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mr_magoo
20
Aug 16, 2018
Ok. I have to group flashlights into a few categories based on what its expected to do- when/ where I'm using it, and how small it needs to be based on a few factors such as what I'm wearing and if I really want or need a big light. Because the reality is that we want and use as small of a light as is practical for the job at hand. Since small lights don't reach as far, have more limited run time and heat dissipation ability, and less room for good led drivers, not one small light can do everthing we need.
If the discussion is EDC lights, that can be broken down to several different categories as well, such as keychain lights or pocket lights. Some only carry a keychain light, or a neck lanyard light. Keychain lights worn on a neck lanyard are very handy when camping BTW, but I see few that are worth carrying and have yet to see one exactly like I'd like it.
So let's start with keychain lights. 1) needs to be small and light (duh) 2) Battery capacity: minimum 350 mah @ 3.7 volts (but 500 is better) or 900mAh @ 1.5 volts. 3) Has to be MINIMUM IP66 waterproof. 4) When hanging from lanyard, needs to hang with emitter pointing downward, and preferably slightly forward at like 20 or 30 degrees from vertical. 5) Excellent E-switch U/I with an easy to use lockout. I dont consider the massdrop tool AAA among the types of E-switch U/Is I like. 6) Needs to be stressed again: Easy to use lockout. Quick double click to lock or unlock. When locked out, holding down switch gives you momentary memorized brightness. Release button to turn off.
Comes on in moonlight when unlocked. Single clicks from there to advance modes. Or, Triple click from lockout goes to last used mode. 4 clicks from lockout goes to turbo.
Needs a sturdy lanyard attachment point.
Should be able to tailstand for ceiling bouncing.
Tail switch is preferrable for ease of finding in the dark.
Switch needs to be proud of the body for ease of pressing with big or gloved fingers. Zebraligts suck in this respect and is of the things I hate about them.
I prefer non cylindrical, IE rectangular keychain lights.
Copper body for good looks and heat dissipation qualities.
Minimum 300 lumen turbo. That's not too much to ask nowadays.
Moonlight level between .2 and .5 lumens.
Neutral white tint.
Big wide beam. Tir optics are best for this application.
The Lumintop geek is ok, but U/I isn'perfect, and is too big in reality. Though I will probably still get one, gut it, and make my own morecompact copper body for it. That or do the same to the Christmas edition nitecore Tip since it has an easy to use electronic lockout.
I have more to say, but will edit this post when I get more time.
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