it still a light that made the list of best pistol lights.

If you’re interested in seeing what other options made the list of Best Pistol Lights, you’ll find that article here.

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Report Card
Brightness	With 350 lumens of brightness this light definitely doesn’t come in as the best option – but it’s still not too bad.	B+
Range	The range of this light might be lacking at 2,000 candela if you’re looking to reach out further. But for close quarters illumination its all you need.	B
Battery Life	I feel that the battery life is lacking on this light	B-
Value	Overall, I think this light is a good option for home defense, but isn’t the best option on the market.	B

Surefire XSC

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Our Grade

B

Reviewed by Tom Moore

Reader’s Grade

C+

Based on 4 Reviews

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Surefire XSC FAQs

How many lumens should a pistol light be?

120 lumens is enough to start. With this brightness you should be able to search a building or temporarily blind an attacker. With that said, the higher the lumens, the brighter the light so 120 lumens is truly just somewhere to start.

Should your home defense pistol have a light?

This is probably the place where it’s best to have a light on your handgun. If you have an intruder in your home, impairing their ability in any means possible – including their vision – is a great idea. A pistol light will do this.