Tag: LED

  • Testing the Bell & Howell “TacLight”

    Testing the Bell & Howell “TacLight”

    I posted this a couple of years ago and thoroughly enjoyed doing the test. As crazy as some of the crap on infomercials might be – the TacLight actually works very well. Check out my review below…….

    The TacLight is an “As Seen On TV” flashlight advertised as extremely powerful and nearly indestructible. As with most As Seen On TV products, the claims sound unrealistic and outlandish. This “High Performance Flashlight” is reported to withstand boiling, freezing, and even being run over by a car. So – can it actually survive these tests?

    Let’s find out.

    line

    Taclight, LED, flashlight, review

    As can be seen from the packaging above the TacLight is touted to be super durable and incredibly bright. It is so durable in fact it can withstand being submerged in water, run over by a car, frozen in ice, and boiled in water. While I suspect using a flashlight in such conditions as boiling water and surviving a hit and run would lead to more issues than whether or not a flashlight works – I understand these tests are apparently an indication of quality and reliability.

    One claim that I was unable to substantiate is the ability to see the light which is so bright it can be seen “5 nautical miles away”.  Due to my living on land and not having my presence on the ocean anytime soon a 5 nautical mile test was simply unrealistic.

    The TacLight is a medium sized flashlight at 5.4″ inches long and approx 1.6″ inches wide. It is made from lightweight aluminum and contains a lanyard. The light is operated via an end-cap push button.

    It appears Bell & Howell take immense pride in the fact the TacLight is made in China. Now – the origin of manufacture is not much of a surprise as most electronics of any kind is made in China. Just a bit odd that it would be printed so visibly.

    The LED element on my example was well centered and the lens was clear. The lens is protected by a shroud with semi-aggressive raised edges. These are meant to be useful in a self-defense situation and it appears they would not be pleasant to get hit with.

    Unlike most LED flashlights I own the TacLight’s beam can be adjusted from a very concentrated beam to flood pattern. The pattern is adjusted by sliding the head back and forth. The action is smooth and it works well.

    The light is powered via 3 AAA batteries.

    Above shows the concentrated spot adjustment. The square LED diode appearance is common among focusable LED lights.

    Medium focus above provides excellent brightness in total darkness with good area coverage. The picture really doesn’t do it justice.

    In full flood pattern, a massive area is illuminated.

    There are three levels of brightness, a strobe, and an SOS mode.As always the fewer the modes the better in my opinion so this is overkill.

    The TacLight is claimed to be waterproof. I left the light in this sink for over 15 minutes with no issues. PASS

    Above the TacLight was submerged in boiling water for close to one minute. Honestly, I was really surprised that it just kept running.

    I had thought the TacLight survived the boiling water until the next morning I walked into the kitchen and found the scene below. It appears that the lens is held in place via an adhesive which must have softened during the boiling process. Some internal pressure from the heat likely aided in having the lens pop off.

    Regardless of the lens popping off the TacLight still worked. It survived being submerged and boiling – but will it survive being run over.

    Below I ran over the TacLight with a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. It survived.

    SUMMARY

    The TacLight still worked after all these tests although it did not work as well. With the lens gone the light just did not look the same. I was not able to test freezing it as it was no longer waterproof.

    So – is the TacLight any good?

    It’s a decent light for the money but there are better deals out there. Almost the exact same flashlight can be bought cheaper.

    flashlight, TacLight, kit, lithum ion, LED, flashlight

    I have the kit above and for around $20 it is well worth it.

    TacLight? NOT RECOMMENDED

    Rourke

    [ecwid_product id=”242168723″ display=”picture title price options addtobag” version=”2″ show_border=”1″ show_price_on_button=”1″ center_align=”0″]

  • Review: Streamlight Stylus Pro Flashlight

    Review: Streamlight Stylus Pro Flashlight

    I previously published this a few years ago and with new people visiting the site thought it would be a good idea to bring it back around. – Rourke

    Flashlights are a basic and very important prep item. Who can’t remember the excitement as a kid having a flashlight when the power went out? The experience would have been quite different without the flashlight.

    Streamlight is a well-respected flashlight manufacturer with high marks for quality and value. Over the years I’ve owned several Streamlights and had zero issues with them. One model I’ve had for several years is the Stylus Pro. The Stylus Pro is of the “penlight” category and runs on 2 AAA alkaline batteries. Due to its slim construction, it can be easily carried like a pen in the pocket or tucked away almost anywhere.

    Specifications:

    • Weight: 1.64 oz.
    • Dimensions: L x D: 5.3″ x .6″ (134 x 15 mm)
    • Runtime: Up to 6.5 hours
    • Peak Beam Intensity: 860 candela
    • Light Output: 100 lumens
    • 50,000-hour lifetime thanks to C4 LED technology
    • Made with aluminum alloy
    • Shock-proof, drop-tested and O-Ring sealed
    • Scratch-resistant lens
    • Water-resistant per IPX4 in accordance with specification EN 60529:1992
    • Two operation settings: constant-on or momentary
    • Runs on two AAA alkaline batteries
    • Resilient pocket clip
    • Comes with a tear-resistant nylon holster

    Streamlight Stylus Pro, LED, flashlight, Streamlight, EDC, SHTF, prepper, preparedness

    The Streamlight Stylus Pro is NOT a flashlight meant for mounting on a firearm. No – this is a personal illumination device absolutely perfect for taking the trash out, looking under the couch for the remote – or navigating a trail while backpacking at night. It is NOT super bright. It is bright enough for the purposes listed and many more.

    Streamlight Stylus Pro, LED, flashlight

    The Stylus Pro is operated using an end-cap. A slight press allows momentary on and off. A full “push and click” turns the light on or off. There is only one brightness level which I very much like.

    Streamlight Stylus Pro, LED, flashlight

    I’ve had the Streamlight Stylus Pro for over two years and it has proven to be very reliable and rugged. The clip – which I have used when carrying in a pack – remains strong and tight. This flashlight is waterproof which is good to know when out in the rain. Like most modern flashlights illumination is provided via a LED diode. This means reliable, long-lasting light. No bulbs to burn out.

    If you are looking for a small, lightweight, and durable flashlight with this level of illumination at around $20 – the Streamlight Stylus Pro is worth a look.

    Recommended.

    Tula .223 Rem Ammunition

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    Fantastic Car Pack and EDC Bag

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    Smith & Wesson 10.6in High Carbon S.S. Fixed Blade Knife with 5.2in Tanto Blade and TPE Handle – less than $40

  • Review: Streamlight Stylus Pro Flashlight

    Review: Streamlight Stylus Pro Flashlight

     

    Flashlights are a basic and very important prep item. Who can’t remember the excitement as a kid having a flashlight when the power went out? The experience would have been quite different without the flashlight.

    Streamlight is a well-respected flashlight manufacturer with high marks for quality and value. Over the years I’ve owned several Streamlights and had zero issues with them. One model I’ve had for several years is the Stylus Pro. The Stylus Pro is of the “penlight” category and runs on 2 AAA alkaline batteries. Due to its slim construction, it can be easily carried like a pen in the pocket or tucked away almost anywhere.

    Specifications:

    • Weight: 1.64 oz.
    • Dimensions: L x D: 5.3″ x .6″ (134 x 15 mm)
    • Runtime: Up to 6.5 hours
    • Peak Beam Intensity: 860 candela
    • Light Output: 90 lumens
    • 50,000-hour lifetime thanks to C4 LED technology
    • Made with aluminum alloy
    • Shock-proof, drop-tested and O-Ring sealed
    • Scratch-resistant lens
    • Water-resistant per IPX4 in accordance with specification EN 60529:1992
    • Two operation settings: constant-on or momentary
    • Runs on two AAA alkaline batteries
    • Resilient pocket clip
    • Comes with a tear-resistant nylon holster

    Streamlight Stylus Pro, LED, flashlight, Streamlight, EDC, SHTF, prepper, preparedness

    The Streamlight Stylus Pro is NOT a flashlight meant for mounting on a firearm. No – this is a personal illumination device absolutely perfect for taking the trash out, looking under the couch for the remote – or navigating a trail while backpacking at night. It is NOT super bright. It is bright enough for the purposes listed and many more.

    Streamlight Stylus Pro, LED, flashlight

    The Stylus Pro is operated using an end-cap. A slight press allows momentary on and off. A full “push and click” turns the light on or off. There is only one brightness level which I very much like.

    Streamlight Stylus Pro, LED, flashlight

    I’ve had the Streamlight Stylus Pro for over two years and it has proven to be very reliable and rugged. The clip – which I have used when carrying in a pack – remains strong and tight. This flashlight is waterproof which is good to know when out in the rain. Like most modern flashlights illumination is provided via a LED diode. This means reliable, long-lasting light. No bulbs to burn out.

    If you are looking for a small, lightweight, and durable flashlight with this level of illumination at around $20 – the Streamlight Stylus Pro is worth a look.

    Recommended.

     

  • Testing the Bell & Howell “TacLight”

    Testing the Bell & Howell “TacLight”

     

    The TacLight is an “As Seen On TV” flashlight advertised as extremely powerful and nearly indestructible. As with most As Seen On TV products, the claims sound unrealistic and outlandish. This “High Performance Flashlight” is reported to withstand boiling, freezing, and even being run over by a car. So – can it actually survive these tests?

    Let’s find out.

    line

    Taclight, LED, flashlight, review

    As can be seen from the packaging above the TacLight is touted to be super durable and incredibly bright. It is so durable in fact it can withstand being submerged in water, run over by a car, frozen in ice, and boiled in water. While I suspect using a flashlight in such conditions as boiling water and surviving a hit and run would lead to more issues than whether or not a flashlight works – I understand these tests are apparently an indication of quality and reliability.

    One claim that I was unable to substantiate is the ability to see the light which is so bright it can be seen “5 nautical miles away”.  Due to my living on land and not having my presence on the ocean anytime soon a 5 nautical mile test was simply unrealistic.

    The TacLight is a medium sized flashlight at 5.4″ inches long and approx 1.6″ inches wide. It is made from lightweight aluminum and contains a lanyard. The light is operated via an end-cap push button.

    It appears Bell & Howell take immense pride in the fact the TacLight is made in China. Now – the origin of manufacture is not much of a surprise as most electronics of any kind is made in China. Just a bit odd that it would be printed so visibly.

    The LED element on my example was well centered and the lens was clear. The lens is protected by a shroud with semi-aggressive raised edges. These are meant to be useful in a self-defense situation and it appears they would not be pleasant to get hit with.

    Unlike most LED flashlights I own the TacLight’s beam can be adjusted from a very concentrated beam to flood pattern. The pattern is adjusted by sliding the head back and forth. The action is smooth and it works well.

    The light is powered via 3 AAA batteries.

    Above shows the concentrated spot adjustment. The square LED diode appearance is common among focusable LED lights.

    Medium focus above provides excellent brightness in total darkness with good area coverage. The picture really doesn’t do it justice.

    In full flood pattern, a massive area is illuminated.

    There are three levels of brightness, a strobe, and an SOS mode.As always the fewer the modes the better in my opinion so this is overkill.

    The TacLight is claimed to be waterproof. I left the light in this sink for over 15 minutes with no issues. PASS

    Above the TacLight was submerged in boiling water for close to one minute. Honestly, I was really surprised that it just kept running.

    I had thought the TacLight survived the boiling water until the next morning I walked into the kitchen and found the scene below. It appears that the lens is held in place via an adhesive which must have softened during the boiling process. Some internal pressure from the heat likely aided in having the lens pop off.

    Regardless of the lens popping off the TacLight still worked. It survived being submerged and boiling – but will it survive being run over.

    Below I ran over the TacLight with a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. It survived.

    SUMMARY

    The TacLight still worked after all these tests although it did not work as well. With the lens gone the light just did not look the same. I was not able to test freezing it as it was no longer waterproof.

    So – is the TacLight any good?

    It is a decent light for the money but there are better deals out there. Almost the exact same flashlight with two rechargeable lithium ion batteries and a charger can be bought cheaper.

    flashlight, TacLight, kit, lithum ion, LED, flashlight

    I have the kit above and for around $15 it is well worth it.

    TacLight? NOT RECOMMENDED

    Rourke

  • Pak-Lite: The 9 Volt Battery Flashlight

    Pak-Lite: The 9 Volt Battery Flashlight

     

    The 9 volt battery seems to be the redheaded stepchild in the battery family. Beyond the common smoke detector and remote control car the 9V battery is rarely seen. One unique item that preparedness-minded folks should be interested in is the 9V battery powered flashlight.

    Several years ago I came across the Pak-Lite flashlight and read many stories of users who used it to hike literally thousands of miles as well as utilize it during hurricane induced power outages. I ordered a Pak-Lite and have used it periodically ever since.

    The Pak-Lite LED flashlight is a tiny light that mounts directly on top of a 9 volt battery and has a lever-switch to select either of the two illumination levels. In a world of high performance flashlights the Pak-Lite may be considered meek and under-powered however there is more to performance than just lumen-level.

    As stated the Pak-Lite is a tiny LED flashlight approx 1/3rd the height of a standard 9V battery. It snaps directly on top of  a 9 volt battery so the “body” of the light ends up being the battery itself. I do not know the lumen-level for the low and high setting however they are very low. The huge benefit of the Pak-Lite is the extreme life of the battery.

    On low setting a standard alkaline will provide up to 600 hours of light. Switched to the high setting upwards of 30 hours of light per 9 volt alkaline. There are hikers that have completed the Appalachian trail using only the Pak-Lite for their entire trip.

    Above: Low setting on lawn

    Below: High setting same lawn

    Below: Corner of garden on High setting

    The beam sent out in both low and high settings is a wide-angle flood. The low setting is excellent for reading, maneuvering inside a tent, or looking nearby for something. The low setting is barely bright enough to reliably walk around in total darkness.  The high setting is considerably brighter and is plenty powerful to even go for a jog in total darkness. In no way is this a “tactical” light to light someone up at 100 yards – but it works for general moving around.

    So – why would having a few of these Pak-Lite’s be a good thing to do? First off the battery life is flat out fantastic. Second is if a hurricane is coming and you head to Home Depot to pick up some extra batteries there is a good chance 9V batteries will be found while all other sizes are sold out. Lastly – the operation is extremely simple. Choose the brightness level and it is a simple On and Off.

    Many describe the Pak-Lite as the perfect survival light. Those that have used it through hurricanes and hiked thousands of miles with it would probably agree.

    Rourke

     

     

     

     

  • Review: Zanflare F1 LED Flashlight

    Review: Zanflare F1 LED Flashlight

     

    Introduction:

    The Zanflare F1 LED Flashlight is a brand new entry into the high performance flashlight market. Throwing in excess of 1200 lumens the Zanflare’s narrow beam penetrates the night like a hot knife through butter – just like a flashlight should.  Its ability to charge via common mini-USB without opening the battery compartment is a welcome feature. The F1 is turned on by a tail cap button and then modes are selected via a barrel button.

    Running in the mid-price($40) range it is affordable for most but not all.

     

    Specifications:

    Brand: zanflare
    Model: F1
    Emitters: Cree XP-L V6
    Emitters Quantity: 1
    Lumens Range: >1000Lumens
    Luminous Flux: 1240LM
    Mode: 7 (Turbo; High; Mid; Low; Moonlight; Strobe; SOS)
    Battery Type: 18650, CR123
    Battery Quantity: 1 x 18650 or 2 x CR123 batteries (not included)
    Mode Memory: Yes
    Rechargeable: Yes
    Waterproof Standard: IP-68 Standard Water-resistant
    LED Lifespan: 5000h or more

     

     

    Power, Modes and Output:

    The Zanflare F1’s beam is created via a CREE XP-L LED and an incredibly smooth reflector.

    Modes: The are 7 in total

    Turbo(1240 lumens)

    High(590 lumens)

    Mid(290 lumens)

    Low(50 lumens)

    Moonlight(1 lumen)

    Strobe

    SOS

    I had no way of verifying the levels listed above other than comparing to other lights of known lumen levels. I have no reason to doubt the accuracy of the stated lumens.

     

    Power: The Zanflare is powered by two CR123 batteries or a single 18650 rechargeable Li-Ion battery.

     

     

    Operation:

    Two switches – The tail cap switch turns the unit on and off while the button mounted on the side of the case allows mode manipulation. Selecting the desired mode is not difficult. Basically pressing the side button moves from one mode to the other.

    The brightest mode – or Turbo – is accessed with a quick double-click. This throws the maximum 1240 lumens for approx 30 seconds then automatically diverts to High. Single taps goes through the standard brightness modes. A long press bring up the Strobe mode – and while in Strobe a single click will access the SOS mode. These two modes – for me – are a waste but they are there if needed.

    Charging:

    Beneath the side switch there is a metal ring which conceals the charging port. Unscrewing the ring reveals a micro USB port used for charging. Any standard USB charging cable will work to charge the internal battery. A small light turns red when charging and green when charging is complete.

    Obviously make certain a rechargeable battery is being used prior to trying to recharge.

    Notice red charging light above.

     

    Performance:

    I like a bright penetrating beam versus a flood light. The Zanflare F1 is right up my alley.

    Here are a few pictures of the F1 in action:

    ABOVE:  Using the Zanflare F1 heading into the woods while hunting.

     

    ABOVE: Headlights from my Jeep Wrangler after arriving to hunting area. 

    BELOW: Same headlights on the right-side with the addition of the Zanflare F1 on the left.

        *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

    A picture is worth a thousand words……

    Final Words

    The Zanflare F1 is one of my favorite flashlights. The combination of simple operation, fairly narrow barrel size,  recharging capability, and 1240 lumens is an excellent combination.

    High recommendation.

    For more information visit the Zanflare F1 product page.

    Rourke

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

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  • Review: Imalent DN12 1000 Lumen High Performance Flashlight

    Review: Imalent DN12 1000 Lumen High Performance Flashlight

    Remember – this flashlight is part of a giveaway ending on November 15th – click HERE for more information.

     

    I continue to be amazed at the technology improvements being made within the flashlight design and manufacturing industry. As someone who remembers the days of non-alkaline batteries, regular bulbs, slide switches  – and the high tech momentary on buttons on the switch – these new high performance lights such as the Imalent DN12 are simply incredible.

    Introduction:

    The Imalent DN12 is a high performance multi-mode CREE LED flashlight that throws a concentrated beam of white light up to 1000 lumens and as low as 1 lumen. Yes – ANY lumen amount between 1 and 1000 lumens. Unique is its touch control system. Rather than pushing buttons touch panels are pressed to increase/decrease brightness as well as select different modes.

    Main Features:
    Palm-sized searchlight with strong output and far throw
    ● Latest CREE XP-L HI LED, delivers 1000Lm maximum output
    Infinitely brightness adjustment, easily to get your desired light
    LCD displays modes, brightness, voltage and charging process touch switch, easy operation
    USB rechargeable, charges the light without taking out the battery
    IPX-8 (2 meters submersible) standard waterproof
    Overheat warning to inform the user reduce the output
    Low-power warning prevents the battery from over-discharge

    untitled-design-23

    Size:

    The Imalent DN12 is a small flashlight that could be considered “stubby”. It slides in a pocket easily however for holding/searching I would have liked to see it a bit longer.  Length is 3.27″ inches and 1.26″ wide.

     

    [slideshow_deploy id=’3886′]

    Quality:

    This is my first Imalent light and it appears to be of high quality. Fit and finish is fantastic. There are no machining marks and everything fits tight. Finish is smooth and “satin-like”. Lens is crystal clear and LED is perfectly centered. The charging port rubber cover fits securely to keep out moisture from rain/water.

    The knurling on the battery cap is fairly smooth and I would have preferred more aggressive machining here.

     

    untitled-design-21

    Durability:

    The true test will come with time. I have been using the Imalent DN12 for the past few weeks and have had no issues. I have charged it several times and no issues with the charging port or the single 650mAh CR123 battery included with it.

    It is IPX-8 certified meaning it is capable of being submerged up to 2 meters without failing. Now – understand this is NOT a flashlight meant for underwater operation. Incidental dropping in water, exposure to rain and moisture it will be just fine.

    2016092519014285496

    Operation:

    Initial impression of the operation of this flashlight was filled with frustration. The Imalent DN12 is very unique in that it does not have any moving parts as part of turning it ON, OFF, and going through the different MODES.  Rather than buttons the Imalent is “touch” controlled. Although frustrating to figure out how to operate it once figured out it is pretty cool and works great.

    The ONLY caution I have with the touch controls is that improper handling can cause the power of the beam to increase and decrease inadvertently. Early on I had this happen and then I made sure I held the light correctly so as not to allow this to occur.

    Operation instructions

    1. On/Off Switch
    Double quick press the upper switch symbol on top of the LCD display then flashlight will enter into maximum output, touch the switch again to turn it off.

    2. Brightness adjustment
    With the flashlight on, press and hold the upper switch symbol on top of the LCD display, the flashlight brightness will increase, press and hold the lower switch under the LCD display, the flashlight brightness will be decreased.

    3. Overheat warning
    When flashlight body temperature up to 55℃(131F),the high temperature symbol on LCD display blinks rapidly to indicate reduce the output, to ensure the user to use comfortable and prevent the discomfort from the overheat.

    4. Low-power warning
    When the battery voltage less than 3.1V, the battery symbol on the LED display blinks rapidly 30 times one second to remind user need to replace the battery or charge it.

    5. Battery installation
    Unscrew the tail cap on the flashlight , then insert the battery with positive pole pointing towards the LED. Screw the tail cap back and the flashlight is ready to use.

    6. Battery charging.
    Plug in one end of the USB cable into an AC adapter (or any other portable USB adapter). Then plug in the AC adapter into the electrical outlet. Remove the anti-dust plug at the end of flashlight. Then plug the USB cable into a smaller Micro USB light’s charging port at the end of the flashlight. When the cable is properly connected, LCD screen will indicate the starting of normal charging procedure. The LED indicator flashes if the level of battery process is done, it will stop automatically.

    7. Advanced temperature control module
    DN12 built-in temperature control module, adjust the output automatically according to the environment temperature and the working state to offer the best performance.

    8. Mode transfer (Strobe / location beacon / SOS function )
    With the flashlight on, double quickly press the upper switch symbol on top of the LCD display, flashlight will enter strobe, if need to choose other special modes, just touch the same switch each time to enter the strobe-beacon-SOS accordingly.

    untitled-design-20

    Battery Life:

    The Imalent DN12 throws an incredibly bright beam and sucks down juice to do it. How long it will throw that beam depends on lumen level and capacity of the battery. The included 650mAh battery is rated to run the light for 45 minutes at the full 1000 lumens. I would say this is close based on my testing. Running the DN12 down to 100 lumens or so will dramatically increase battery life.

    The rechargeable CR123 battery is a great and cost-savings inclusion however any CR123 battery will work – including other rechargeable options out there. I very much like the fact that a more common battery type is used. The CR123 is becoming more and more popular and its availability is widespread.

    FYI – your typical lithium-ion CR123 battery has a capacity of around 1500mAh’s. Something to keep in mind.

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    Performance: A picture is worth a thousand words……

    20161031_215834

    Above: Area directly across the street from my front door. Distance is approx 50 yards.

    Below: The Imalent throwing 1000 lumens

    20161031_215847

    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *

    20161031_215823

    Above: Approx 100 yards away

    Below: This picture really shows the power and intensity at 1000 lumens

    20161031_215755

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    Final Thoughts:

    I like the Imalent DN12 LED flashlight. The key to its successful use is understanding how it works and proper holding. This is not really a big deal unless you hand it off to someone who is expecting an ON/OFF button. Imalent is pushing the envelope of flashlight technology and at around $50.00 this thing is not only unique – it is a performer.

    Right now GearBest is offering 1776PatriotUSA.com readers a special coupon code: DN12CS

    Enter the coupon code at checkout and the price drops to $33.99.

     

     

  • Review: Convoy L6 3800 Lumen Flashlight

    Review: Convoy L6 3800 Lumen Flashlight

    If you are a flashlight junkie you may want to move on to another post or go rearrange your sock drawer. This quick review of the Convoy L6 3800 Lumen flashlight is going to highlight the many pro’s to this incredibly powerful flashlight as well as a few con’s – and you’re going to want one.

    A few specs:

    ● Cool white 6000-6500K and neutral white 5000K are available
    ● Die-cast unibody construction, ensuring that heat is delivered evenly and rapidly
    ● CREE XHP70 N4 LED (soldered on 20mm copper plate), with a maximum output of 3800Lm
    ● Instant strobe: Double click side switch to activate hidden strobe mode
    ● 4 brightness levels: Low 50mA – mid 200mA – high 1700mA – turbo 5000mA
    ● Dual switch: Tail switch (125V 10A) to turn on / off the light, side switch to select mode
    ● Waterproof in accordance with IPX-8 standard
    ● Orange peel reflector (Max.D 67.8mm x H 48.2mm) offers a smooth and flood beam
    ● Anti-roll rugged design with detachable tactical ring
    ● Runs on 2pcs protected 26650 batteries that can withstand more than 6A current (not included)

    20160730_144701

    Packaging:

    The picture above shows how the flashlight came packaged. Very well protected and there was foam covering the top as well. Nice box.

    20160730_144741

    Construction/Build Quality:

    I have never had a Convoy flashlight before. In fact I have never heard of the brand. One thing I have come to realize is there is an entire market outside of the United States of high quality phones, flashlights, and other electronics. Just because I am not familiar here in the states it doesn’t mean that the item is not of excellent quality. So far – the Convoy seems to be built extremely well.

    The grip is easy to hold and for a flashlight this size easy to handle and swing around. The glass lens is crystal clear and LED centered.

    This thing looks like it was built in the same factory as a tank. In a word: solid.

    20160730_144729

    20160730_144801

    Power: 

    The Convoy L6 is powered by 2 26650 lithium-ion batteries. This is a very odd size for most of us however purchasing these types of flashlights provides this situation. Batteries and chargers are available from GearBest.com as well as Amazon.

    20160730_144807

    Operation:

    There were no instructions included with the light. The flashlight is turned on and off via the tail cap switch. The modes are changed using the body switch. I prefer body switches for on and off and modes but it works fine. I have stated a million times – I hate strobes and I prefer as few modes as possible with ON and OFF desirable. With a flashlight this bright I do see the benefit of lower power modes as this thing throwing light at full power on a wall close up is blinding.

    Performance

    The Convoy throws out an extremely clean and consistent light. Unlike with other lights where depending on the distance and brightness level shadows and dark/bright spots can be visible – the Convoy is smooth all the way through.

    Performance pictures below are all taken at Full Power Turbo. Although I do not care for multiple modes in a light the 4 modes are spread out pretty evenly for different applications(map reading, search & rescue, walking, hiking, camping, searching for Pokemon….etc.

    20160805_233746

    Above: House is approx 50 yards away. The light on the right side of the picture is actually a reflection in a window of a porch light across the street.

    Below: Picture doesn’t do the amount of illumination justice. The brightness and amount of area illuminated is incredible. This is not a “spotlight” in design however even with the amount of flood it is super bright.

    20160805_233755

    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *

    20160805_233639

    Above: This house is approx 100 yards away and has an outside motion-activated security light that apparently has detected a zombie walking by.

    Below: Almost the entire front yard, front and side of the house are lit up. If the tree wasn’t in the way the house to the left would also have been it up. Extreme brightness.

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    Final Thoughts:

    I am very happy with the L6. Easy to use and super bright. The super bright 4th mode – turbo – is not meant to be left on for extended periods due to the amount of heat generated. I had it on for no more than 5-8 minutes and could feel some heat being generated.

    The Convoy L6 has a definite place in most any preppers inventory. It has its pro’s and con’s but if you want to light up an area – and I mean really light it up – this will do the trick. It is inexpensive, high quality, and rugged.

    If looking for a light as I have described then look no further.

    For more information follow this link.

    Rourke

    graybox

    SPECIAL COUPON CODES:

    — 6000-6500K Special Price: $51.30 with  Coupon:  L6GB 

    — 5000K Special Price: $55.79 with Coupon:  L6GB ( there is no stock for this version presently, may need wait another week for goods restocked)

    And 8% OFF coupon for LED Lights & Flashlights  Code: GBLED2016