A top-tier flashlight for tactical and outdoor enthusiasts, the Fenix TK16 V2.0 is making a positive first impression.
by Jace Bauserman
I don’t go anywhere without a flashlight. Anywhere! Whether I’m driving cross-country to a hunt a far-flung locale, checking horses and chickens at home, or roaming the whitetail or elk woods, I always have a flashlight.
Of course, I tote a headlamp too. What I’ve learned, though, is the value of an excellent flashlight that casts a beam of light. Two falls back, I used a powerful flashlight to guide my two elk-hunting buddies to my kill. The descent to the downed bull was gnarly, and my iPhone took a tumble. Dropping a pin wasn’t an option.
The bottom line: Light is a good thing. Nothing sucks more than working in the dark, and a good flashlight is worth its weight in gold.
Though I haven’t given Fenix’s TK16 V2.0 Tactical a full test drive, I have used it enough to write this First Look. I will be adding to this article after wrapping up my first hunt of 2026, which will be in Oklahoma for late-season whitetail.
The Fenix TK16 V2.0 Tactical Flashlight
A state-of-the-art lighting tool designed for both tactical professionals and outdoor enthusiasts, this compact, lightweight flashlight offers a perfect blend of power, functionality, and durability, making it a top choice for hunters.
Before we dive too far into the lights’ illuminating capabilities, I want to highlight the included ARB-L21-5000U USB-C rechargeable 5000 mAh 21700 battery. This battery is a workhorse. It charges quickly, and for testing, I set the TK16 to its lowest lumens setting of 150 and left it on until the battery died. Fenix’s battery life at this setting is 19.17 hours. Mine made 20 hours and died sometime between the 15 and 20 minute mark of hour 21. I love it when a product outperforms the manufacturer’s rating.
Regarding illumination, the flashlight offers multiple modes, including Turbo, High, Mid, Low, Eco, and Strobe. When set to Strobe, the light emits 3000 lumens of intense light, which would be highly beneficial in an outdoor crisis. This mode, along with Turbo, provides a blinding mode in a tactical situation. Turbo mode gives you the TK16’s max power of 3100 Lumens, and lights up objects well beyond 1,000 feet. Toggling between lighting modes is easy: click the large circular button on the back of the light to turn the flashlight on and off. Press and hold the smaller circular button above the central button to activate the strobe quickly, or click it quickly to toggle between modes. The ability to cycle through these modes is user-friendly, thanks to its two-button interface.
Durability, at least thus far, seems to be a hallmark of the Fenix TK16 V2.0. It is constructed from high-quality aluminum, ensuring it can withstand impacts and harsh weather conditions. The flashlight is rated IP68 for dust and water resistance, meaning it can be submerged in water up to two meters for up to 30 minutes without suffering damage. This resilience makes the TK16 V2.0 an ideal choice for any outdoor activity.
Though a warming trend has struck southeast Colorado for most of December, nighttime temperatures dip into the teens. I’ve had zero issues using the light in the cold.
Another notable aspect of the TK16 V2.0 is its design. The flashlight is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry and handle. It features a knurled body that provides a secure grip, crucial for maintaining control in high-pressure scenarios. Additionally, the tactical tail switch allows for easy one-handed operation. This allows for rapid activation and deactivation, which is vital in tactical environments.
For those who frequently find themselves in tactical or emergencies, the TK16 V2.0 features several thoughtful design elements, including a belt clip and a lanyard hole, that enhance its usability. The flashlight can be securely attached to belts or backpacks, ensuring it is readily accessible when needed.
Safety features are also incorporated into the TK16 V2.0 design. It includes an intelligent overheat protection system that reduces the output if the flashlight becomes too hot during extended use. This feature promotes safe handling and extends the flashlight’s lifespan.
The Fenix TK16 V2.0 Tactical Flashlight stands out for its powerful illumination, robust construction, and user-friendly design. Whether you need a reliable tool for outdoor adventures, emergencies, or tactical operations, the TK16 V2.0 delivers and more. It’s a compact, durable, and high-performance flashlight, making it an essential addition to any gear collection for anyone who values quality lighting solutions.
More to come!
