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Lumenous said:
If you were to pick out a flashlight in this category (3 - 4" -> 3Watt light) which would you pick? The Nuwai Quantum-III or the Aleph 2? I need to get one for EDC and I'm looking for some opinions to sway me one way or another.
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It's like comparing a SureFire with a Dorcy - they're in two completely different categories as far as standards go. Here's how it breaks down, IMO:
Nuwai Q-III:
Pros: Cheap, has a reflector, small, simple to operate, good feel in the hand.
Cons: Clicky switch, slightly off-center light, the Luxeon Lottery may mean you get a L-binned light which will cut out after an hour's use, not very configurable or modable without some effort.
Aleph:
Pros: Very modifiable, very compact in the Aleph 2/1x123 form, very good tint and brightness on LEDs, two-stage momentary switch with twist-on functionality, lots of accessories, can build your own.
Cons: Pricey, accessories can cost quite a bit of money, building your own means buying parts and doing your own soldering, some of the earlier Mc2Es switches had burrs which had to be filed down to ensure smooth operation.
Basically, if you've the money and want to tinker with your light, and get a very good tint out of the box... go Aleph. Otherwise, if you want cheaper but decently bright and are willing to risk the lottery, go with the Quantum.
I personally carry both. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif