I think it depends if the shield will be used for home defense. If yes, I would go with the flashlight. I really want one but they are a little pricey, i currently just sleep with a flashlight and plan on taking a class on home defense. For this reason i would go with a laser. I am in no way an expert, but i feel like a flashlight can be held with one hand and gun in the other. You can buy a really good flashlight for $30-$60, a fraction of an attachment

The TR6 mentioned above is great but pricey as well.

I love having a laser on my bodyguard. I do not see it as a crutch. A handgun is a crutch to someone who EDC a bow and arrow.