For many years, my favored low-light technique was simply using a flashlight in my left hand while holding the gun in my right. I had very good SHO speed and accuracy. Now that it’s diminished so much, the idea of mounting a light on my pistol so I can run it two-handed has become more necessary.
A good friend of mine recommended the APL from INFORCE. His agency issues them and has had generally good results. His recommendation also came complete with a custom appendix holster that works well with G19/APL combination for comfort, concealability, and speed.
I’ve got two APL‘s, one for my carry gun and one for my dedicated training gun. Once I’ve had a chance to run them through their paces I’ll report back with some more detailed thoughts.
Train hard & stay safe! ToddG
Currently I use a SureFire X300U but I am looking forward to the release of their new XC1. That will be a great WML for conceal carry. It will be good to know how it compares to the APL.
This year I decided to put Inforce APLs on my carry/HD and practice guns, both HK VP9s. I have been carrying in a JMCK IWB V2 light-bearing holster and absolutely love this setup.
The UX (user experience for you non-nerds) with the APL is the best I’ve had, having previously used Surefire X300s and a Streamlight TLR-1. I also like the fact that it is light weight – it doesn’t affect the balance of the gun – and I appreciate being able to easily swap the battery. Tony’s holster carries gun and light like a dream.
I still carry a handheld flashlight but really like having the option of a WML as part of my concealed carry setup.
I like the APL quite a lot. It is small and I like the way it operates in regards to momentary/constant light modes. Current production units have a different attachment arrangement that my older unit. I read that they had some problems with the older styles falling off the rail. I’ve had no trouble with mine.
I think for IWB the size of the APL is tough to beat.
I’ve become a huge fan of the APL personally carrying it on both my G19 and my P07. I have the Gen 2 model with the new mounting system, which I actually prefer to the old QD system they had before. The big paddles IMO are easier to actuate than other brands and with my oddly shaped toe thumbs they are placed well within reach for me. I hope you enjoy the light as much as I have. Have a good one.
Are you running the APL/Holster AIWB? Just curious.
I had a parasitic drain with my APL. Killed batteries while not in use. To their credit they did replace it but I ended up selling it.
I heard more than once or twice about battery drainage.
Count me as one looking forward to the XC1 actually shipping, although I’m hoping there will be a “DG”-type switch available.
IMHO, the best thing about the APL is that it works exactly the same no matter which hand you use. Rotary switches may function with either hand but the functions reverse on either side; you still have to remember when up or down is constant or momentary. Another concern is when shooting left handed using a rotary switch light, the momentary activation requires lifting the thumb which weakens grip strength.
Are we not fans of the x300 ultra Todd?
Oh yeah, Todd – what holster were you referring to?
I can’t currently AIWB but when I am once again able I definitely want to retain the APL.
How are you all activating the apl? do you use your trigger finger or your support hand thumb? I have big hands and with the support hand thumb method I’m coming down on the upper portion of the paddle at a 45 degree angle (if I don’t shift my grip). Because of the angle I dont get reliable activation. I’m hesitant to use my trigger finger because of what many have said about only keeping it for pulling the trigger.
Bryce — It’s great. But it’s big & bulky compared to the APL. I’m also not as happy with the SureFire’s switch configuration.
Tim — It’s a prototype holster. I’m hoping it will prove itself and be available eventually.
Paul — I generally use my support hand (left) thumb. But I’ve got fairly short fingers so that may simply be an advantage here. I’m not thrilled with the idea of using my trigger finger since the angle of the switch seems designed to direct your finger right into the trigger guard.
Does the new version launch off the gun under recoil like the old one did?
David – I have not had any issue with the newer version leaving the gun unexpectedly. The screw attachment seems very solid compared to the old QD method.
I wanted to like this light but we were never meant to be. Too easy to accidentally turn the light on or off; paddles are too sensitive. Shot it in a night time outlaw USPSA match and would frequently turn the light off accidentally after mag changes. Will stick with the X300U.
David — I’ve not experienced any problems but mine was jumping from carry gun to training gun so it never had to fire more than about 500rd without being retightened. Now that I’ve got a second one, the original is becoming a dedicated training light on my dedicated training gun and if it comes off, I imagine it will be very noticeable. 😎
mitori — Sorry to hear that. You’re not the first person to report light ADs. It may just be a hand size issue. I haven’t had the light come on once in practice. All of my practice is at an indoor range so I’d definitely notice a 200 lumen bloom lighting up in front of me.
Todd, interesting that you are testing the APL. I literally just got one yesterday, so I have not yet tested it while shooting but will do so this week. So far I like the way the switch works far better than rotary style switches. It is quite compact, so I am now entertaining the idea of putting one on my carry gun as well. Please update us on your thoughts with it as you progress.