If you could only have either a flashlight or a laser, which one would you get and why?

Let's assume that you will not be using it for home defense, just shooting at the range and hunting occasionally.

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S&W M&P 15 Sport II

Flashlight because if you point it at the target, your sights are fully visible against the lit background, and then you can use your sights, and therefore, you do not need the laser. The laser does not help you see better. If you cannot see your target, you violate Rule 4 by shooting. Now, I realize there might be "situations," but those would be rare. I would take the light over the laser any day.

For the two uses you have outlined... neither. Just useless weight for the two uses you have in mind, IMO.

I went on a Hog hunt last spring and the guides used Red line flashlights and their brightness when looking for wounded and dead animals was impressive so I bought one. For $40 it a very good flashlight.

But were these mounted weapon lights? I use a flashlight, but not a mounted weapon light. I use the light for finding my way to and back from the blind, if there is not enough moon light.