The INFORCE GEN 3 WML White IR Rifle Light and GEN 3 WMLx White IR Rifle Light have both earned the National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) Member Tested and Recommended designation for 2026. Evaluated across patrol, SWAT, and night vision applications, both lights drew consistent praise for their bright output, dual white/IR capability, durable construction, and intuitive controls, with testers across both panels confirming that both lights deliver reliable performance in the environments where they matter most.
Built for the Rail, Ready for the Field
Both the WML and WMLx mount quickly and securely to standard rail systems without requiring tools, and testers confirmed that both remained secure after sustained live fire and field handling. One tester ran the WMLx through 400 rounds of suppressed 5.56 at only hand-tight torque and reported that the light did not shift or loosen. Another subjected it to repeated drops from approximately six feet onto carpet-covered concrete and found it continued functioning without interruption. One tester who brought multi-generational familiarity with the WMLx platform noted that the Gen 3 delivers the same proven reliability he had come to depend on across years of patrol rifle use, while improving on the mount's lockup strength with a stouter rock-and-lock design that can be further torqued with a slotted screwdriver if desired.
The WML earned similar assessments. One tester described it as durable and well-built right out of the box, and confirmed that the housing held up to sustained handling and range use without any degradation in performance. Another noted that installation and removal are tool-free and straightforward, making the light practical for officers who need to transition it between platforms.
Output That Handles Both Distance and Close Quarters
Testers for both lights praised the quality and character of the white light output. The WML's beam drew attention for its bright, tight pattern, with one tester describing it as accurate and well-suited to the distances relevant to law enforcement engagement. Another highlighted the output as more than sufficient for CQB applications while remaining capable enough for outdoor use. The WMLx's 900-lumen, 10,000-candela output was specifically commended by one tester for cutting through darkness and providing clear target identification at distance, and for its ability to illuminate through smoke. The same tester praised the push-button activation as highly intuitive and easy to access while maintaining a shooter's grip.
One tester who evaluated the WMLx in a SWAT context described it as a compact, rugged, and versatile duty light suitable for both patrol and tactical operators, confirming that the beam provides sufficient illumination across the full range of environments both roles encounter.

IR Performance Under Night Vision
The dual white/IR capability of both lights was validated by testers who evaluated them under actual night vision devices. One tester used the WML's IR output alongside a PVS-14 and reported that he was able to see the entirety of his test environment through the night vision without any problems, describing the IR performance as genuinely useful for any operator who wants combined white light and IR capability without purchasing a separate IR illuminator. He noted that switching between white light and IR is a simple lever flip that is not easily moved by accident, giving the user confident mode control in the dark.
A tester who evaluated the WMLx under night vision described the IR illumination as clean and effective, providing solid visibility without noticeable issues. Another WMLx tester highlighted the dual IR function — momentary and constant — as a meaningful advantage in tactical environments, and praised the simple forward/back LED lever as an intuitive switching mechanism that works seamlessly in any mounting orientation. He confirmed that the light performed ambidextrously across all four cardinal positions on the rifle.
Lockout and Activation Safety
Both the WML and WMLx incorporate features that prevent accidental light activation during storage, transport, and operations where light discipline is critical. The WML's rear safety lever, which folds over the activation button to prevent unintended presses, was specifically praised by one tester for giving the user confidence when the rifle is stored in a bag or case without risking accidental activation, battery drain, or heat buildup. He described the lever as easy to deploy and disengage, and noted that mode switching between white light and IR is also protected against accidental displacement.
The WMLx's equivalent feature — a raised fence around the activation button — was described by one tester as unobtrusive in its lowered position while still providing meaningful protection against unintentional activation. He considered the quarter-turn head lockout an equally effective tool for preventing accidental discharges, and praised both features for working together to give the user layered control over when and how the light activates.
Battery Access and Field Serviceability
Both lights use CR-123 batteries, which testers consistently noted are widely stocked across law enforcement agencies and easy to carry as spares. The WML allows battery changes without removing the light from the weapon — a practical advantage confirmed by multiple testers — by simply unscrewing the head, inserting a fresh battery, and reseating the head. One tester described this as ideal for quick field changes, and another appreciated the straightforward nature of the process relative to lights that require dismounting to access the battery compartment.
The WMLx battery access was similarly praised. One tester noted that even with the light mounted to the rifle, the battery compartment can be reached by twisting the front of the light and removing the face cap, making the process fast and uncomplicated. Multiple testers described overall maintenance for both lights as minimal, limited primarily to keeping the lens clean.
A Platform for Patrol and Beyond
Across both evaluations, testers described the WML and WMLx as lights well-suited to the full range of law enforcement applications. One tester mounted the WML to a helmet and found it performed effectively in both tactical and rescue contexts, demonstrating a versatility that extends beyond the rifle. Multiple testers described both lights as solid values relative to their price points, with one specifically recommending the WML to anyone looking to get into a combined white and IR weapon light setup and another calling the WMLx a great option for short-barreled patrol rifles and PDW-style weapons where rail space is at a premium.
Both the GEN 3 WML and GEN 3 WMLx White IR Rifle Lights are now listed in the NTOA's Member Tested and Recommended online database and will be featured in upcoming issues of The Tactical Edge journal and NTOA monthly eNewsletter. For more information on the full INFORCE lineup, visit inforcelights.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean that these lights are NTOA Member Tested and Recommended?
This designation means the lights were evaluated by law enforcement professionals in real-world scenarios and met performance standards across categories like durability, usability, and output.
What is the difference between the WML and WMLx models?
The WMLx offers higher output, including 900 lumens and 10,000 candela, making it better suited for longer-range illumination. The WML is more compact while still providing strong performance for close to mid-range use.
Can these lights switch between white light and infrared easily?
Yes. Both models use a simple lever system that allows quick switching between white light and IR modes without risk of accidental movement.
How effective is the infrared function under night vision?
Testers confirmed that the IR output provides clear visibility when used with night vision devices like the PVS-14, making it practical for real operational use without needing a separate IR illuminator.
Do these lights stay secure during recoil and rough handling?
Yes. Both lights mount directly to standard rails without tools and were tested under live fire and drop conditions without loosening or losing function.
How do these lights prevent accidental activation?
The WML uses a rear safety lever that blocks the activation button, while the WMLx uses a protective fence and a head lockout feature. Both systems help prevent unintended activation during transport or storage.
Can you change the battery without removing the light?
Yes. Both models allow battery replacement while still mounted to the weapon by unscrewing the front cap, making field changes quick and simple.