Olight Warrior X4 — Real-World Use Under German Law
Anyone involved in tactical shooting in Germany quickly encounters a legal peculiarity that surprises many shooters from abroad:
Weapon-mounted lights are prohibited.
While weapon lights are standard equipment in many countries, German firearms law clearly restricts their use.
Legal Background: Why Weapon Lights Are Illegal in Germany
Under German weapons law, devices intended to illuminate a target while mounted on a firearm are classified as prohibited items.
Legal basis:
German Weapons Act (WaffG), Annex 2, Section 1, No. 1.2.4
This section lists as prohibited:
“Devices for illuminating or lighting a target (target illuminators) for firearms.”
In practical terms, this means:
✔️ A flashlight mounted to a firearm is illegal
✔️ Adapters or improvised mounts are also prohibited
✔️ Using a handheld flashlight is legal
For anyone who wants to train within the law, alternative solutions are required.
Why Headlamps Are Not a Good Alternative
A headlamp might seem like an obvious workaround, but in practice it has significant drawbacks:
- Constantly reveals your position
- Light direction is tied to head movement
- Increased risk of unintentionally illuminating people or unsafe areas
- Unrealistic training compared to international standards
For serious tactical training, a headlamp is far from ideal.
The Practical Solution: A Handheld Tactical Flashlight
The most effective and legal method is using a powerful handheld flashlight in the support hand alongside the firearm.
However, not every flashlight is suitable for this role.
Key requirements include:
- Secure grip, even with gloves
- Access to critical modes without shifting grip
- Reliable momentary activation
- Good balance and ergonomics
- Compatibility with retention rings or tactical accessories
After testing numerous models, one flashlight has clearly stood out for me.
Why the Olight Warrior X4 Is My Current Top Choice
For over a year, the Olight Warrior X4 has been my primary flashlight for low-light training — and it has proven to be exceptionally well suited for this application.
Ergonomics and Handling
One of the most important features is the included rubber grip ring on the body.
This allows for:
- Extremely secure retention
- Comfortable finger carry
- Fast transitions between techniques
- Reduced hand fatigue
- Reliable control under stress
When running a firearm with both hands, this makes a significant difference.
Output and Throw
The Warrior X4 is designed as a high-performance tactical thrower.
Key performance specifications:
- Maximum output: 2,600 lumens
- Beam distance: up to 630 meters
- Peak intensity: approx. 99,000 candela
- Long runtime thanks to a high-capacity battery
This makes it ideal for:
- Positive target identification at distance
- Outdoor training
- Low-light environments
- Security applications
Tail-Switch Tactical Operation
All functions are controlled via a large rear tail switch.
Advantages include:
✔️ Easy operation with gloves
✔️ No need to look at the light
✔️ Momentary activation capability
✔️ Clear tactile feedback
The light also allows programming of tactical modes:
Mode configurations:
- Medium + High
- High + Strobe
For tactical use, I exclusively run:
👉 High + Strobe
Holster: Fast, Durable, Repeatable
A standout feature is the included polymer holster.
Unlike typical nylon pouches, this is a rigid, form-fitted carrier.
Benefits:
- Secure retention without rattling
- One-handed draw capability
- Extremely fast deployment
- Consistent positioning
- High durability
Hook, grab, draw — ready.
Flexible Charging Options
The Warrior X4 supports two charging methods:
- 🔌 Direct USB-C charging
- 🧲 Magnetic tail charging
The major advantage:
👉 You are not dependent on a proprietary cable.
Any standard USB-C cable works, which is extremely convenient during travel or training.
Compatibility with Switchback Rings
Switchback rings are popular for advanced handheld techniques.
The Warrior X4 is compatible with:
- Olight’s Warrior X3 switchback ring
- THYRM SwitchBack
I have tested both.
My personal conclusion:
- Technically functional
- Ergonomically not ideal for me
- Tail switch not optimized for true switchback techniques
For now, I continue using the original rubber ring — and it works very well.
What I’d Like to See in a Future Warrior X5
An ideal next generation would include:
- A true ultra-low “moonlight” mode (1–2 lumens)
- A secondary side switch for administrative use
- Improved switchback compatibility
A discreet low-output mode would be especially valuable for stealth applications.
Design and Color Options
The flashlight also scores points visually.
My version is finished in Flat Dark Earth (FDE), which pairs perfectly with many modern firearm setups.
Other available options include:
- Black
- FDE
- Occasional limited or special editions
There is likely a configuration to suit almost any preference.
Honest Opinion — Not Sponsored
I purchased this flashlight with my own money.
It was not provided for review and this article is not sponsored.
While I have recently begun working with Olight through my YouTube channel, that collaboration exists because my opinion of the brand was already positive beforehand. I approached them — not the other way around.
👉 This review reflects my genuine real-world experience.
Bonus for Readers
If you are interested in trying the Warrior X4 yourself, I can offer a small extra:
🎁 Use code MAG10 to receive 10% off.
Final Thoughts: One of the Best Legal Solutions in Germany
Given the legal constraints in Germany, a high-performance handheld flashlight is currently the most practical option for low-light firearms training.
The Olight Warrior X4 stands out thanks to:
✔️ Exceptional beam distance
✔️ Simple tactical operation
✔️ Excellent ergonomics
✔️ Robust holster system
✔️ Flexible charging options
✔️ Accessory compatibility
For my needs, it represents the best balance of performance, handling, and legality.
