Straightblast:
I've wrestled with the same problem. Consider these four:
1. Surefire L5 LED:
Its beam is truly a wall-of-light-with-punch. Kinda like an L4 flooder, but with very decent throw. It's my main walk light because its wide beam does not require continuous 180-degree scanning. It also has enough punch to cut through ambient light from tree shadows, etc. In "country-dark" conditions at o-dark-thirty, it'll shine a pretty long way.
2. Pelican 2390 LED:
At about $85, it's a bargain. Less usefull flood than the L5, but more narrow/focused throw and longer runtime.
3. Surefire C3 Incan:
While the 6P and C2 would work, the C3 has a better discharge curve, runtime, and throw... along with a nice floody "wall." Good emergency impact weapon, too, especially if fitted with an optional SF shock bezel.
4. SF A2 Incan/LED:
It's LEDs are too weak for most walking conditions, but its flat (regulated) incan beam is well-balanced. I use my A2 when fog/humidity turn most LED beams into the "sci-fi flick" scenario you mentioned.
The "ideal" Walk-Light depends on your particular walking conditions. For some, "little" lights like the Inova X5 or even an Arc-P suffice, though I find them useless walkers but fine for other tasks. You could "go cheap" with the Streamlight 4AA Luxeon LED, but its beam may not have sufficient flood for your broad needs.
The "perfect" Walk-Light ain't cheap, and two different lights may be required to cover all the bases. Still, the SF L5 comes closest for my suburban walk scenarios. Check out all these lights at FlashlightReviews.com. Pay particular attention to the invaluable Output and Throw charts there to find your best-fit.
