Re: Nitecore Explorer Series (EC1, EC2, EA1, EA2) - guess at availability?
Weird timing - my Dad loves his EX11 (he must have won at 'Chinese Light Roulette'), except it bugged him that he can't tell when the battery was about to die. I was just on NiteCore's web site to order him another EX11 (he gave his to my grandfather), and would have waited if they'd had this on there. Any guesses as to how long until I can order an Explorer? (crosses fingers for father's day).
FWIW, I've EDC'd an EX10 for 5(?) years - tried a few others (Jetsteam I.B.S., nitecore D10, etc) - but keep going back to the EX10. I love the size and brightness memory feature, and spark-resistance (frequently used it to check fuel levels during night pre-flights). Never had any problems other than the stiff button (even wiping off the goo didn't help - haven't tried to find a smaller rubber ring). Have had it turn on in my pocket a couple times, but not recently - never quite understood how, given the stiffness of the switch. The battery does tend to die rather unexpectedly, but it's never been a problem. I've never marked a calendar, but I'd guess I get 4-6 months per battery, seemingly regardless of use. I *carry* it everyday in my pants pocket, although I don't actually turn it on very often (maybe 4-6x week) or for very long (10-30 seconds typically - to read a serial number off the back of something, light up a dark closet or back shelf), and (so far) it's been there when I need it. The finish has held up astoundingly well - the print is still flawless, and the anodizing is just the *slightest* bit worn off the knurling. The lens is just like new. I don't do anything to baby it, although I don't beat on it, either. The D10 hasn't given me any trouble, either - I got it to standardize on AA batteries in a BOB. I wouldn't hesitate to buy another nitecore, other than to try and stay below the 'flashaholic' limit.
Come to think of it, I bought an EX11 for my brother, too, and he hasn't had any issues either - other than I think it spends more time being 'misplaced' than in his pocket.
I guess I've won at 'Chinese Light Roulette' too.