secret1122
Newly Enlightened
- Joined
- Jul 2, 2012
- Messages
- 3
This is my first post on here, and I'm looking for some help on my first "real" flashlight purchase. I've browsed through this forum and have some ideas of what I want, but still need help to narrow down the choices to just a few that I can compare and then make a decision on my own. The general question here as I'm sure many have asked before, is "what is the best and brightest flashlight for the best price?" I know this is very subjective so I will tell you want I do and do not know. I will copy the checklist you folks have so kindly made available to us new members. In the end I want the best bang for my buck, as I'm sure most people do. I will add my own comments to each section of the checklist in blue to let you know extra details.
1) How would you prefer to purchase the light?
____I would like to purchase the light from a brick and mortar store. I am located in ______________.
__X__I will be mail-ordering or buying online, so this doesn't matter.
2) Budget: An easy question, but you may change your mind after answering the rest!
____Less than $25.
____Less than $50.
____Less than $100.
____Less than $150.
____Less than $300.
____I have no limit.
__X__I'm flexible, tell me what you gotJ.
____Other, please specify ________
3) Format:
__X__I want a flashlight.
____I want a headlamp.
____I want a lantern.
____I want a dive light.
____I want a portable spotlight.
4) Flashlight-specific format/size:
____Keychain size.
__X__Every day carry small (2-4 inches).
__X__Every day carry medium (4-7 inches).
__X__Holster carry.
____Big enough to need its own travel caseJ.
____I don't care.
____I don't know.
____N/A
5) Emitter/Light source:
__X__LED (known for efficiency, longevity, and compactness)
____Incandescent (known for superior color rendition)
____HID (known for max output, but often at the expense of size)
____I don't know
It really seems that LED will produce the brightest light while at the same time still giving the best run time. Please correct me if I'm wrong about this.
6) Manufacturer:
__X__I want to buy a light from a traditional mass producing manufacturer that is ready to go out of the box.
__X__I would consider getting a light that is pieced together (for example a "host" or flashlight body from one manufacturer, and a "drop-in" emitter from another source). Under the right circumstances, this path can provide more options to the consumer to meet specific needs, and can often be easily upgradeable as technology improves
I could go either way here. I'm guessing that as a newbie, it's probably a safer bet for me to have a production light that I know is safe and durable and that until I get more comfortable with the technology of flashlights, I should probably avoid tinkering with the internals. However, if you folks know of a reputable business/person that can make something custom, I'm most definitely open to the idea.
7) What battery type do you want to use?
____I intend to use alkaline batteries (AAA, AA, C, D) (disclaimer, while it does not preclude all choices, these are not recommended for many of today's most powerful lights)
__X__I intend to use rechargeable nickel chemistry (NiCad, NiMH, NiZn)
__X__I intend to use lithium primary batteries (CR123, CR2, Energizer Advanced/Ultimate Lithium AA/AAA)
__X__I intend to use rechargeable lithium (li-ion) chemistry. Feel free to specify a size if you know which size you want (14500, RCR123/16340, 17500, 17670, 18650, etc.)
____I want a light with an integrated rechargeable battery. (Note: these choices may be very limited unless you are looking at spotlights)
Ok, here's where I can offer a load of information on my personal thoughts. Through browsing these forums I cam e across a mention of the Thrunite TN30. I looked it up and I absolutely LOVE it. To me, this seems THE ideal "best bang for the buck" light. It's about the brightest LED light I've seen at a reasonable price (under $300), with variable settings (another plus for me). Then I found the section of CPF on the dangers of batteries. The shortened version is that I have become nervous of using multiple Li-ion cells and the care that is needed to avoid blowing yourself up. I know, an exaggeration, but the fact is they CAN be dangerous if not handled correctly. Again, correct me if I'm wrong, but here's what I've gathered on the safety of these batteries. It seems I should have little chance of issues if I follow these rules:
Use a modern flashlight that has it's own built in protections against venting/exploding batteries, which could include protection circuits, strong casing to keep the fragments from penetrating and hurting you physically, or weak points to vent the gasses and fragments away from your body. We can get into more of that later.
Use a proper, protected cell such as the AW cells that seem highly recommended.
Use a modern, safety enhanced charger such as the Pila (this is what I would certainly purchase).
Check the voltage of the batteries after charging/before use in the light, and also after use in the light to verify they all have the same voltage.
If I missed anything basic on the safety aspects, please let me know. If following these simple rules will keep my risk of battery issues near zero, then I will feel comfortable enough to use them. I understand that using just one cell also pretty much eliminates the risk, but that takes away many choices, including the TN30 that I so badly want.
Another note since it would appear that I am set on this TN30, I want to clarify that while in the end you all might convince me this is the one, there are two reasons I'm posting here to ask these questions in the first place. One I mentioned is the battery safety concern, and two, with the limited searching I did there may be many choices that I am still unaware of. I love the TN30 from what I've read, but for all I know there are much better choices out there and if so, I want to hear about them.
Now, back to the subject of this checklist item, I am flexible on the battery types. It depends on many factors which is where I'm asking for help. I'll take whatever flashlight/battery combo ends up being the highest recommended. I don't really know a lot of the pros/cons of the various battery types, so this is where I could use some advice. I have marked my three prime battery choices.
8) How much genuine out the front (OTF) light do you want/need? Sometimes you can have too much light (trying to read up close up with a 100 lumen light is impossible).
__X__I want to navigate a dark room or read a map (0-10 lumens).
__X__I want to walk around an unlit rural area (50-150 lumens).
__X__I want to illuminate my entire backyard or a campsite (150-300 lumens).
__X__I want to illuminate an entire field, the neighbor's front yard several houses down, impress my friends and neighbors, etc. (300-700 lumens).
__X__I want ridiculous amounts of lumens (800+ lumens).
Another thing I like about the TN30, is the full range of lumens it offers. I really want a light that offers a range of uses. I'd love something that is all-purpose where I can grab one light to do any job. This includes having the brightest option possible since as many of you feel the same, I have a "thing" about having so much light power in my hands. there's just something cool about it
9) Throw vs. Flood: At what distance will you be most likely to use this light? Select all that apply.
__X__Less than 1 yard/meter (reading, other close work)
__X__Less than 5 yards/meters (looking for something inside a dark shed/garage/basement)
__X__5-20 yards/meters (check out a noise in the backyard)
__X__30-50 yards/meters (I have a big backyard)
__X__50-150 yards/meters (I live in a very rural area/farm with wide open spaces)
__X__150+ yards (I want maximum throw possible)
As said above, I'd like something with the range to do it all.
10) Runtime: Not over-inflated manufacturer runtime claims, but usable brightness measured from first activation to 50% with new batteries (Measured on maximum output).
____Up to 30 minutes (I want the brightest [and potentially smallest] light for brief periods)
____30-60 minutes (I have plenty of batteries just ready to be changed)
____90-120 minutes (Runtime is moderately important, but still not critical)
____3 hours + (I critically need this light to run on max for extended periods in between battery changes/charges).
I just want the best runtime for the power. Of course the longer the better, but it isn't REQUIRED that it go a certain time period. Of course I also understand that the lower the power setting, the longer it'll run. I don't plan on running the light at 100% all the time.
11) Durability/Usage: Generally the old phrase "you get what you pay for" is very accurate for flashlights.
____Not Important (A "night-stand" light).
____Slightly Important (Walks around the neighborhood).
__X__Very Important (Camping, Backpacking, Car Glove-box).
__X__Critical (Police, Fire, Search & Rescue, Caving, Survival).
____I don't care.
____I don't know.
I'd of course like something as durable as possible. I'm willing to pay for something that'll last.
12) Switch Type and location (choose all that apply):
____I want a forward clicky (Helpful for momentary activation and signaling).
____I want a reverse clicky (For use with multi-mode/level lights).
____I want a momentary switch (Predominantly for use with signaling and short bursts of momentary light only).
____I want a twisty switch (Tighten the head/tailcap to activate, and the light will stay on until the head/tailcap is loosened).
____I want a body mounted switch (near the head, like on a Maglite).
____I want a tail mounted switch (found on the majority of today's high end lights).
__X__I don't care.
____I don't know.
____Other, please specify____________________.
You guys can tell me if certain switches are preferable over others and for what reason.
13) User Interface (UI) and mode selection. Select all that apply.
____A simple on-off with only one output level is fine for me.
____I want 2 light levels. (Brighter/short runtime and Dimmer/long runtime.)
__X__I want multiple light levels. (Some lights have 5-16 light levels.)
____I want a programmable light.
____I want a selector ring.
____I want a strobe mode. (Blinks to show location.)
____I want SOS mode.
____I want a beacon mode.
____I don't care.
____I don't know.
I haven't checked ALL the possibilities, but the one I did check is a must. Other things I may want if you all feel they are important enough.
14)Material/Finish/Coating
____Plastic/composite body (this may limit your choices significantly).
____Anodized Aluminum – either type II or III (Hard Anodized) (Aluminum, specifically HA, is the most common material/finish for today's flashlights).
____Stainless steel (durable, but much heavier than aluminum)
____Titanium (durable and nearly as lightweight as aluminum, but can be moderately to significantly more expensive).
__X__I don't care.
____I don't know.
____Other, please specify____________.
Again, you're recommendations will push me one way or the other.
15) Special Needs/extras: Is there anything else you want or need that hasn't been mentioned? Select any below.
____Red filter (for preserving night vision).
____Other filter colors (Amber, Green, Blue, _________).
____Dedicated R/G/B secondary LEDs.
____"Hybrid" light (bright incandescent combined with long running LEDs)
____Pocket/belt clip
__X__Holster
____Wrist/Neck Lanyard
____Crenulated bezel
____Non-sparking Intrinsically Safe (IS) for use in explosive environments
A holster would be nice. Other items here would be based on your recommendations.
So I supposed you could use the TN30 as a base to what I like, and go from there to make me aware of other choices that are available to me. Hopefully I've given enough information to help you guys guide me, and I'll answer any additional questions you have. Thanks in advance or any help given.
1) How would you prefer to purchase the light?
____I would like to purchase the light from a brick and mortar store. I am located in ______________.
__X__I will be mail-ordering or buying online, so this doesn't matter.
2) Budget: An easy question, but you may change your mind after answering the rest!
____Less than $25.
____Less than $50.
____Less than $100.
____Less than $150.
____Less than $300.
____I have no limit.
__X__I'm flexible, tell me what you gotJ.
____Other, please specify ________
3) Format:
__X__I want a flashlight.
____I want a headlamp.
____I want a lantern.
____I want a dive light.
____I want a portable spotlight.
4) Flashlight-specific format/size:
____Keychain size.
__X__Every day carry small (2-4 inches).
__X__Every day carry medium (4-7 inches).
__X__Holster carry.
____Big enough to need its own travel caseJ.
____I don't care.
____I don't know.
____N/A
5) Emitter/Light source:
__X__LED (known for efficiency, longevity, and compactness)
____Incandescent (known for superior color rendition)
____HID (known for max output, but often at the expense of size)
____I don't know
It really seems that LED will produce the brightest light while at the same time still giving the best run time. Please correct me if I'm wrong about this.
6) Manufacturer:
__X__I want to buy a light from a traditional mass producing manufacturer that is ready to go out of the box.
__X__I would consider getting a light that is pieced together (for example a "host" or flashlight body from one manufacturer, and a "drop-in" emitter from another source). Under the right circumstances, this path can provide more options to the consumer to meet specific needs, and can often be easily upgradeable as technology improves
I could go either way here. I'm guessing that as a newbie, it's probably a safer bet for me to have a production light that I know is safe and durable and that until I get more comfortable with the technology of flashlights, I should probably avoid tinkering with the internals. However, if you folks know of a reputable business/person that can make something custom, I'm most definitely open to the idea.
7) What battery type do you want to use?
____I intend to use alkaline batteries (AAA, AA, C, D) (disclaimer, while it does not preclude all choices, these are not recommended for many of today's most powerful lights)
__X__I intend to use rechargeable nickel chemistry (NiCad, NiMH, NiZn)
__X__I intend to use lithium primary batteries (CR123, CR2, Energizer Advanced/Ultimate Lithium AA/AAA)
__X__I intend to use rechargeable lithium (li-ion) chemistry. Feel free to specify a size if you know which size you want (14500, RCR123/16340, 17500, 17670, 18650, etc.)
____I want a light with an integrated rechargeable battery. (Note: these choices may be very limited unless you are looking at spotlights)
Ok, here's where I can offer a load of information on my personal thoughts. Through browsing these forums I cam e across a mention of the Thrunite TN30. I looked it up and I absolutely LOVE it. To me, this seems THE ideal "best bang for the buck" light. It's about the brightest LED light I've seen at a reasonable price (under $300), with variable settings (another plus for me). Then I found the section of CPF on the dangers of batteries. The shortened version is that I have become nervous of using multiple Li-ion cells and the care that is needed to avoid blowing yourself up. I know, an exaggeration, but the fact is they CAN be dangerous if not handled correctly. Again, correct me if I'm wrong, but here's what I've gathered on the safety of these batteries. It seems I should have little chance of issues if I follow these rules:
Use a modern flashlight that has it's own built in protections against venting/exploding batteries, which could include protection circuits, strong casing to keep the fragments from penetrating and hurting you physically, or weak points to vent the gasses and fragments away from your body. We can get into more of that later.
Use a proper, protected cell such as the AW cells that seem highly recommended.
Use a modern, safety enhanced charger such as the Pila (this is what I would certainly purchase).
Check the voltage of the batteries after charging/before use in the light, and also after use in the light to verify they all have the same voltage.
If I missed anything basic on the safety aspects, please let me know. If following these simple rules will keep my risk of battery issues near zero, then I will feel comfortable enough to use them. I understand that using just one cell also pretty much eliminates the risk, but that takes away many choices, including the TN30 that I so badly want.
Another note since it would appear that I am set on this TN30, I want to clarify that while in the end you all might convince me this is the one, there are two reasons I'm posting here to ask these questions in the first place. One I mentioned is the battery safety concern, and two, with the limited searching I did there may be many choices that I am still unaware of. I love the TN30 from what I've read, but for all I know there are much better choices out there and if so, I want to hear about them.
Now, back to the subject of this checklist item, I am flexible on the battery types. It depends on many factors which is where I'm asking for help. I'll take whatever flashlight/battery combo ends up being the highest recommended. I don't really know a lot of the pros/cons of the various battery types, so this is where I could use some advice. I have marked my three prime battery choices.
8) How much genuine out the front (OTF) light do you want/need? Sometimes you can have too much light (trying to read up close up with a 100 lumen light is impossible).
__X__I want to navigate a dark room or read a map (0-10 lumens).
__X__I want to walk around an unlit rural area (50-150 lumens).
__X__I want to illuminate my entire backyard or a campsite (150-300 lumens).
__X__I want to illuminate an entire field, the neighbor's front yard several houses down, impress my friends and neighbors, etc. (300-700 lumens).
__X__I want ridiculous amounts of lumens (800+ lumens).
Another thing I like about the TN30, is the full range of lumens it offers. I really want a light that offers a range of uses. I'd love something that is all-purpose where I can grab one light to do any job. This includes having the brightest option possible since as many of you feel the same, I have a "thing" about having so much light power in my hands. there's just something cool about it
9) Throw vs. Flood: At what distance will you be most likely to use this light? Select all that apply.
__X__Less than 1 yard/meter (reading, other close work)
__X__Less than 5 yards/meters (looking for something inside a dark shed/garage/basement)
__X__5-20 yards/meters (check out a noise in the backyard)
__X__30-50 yards/meters (I have a big backyard)
__X__50-150 yards/meters (I live in a very rural area/farm with wide open spaces)
__X__150+ yards (I want maximum throw possible)
As said above, I'd like something with the range to do it all.
10) Runtime: Not over-inflated manufacturer runtime claims, but usable brightness measured from first activation to 50% with new batteries (Measured on maximum output).
____Up to 30 minutes (I want the brightest [and potentially smallest] light for brief periods)
____30-60 minutes (I have plenty of batteries just ready to be changed)
____90-120 minutes (Runtime is moderately important, but still not critical)
____3 hours + (I critically need this light to run on max for extended periods in between battery changes/charges).
I just want the best runtime for the power. Of course the longer the better, but it isn't REQUIRED that it go a certain time period. Of course I also understand that the lower the power setting, the longer it'll run. I don't plan on running the light at 100% all the time.
11) Durability/Usage: Generally the old phrase "you get what you pay for" is very accurate for flashlights.
____Not Important (A "night-stand" light).
____Slightly Important (Walks around the neighborhood).
__X__Very Important (Camping, Backpacking, Car Glove-box).
__X__Critical (Police, Fire, Search & Rescue, Caving, Survival).
____I don't care.
____I don't know.
I'd of course like something as durable as possible. I'm willing to pay for something that'll last.
12) Switch Type and location (choose all that apply):
____I want a forward clicky (Helpful for momentary activation and signaling).
____I want a reverse clicky (For use with multi-mode/level lights).
____I want a momentary switch (Predominantly for use with signaling and short bursts of momentary light only).
____I want a twisty switch (Tighten the head/tailcap to activate, and the light will stay on until the head/tailcap is loosened).
____I want a body mounted switch (near the head, like on a Maglite).
____I want a tail mounted switch (found on the majority of today's high end lights).
__X__I don't care.
____I don't know.
____Other, please specify____________________.
You guys can tell me if certain switches are preferable over others and for what reason.
13) User Interface (UI) and mode selection. Select all that apply.
____A simple on-off with only one output level is fine for me.
____I want 2 light levels. (Brighter/short runtime and Dimmer/long runtime.)
__X__I want multiple light levels. (Some lights have 5-16 light levels.)
____I want a programmable light.
____I want a selector ring.
____I want a strobe mode. (Blinks to show location.)
____I want SOS mode.
____I want a beacon mode.
____I don't care.
____I don't know.
I haven't checked ALL the possibilities, but the one I did check is a must. Other things I may want if you all feel they are important enough.
14)Material/Finish/Coating
____Plastic/composite body (this may limit your choices significantly).
____Anodized Aluminum – either type II or III (Hard Anodized) (Aluminum, specifically HA, is the most common material/finish for today's flashlights).
____Stainless steel (durable, but much heavier than aluminum)
____Titanium (durable and nearly as lightweight as aluminum, but can be moderately to significantly more expensive).
__X__I don't care.
____I don't know.
____Other, please specify____________.
Again, you're recommendations will push me one way or the other.
15) Special Needs/extras: Is there anything else you want or need that hasn't been mentioned? Select any below.
____Red filter (for preserving night vision).
____Other filter colors (Amber, Green, Blue, _________).
____Dedicated R/G/B secondary LEDs.
____"Hybrid" light (bright incandescent combined with long running LEDs)
____Pocket/belt clip
__X__Holster
____Wrist/Neck Lanyard
____Crenulated bezel
____Non-sparking Intrinsically Safe (IS) for use in explosive environments
A holster would be nice. Other items here would be based on your recommendations.
So I supposed you could use the TN30 as a base to what I like, and go from there to make me aware of other choices that are available to me. Hopefully I've given enough information to help you guys guide me, and I'll answer any additional questions you have. Thanks in advance or any help given.
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