Hi, I have used the TLR 1 for about four years and have had no issues. I have used a few of the earlier surefire models before the pistol mounted light system became popular. i.e. when there where no rails on handguns.
For the price you can not beat the tlr1. Now with that being said I recently got a crimson trace for a handgun, my first laser and really like what it can add tacticaly. A laser is not the end all be all but it can come in handy when sited in properly and used correctly.
Here are the specs on the older TLR1 which are still around on the web.
These powerful, intensely bright, long-running, aluminum-bodied gun mount lights set a whole new standard for durability. Shockproof, dustproof and virtually indestructible, these tools powered by the C4 Power LED won't break or burn out.
Powered by 2 3-volt CR123A batteries, the C4 Power LED provides up to 135 lumens
Up to 2.5 hour run time (TLR-2: laser-only mode runs 45+ hours)
Rail grip clamp system securely attaches/detaches quickly and safely
Ambidextrous momentary/steady on-off switch
MIL-SPEC 810F performance tested
Powered by two 3-volt CR123 lithium batteries with 10-year storage life
C4® LED technology, impervious to shock with a 50,000 hour lifetime
LED Rating: Up to 8,000 candela peak beam intensity and up to 160 lumens measured system output. Deep-dish parabolic reflector produces a concentrated beam with optimum peripheral illumination
Run Time: 2.5 hours regulated run time. Solid-state current regulation for consistent illumination level.
Rail grip clamp system securely attaches/detaches quickly and safely with no tools and without putting your hands in front of muzzle
Mounts directly to handguns with Glock-style rails and to all MIL-STD-1913 (Picatinny) rails.
Includes keys for Glock-style, Picatinny, Beretta 90two, S&W 99 and S&W TSW
Machined aluminum sealed construction with black anodized finsih
Ambidextrous momentary/steady on/off switch
Highly accurate sight repeatability when remounting
Fits existing light bearing holsters
4.18 oz.
Lithium Battery Notice under TECH DOCS
IPX7 rated design; waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
If you can get the TLR2 for a good price I would get that one. The light output is good and the laser is bright. A couple of my buddies have the TLR2 and love it.
Here are the specs for the TLR2
The same great features of the TLR-1 with an integrated laser sight for accurate aiming. Now with C4® LED Technology.
Powered by two 3-volt CR123 lithium batteries with 10-year storage life
C4® LED Technology, impervious to shock with a 50,000 hour lifetime.
Up to 8,000 candela peak beam intensity and up to 160 lumens measured system output.
Up to 2.5 hrs runtime
Rail grip clamp system securely attaches/detaches quickly and safely with no tools and without putting your hands in front of muzzle
Fast, Adjustable, Secure Side mounting to 1913 and Glock style Rails
Machined aluminum sealed construction with black anodized finish
Dustproof
Ambidextrous momentary/steady on/off switch
Highly accurate sight repeatability when remounting
Fits existing light bearing holsters
4.72 oz.
I am a big fan of the pressure switch on weapon lights. I have them on my surefires and find it alot more convienent. Some will say it can lead to a negligent discharge, but then again so can carrying a firearm in the first place. Practice, common sense, and training are the mantra of the day.
Here is a link to what the pressure switch is. I have one on order for my tlr1 from a local gun store.
http://www.cheaperthandirt.com/LargeImage.aspx?sku=75513Hope it helps.
If you are a LEO just make sure your department allows laser devices to be used. While many allow white light devices many do not allow laser devices to be mounted on duty related weapons.
Good luck.
