Everyone needs a good LED flashlight. Which do you recommend?
15 years ago, I relied solely on Maglites. One month shy of 10 years ago, I bought a Fenix. Maybe a little earlier than that I bought a Surefire at Lowe’s with a gift card.
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LED flashlights and worklights have seem tremendous changes over the years.
Whenever I post about Milwaukee’s RedLithium USB LED flashlights and worklights, the comments and responses I see show me that quite a few of you put more time and energy into your flashlight purchasing decisions than I expected, given the level of interest I’ve seen in the past.
I am behind the times. I advanced to using flashlights that perform better with NiMH or lithium AA-sized batteries, or CR123 lithium batteries, but it seems I’m stuck there.
I need to see what the current LED lighting tech has to offer. And to do that, I could use some of your input – which brands are you looking at? What are you looking for in an LED flashlight?
From my Milwaukee RedLithium USB LED lighting posts, it’s clear to me that a number of readers have advanced into 18650 Li-ion flashlight territory. The tech has become mainstream, and with chargers and battery cells fairly common and easier to use than ever.
It’s with that in mind that I’m hoping for specific recommendations and a window into your flashlight preferences.
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But I’m sure that many other readers – and perhaps the majority – are still better served with more basic and more affordable flashlights and lighting tech. Hearing from those readers will help me direct some energies towards lower-priced and less involved models.
Plus, I’m hoping that your recommendations can help readers looking for immediate endorsements. It’ll take me some time to get up to speed with 18650 LED lighting tech and other modern-day flashlight tech and trends.
So, what kinds of flashlights do you prefer, recommend, or are looking to buy?
Your input will be helpful, at the least for giving me an idea on the brands and tech to focus on in future reviews. Everyone needs a good flashlight, but without some parameters (based on reader preferences), the number of options soars.
Although a little dated, here are my most-used models these days:
Maglite Mag-Tac ($52 via Amazon)
After that, I use Milwaukee LED lights very often, and then a mix of whatever’s within reach.
Kentucky fan
I weld for a loving so anything electronic needs to be either cheap enough to replace easily (harbor freight quantum). Or tough enough to survive (streamlight and surefire). I like the streamlight the most though as they hit a good point of price vs performance.
Bruce
Fénix pd35 with 18650 cell is my go-to light. If you need more of a work light, the Braun light from harbor freight (63958) is an amazing light. I keep one in the work tool box.
DanFromMass
I’ve been carrying the Streamlight Microstream USB for the past year. It has replaced my beloved Streamlight Stylus Pro that I carried for years. It’s perfect for pocket carry, smaller and brighter than the Stylus Pro and is rechargable too.
https://www.streamlight.com/en/products/detail/index/microstream-usb
Wayne R.
I also love those Microstream lights, though I depend on alkaline batteries in them – in the field, a quick change of cell gets me back to work when one finally dies. The size lets me put it in my mouth to use both hands & the lanyard keeps it really handy.
Jonathan Rickner
I second this recommendation. This is my EDC light. Has a clip that folds back on itself so you can attach it to your hat brim and use it like a headlamp.
Bobby
I also carry a streamlight microstream (AA version). It’s been a great little flashlight.
Jon
ToolNut.com is currently running a promo for 2 Milwaukee LED lights for $99.
https://www.toolnut.com/on-sale/milwaukee-two-led-lights-for-only-99.html
Planegrain
There is a new Milwaukee 600 lumen hard hat light. It doesn’t look like it’s included in this sale. Model 2116-21. Key feature is 360 degree visability. Has two rear lights that also have a flash mode. The front headlamp light has to be on when using rear lights. Reflective materials on headbands sides also.
David
I’ll second Bruce’s recommendation above for the Fenix PD35. The new PD36 rechargeable might also work well for folks. For the same reason, I’ve used my Nitecore rechargeable flashlight quite a bit.
My daily carry use, I still fall back on small, pocketable AA lights with easy interfaces. I wish Sunwayman was still around, their magnetic ring adjustable lights are my favorite for that and I’d buy more of them!
Adam
I also like the Fenix but my favorite is the UC30.
It is also getting harder to find alkaline flashlights that run on rechargeable NiMH. For that I use the Nicron N7
Steve
I have a bunch of different lights, depending on circumstances for use. In general I prefer LED (duh), and try to stay with rechargeable models. The exception to that is my CR123 flashlights, which live in vehicles with a wide temp range and are stored with spare batteries.
Here’s what I have off the top of my head:
The light that always lives in my pocket is a Thrunite TI4 2xAAA , with eneloop rechargeable batteries
The lights that live in vehicles are Streamlight protac 2L models (2x CR123 batteries) and one HL model (3xCR123)
House lights that live in various drawers are Duracell 500lm 4xAAA that came in a multi-pack from Costco
Headlamp, primarily for running but also for home improvement, is a Black Diamond rechargeable model with the battery pack on the back for better weight distribution
Rick H
I have used a Streamlight ProTac 1L for numerous years without any issues. Highly recommend it.
Adam
I am a fan of the Milwaukee in your post picture. Before that, and still have at home is the Coast HP8R. very similar, but it does have a sleeve to use standard AAA as well. The battery has direct USB charging.
I bought the colored lens filters for the coast model, and they are a perfect fit for the Milwaukee as well.
AngryDrumGuy
I won’t use anything but Streamlight. I have several models from Polytac to Survivor and they’ve all performed well unless I’ve broken them. Customer service has been outstanding as well.
Addison
So many! I like you like a small alkaline powered led flashlight Mine is AAA with a clip that attaches to my hat for a quick and dirty headlamp (Streamlight). If I bought today I would get a USB rechargeable.
https://www.streamlight.com/en/products/detail/index/microstream
I like the 18650 lights Olight is my favorite, I always preferred tail switches until I used these. Good ergo, intuitive mode switching, no need to take the battery out to charge, 2-way clip, and magnetic charger port. I have had single AA flashlights MUCH bigger, than these and 2000 lumen output, amazing.
https://olightworld.com/led-flashlights/all-flashlights/olight-baton-pro
I have headlamps (2-cell 18650) these are $20-25 from amazon and are great for working in the dark or when you are providing emergency surgery on equipment on the side of the road. On the back is a red light that indicates the back of…your head. I keep these in vehicles and camper for whatever comes. I have many others but these are all great for people that do stuff.
Nathan
I have one led modded Maglite flashlight. Otherwise I have 2 Dewalt LED lights but I don’t so much call them flashlights.
Meanwhile I’ve moved to headlamps more than not. I like having my hands free. I like the Fenix but I also like the Coast. So today I have 2 coast products.
One used AA batteries and the other has rechargeable pack. If I bought a flash light today I would probalby check fenix and coast first. biggest issue I have is I really want a USA made one but I also know that the LED chip and controller pieces are all made in china today. So sort of pointless to shop too hard.
Wayne R.
My overall preference is for quantity first.
We have a bunch of the single-mode Chinese 1-AA battery, one-emitter lights in cars, drawers, bags – these really are pretty nice for the usual stuff anyone uses flashlights for. For a relative (who only had a single ancient/useless flashlight), I bought a box of 10 for $20 as a Christmas thing, semi-gag gift but also really useful. (I did have to threadlock the front bezels so they wouldn’t get lost.)
A few nicer ones, too, but for work the Microstreams are hard to beat.
Ken Weinstein
At the two ends of the spectrum: Can’t beat Big Larry (nebotools.com) for toughness and features. And the Quantums from HF are also good and cheap.
BTW any time I have lost or broken a Big Larry part and asked them to buy the part, they just send me a new light for free.
Adam G
Olight s2r2
Dave
Yes I second anything made by Olight.
Jared
Third!
Olight has great power, features and durability for the price range.
I really like the cheap I3E AAA light as a EDC flashlight. Their small EOS lights are all excellent values actually, with several varieties depending on your lumen requirements and whether you want a rechargable version (e.g. I3T, I5T, I3E and I1R).
Someday I must get myself an Olight Maurader – just because.
For 18650 lights, I have a Nitecore EC4s I use when I want a proper flashlight – I think it is great. Decent throw and spill, good battery life, intuitive controls, comfortable, 2200 lumens max…. just a good solid light. I think there are Olights in the same price range that might have it beat though (at least in specs).
I also have several right-angle flashlights (I just like that form factor). I have a couple CR123a versions I like, but I can’t actually say I would recommend any of the 18650 lights I own. I had a bad experience with Armytek in particular (both their customer service when my order went wrong, then the light itself quit working after a few months).
Overall – I say check out Olight. For the category, they just have good quality and power for the price. Maybe try the Olight Seeker 2 (3200 lumens) or the Baton Pro (2000 lumens) for a review?
If you haven’t had a 1500+ lumen light before I think you might be surprised (p.s. if you’re not a flashlight enthusiast, beware the cheap generic Amazon/ebay lights that claim crazy-high lumens – none of them ever achieve near what they claim).
PJB
Olight…. olight… olight… yes…. amazing quality, performance and PRICE!
Nic gilbert
Pretty much any olight rechargeable
David Sherfield
HDS systems makes sum amazing lights, but they are not inexpensive. For a user and abuser surfire. I carry both a surefire and HDS.
Aaron C
https://www.kleintools.com/catalog/lights/rechargeable-focus-flashlight-laser
Klein 56040 the best! Really bright and the laser points a good 100yds away. The magnetic butt comes in useful to stick it on exposed metal studs or strut. I don’t see myself ever moving to another light
Jim
Thanks for the recommendation. I just ordered one from Home Depot.
Cody Benjamin
I got a new one on ebay for $28. Love that light.
Tom
My only requirement is that it has only one mode. Maybe a bright and dim setting. I hate when I turn on a flashlight and it’s sending SOS signals.
DanFromMass
I agree; High and Low are sufficient features.
I know a lot of lights have multiple brightness levels, turbo modes, sos and strobes, but its too easy to get lost in all the functions.
Especially if I’m handing the light to my wife or a friend, I shouldn’t have to give a tutorial on how the flashlight works.
Jared
Most good-quality name brand flashlights make the special modes accessible only with specific button taps so what you describe doesn’t happen.
E.g. my Nitecore EC4s has two buttons: on/off and power settings. It’s just on/off plus the second button for low, medium and high.
There’s a bunch of special features you can access by pressing the buttons in specific ways (i.e. triple taps, back and forth between the two buttons etc. to access fast strobe, slow strobe, battery level indicator, Turbo, SOS, moonlight…) but none of those modes are in the regular cycle and it’s pretty unlikely you would access them accidentally.
Stacey Jones
Totally agree. I prefer on/off only.
Jerry
My new favorite flashlight is a Nebo that when you click the switch goes med, low, off. Use it for more than 10 seconds and next click is off regardless of mode. If you press and hold the button for a couple seconds you get high. Had a twist focus and a clip that lets you clip it to things pointing either way so it can be head down or head up. USB rechargeable or can use AA battery. My favorite features are that it DOESN’T have a while bunch of modes to toggle through, and the 2 way clip
Jaycob P.
About any of them at Harbor Freight are a good bet. I own 3 or 4 of their lights and have never had a problem with any of them.
Lee
Streamlight Stinger series for me.
JML
I have too many. Latest are from Klarus and Thrunite, while the earlier generation are from EagleTac (EagTac on the lights). For years I had been using CR123 lights, but now I’m moving to rechargeable, except what I carry in the car for emergencies (still CR123). You might want a light that can use a pair of CR123 batteries (best would be in a sleeve) or a rechargeable 18650 for more output and longer runtime. There are AA and AAA form factor lights, with rechargeable options, but although they’re smaller they’re not going to be as powerful or long-lasting as the lights using higher-capacity batteries.
But now the 18650/CR123x2 form factor is being replaced by lights with longer runtime and higher output from using a 21700 or 26650 battery (they’re pretty amazing). Check out Klarus and Thrunite, and EagleTac (those are the makers of my current toys, plus some from CountyComm). In the past I had lights from JetBeam, Olight, etc.). The flashlight enthusiast forums, CandlePowerForums and BudgetLightForum are full of information!
You need to decide on what kind of battery (and whether you want in-light recharging or outside of the light charging), the size (for holding and carrying), spot or flood lighting, warm or cool white LED, whether you want colors other than white, mode switching (how and what kind of buttons), etc. Dizzying number of variables. But get something with a real warranty, spare O-rings, HA-III anodizing, and rated as waterproof.
A W
Thanks for the great recommendations. I have a Fenix PD35, and am looking for something with higher lux. I really appreciate this post.
JML
Check out the Klarus G20L and the XT21X if you want something with higher lux. The Cree XHP70.2 is the LED used by the latest generation of high-output lights and both use that LED. The 21700 battery is becoming the rechargeable battery of choice (Tesla is now standardizing on that in place of the smaller but similarly sized 18650). The 26650 battery form factor results in fatter lights that are sized like the traditional D-cell Maglight.
John G
I’ve picked up several of the Anker rechargeable lights recently to keep in various spots around the house, in my office, and in the car. They’re not streamlight or surefire quality, but they’re inexpensive and seem to work well.
https://www.anker.com/Search?keyword=flashlight
King Dave
I have a ton of flash lights from mini AAA and AA powered to standard size flash lights that use rechargeable 18650 Batteries. I also have the Dewalt 20v spotlight and also the Milwaukee M12 High Output Light with high/low and the ability to adjust to a focused beam on the lens. I have been looking at the USB rechargeable flash lights but I don’t like not having the ability to change out the battery as nothing is as frustrating then having to get rid of a working tool because the battery, not the tool goes bad.
Steve
FYI The Milwaukee usb flashlights can swap batteries. I have the headlamp, stick, and pivot one. I bought a spare charger and battery (Model # 48-59-2013) before xmas at Home Depot. I don’t need to swap them very often but having the spare battery charging on my dashboard at all times is nice when you need it.
Justin
I carry a Coast HX5: https://coastportland.com/products/hx5
They’re cheap, small, and can run on AA or 14500. Light output is significantly increased on the 14500, but allows you to pop in a AA if it dies and you’re not near a charger.
If you don’t like the slide focus, the clip can be taken off and reversed to lock-out the slide feature.
A typical disposable water bottle cap clips onto the end to make a perfect diffuser.
It’s not fancy, but gets the job done.
Adrian
THIS!! HX5 is probably my favorite light of all time. Such a great wide beam and narrow focus without any hotspots. The increased power with the 14500 is mind blowing but great to be able to run it off a AAA in a pinch.
Kent
I live in a rural environment, and use a flashlight every day (well, every night). I too was a MagLight diehard, and now have a handful of them in a box somewhere.
My two favorites:
Coast, not sure of the model number, but it’s about the size of a C cell Maglight and uses 4 AA batteries. I run it on Eneloops.
It is very well made, and is sold for a fair price. Lifetime warranty. It puts out a ton of light, can focus and has two different output levels. It fits nicely in the skinny pocket on the side of my jeans. It’s more of a flood than a pinpoint spot. It’s great for outdoor use.
OLight S2R Baton
Compact and crazy bright. Has a replaceable, rechargeable battery – and uses a really slick magnetic recharging unit that is USB powered. It’s in my hand any time I step outside at night.
My only complaint is that the recharging unit is hardwired to the USB cable (type A), and if the cable is damaged you have to replace the charger. Worst case, get a second battery and charge it with a wall charger.
Luke
Head over to /r/flashlight. You can’t go wrong with any of their recommendations. If you’re looking for an EDC I’d recommend either the Lumintop FW3A or Emisar D4V2.
Mr. Certainly
My favorite is the Zebralight SC64c LE.
This is a flashlight not much bigger than the 18650 that’s nestled within it, yet it puts out a very nice 850+ lumens with a decent ratio between beam and flood.
It’s a durable metal body that is water resistant as well as acts as a heatsink.
I feel it’s the best combination of size + brightness + durability + price.
Which brings to the cons — price @ $79, and the fact it needs unprotected flat top 18650 batteries….something that most people aren’t familiar with. You have to do a wee bit of homework before buying it — finding batteries (they sell them on Zebra’s website), and finding a charger (XTAR makes some nice 2 and 4 bay chargers at a $10-30 pricepoint, and some of those chargers can do eneloop AA and AAAs).
Unprotected or protected doesn’t mean they’re good or bad, just where the voltage control circuitry resides — inside the battery or inside the device. But ‘ooo unprotected is scary sounding!’ has turned folks away.
Reed Prince
I have the “big brother” of your flashlight, the SC600Fc Mk IV Plus, also 4000K high CRI, but with a higher output and a diffusing lens that gives it a floody beam. $99. I find that the light quality of a high CRI 4000K far outweighs the brighter output of lower CRI emitters. http://www.zebralight.com/SC600Fc-Mk-IV-Plus-18650-XHP50-Floody-4000K-High-CRI-Flashlight_p_228.html
William
I Mostly use lights from Surefire, I know there are much better value products out there, but I trust the quality and they have a great warranty.
I have a loads of them in all different formats and sizes depending on my specific needs.
Russ
I have several LED flashlights but the one I use almost every day is a $10 “Nitecore Tube”. It is small and rechargeable and has two brightness settings among others. The low setting is what I use most often because every night when I get up to pee I use it keep from tripping over stuff in the dark. I also keep a radioactive key fob linked to it so it is easy to find in the dark. I always bring it when traveling as it is even more important in unfamiliar motel rooms in the dark.
Scott Davis
Olight H2R for a headlamp. Its rechargeable and can be used a stand alone flashlight and is 1 lumen, 30 lumens, 150 lumens, 600 lumens and 2300 lumens on turbo.
Carl Sampson
I use this work light from Harbor Freight as a flashlight…
https://www.harborfreight.com/390-lumen-magnetic-slim-bar-folding-led-work-light-63958.html
It works pretty well and is often on sale for $25.
Frank D
I have the Bosch 12v. Compact. Not very stable standing up. Lacks a dimming option. Hanging hook is very fragile imo.
I have several of the Ridgid 18v. Bulky. Very stable (due to heavy battery). Swivel head is handy but a bit limited. Brightness is limited. No dimming option. Long battery life.
Mike
Me I’ll stick to my maglight they are still the best flashlight on the market, I’ve tried many others but keep coming back to my mag yeah some are brighter but how much light do you need the form factor and durability of the maglight is amazing
Dan H.
Fenix and Olight make some good lights, I have some from both manufacturers. I’ve really enjoyed the Olights as they have better features and a better UI for EDC use. I use my S1R (Turbo S version) every day. If I ever lose it I will immediately upgrade to the S1R II.
If you are going for simplicity and durability over features and UI, Fenix might be the better choice.
Joatman
I have a rechargeable mini Olight on my keychain. A couple rechargeable Coast flashlights around the house and also a 500 lumen rechargeable Craftsman flashlight that you can use as a power source to charge a phone. I love this flashlight. Bought it when it was on sale for $20.
https://www.lowes.com/pd/CRAFTSMAN-500-Lumen-LED-Rechargeable-Spotlight-Flashlight-Battery
Flashlights nowadays are way to powerful to be using regular batteries. I will only buy rechargeable now.
Steve
You gotta’ love the variety. Like a Steve above I have been carrying a Thrunite in my pocket for the last ten years. I like the Ti3 with 1 AAA because it is bright on high and has a very dim low that is useful for moving around when my sweetie is sleeping. It is tiny and always available. I throw away the lanyard and clip when I get them as I consider them unnecessary and bulky. I’ve never wore one out or broken one, just lost them. Those are my constant with me. I’ve got Big Eds, Little Eds, Mag Lights, and a bucket load of other stuff, all good, but the Thrunite is used 99% of the time.
Eric
The flashlight subreddit has a pretty good list of good lights. It’s broken down by use and battery type. There are also seperate sections for mainstream users and enthusiasts wanting to be on the bleeding edge and wanting more custom options like which LED, color temp, CRI, etc. https://old.reddit.com/r/flashlight/comments/edz84r/arbitrary_list_of_popular_lights_winter_solstice/
Bruce Pierce
Ezred rechargeable inspection light.
Wayne R.
I’ve taken several old style flashlights and “fixed” them by replacing the bulbs with LEDs, and put D or C cell adapters in them to use AA. Really lightens the weight and of course the LEDs are happy. Sometimes the metal contacts need burnishing to work right. And sometimes the big tailcap springs don’t contact some adapters correctly, so fooling with that might be needed.
For some people who need to be able to know what they’re grabbing for in the dark, this is a pretty good solution. And a good way to salvage some of those old ones that’re too cool to just chuck. But even polishing the old reflectors won’t make the light as smooth as new LEDs can deliver.
fred
What I grab most often is a Milwaukee Stick Light:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-M12-12-Volt-Lithium-Ion-Cordless-220-Lumen-LED-Stick-Light-Tool-Only-2351-20/204371247
Not because its the best of what I have – or the newest (bought 6 years ago) – but because it’s magnet holds it up in the kitchen – for easy grabbing.
Stuart B
I am a theatre stagehand and we live and die by our flashlights.
My all time favourite is the LED Lenser P5.
Tail button so I can switch on/off without looking or thinking.
One mode – no strobes, no high/low. Does exactly what I expect.
Manual zoom/flood
Bright as hell with fresh batteries – I can inspect the theatre roof 55′ away.
They’re not cheap but their pretty indestructable.
One AA battery. Small and light on my belt.
My only complaint is the the holsters they come with don’t match the build quality of the light.
Coach James
I have tried a few different smaller lights and found that these:
https://www.harborfreight.com/588-lumen-tactical-flashlight-black-63934.html
to be better than the others I tried, and a reasonable cost. I bought several on sale for $9.99. The one I gave my son has survived several BSA camping trips as well as camp outs with his buddies.
Scotty
Very similar to those, I have had good luck with these WSky brand LED flashlights for low-cost where quantity is more important that long time durability. Great for keeping in the kitchen junk drawer and toolbox to keep everyone from losing your expensive ones. Usually can get for $6 each on Amazon, sometimes less. I use with (3) AAA NiMh type rechargables and also will take 18650 LiIon rechargables with the little plastic adapter sleeves.
Wsky LED Tactical Flashlight – S1800 Powerful Waterproof Flashlight – High Lumen, Zoomable, 5 Modes – Perfect for Camping Biking Home Emergency or Gift-Giving (Batteries Not Included) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0744C3J5W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_LbTWEb4REBK48
Ewoud
I love my Ledlenser, an older type. What I like is a focus able head, and the non agressieve no nonsense design. And a rechargeable lithium battery of course.
Have a very nice simple ansmann with one AAA battery, focus head shows the ledform when focussed for the kids to use when camping.
Only thing I miss on all used and tested is a really dim setting, I know most flashlight users want them bright but we have gotten to a point where almost every light is bright enough for me. Would love it if there would be a dim setting to read with in a tent (candle light level? Or just a bit more)
David B Huber
The Folomov EDC C2 uses a hard-to-find high CRI≥98 3000K Nichia E21A LED with a 0.5 lumen moonlight mode up to 400 lumen turbo in an IPX8 submersible magnetic tailcap shell holding a 250mAh 14300 USB rechargable battery (ASIN B07R2JZ5QQ; $35 less 20%)
GrayFlattop
“Best” really encompasses a wide-ranging criteria.
For general all-around use, I really like the Coast HX5 with a standard AA battery is just OK @ 130 lumens, but drop in a Li-Ion 14500 cell and the light output jumps up to 345 lumens. That’s a lot of light out of such a compact package. I have one in every vehicle. The only issue is at the higher power, the battery can get depleted in about 45 minutes. They are about $20 on Amazon or Menards / Home Depot- often on sale around Christmas.
olight are great, but expensive in the rechargeable versions like the S1R. I might be unhappy if I lose a $20 flashlight, but I’d be really irritated to lose one with a $60 price tag.
I also like the Nebo Larry for so many reasons – great in a shirt pocket or tool belt. For $10 it can’t be beat.
Gerald
Surefire for me, probably better value for the money in some other brands, but it’s my current buy American state of mind. They say they are 100% sourced from the USA, even down to the aluminum used in the body and the batteries.
Sidekick or G2 currently. I own Fenix, Coast and Streamlight along with Underwater Kinetics, Pelican and a bunch of no name brands. For the most part, to me a light is a light, but my 25 year old 6Z Surefire still had parts available as of last year. That means a bunch to me.
Trocar
I keep a Nebo in both my trucks, they are rechargable from the USB port and are wicked bright for their compact size. They also have a pocket clip and a few magnets built in to place them near your work space and free up your hands. https://www.amazon.com/Rechargeable-Flashlight-Bundle-Lumintrial-Adapter/dp/B07ZZNRQDF
Stacey Jones
Comes with a laser. Strange feature but I like it. ?
Jp
I have way too many. That includes quality stuff, big red, light, klarus, and anker. All are excellent. Its really a usage based thing. I love anker lc130, but only for hiking/outdoors. It’s not a good mechanic light, nor for carpentry…..
Hon Cho
Going against the trend toward rechargeable batteries in everything, I prefer the ability to use disposable cells, particularly AA due to their ubiquity and the choice of alkaline, disposable Lithium or NiMh cells. Like others here, I also like well made items produced in countries where workers and the environment are treated reasonably well. Not that I won’t buy stuff made in China, Vietnam, et.al. but we should support our countrymen and like-minded countries whenever possible. To that end, I have Princeton Tec, Maglite, Petzl and Streamlight in my quiver. However, contrary to my rant at the beginning, I do have several single AA cheapie Chinese-made lights scattered about. I wish they were made of grippier plastic and not smooth, slick aluminum. I did get a Milwaukee M12 light with a kit I purchased around Christmastime 2019 and it’s a nice addition to my M12 stuff.
Doug N
Lots of good suggestions here, but nearly all use a cool white led which to me is unacceptable. I still love warm incandescent-like light (around 3000K) and that is nearly impossible to find in an off-the-shelf flashlight.
Only two I know of are HDS (prohibitively expensive) and Emissar/Noctigon which are mostly available direct from the manufacturer at intl-outdoor.com. These lights are not cheap, but still affordable. Between $40-$100 depending on options. Can choose what color temperature you want, from 3000-6500k or so.
Extremely high quality. Perfect intuitive controls: click off and on, hold button to ramp up or down in brightness. Amazingly bright, 4000+ lumens from a light the size of a AA maglite. It will get scorching hot if left on high. But just use at a reasonable brightness and a single battery will last weeks. Need unprotected 18650 or 21700 cells, similar to Zebralight.
I can’t recommend these Emissar/Noctigon lights highly enough. Well worth the splurge and investment in batteries and a charger.
David B Huber
Stacey Jones below mentioned the Folomov EDC C2 400 lumen IPX8 submersible magnetic tailcap, which comes with a 250 mAh 14300 battery with built-in micro USB port which is just as hard to find as its high CRI≥98 3000K Nichia E21A LED (ASIN B07R2JZ5QQ; $35 less 20%)
Joe H
Klarus E1. Bright compact 18650 flashlight with simple interface and good output levels and good runtime. Comfy in the pocket without the unnecessary tactical aggressive looks which isn’t comfortable to carry. The battery pops out and are charged via cable. Its the smallest 18650 light I’ve found without a million modes and settings. Plenty durable and affordable. I bought mine on sale for $30.
dave
Why would you ever want more than a bigger fenix?
Koko the Talking Ape
I like my Olight 13E. It’s a tiny thing, but it’s better than the other tiny flashlights I’ve seen, because
– It takes an ordinary, cheap, easily available AAA battery, not those stupid coin batteries (like most flashlights, it will take NiMH rechargeable batteries like Eneloops and non-rechargeable lithium batteries, but not rechargeable lithiums.)
– It actually has sophisticated optics. It uses a total internal reflection (TIR) lens, which is small and efficient. It creates an even hotspot with maybe 30 degrees of sidespill. That’s far more usable than the bare LED with plastic lens that you see in most keychain flashlights, and doesn’t create that weird eye-hurting glare at 45 degrees.
– It has a twist switch with two settings: on and off. Super simple and reliable, and no maddening and useless strobe setting to deal with.
– It is solid aluminum, and bombproof.
– It is tiny enough to keep on a keychain, which makes it super-useful, because it’s always ready to go, especially when I wasn’t planning to be in the dark.
For actually working in dark spots, I use a variety of headlamps, but for times when I didn’t plan ahead, the i3E is usually more than enough. $10.
Geoff
I really like my Anker LC40 400 lumens rechargable LED. I keep it in a flashlight holder on my back pack. It gets uses sporadically and I’ve only recharged it once when we had a imminent power outage from SoCal Edison.
They have several models to fit most needs.
https://www.anker.com/products/174/183/led-flashlights
I also have the Milwaukee M18 Search Light 2354-20. This one is good. Think like the old big battery flash lights from the 70s, but better. I also have the M18 Rover Mount Flood 2365. Good for a work light that you can stick on a big chunk of metal. The clamp not so much. The M18 Trouble Light 2363 is like an electric lantern. It can be hung on a hook. So far the Search Light has been the best of the three.
I have not been impressed with the red lithium batteries. A lot of negative reviews. Have they improved?
Charles F
the m18 searchlight is amazing. Strong recommend
Peter Fox
Long time user and EDC’er of the Streamlight Strion LED. good all around light no effort to drop in on the charger regularly, not the smallest, brightest, cheapest or most expensive light on the market. just a good all around light.
For a second/backup light I carry a County Comm 2 AAA penlight, very similar to the Streamlight Stylus Pro but with multiple brightness levels.
For hands free work I have a few Pelican headlamps and or a Streamlight Bandit Pro with hat clip.
Lastly no one has been able to our do the Bosch 12V FL-12 for a compact tool battery work light. However the M18 Rover comes in a close second when I want a slightly larger and brighter work light. I have found its clamp to be to be quite versatile and robust, easy to use and quite secure on 2X lumber or larger pipe.
With the options I have have never been left wanting for the appropriate lighting
options.
Stacey Jones
I’ve got a lot of flashlights. I suppose it’s a fetish. Anyway as far as bang for your buck, you cannot beat a drawer full of these 99 cent cheapos from Frys: https://www.frys.com/product/8041924?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG. I also have a generic 18650 flashlight I got on eBay for 15 bucks I think. Just reçently splurged for a Folomov EDC C2. All are excellent lights.
David B Huber
Ooh! I really like that Folomov EDC C2! I haven’t seen that High CRI≥98 3000K Nichia E21A LED before – thanks!
Greg
Been using the Fenix UC35, micro-usb rechargeable. 960 lumens. Good stuff.
Robb
If you are looking for a tough as nails light that can use a rechargable battery, the Elzetta Bones is a very nice light. It isn’t cheap, but it is a quality US made light.
Grant Beeson
The Milwaukee M12 flashlight is good.
Brian M
I like the Milwaukee USB options, the color is good, good selection and I didn’t have to do research on 18650 battery brands and chargers.
sam
An 18650 powered headlamp.
I have a variety of flashlights powered by rechargeable lithium ion batteries (Sunwayman, Olight, Armytek) and the most useful flashlight and the most used by far is my Armytek Wizard Pro headlamp. On a side note, I’ve used the regular Wizard and the Wizard Pro – the Pro is much preferred due to the interface/light output options.
The sweat spot for headlamps is a super low 0.5-1 lumen low setting (I hunt) as well as a 150/500/1000 lumen high settings, with the 500-700 lumen output being the sweet spot for useable high output.
Don’t get hung up on one flashlight having a 1000 lumen output and another having a 1200 lumen output. The human eye doesn’t readily notice the difference between light output until the intensity gets close to doubling. 500 vs 1000 lumens is easy to see, but 500 vs 700 is much harder.
My Armytek Pro headlamps are holding up very well but I think the Olight H2R would probably get my money if I needed another 18650 powered headlamp.
The combo of 18650 batteries and LED flashlights was a game changer for me and I haven’t upgraded any flashlights in the last 5 years.
Branden H
I would say LensLight and Zebralight are the best.
Branden H
I’m a fan of high end flashlights and carry one on me all the time, but for me as an electrician the Milwaukee USB platform is the best at work all day, being able to hot-swap batteries from all of my different small worklights is essential. The pivoting rover light is the best but I used the hardhat headlamp for 12 hours today on a large industrial panel change, swapping batteries every 4 hours or so. I always keep a spare light charging on of a M18 battery in a toolbox.
firefly
The HF braun worklight is excellent. I have two of them. For the price especially when they are on sales they can’t be beat.
My all time fav is my nitecore SRT7. The magnetic ring is awesome. I wouldn’t settle for anything less. I hate light that made my cycle through the mode. With the smart ring I can dial to the exact mode that I want while the light is off. The light output is also indefinitely adjustable.
It will always come back to the last mode. It’s really the best combination of a physical mode selection and electronic switching. Love it!
David B Huber
I must admit that is the best user interface I’ve ever seen.
Bob H
My luxury choice is the Surefire Peacekeeper dual-fuel.
I am a big fan of the cr123 batteries and this one uses the 18650s as well.
The other light I have bought 6 of for kits and cars is the Streamlight 88853 PolyTac C4. I love these flashlights for emergency kits, junk drawers etc. Good light output, durable and easy to see in yellow.
My old standbys are several Mag light 2 or 3 Dcell LEDs that I attach to the wall in several areas. Long lasting, durable and maybe a lifesaver.
suspecterrain
Single-mode 18650 Ultrafire torches run $10 apiece and have several
evadman
This is what I have all over, though not the ultrafire brand. The ‘tactical’ version with an adjustable beam. Just random brands, they all seem to have the same manufacturer. Very, very bright. They overload my lumen sensor that measures to 5k lumens.
I haven’t had any break yet, and I am pretty rough. I have lost a few though, as I loan them out all the time. I have a ton of extra 18650 batteries, so I generally look for 18650 powered devices.
suspecterrain
same… they work great and are inexpensive
Jared
You’re telling me there’s a $10 flashlight pumping out more than 5000 lumens?!
Call me skeptical – but I’d like to see a link (and a reputable review). I would happily purchase if this exists.
suspecterrain
Who said 5k lumens? I’ve bought from dx in past; here’s an Amazon link of something similar.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07CJXQWXQ/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_4?smid=AZLQYCYVWEZA0&psc=1
Jared
That light you linked to actually looks pretty good for a mere $10 – I was just responding to the suggestion from evadman that a light like this would produce an amazing 5000 lumens.
If you google reviews for that specific Ultrafire light model you’ll find most say it’s actually about 300 lumens – not bad, but not mind-blowing either. Also, far short of the “up to 1000 lumens” Ultrafire is claiming.
That’s why its not an apples to apples comparison between these cheap off-brand lights versus the reputable ones like Olight, Klarus, Surefire, Nitecore etc. In a different post above I mentioned that the cheap ebay/amazon (and I would include aliexpress, dx, etc) lights that advertise big lumen counts are straight up lying.
I think some people are deceived by the phony marketing because they are used to a maglight or something they bought at a hardware store years ago that might only produce 50 to 80 lumens – then they get a new LED light that has 200-300 (but advertises over 1000) and they are blown away. A quality LED flashlight with good optics that GENUINELY produces 1500+ lumens is a whole different ball game again.
I can tell you my 2200 lumen Nitecore EC4s on turbo mode for example, is MUCH brighter looking than my car’s headlights on high. That’s not really a scientific comparison of their lumen counts because the beam profile is quite different between the two – but just an example of what it is like to use a high-power light like that.
Jared
Another point to consider when shopping for high-power lights is how long they can maintain the upper levels of light output – either because they overheat or use too much battery.
Just for example, someone mentions the Wowtac A5 later in this thread that can actually produce 3650 lumens on turbo. That’s a pretty great looking light for under $50!
One caveat is that it can only do 3650 for 3 minutes. On high, it still produces 1750 lumens – but it can only do that for 8 minutes.
The Nitecore EC4s (I keep mentioning it because I own it and am therefore very familiar with it), pumps out 2150 lumens on turbo – for 45 minutes (I said 2200 lumens earlier, but I just checked the specs and I was off a little bit). 1100 lumens on high for 2 hours and 15 minutes.
I like flashlights a lot. It’s really fun how many cheap and powerful options are available these days – but it can be a real challenge sorting out the wheat from the chaff.
suspecterrain
good points, jared… i have a half-dozen ultrafires and the parts interchange — certainly not 1k lumens bought plenty bright for me needs… the 18650 batteries are the real draw
Robert Adkins
I have 1 of those in my truck’s arm rest cubby, and love it. Its beam is non-adjustable, but it has both a nice tight beam and a nice wide beam so you can see far and near at the same time. Best light I ever bought for the money. I keep an extra 18600 cell with it in case I need to use it for a long time. Only gripe I have is the lens end is a little fat, but still easy to pocket.
Blocky
Holy option paralysis!
Ed Sichler
OLight SR1 is my edc light. Absolutely love it
Dan
For EDC: Surefire Titan
For handheld: Surefire G2 and 6P. (They are tanks, I’ve dropped them off roofs)
For worklights: Ridgid.
If I had to do it over again,
Handheld: Modlite. (Expensive, but has it’s own rechargable battery. I’ve spent at least $150 on cr123 batteries)
Worklight: Milwaukee
William
Dorcy 41-4750. Best inexpensive flashlight I’ve ever used. I especially like that it’s not round. Because whenever I drop a flashlight it will roll away if it’s round. Panbo did a review and he agrees.
Albert
I switched to headlamps and haven’t looked back. My current favorite is the Fenix HL60R (18650 lithium ion battery with built-in charger using a standard micro-USB cable). I also like the HL50 which can be easily removed from the headband for hand-held use. It takes a CR123 or one regular AA battery with an included adapter.
I also like the Milwaukee 2361 although it might not be considered a flashlight. The case has flat spots that allows placement at different angles without using a complex mechanism.
I shudder to think back to the days when I depended on those big, heavy, yet surprisingly dim 2D incandescent Mag-Lites.
I also had a first generation Streamlight LED headlamp that took 3 AAA batteries. It would flash whenever the batteries ran low and then shut off. It always knew when I was under a car, in the attic or on a ladder and had both hands full. And then it would flash and shut off. I still feel a pit in my stomach when I hear the word Streamlight.
Planegrain
The 20 Volt Dewalt Tripod light. It folds up into a flashlight. A 3000 lumen flashlight!
frampton
Fenix PD36R is my current favorite. It’s well made, long-lasting, and, most importantly, USB-C rechargeable.
Todd
I’ve loved my olight batons and nova lights. They’ve held up great to daily use as a plumber to water and drops. The magnet tail cap is great, and on the newer ones the magnetic charging is a fantastic feature. I’ve only had one problem with a particular lights tail cap wearing out after about 2ish years of constant use and they promptly mailed me a new one.
Rudi
I have dozens of flashlights in all sorts and sizes. But the most used one is the tiny D.Q.G. Spy, a titanium, 10180 LiIon-driven, one inch long and a half inch wide gem on a necklace. Weights about 9 grams, battery included, produces 10 or 120 lumen for respectively 4 hours or 20 minutes.
Dave P
Streamlight Microstream USB is clipped to my pocket literally whenever I leave the house. It’s so small that it make almost no impact on your pocket. When wearing chino’s or pants with more vertical pocket openings, it’s small enough to just live in the pocket. I have two, because one is none… and charge them every other week or so at my desk.
Maglite XL50 lives in my bag, in the cars, and the nightstand. Cost benefit ratio for both of these lights is very strong.
Cookie
My favorite led flashlights are from ledlenser the output time is definitely longer than the manufacturer says. MT14 9hours on 1000 lumes. Got my brother in law one as well. Convenient to recharge via micro usb or swappable rechargeable battery. I had this for years now and it has not let me down. On a trip through Africa we used it as our auxiliary lighting because our Land Rover had horrible headlights. Very durable. 26650 battery
JML
Horses for courses…
You’ve received recommendations for just about the full range of flashlight options, from keychain carry to search & rescue lights, from tradesman use to nighttime walking, from EDC to emergency use, and from AAA to 21700 batteries. What this illustrates (no pun intended) is that you need to fit the form factor, output levels, runtime, and materials to specific uses. What works for a plumber fixing a water line in an undersink cabinet will not be ideal for walking in the woods at night, and vice-versa. A 4000+ lumen search or flood light for $125 can’t be talked about meaningfully as a choice when what might work for your situation is a 100 lumen keychain bauble for $10. That’s why many people end up with a range of flashlights for different uses.
Pepe
Thrunite TC15. It is $46, USB rechargeable, pocketable, comes with a battery, has up to 2300 lumens, and just as tough as all the other models suggested.
Bill Clay
Here are my favorites: (in no particular order)
Fenix PD35
ThruNite T10
Nightstick XPP-5422GMX
Mike K
Like others on here I use olight, eagle tac, sunwayman, nite ore, thrunite etc.
The ones from Milwaukee are too much money for what they are.
David B Huber
In the recent past I became obsessed with flashlights, purchasing more than 50. Most are very good but a few stand out.
First, a bit of exposition about “tactical” torches. The distinguishing characteristics are typically a tail switch (easy to find in the dark wearing gloves), springs at both the tailcap and emitter ends (which absorbs shock and usually allows use of both buttontop and flattop batteries) and a glassbreaker bezel. Usually includes SOS and Strobe modes in the UI as well.
Strictly a matter of personal preference. Color temperature of the emitter is more important, with “cooler” white light actually being higher Kelvins than “warmer” LEDs confusingly enough. “Cooler” lights usually appear brighter while “warmer” lights can have superior color accuracy (CRI>90). Generally speaking you’ll be happier with high CRI indoors but outdoors the “cooler” emitters reveal edges more distinctly.
I prefer a side button with a magnetic tailcap allowing hands-free use.
Limiting myself to just one choice in each of the primary use cases is difficult but that’s the point of this exercise! YMMV…
EDC
An everyday carry light should be as compact as it is reliable. Limiting our choices to lights that fit on a keychain, are IPX8 submersible, rechargable and unlikely to turn on in your pocket suggests the 650 lumen Lumintop Tool AA 2.0 Set (ASIN B07Z3H3WZR; $24) with both magnetic and mechanical switch tailcaps, 920mAh 14500 battery with microUSB charging port, reversible clip for pocket or hatbrim, diffuser and lanyard. Not the smallest at 3.5×0.73″ but allows use of nicad as well as alkaline AA cell (at reduced brightness) in a pinch.
Powerhouse
My current favorite is the $50 WOWTAC A5 CW (ASIN B07Y545GC7) 3650 lumen CREE XHP 70 LED IPX8 US rechargable 26650 5000mAh with the addition of a 1.26″*1/8″ N45 grade neodymium magnet (ASIN B07X97223X) to the tailcap for hands-free operation.
Utility
If I had to choose just one flashlight it would be the Covmax Portable Rechargeable Work Light 600 lumen XPG 90° pivoting head + COB side light magnetic swivel base USB Rechargable (ASIN B083XG3HQR; $15) – an incredible value! A normal friend bought 4…
Best Compromise
The ThruNite T1 CW (ASIN B07QW842D6; $40) 1500 lumen Cree XHP-50 LED 1100mAh 18350 rechargable IPX8 magnetic tailcap is small enough for EDC, brighter than you really need and more than good enough for any reasonable use.
David B Huber
While I prefer a side button with a magnetic tailcap allowing hands-free use, the tailswitch-equipped XCEL Night Provision TX8 offers a hard-to-find Nichia 219D 800 lumen NW (5000K) LED in an IPX8 rated 4×1″ form factor including USB rechargable 2600mAh 18650 battery for longer runtimes, also $24 (ASIN B07PZ9H8WW).
Also $50 is one I don’t yet own: the Rofis MR70 bundle with 5500mAh 26650 battery behind both a 3500 lumen CREE XHP70.2 cool white LED plus a 60 lumen CREE XP-G2 NW side light in a 5×1.5″ IPX8 body that not only charges via USB, it offers a powerbank mode to charge other devices at up to 2.2 amps! (ASIN B07J5LH3BR; I do own the smaller 5×1.13″ $35 2500 lumen CREE XHP50.2 CW single emitter 5000mAh 21700 based Rofis MR50 – nice build quality)
Planegrain
That Wow tac A5 sounds interesting.
David B Huber
Unless you need the side light the smaller 21700-based Rofis MR30 is probably a better choice than the MR70. Note both are 2018 era technology.
Ren
Another vote for the Lumintop Tool AA v2 for EDC.
If want an inexpensive 18650, magnetic base, side button, and USB C charging, (also 5000K & 90CRI) look at the Wurkkos FC11 ( B07ZZ2YFKD ~$30 with battery )
KT
I use a Dewalt 20v for my main flashlight and then the free HF flashlights are scattered all over the house and in each car for quick access short term needs.
Wayne
I have to nominate the…
Stream light 1L-1AA
Takes a cr123 or a AA, can also run on AAA
350 lumens/40 lumens on cr123
150 lumens/ 40 lumens on AA
Dual position clip for attachment to brim of hat
Ten tap programming …..
High/low/strobe
Low/high ( best option in my opinion)
High only
Extremely comfortable in the hand, not to big in the pocket, throws light very effectively.
I simply cannot leave house without it, it is my #1 EDC followed by my neck knife, which is followed by a pentel .09 mm yellow mechanical pencil
Can be had for $35 to $45
Super simple warranty, put in mail and they fix or send you a new one.
Josh
I have been quite impressed with the braun light till it got wet. https://www.harborfreight.com/390-lumen-magnetic-slim-bar-folding-led-work-light-63958.html But i hope after a battery replacement it will work correctly
Nick Marques
Huge fan of everything Olight makes. My EDC (I’m an AV Engineer) is the Olight S30R Baton III. I charge it maybe once a week.
Marcus
Olight Warrior X or M2R, but anything from Olight is a win. Used to be a fan of Fenix until the owner of the company made some questionable choices around support of the off-road industry and First line responders.
Bart
My main requirements are no odd light modes (no strobe, SOS, etc) that have to be cycled through, and takes common batteries. Passed on a few lights because they have had oddball rechargeables or non-replaceable rechargeable batteries.
Outside of that I’m not that particular, I’ve got a whole host of lights around the house of various brands, from a Surefire 6PX Pro to one of HDs house brand pen clip lights I bought for $5 a pop on clearance.
Robert Adkins
All those modes on the on/off button drive me nuts. Do they really think you will need to send an SOS down your hallway if the power fails? And the strobe is good for annoying your dog, but he will soon ignore it. Brightness levels are somewhat useful, sometimes full bright is a bit much up close. But I wish brightness could be engaged by rotating a ring on the tailpiece, not by soft-clicking the on/off button.
David B Huber
That’s a great idea!
David B Huber
You inspired me to go looking for a dialable brightness light and found the WindFire WF-0011 (ASIN B07XCTKKPY) hunting light.
firefly
That’s an interesting choice. The build quality look a bit questionable though. I don’t understand why the choice of a separate mechanical mode/brightness button is not more popular. I hate having to step through the mode of a typical flashlight.
I think the nitecore SRT7 or any of the SmartRing tactical series is a much better option in that regard. The light brightness is controlled by a dial just like you asked for. However it’s not a purely mechanical switch which I assume that’s how the WindFire work. The ring on the nitecore is a magnetic ring which control a digital switch that is completely sealed inside.
The selector ring on the nitecore have very positive detent. So even if the light is off, I can switch to the exact mode in the dark just by feel via mechanical feedback. Yet since the actual control is a completely sealed unit inside. I don’t have to worry about it ever malfunction.
David B Huber
I love my Nitecore TINI and appreciate the tip about the SRT7GT (Cree XP-L Hi V3 LED, ASIN B06Y55GZQ5). Thanks!
firefly
You are welcome. I really like mine a lot if you couldn’t already tell 🙂
Alex Peel
So on the other end of the spectrum from someone who needs a flashlight on them at all times for a work or heavy usage purpose I find all my edc flashlight needs taken care of by my phone. Frankly having a light on the phone that I can put on at any time is one of the best things about carrying a phone around. Use it constantly.
Robert Adkins
You can go 2 ways: Get a $115 flashlight, or a $15 flashlight that’s painless to replace when you lose it. The $115 light is about 10% better than the $15 light, so unless you’re “brand proud”, you won’t be able to tell much difference.
Either way, you can get the following features, which I believe are essential.
*Strong, water resistant machined aluminum housing,
*5000 degree color. 4000 is too yellow, 6000 too blue, 5000 just right.
*Uses 18650 or 26650 batteries. They are interchangeable with an adaptor.
*Fits in pocket at least semi-comfortably
My EDC is now this, which brand proud people laugh at, but it meets my needs: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07W83KFNR/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
David B Huber
That’s actually a very impressive value! I only wish they offered a bundle with a USB rechargable 18650 battery.
Jared
Looks pretty good for the price. I’m not a fan of zoomies generally, but those specs aren’t bad.
Tom Campbell
I did not read all of the suggestions by look at Olight. The best light I have ever used. Top notch quality.
Nick Marques
Also, not really an EDC item, but the Bosch FL12 is my FAVORITE little worklight.
JML
I have to agree! The angle options built into the base, and the magnet, make this a great accessory if you’ve other Bosch 12V tools.
DanFromMass
I have very mixed feelings about Olight.
They make some very nice looking lights with decent (if not often overstated) specs. I really like the idea of the magnetic charging cable and their form factors are nice.
They also have a HUGE marketing presence online.
Which is what gives me pause. If you do some digging about their online presence, you’ll find that most of the reviews on YouTube and EDC blogs are paid for by Olight themselves.
Advertising is one thing, but I feel if a product is truly good, it should be able to stand on its own, without flooding the internet with paid reviews.
JatoTheRipper
Olight and Skilhunt both make great lights.
Boggsy
Amazon has a bunch of flashlight/stun gun combos. Which is great if you want a flashlight that helps you piss your pants by pushing the wrong button in the dark. Naturally, it’s likely only as strong as a cup of coffee, and the only light worse than your phone…
However, if anyone knows where I can find a Maglight/nearly lethal cattleprod combo, I’d love you forever.
David B Huber
From what I’ve read the closest you can get is the $24 rechargable 120 lumens Avenger Defense ADS-10 (ASIN B07GRMFCGB) which has a sliding lockout switch. Identical to the VIPERTEK VTS-989 (ASIN B01FHDZGGM) and Police 929-58 (ASIN B074CW81BZ).
Note “..the slider button goes from off to flashlight and then to the stun gun mode. Both the flash light and the stun gun cannot be operated at the same time.” and said slider safety is easy to (de)activate in a struggle.
David B Huber
Please note the larger, brighter (380 lumens) Avenger Defense (ASIN B07Q7P9NDT; $40) looks like a regular flashlight but has to cycle through the high/low/strobe Cree XPE settings before the stun bezel is available to activate via a separate button I doubt it would discharge accidentally – maybe not when you need it!
Adam
Jetbeam RRT-01 Raptor V2. Hands down.