Where to mount my Gun Light

**Mtbkski** · September 2nd, 2013, 09:37 PM

I got a good light for my go to rifle. But I'm not sure where would be the best place to mount it. Right now I have it mounted on the left hand side of the barrel. So, I can turn it on and off with my thumb. It is mounted as far forward as I can get it on my forgrip.

Is there a better location? I shoot right handed.

**Steve in PA** · September 2nd, 2013, 11:28 PM

I have a light mounted on my AR in an Elzetta mount which mounts the light directly under the barrel, this way it is ambidextrous.

With a light mounted to either side, you have to lean out farther from cover in order to use the light. In your case, since the light is mounted on the left side, if you were shooting from the right side of cover, you would have to lean farther out, thereby exposing more yourself.

Also, since the light is mounted on the left and is activated by your left thumb, you can't switch shoulders and shoot from the other side because the light would be extremely difficult to reach.

Just an FYI.

**Pa.Sniper** · September 3rd, 2013, 09:39 AM

I would mount it facing forward.

**Mtbkski** · September 3rd, 2013, 11:36 PM

Originally Posted by Pa.Sniper

I would mount it facing forward.

Yeah, first time I turned it on, I figured that one out. Seen white spots for 15 minutes.

But really, only one opinion on this.

**TonyF** · September 4th, 2013, 12:48 AM

At 6 o'clock you can have issues with a two point sling obstructing the light. You can also have the same issue when shooting over a barricade.

Some people are using a 12 o'clock position. Without getting into the details, that position requires a tape switch and has front sight tower issues and / or sighting system issues.

At 10 o'clock or 2 o'clock you can also have issues with walls or corners causing either splashback or forcing you to lean too far outward to clear the structure exposing more of your body than otherwise necessary.

There is really no clear winner.

I really don't like 6 o'clock or 12 o'clock.

10 or 2 are the most popular options.

A right handed shooter with a light at 2 o'clock will most likely require a tapeswitch to activate the light.

**jw34** · September 4th, 2013, 12:50 AM

I'll give you a second. Same as the first. I prefer mine mounted below for the same reasons mentioned above. You never know if you have to switch lefty to righty or vice versa, depending on the situation, location or circumstances.
I've been trained to switch between left and right depending upon which way I round a corner. Some people like it and feel comfortable doing it, some don't.
But it all comes down to personal preference. Do what you like and what feels right for you.