SureFire vs. Modlite OKW: The Candela Conversation Every Shooter Needs to Hear

When it comes to weapon-mounted lights (WMLs), the conversation often starts—and too often ends—with brand legacy. But if you prioritize effectiveness in real-life, along with performance and versatility, it’s time to shift the focus to what truly matters: candela. And in that critical metric, Modlite’s OKW leads miles ahead of all other alternatives. While SureFire has long dominated military contracts and name recognition, Modlite engineered the OKW specifically to outperform legacy systems where it counts most: target identification at distance.

You should know that lumens aren’t everything, but what they don’t really tell you is that while lumens measure total light output, they don’t tell you how far that light reaches or how brightly it illuminates your target downrange. That’s where candela, i.e., luminous intensity in a specific direction, comes in. 

For defensive or tactical shooting, especially beyond 25 yards, you need a light that throws a tight, bright hotspot to clearly identify threats. This is the heart of the “Candela Conversation,” and it’s why the Modlite OKW was built from the ground up to maximize throw without sacrificing reliability.

The Modlite OKW delivers 1,000 lumens, matching the output of the SureFire Scout Light Pro. But thanks to its precision-engineered reflector and high-output Osram P9 LED, the OKW achieves over 32,000 candela—significantly more than the Scout Light Pro’s estimated 20,000–25,000 candela. That extra candela translates directly into better target discrimination at 50, 75, all the way up to 100 yards. Imagine how crucial that advantage will be to you in rural, open, or urban environments where engagements aren’t always up close and personal.

Beyond raw performance, the OKW shines in user-centric design. It runs on a standard 18650 rechargeable battery—more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than SureFire’s reliance on disposable CR123As in many models. 

The OKW’s modular head system allows you to swap optics or upgrade components without replacing the entire light. It’s also compatible with nearly every pressure switch and rail system you will find on the market, offering unmatched flexibility for custom setups.

SureFire’s reputation is built on decades of military adoption, but that legacy comes with trade-offs such as a higher cost, for instance, as well as limited serviceability—not to mention a “sealed unit” philosophy that discourages maintenance. The OKW is designed to be user-serviceable, upgradable, and adaptable—because you are not just any end-user, you are an informed professional who understands what’s best.

Moreover, Modlite listens to you and your community of experts. The OKW evolved from direct feedback from special operations veterans, competitive shooters, and trainers who needed a light that performed under real stress—not just passed a procurement checklist. 

In the end, the SureFire vs. Modlite debate isn’t about brand loyalty—it’s about performance intelligence. There is no need to choose a light based on lumens or military contracts alone. The Candela Conversation is about understanding that distance identification saves lives, and in that arena, the Modlite OKW sets the standard. For shooters who value measurable advantage over marketing heritage, the choice is clear: Modlite OKW doesn’t just keep up—it leads the way.