Flashlights over the last ten years have improved tremendously in not just brightness, but battery life. Many companies such as Surefire, Streamlight, and Olight have lead the industry pushing the limits of performance while maintaining consistent pricing. Type in “flashlight” in the search bar on Amazon and you will see an endless list of complete crap flashlights claiming high lumen counts while in reality delivering mediocre brightness.
While supplying my company’s maintenance department with flashlights I decided to order some “no-name” brand lights with great reviews off of Amazon. Advertised as providing 1,200 lumens and having a simple on/off mode I was intrigued. I clicked the Buy Now and a few days later they were delivered.
A quick summary: These lights had heft to them the thin aluminum cheap lights did not have. They felt like they were rugged and were built to be used. I threw in two CR123 batteries, clicked the button on the end cap – and BAM!!! I was impressed!!
Good first impression.
After seeing the light was indeed extremely bright I ventured outside in the dark. The throw was fantastic with a very focussed beam(which I prefer). Lighting up the side of a house well over 100 yards away was easy. I pulled out my Odin Mini(review coming soon) and did a comparison. The Odin blasts 1250 lumens downrange and when placed side by side with my inexpensive find they were very comparable. The Odin’s light was more white while the other slightly yellowed. Hey – I’m comparing a $16 flashlight with one that costs $140.
Below are a few pictures I took after placing the light outside in the snow(left all day into the night).
Picture above shows brightness in complete darkness. The photo really doesn’t do it justice.
SUMMARY
I left this gem in the snow all day until dark. The weather warmed and much of the snow melted and soaked the flashlight. No issues.
This is a flashlight at publishing time sells for $15.99. From the construction to the simple on/off operation, to the incredible brightness this is one of the highest value preparedness items I have ever run across. At my plant, the maintenance guys have been using these lights for over a month with no issues.
I have not mounted this light to a weapon and have no idea about its ability to handle recoil. My Odin Mini can fill that role just fine. For the pack, pocket, and pocketbook? Absolutely.
For more information CLICK HERE.
Rourke
