FAQ Topics
Flashlights
Flashlight Runtime
Tailcap Lockout
WeaponLights
Batteries
Pocket Clip & Lanyard
FLASHLIGHTS
My flashlight will not turn on. How can I fix it?
First replace batteries with fresh new SureFire batteries. 95% of non-working SureFire flashlights are due to dead batteries.
If it still doesn't work, perform the "paper clip test" as follows:
- Put new batteries in the flashlight.
- Unscrew and remove tailcap.
- Using a metal object such as a paper clip or key, simultaneously touch the flat center of the exposed battery terminal and the rear metal rim of the flashlight.

If the flashlight turns on, the problem was due to dead batteries.
If the flashlight does not turn on, replace the lamp assembly and perform the paper clip test again.
If your flashlight does not have a replaceable lamp assembly, call SureFire at 1-800-828-8809 and ask for Customer Service.
If you have replaced the batteries and the lamp assembly and the flashlight still does not turn on, you may have a broken tailcap switch. Call SureFire at 1-800-828-8809 and ask for Customer Service.
My A2 Aviator's small LEDs light up but the main incandescent lamp doesn't. What's wrong?
Either your batteries are too depleted or your main lamp assembly has failed. The main lamp on the A2 Aviator draws significantly more power than the LEDs, so by design it stops functioning when the batteries get too low, thus leaving you with usable light from the LEDs. To fix the problem, first install a fresh set of batteries. If this doesn't fix the problem, replace your main lamp assembly (model number MA02).
How do I change the lamp in my flashlight?
LED models with integral (built-in) LEDs
- The LED does not need to be changed and cannot be changed.
Most models
- Remove the flashlight head by rotating it counterclockwise.
- Remove lamp/reflector assembly and replace it with a recommended assembly.
9AN model
- Remove the flashlight head by rotating it counterclockwise.
- Remove the nylon screw that secures the lamp assembly to the head.
- Replace the inoperative N90 lamp assembly with a new one.
- Secure the lamp assembly to the head with the nylon screw.
- Attach the head to the flashlight body.
10X model
- Remove the flashlight head by rotating it counterclockwise.
- Using a 5/32" hex wrench (included with the 10X), remove the Allen screw in the center of the spring at the base of the head.
- Carefully separate the reflector from the head.
- Replace the inoperative lamp with a new one.
- Replace the reflector in the head and replace the Allen screw.
- Attach the head to the flashlight body.
NOTE -- Avoid touching glass lamp bulb. Oil from your hand will degrade the surface and affect the performance of your SUREFIRE flashlight.
NOTE 2 – For P-series lamp assemblies the bulb, reflector, base, and springs are one unit.
Which lamp does my flashlight use?
First note that some flashlights use more than one lamp assembly — a standard lamp and an ultra high-output lamp. Runtime per set of batteries will be shorter for the ultra high-output lamps.
To get this information, and much more:
- Click to SureFire's main flashlight page, locate your flashlight, and click on it. This will take you to your flashlight's product page, where you can find the information you need in the Parts & Accessories section
- Visit SureFire's online Flashlight Specifications Chart and scroll to your model
Can I remove just the bulb from a P60, P61, P90, or P91 lamp assembly?
No, the assembly is an integral unit. The same goes for the P60L and the X80.
How long can I expect my flashlight's incandescent lamp (bulb) to last?
Your lamp should run for approximately 30 hours before it burns out. The lifespan will vary somewhat.
Is there a spare bulb compartment in my flashlight?
No. SureFire lights do not have a spare bulb compartment. However, you can purchase our watertight SureFire spares carriers, which hold an extra lamp assembly and up to six extra batteries, depending on the spares carrier model number.
FLASHLIGHT RUNTIME
Does the 60 minute runtime listed in the catalog refer to the lifespan of the lamp assembly?
No. The runtime refers to how long a set of batteries will operate until the flashlight does not generate it's specified light output.
TAILCAP LOCKOUT
How do I lock out my flashlight tailcap switch?
First make sure your flashlight is functioning. Then unscrew the tailcap until the light will not turn on when you press the tailcap switch, or when you wiggle the tailcap from side to side.
If the flashlight does not turn on, the tailcap switch is locked out. You may wish to unscrew the tailcap another ¾ turn to be absolutely certain it's locked out. If your tailcap has a small "scoop" mark in the rim, use this for future reference to determine how much the tailcap should be unscrewed to lock out the switch.
NOTE: After locking out your flashlight, always push the tailcap switch to make sure it is truly locked out.
WEAPONLIGHTS
My M500's main incandescent lamp works but the LEDs don't. What's wrong?
Either you have installed the batteries in the battery magazine incorrectly or you have installed the battery magazine in the WeaponLight incorrectly. To fix the problem:
- Remove the battery magazine from the M500's battery compartment and verify that the batteries are installed with correctly polarity forward—it's marked on the magazine.
- Replace the full battery magazine in the M500's battery compartment in the correct direction — that is, with positive (+) polarity forward.
If the LED's still do not turn on, call SureFire at 1-800-828-8809 and ask for Customer Service.
My M900's main incandescent lamp works but the LEDs don't. What's wrong?
You have probably installed the batteries with the polarity reversed.
To fix the problem, remove the batteries from your M900's battery compartment and re-install them with the positive (+) end going into the compartment first.
If the LED's still do not turn on, call SureFire at 1-800-828-8809 and ask for Customer Service.
BATTERIES
Are the 123A lithium batteries rechargeable?
No! Do not try to recharge them, as this can be dangerous.
Must I use SureFire batteries in my flashlight?
You can use Panasonic®, Duracell® and Energizer® batteries bought from their authorized dealers since these batteries are suited for use in SureFire products.
Will using non-SureFire brand batteries void my SureFire warranty?
Using genuine Panasonic®, Duracell® or Energizer® batteries will not void your warranty, but using any other non-SureFire brand will void it.
Aren't all lithium batteries the same?
No! Many counterfeit or inferior lithium batteries don't have the power output characteristics or built-in fault (short-circuit) protection that SureFire batteries have. This can cause poor performance or even be dangerous to you and your SureFire illumination tools.
Customers should never:
- Use non-U.S.A. made batteries
- Mix old and new batteries
- Mix different brands of batteries.
- Purchase and use batteries marked "PRC" or "Made in China".
How can I be sure a SureFire battery is not counterfeit?
Buy your SureFire® brand batteries from www.surefire.com (priced as low as $1.75 each when bought in bulk), or from an authorized SureFire dealer.
How do I get the batteries out of my Executive Series or my E1B Backup light?
In both cases, remove the head of the flashlight to access and replace the batteries.
How long does it take a rechargeable Ni-Cad battery to charge?
A Rapid SmartCharger will fully charge a Ni-Cad battery in two hours or less.
POCKET CLIP & LANYARD
How do I attach the lanyard to the executive series lights?
Connect the lanyard's split ring to the two small arches on the pocket clip of the flashlight.
If my light does not come with a pocket clip can I purchase one to install on my flashlight?
No. Pocket clips will only fit flashlight models that originally come with them since they require a special slot for attachment. However, a lanyard kit is available for most models.
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