In this guide, we will explain the mounting details of the Streamlight TLR-7 pistol light so you can be sure it is compatible with your handgun.
There are various standards for pistol light mounting, so it is important to know which pistol light is compatible with the handgun you want to use it with.
We will cover what to look for on your handgun and the specifics for mounting the Streamlight TLR-7 pistol light.
Handgun Requirements for Mounting a Pistol Light
Most full-size handguns come with one of two light rails underneath the barrel just in front of the trigger guard that is just under one inch wide. The light rail will have one or more cross slots that locates the light on the pistol and prevents it from moving during recoil. The light will also typically have a clamping rail that secures it to the pistol.
The first type is the “GL Standard”, “Glock Universal”, or just “Universal” light rail. This light rail has a single cross slot that is about 4mm (5/32”) wide. Glock handguns will have this light rail along with other brands of handguns.
The second is the 1913 rail or Military Standard “Picatinny” rail. This rail will have multiple slots that are about 5.2mm (3/16”) wide.
The photo below shows a Glock Universal light rail on the left and a 1913 light rail on the right.
Compact carry handguns like the Sig Sauer P365 and Springfield Hellcat have different mounting requirements since their mounting rail is smaller, around 0.8 inches wide. These pistols do not have a set standard, and pistol lights often need to be purchased for the specific handgun. Some do not have light rails at all.
Mounting The Streamlight TLR-7
The Streamlight TLR-7 pistol light was designed to be used on full size frame handguns like the Glock 17/19, Sig P320, and the Walther PDP, as well as smaller compact carry handguns like the Sig Sauer P365 and the Springfield Hellcat.
The mounting system for this light includes multiple keys that can be changed out to fit a variety of handguns. Each key is embossed with a name/number and corresponds to this compatibility list.
The keys included are:
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UNIV-1: GL Standard – Glock or “universal” light rails, Springfield Hellcat Pro
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UNIV-2: S&W TSW/99 and Beretta PX4 Storm Full Size
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1913-1: Sig P320 Compact, Glock Gen 5, Standard Picatinny Light Rail
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1913-2: Sig P200 series, S&W M&P Full Size
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1913-3: Sig P365 XMacro and P320 Carry & Full Size
These keys can be changed out by fully tightening the rail clamp screw and removing the e-clip from the end of the screw. The screw and opposite rail can then be removed to allow the key to slide out from the retention notch.
The photo below shows the e-clip and the removal tool that is included with the light.
Once you have selected and installed the correct key, insert the screw, rail, and e-clip as it was before removal. Loosen the clamp screw and attach it to the pistol light rail. Tighten the clamp screw snug, but do not overtighten.
Will the Streamlight TLR-7 Fit your Pistol?
The Streamlight TLR-7 will fit any full-size pistol that has a Glock universal light rail or a 1913 light rail. Almost all full-size handguns have one of these light rails. There are also additional keys included as noted above for the Springfield Hellcat Pro and the Sig P365 XMacro. This pistol light will not work with other compact carry handguns like the Glock 43x/48 or the standard Sig P365 and P365 XL.