The most appropriate sampling method that would likely lead to a valid inference about the percentage of defective light bulbs in the production line is:
Testing every fiftieth light bulb in the production line.
This method ensures a random sample from different points in the production process, reducing biases that might arise from testing just a specific segment (like the first 2,000 or last 4,000 bulbs) or retesting bulbs that have already been tested. It provides a more representative sample of the entire production line, allowing for a more accurate estimation of the percentage of defective light bulbs.