fieldops
Flashlight Enthusiast
Updated new IU with CS....09-05-06
Results: 74 hours (still enough light to navigate and read from 2 ft away....looks like more light and no runtime loss with the new Nichia)
UPDATED FINAL TEST RESULTS 07-29-06
Both lights are now finished in the series of tests.
RESULTS:
Runtime of 2 Inova X1 test lights (reflector): 38 hrs
Runtime of 2 Gerber Infinity Ulta's: 72 hrs
Conclusions:
The new design X1's performed nicely. I was somewhat surprised by the good runtimes achieved. Even at 38hrs, both lights were still usable. This runtime, combined with good form factor and robustness, definitely qualify it as a good survival light. Considering it's just 1 AA, you get great performance.
The clear winner of the runtime is the Gerber Infinity Ultra (IU). The IU gave outstanding performance and both lights were still usable after 72 hours. Clearly this re-enforces the fact the this light has long been considered a great survival light in the single AA class, here on CPF.
Anomalies observed during test period:
The first series of tests used e2 lithium AA batteries. Both sets of lights lasted longer on alkalines. Lithiums resulted in completely dead lights in 14 hours for the X1 and 16 hours for the IU. All lights remained brighter than alks for a longer time, but had shorter overall runtime. I am glad I found this out now. I also observed that both IU's actually got brighter at the 40 hour mark for 3-4 hours before resuming their slow decline of light emission.
These tests were not done for statistical accuracy. They were done using "observed brightness" against a third identical light with fresh batteries. I personally believe that we need to have these "observed brightness" tests in addition to the excellent light meter runtime graphs we see here on CPF. Why? because "observed brightness" is how we use lights for every day tasks. If you are looking for a great small light for survival/emergency usage, the IU may be the light for you. The X1 was a surprizingly good performer as well. Just remember to use alkaline batteries!
original 1st post:
In the single AA class, which light would you rather have for long runtime emergency usage: The Inova X1 (new type) or the Gerber Infinity Ultra?
Both lights seem to be closely matched. The X1's runtime to 50% is about 8.5 hours. The IU is around 11 hours. The output of the X1 is a bit brighter than the IU, but only modestly so. All this seems to bring the issue down to features, ease of use and build quality. Both lights appear to be built quite well. The IU is a tad shorter than the x1, but the Inova has the better momentary and L/O talcap. The reflector on the new X1 is certainly better than the IU and has a window mounted. Both lights are also within a 2-3 dollar price of each other. It is amazing how close these lights match up for the stated mission.
My impressions: At this point, I lean toward the X1 because it seems less blue tinted and is a bit brighter. I also like the X1's form factor. It fits in my hand better. I still love my 2 IU's, but would likely use the X1 for the reasons listed.
As I teach emergency preparedness for my local community,I have been asked by many about a small light for their emergency bags. I have recommended both (as a true CPFer), but have been asked which I'd choose if tasked. It is a tough choice between the two. I know there are other lights that could be used effectively, but I am keeping the argument to these 2 lights to stay focused.
What is your choice in a head to head matchup of these lights? and why?
p.s. I might get a chance try them out one on one as a tropical storm will hit us here tonight.....do I hear blackout? maybe! :laughing:
Results: 74 hours (still enough light to navigate and read from 2 ft away....looks like more light and no runtime loss with the new Nichia)
UPDATED FINAL TEST RESULTS 07-29-06
Both lights are now finished in the series of tests.
RESULTS:
Runtime of 2 Inova X1 test lights (reflector): 38 hrs
Runtime of 2 Gerber Infinity Ulta's: 72 hrs
Conclusions:
The new design X1's performed nicely. I was somewhat surprised by the good runtimes achieved. Even at 38hrs, both lights were still usable. This runtime, combined with good form factor and robustness, definitely qualify it as a good survival light. Considering it's just 1 AA, you get great performance.
The clear winner of the runtime is the Gerber Infinity Ultra (IU). The IU gave outstanding performance and both lights were still usable after 72 hours. Clearly this re-enforces the fact the this light has long been considered a great survival light in the single AA class, here on CPF.
Anomalies observed during test period:
The first series of tests used e2 lithium AA batteries. Both sets of lights lasted longer on alkalines. Lithiums resulted in completely dead lights in 14 hours for the X1 and 16 hours for the IU. All lights remained brighter than alks for a longer time, but had shorter overall runtime. I am glad I found this out now. I also observed that both IU's actually got brighter at the 40 hour mark for 3-4 hours before resuming their slow decline of light emission.
These tests were not done for statistical accuracy. They were done using "observed brightness" against a third identical light with fresh batteries. I personally believe that we need to have these "observed brightness" tests in addition to the excellent light meter runtime graphs we see here on CPF. Why? because "observed brightness" is how we use lights for every day tasks. If you are looking for a great small light for survival/emergency usage, the IU may be the light for you. The X1 was a surprizingly good performer as well. Just remember to use alkaline batteries!
original 1st post:
In the single AA class, which light would you rather have for long runtime emergency usage: The Inova X1 (new type) or the Gerber Infinity Ultra?
Both lights seem to be closely matched. The X1's runtime to 50% is about 8.5 hours. The IU is around 11 hours. The output of the X1 is a bit brighter than the IU, but only modestly so. All this seems to bring the issue down to features, ease of use and build quality. Both lights appear to be built quite well. The IU is a tad shorter than the x1, but the Inova has the better momentary and L/O talcap. The reflector on the new X1 is certainly better than the IU and has a window mounted. Both lights are also within a 2-3 dollar price of each other. It is amazing how close these lights match up for the stated mission.
My impressions: At this point, I lean toward the X1 because it seems less blue tinted and is a bit brighter. I also like the X1's form factor. It fits in my hand better. I still love my 2 IU's, but would likely use the X1 for the reasons listed.
As I teach emergency preparedness for my local community,I have been asked by many about a small light for their emergency bags. I have recommended both (as a true CPFer), but have been asked which I'd choose if tasked. It is a tough choice between the two. I know there are other lights that could be used effectively, but I am keeping the argument to these 2 lights to stay focused.
What is your choice in a head to head matchup of these lights? and why?
p.s. I might get a chance try them out one on one as a tropical storm will hit us here tonight.....do I hear blackout? maybe! :laughing:
Last edited: