Mag lites are considered a tactical weapon. Keep one within reach.
We got trained in USCG LEO school how to use a maglite as effectively as possible to make a suspect compliant.
Never hit them in the head. Go for the collar bone. Works better. They were called Kel Lights back in the old days when I was a happy policeman.
Last complaint I drew was a guy that claimed I pistol whipped him. My completely logical answer was:
"Chief, why would I hit him with a $250.00 revolver when I had a $17.00 flashlight?"
Mag lites are considered a tactical weapon. Keep one within reach
No kidding. And have you ever noticed how a cop who has stopped you holds it when he's using it to look around inside your car? He holds in next to his head, with his arm cocked back and his hand just behind the flared-out lens portion. All he's got to do is extend his arm forward, and the battery end comes down on whatever's in front of him with maxim leverage. If he was only interested in using it for illumination, he wouldn't have to hold it that way.