When it comes to rooftop warning light bars, the market is defined mainly by long-established brands. While Putco has over 55 years of experience in the automotive industry, our focus on safety lighting is relatively recent, having been developed within the past several years. Leveraging our deep expertise in OEM-grade LED manufacturing and vehicle integration, Putco has introduced a fresh and innovative perspective to this space. Our designs are quickly gaining traction among professional upfitters, fleet managers, and work truck owners across the nation.
A leading example of an established competitor in this segment is Federal Signal, a company with more than a century of experience and a strong reputation across the Police, Fire/EMS, and Work Truck markets. We hold great respect for their legacy; however, we believe that the market has seen limited innovation in recent years. Putco’s solutions aim to change that—bringing modern engineering, advanced technology, and thoughtful design to the forefront of safety lighting.
To demonstrate this innovation, we’ve created a transparent, data-driven comparison between our products and a recognized industry benchmark. Using only information published by Federal Signal through their official website and marketing materials, we compare the Putco YellowJacket (our high-end model) and the Putco Hornet (our standard warning light bar) against Federal Signal’s 21″ Allegiant, their best-selling mini light bar.
Putco YellowJacket VS Putco Hornet VS Federal Signal Allegiant
| Putco YellowJacket | Putco Hornet | Federal Signal Allegiant | |
| Price | $389.99 | $181.99 | $750+ |
| Size Options (Length) | 12″ | 21″ (Additional full-size options available) | 21″ (Additional full size options available) |
| Dimensions (LWH) | 12″ x 4″ x 1.3″ | (VARIOUS x 4.75″ x 1.2″) | 21″ x 11.2″ x 1.8″ |
| Lumen Output | 7,000 LM Amber, 9,500 LM White | Not Advertised | Not Advertised |
| Optics | Compound Projection Lens | Total Internal Reflection (TIR) | Reflection |
| Body Material | Aluminum | Polycarbonate | Aluminum |
| Ingress Protection (IP Rating) | IP69K (Highest Possible) | IP69K (Highest Possible) | IP65K |
| Flash Patterns | 33 Flash Patterns | 30 Flash Patterns | 28 Flash Patterns |
| Additional Functions | Flash, Synchronization | White Override, Synchronization | Dual Pattern, White Override |
| Lens | Polycarbonate | Polycarbonate | Polycarbonate |
| SAE Standards | Class 1 – J595, J845, Title 13 | Class 1 – J595, J845, Title 13 | Class 1 – J595, J845, Title 13 |
| Color Options | Amber, White, Combo | Amber, White, Green, Blue | Amber, Blue, Green, Red, White |
| Voltage | 12-56 VDC | 12-36 VDC | 12 VDC |
| Operating Current | 4.3 Amps | 4 Amps | 7 Amps |
| Operating Temperature | -40 to +185 Degrees F | -30 to +149 Degrees F | -40 to +149 Degrees F |
| Mounts | Model Specific Third Brake Light, Permanent Mount, Custom Headache Rack, Magnet | Model Specific Third Brake Light, Permanent Mount, Custom Headache Rack, Magnet | Permanent, Magnet |
| Warranty | 10 Years | 5 Years | 5 Years |
The Verdict
All three of these products are professional-grade lighting solutions built to meet demanding specifications. Each has its place depending on the application.
If your priority is certified quality and dependable performance at a cost-effective price, the Hornet is an excellent choice.
If additional functionality, such as bed lighting and independent control of the front and rear of the light bar and multi-mode operation, the Allegiant delivers these functions at a premium.
However, if the need is premium construction, proven reliability, and uncompromising performance, the Putco YellowJacket stands above the rest. Tested and validated in each of the above categories.
See below for a detail look at each testing criteria.
Housing Size
The Putco YellowJacket was engineered to deliver the highest possible light output within an exceptionally compact form factor. Every element of its design serves this purpose—from advanced LED integration to precision optics—resulting in unmatched brightness for its size. Additional details on these design innovations are outlined in the section below.
The Putco Hornet achieves a smaller footprint by utilizing multiple individual TIR (Total Internal Reflection) modules housed within a durable polycarbonate body. Each end of the bar features a specialized lens type designed to enhance side visibility and ensure optimal light dispersion across all viewing angles.
In contrast, the Federal Signal Allegiant features a larger and more traditional design, measuring approximately 21 inches in length and 11 inches in width. While this size accommodates a robust light array, it results in a noticeably bulkier profile compared to Putco’s streamlined offerings.
Optics, Luminosity, and Body Material
The Putco YellowJacket was meticulously engineered to deliver maximum light output within an exceptionally compact housing. Every aspect of its construction—from advanced LED integration to precision optical design—was developed to achieve unmatched brightness relative to its size. Further details on these engineering innovations are outlined in the section below.
The Putco Hornet maintains a tiny footprint by incorporating multiple individual TIR (Total Internal Reflection) modules within a durable polycarbonate housing. Each end features a uniquely engineered lens that enhances side visibility and ensures uniform light distribution across all viewing angles.
In comparison, the Federal Signal Allegiant adopts a larger, more traditional form factor, measuring roughly 21 inches in length and 11 inches in width. While its size supports a substantial light array, it presents a noticeably bulkier profile when set against Putco’s streamlined, modern designs.
Ingress Protection (IP Rating)
Putco lighting products are rigorously tested to meet the IP69K Standard, including both the YellowJacket and Hornet models. IP stands for Ingress Protection, an ISO/IEC standard that defines a product’s resistance to dust and moisture intrusion. The first digit, 6, signifies complete dust-tight protection—no dust can enter the enclosure under any conditions. The second component, 9K, indicates that the product can withstand high-pressure, high-temperature water exposure without compromising its integrity.
The chart below, sourced from the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), provides an overview of how each rating level is defined and what level of protection it represents.
| First Numeral – Dust | Second Numeral – Water | |
| 0 | No Protection | No Protection |
| 1 | Protection against solid foreign objects of 50 MM and greater | Protected against vertically falling water drops when enclosure is tilted up to 15 degrees |
| 2 | Protection against solid foreign objects of 12.5 MM and greater | Protected against vertically falling water drops when the enclosure is tilted up to 15 degrees |
| 3 | Protection against solid foreign objects of 2.5 MM and greater | Protected against spraying water. |
| 4 | Protection against solid foreign objects of 1 MM and greater | Protected against water splashed from all directions |
| 5 | Dust-protected | Protected against water jets |
| 6 | Dust-tight | Protected against powerful water jets |
| 7 | Protected against the effects of temporary immersion in water | |
| 8 | Protected against the effects of continuous immersion in water | |
| 9 | Protected against high-pressure and high-temperature water jets from any direction |
Flash Patterns
YellowJacket Flash Patterns
Hornet Flash Patterns
Color Options
The Putco YellowJacket operates within a 12–56V range, while the Putco Hornet supports 12–36V. This broad voltage compatibility allows both models to function safely and reliably across a wider range of vehicles and equipment types. In contrast, many competing light bars are limited to 12–24V, and the Federal Signal Allegiant specifies only 12V operation in its marketing materials (though it may support up to 24V). Such limitations can restrict use in mixed or specialized fleets. By comparison, the YellowJacket and Hornet maintain consistent light output even as vehicle voltage fluctuates—ensuring dependable performance in demanding environments.
Additionally, both models are engineered for exceptionally low amperage draw relative to their lumen output—particularly the YellowJacket. This design minimizes strain on the vehicle’s electrical system, which is crucial for setups operating multiple accessories simultaneously. The reduced electrical load not only enhances system efficiency but also contributes to extended component life, supporting Putco’s industry-leading 10-year warranty.
Operating Voltage and Amperage
The Putco YellowJacket operates within a 12–56V range, while the Putco Hornet supports 12–36V operation. This broad voltage capability enables both models to operate safely and reliably across a wider range of vehicles and equipment. In contrast, many competing light bars are restricted to 12–24V, and the Federal Signal Allegiant specifies only 12V operation in its marketing materials (though it may support up to 24V). These limitations reduce compatibility in mixed or specialized fleets. By comparison, the YellowJacket and Hornet maintain consistent light output even when vehicle voltage fluctuates, ensuring dependable illumination under all operating conditions.
Both models are also engineered for efficient power consumption, featuring notably low amperage draw relative to their lumen output—particularly in the YellowJacket. This efficiency minimizes strain on the vehicle’s electrical system, which is crucial for applications that run multiple accessories simultaneously. The reduced electrical load not only enhances system reliability but also extends component life, supporting Putco’s 10-year warranty and long-term product durability.
Operating Temperature
Both the Putco YellowJacket and Hornet are engineered to deliver dependable performance in all weather conditions, ensuring consistent visibility and reliability regardless of the environment. From freezing winter temperatures to scorching summer heat, each model is designed to operate flawlessly across a broad thermal range. Like the Federal Signal Allegiant, both are rated for operation in extreme heat and cold, meeting the rigorous expectations of professional fleet and worksite applications.
However, as with most aspects of the YellowJacket’s design, Putco went beyond standard testing protocols. Our engineering team subjected the YellowJacket to additional environmental, vibration, and moisture tests that exceed the benchmarks typically required for professional-grade safety lighting. These tests simulate the harshest real-world conditions—ranging from high-pressure washdowns to prolonged thermal cycling—to ensure every component performs as intended.
The result is a product built not only to meet but to surpass industry standards, offering exceptional durability, longevity, and performance in any environment. Whether deployed on heavy-duty work trucks, municipal vehicles, or construction equipment, the YellowJacket and Hornet are designed to keep operators visible and safe, regardless of the conditions.
Mount and Accessories
Brackets are another area where Putco clearly stands out. With over 55 years of experience in designing and manufacturing pickup truck accessories, Putco has developed thousands of vehicle-specific mounting systems. This background in precision bracketry directly influences how we approach the design and installation of our lighting products.
For both the Hornet and YellowJacket, Putco offers several mounting options, with a permanent mount included in every box. Federal Signal offers a range of standard mounting options. Still, Putco extends far beyond the basics with a complete lineup of low-profile, model-specific rooftop brackets for today’s most popular pickups.
Each Putco CHMSL (Center High Mount Stop Lamp) bracket installs neatly behind the vehicle’s factory third brake light, creating a clean, factory-style fit with no exposed hardware. This design provides one of the most stable and discreet rooftop mounting solutions available, and Putco currently leads the industry in third brake light mounting coverage across multiple vehicle models.
Federal Signal also offers a CHMSL-style mount, although it is currently limited to the current-model Ford F-150 and Super Duty trucks. Their version requires drilling into the bracket to attach the light bar. Putco’s design, on the other hand, includes precision pre-cut holes compatible with both the Hornet and YellowJacket, removing the need for modification.
Each Putco bracket also features pre-cut stabilization tabs lined with 3M Automotive Tape. These tabs adhere directly to the top of the cab, preventing vibration, rattling, or lifting while the vehicle is in motion. The result is a solid, professional-grade mounting solution that ensures long-term stability and protection for both the light bar and the cab surface.
Beyond Ford applications, Putco’s CHMSL bracket lineup includes a wide range of vehicle-specific options from other leading manufacturers, providing exceptional flexibility for fleets, upfitters, and individual truck owners alike. The tables below outline current model coverage.
Ford Hornet / YellowJacket Rooftop Brackets
| Model | Year Range | Part Number |
| F-150 | 2015-2026 | 950001 |
| Super Duty (F-350, F-450, F-550) | 2017-2026 | 950001 |
| Maverick | 2022-2026 | 950009 |
| Ranger | 2019-2026 | 950009 |
Chevrolet & GMC Hornet / YellowJacket Rooftop Brackets
| Model | Year Range | Part Number |
| Silverado / Sierra 1500 | 2014-2018 | 950002 |
| Silverado / Sierra 2500 | 2015-2019 | 950002 |
| Silverado / Sierra 1500 (Work Truck Model ONLY – Old Style) | 2019-2026 | 950002 |
| Silverado / Sierra 1500 (Work Truck Model ONLY – Old Style) | 2020-2026 | 950002 |
| Silverado/Sierra 1500 (New Body – With Spoiler) | 2019-2026 | 950003 |
| Silverado/Sierra 2500 (New Body – With Spoiler) | 2020-2026 | 950003 |
| Colorado/Canyon | 2015-2026 | 950008 |
RAM Hornet / YellowJacket Rooftop Brackets
| Model | Year Range | Part Number |
| Ram 1500 | 2009-2018 | 950004 |
| Ram 2500 | 2009-2025 | 950004 |
| Ram 1500 *CLASSIC* | 2019-2024 | 950004 |
| Ram 1500 | 2019-2026 | 950005 |
Toyota Hornet / YellowJacket Rooftop Brackets
| Model | Year Range | Part Number |
| Tacoma | 2024-2026 | 950011 |
Putco also offers additional mounting solutions designed for use with popular headache racks, including our own BOSS Aluminum Headache Rack and RealTruck’s BackRack systems. These options provide added versatility for customers who require specialized mounting configurations or prefer to integrate their warning lights into existing rack setups.
| Headache Rack | Part Number |
| Putco BOSS Rack | 950010 |
| REALTRUCK BackRack | 950007 |
Warranty and Customer Support
Putco builds its safety lighting products to perform and to last. The YellowJacket’s 10-year warranty is not an arbitrary number—it represents the outcome of advanced engineering, precision manufacturing, and a deep commitment to customer satisfaction. The Hornet also carries a 5-year warranty, aligning with the highest standards of professional-grade equipment.
All Putco products are designed, tested, and supported from our U.S. manufacturing facility, where our customer service and technical support teams operate Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CT. Customers can contact us by phone, live chat, or email—each option connecting them directly to Putco staff within our building. We never outsource customer service, ensuring that every call, message, or chat is handled by knowledgeable team members who work alongside our engineers and production specialists.
Customers can reach us in three convenient ways:
- – Phone: Calls are answered by real Putco staff on-site—no call centers or automated systems.
- – Live Chat: Available on Putco.com for quick, in-browser support and instant responses.
- – Email: Ideal for detailed inquiries, technical documentation requests, and follow-up questions.
Every support team member is factory-trained to assist with installation, troubleshooting, and product information. For more complex needs, our technicians can initiate live video sessions for real-time diagnostics and setup guidance. Because our support staff works directly with our engineering team, even the most technical issues can be resolved quickly and accurately.
Choosing Putco means selecting responsive, knowledgeable support from the same team that designs and builds your product. At Putco, we stand behind everything we make—with the experience, dedication, and craftsmanship that have defined our company for more than half a century.
