Hands-On With the SureFire PLR Stiletto Light

A while back, we reviewed the Guardian DBR from SureFire. With power coming from an internal, USB-rechargeable battery, two different beam settings and power ranging from 15 lumens to 1,000 lumens, the Guardian had just about every feature you might want—except a pocket clip. SureFire’s gone and shrunk the light somewhat, added a pocket clip and a tailcap, and voila! the new Stiletto light appears.

Three buttons fill out the Stiletto’s profile. On the flat side, there’s a primary switch that cycles between low, medium and high settings. To the left of the primary switch is a programming switch that allows the end user to change the order of illumination preferences and add a strobe. On the end of the Stiletto is a tailcap that activates the high setting in momentary-on capability.

Add in the same rechargeable feature that made the Guardian so unique (although the Stiletto is micro-USB, not USB-C), with a fuel gauge for referencing the status of the internal battery and the Stiletto is a powerful choice in EDC lighting. With a length under 4.5 inches and a weight less than 3 ounces, it won’t weigh you down nor lighten your wallet by draining batteries. Full recharge from empty can be accomplished in approximately three hours.

What really sets the Stiletto apart from the Guardian, though, is the tailcap. Sure, the pocket clip is a nice touch, and allows the Stiletto to be ready for action rather than sitting at the bottom of your pocket, but the tailcap brings all 650 lumens to bear with a simple touch. This allows various methods for operating a firearm with a separate light (see this handy reference for some of the basics) without the light having to be left constantly on.

Specifications:

 MSRP: $109.