The Backup series was greatly in need of a broader beam pattern. I never understood the purpose of a one cell pocket light that compresses 200 lm into a space laser death ray. Generally, I need my edc light for closer tasks and I have larger, dedicated thrower type lights for distance applications. The new E1B MV is a welcome change ....
Just to present a different perspective on the original E1B ....
I used one of these for years precisely because there were very few other quality options for a small compact robust "thrower" flashlight.
Of course, given the tight beam profile, I also carried a diffuser for those times I wanted a floodier beam.
My E1B has since been replaced with a LensLight Mini, which has an adjustable beam shape.
There is no similar lack of choices for small floody flashlights like the E1B-MV (including many competing alternatives with triple optics) , and no easy way to change its floody textured reflector beam into a narrow spot, so it is a less compelling update for me :shrug:
