Thyrm (pronounced “thē-ə-rəm”) is a family-operated company founded by Andrew Frazier to develop innovative products for tactical and everyday carry applications. Their first and flagship creation was the original SwitchBack Flashlight Ring. The company’s name pays homage to Thyrm, King of the Jötnar, who, according to Norse mythology, stole Mjölnir, the hammer of Thor, the thunder god.
Thyrm has expanded its acclaimed SwitchBack flashlight accessory line with two exciting new models: the SwitchBack 3.0 Duty and the SwitchBack 3.0 Deep Carry. Like their predecessors, they enhance flashlight performance by improving grip and retention while keeping users’ hands free for critical tasks.
Introduced in 2014, the SwitchBack was developed in partnership with Chris Costa of Costa Ludus. This pioneering accessory integrates a patented ring system that revolutionized flashlight manipulation and control, elevating it above traditional retention rings.
Thyrm SWITCHBACK: Design, Role, and Use
Retention rings for flashlights are not a new concept, but the SwitchBack’s patented design redefines functionality. It is uniquely equipped to enable shooting with a natural two-handed grip using the exclusive SwitchBack Technique.
Crafted from durable, heavy-duty polymer, the SwitchBack mounts securely between the body and tail cap of a tactical flashlight. Its large finger ring is thoughtfully designed to streamline deployment, provide reliable retention, and enhance shooting efficiency.
What sets the SwitchBack apart is its unmatched combination of versatility and innovation, making it the only retention ring capable of delivering such seamless integration with a natural two-handed shooting grip.
Using the SwitchBack Technique is simple and effective. Rotate the flashlight on its ring to position it for use, then grip your handgun naturally with both hands. To activate the flashlight, press the small thumb rest on the SwitchBack ring with your support-hand thumb, which pushes the tailcap button against the back of your hand for effortless control.
While the SwitchBack Technique is a standout feature, the versatility of the SwitchBack design ensures it works seamlessly with a variety of flashlight techniques. Whether you’re employing traditional low-light methods like the Harries Technique, the Modified FBI Technique, or the Neck Index Technique, the SwitchBack provides reliable grip and control. Its innovative ring design enhances overall functionality, enabling effortless transitions between techniques based on the user’s preferences or the demands of the situation.
The rigid ring design enables quick and dependable indexing and deployment from a pocket or pouch. It also enhances flashlight retention and control during crucial tasks like reloading or clearing malfunctions. Beyond tactical applications, the SwitchBack proves invaluable for any situation requiring rapid flashlight deployment and secure retention.
SWITCHBACK vs. WEAPON-MOUNTED LIGHT
The SwitchBack isn’t designed to replace a weapon-mounted light (WML); rather, it complements it. Let’s face it—you can’t just pull out your firearm to use the WML whenever you need a light. While a gun might not always be necessary, a flashlight frequently is. The SwitchBack elevates the standard handheld flashlight, enabling it to seamlessly adapt to a WML role when required.
ADDRESSING FEEDBACK
The few negatives that I saw in the original design — namely the lack of a break-away release on the finger ring and the design of the pocket clip — were subsequently addressed in the second-generation models. Among the improvements made were a finger ring that releases under heavy force/torque but can be reset, and a stronger pocket clip.
Never one to rest on its laurels, Thyrm has made the SwitchBack even better with the introduction of the new SwitchBack 3.0 Duty and Deep Carry models. It’s the next evolution in the Thyrm SwitchBack Flashlight Ring product line, according to Andrew Frazier.
Presently available only for one-inch-bodied flashlights, the SwitchBack 3.0 rings incorporate new features and refinements that are the result of thousands of hours of use by Thyrm’s subject-matter experts and customers.
SWITCHBACK 3.0 DUTY
The SwitchBack 3.0 Duty is specifically designed for tactical applications. Built for harsh environments, it features a durable, impact-resistant design and a larger ring to accommodate patrol gloves. More aggressive traction elements ensure a secure grip and control, making manipulation easier even in wet conditions.
A shortened clip allows the light to be stowed deeper into pouches, enhancing compatibility with plate carriers and duty belts. It also includes a full-size lanyard hole designed for use with 550 paracord.
FEATURES OF THE SWITCHBACK 3.0 DUTY
- Larger diameter ring for use with gloves.
- Heavy-duty, impact-resistant construction.
- Traction features for a secure grip, even when wet.
- Shortened clip for better pouch compatibility.
- Clip is PALS webbing compatible.
- Full-size lanyard hole for paracord use.
- Secure mounting between the flashlight tail cap and body.
SWITCHBACK 3.0 DEEP CARRY
The SwitchBack 3.0 Deep Carry prioritizes discretion and portability. Equipped with a steel wire clip that features a lower visual signature for a sleek, low-profile appearance, it offers a premium feel and customizable ride height with two clip positions. Its slim ring design maximizes concealment.
The clip’s ‘up’ position keeps the ring entirely below the pocket line for enhanced concealment, while the ‘down’ position offers improved ergonomics for the SwitchBack Technique and easier access to the tail-cap switch in a standard grip. For comparison, the SwitchBack ring on other models rides completely above the pocket line when clipped in a pocket.
The slimmer ring design also makes it easier to engage while in the pocket. As with the Duty model, the Deep Carry features more aggressive traction for improved grip and control.
FEATURES OF THE SWITCHBACK 3.0 DEEP CARRY
- Slim ring for discreet carry.
- Traction features for improved grip.
- Steel wire clip for a low visual signature and premium feel.
- Two-position clip for customizable carry and easier switch access.
- Clip is PALS webbing compatible.
- Secure mounting between the flashlight tailcap and body.
INSTALLATION
Installing the SwitchBack is straightforward. Simply unscrew the flashlight’s tailcap, slide the SwitchBack onto the flashlight, and screw the tailcap back on. Ensure that the sealing O-ring(s) provided with your flashlight remain in place during installation.
For some flashlight models, installation may vary slightly. The SwitchBack is packaged with a rubber O-ring and an aluminum washer, which serve as spacers for certain flashlights. However, SureFire flashlights with click-style tailcaps typically do not require the O-ring or aluminum washer.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The SwitchBack 3.0 Duty and SwitchBack 3.0 Deep Carry make an excellent product even better. Designed with durability, versatility, and user needs in mind, these models effectively address a variety of applications. During evaluation, no issues were identified with either product.
Suitable for a range of uses, from professional duty to tactical and everyday carry, the SwitchBack series proves to be a highly functional addition to any flashlight. The SwitchBack 3.0 Duty is available in black, navy, and tan for $19.99, while the Deep Carry model is priced at $24.99. Consistent with Thyrm’s commitment to quality, both models are proudly designed and manufactured in the United States
