A lady compatible, small, indestructable clicky

[ErinB]

Hooray!

jabe1, HaileStorm & Mikellen started some great threads today, I too need a small, reliable, clicky to replace a crappy 3 LED light I use at work. There were many good responses with solid recommendations, but I'm encountering some additional constraints and would very much appreciate your advice on the following:

1. I have lady hands:

Recessed buttons = broken fingernails

Crappy light, but the end cap is perfect. For me, Photons are awkward to use, as are many of the tactical lights (SF's, Zebra, Fenix). I'm frequently carrying stuff so twisty lights are out too.

2. Surviving the lanyard:
Badges on a lanyard are mandatory, so I keep everything together with a carabiner. Any replacement light would need to be able to survive all kinds of lanyard related torture and abuse: bleach water, accidentally being dipped in hummus, smeared with chalk at a kid's event, hitting the desk every time I sit down (I always forget!), thrown, frozen, languishing in a box, frosting/bacon/honey/hot sauce, etc.

3. Weight:
I don't want to get punched in the solar plexus if I walk fast.

4. Light up the Dungeon:
This dark corner of the basement is the perfect spot for vagrants who want to enjoy a smoke out of the rain. All of my tables and display materials are stored here and the light switch is 20ft down a dark hallway. I'm a giant weenie, and cold lights just make the Dungeon more creepy, so something warmer would be preferred :)

Thanks for reading this long post! Any and all recommendations are welcome :)

 

[N8N]

Do you like twisties, or no? I'm thinking something like a Peak Eiger (AAA or 10440) or El Capitan (AA or 14500) in stainless, but the optional tail switch is momentary only. If you typically carry it on a carabiner as you show you probably would want it without the tail switch so it would be twisty only. It is available in a high-CRI version which is a Cree XP-G which is a warmer tint (~3000K) than, say, a Nichia 219 (~4500K, which I really like).

Also, adding a three way switch at the end of your dark hallway is really not that difficult (I know, that's not what you asked, but it may be a good idea if others occasionally go down there too who don't EDC.)

Edit: after looking up the Peak lights to make sure my memory was correct, I'm starting to think that maybe I need one. Dammit.

Edit2: Been trying to think of a light that actually 100% meets your requirements (yes, questions like this get into my brain and I can't get them out until I've actually come up with an answer) and the only OTS good lights that I can think of that have an unshrouded tailcap clicky are Surefire... maybe an E1L Outdoorsman? Might be larger than you really want though, and it uses a CR123A not AA or AAA, and you'd have to figure out a lanyard ring for it. If you're like me and prefer rechargeables, I think you would need to use the Surefire lithium phosphate and NOT your typical 16350 Li-Ion.

Edit3: I think I've got it! Check out Streamlight MicroStream - if it's bright enough for you, that is a much more affordable alternative to the other lights I recommended and checks all the boxes. Only downside is only 28 lumens and I suspect the tint will be in the 5000K+ range.

 

[kukkurovaca]

What about a Foursevens high CRI (warm) quark with a tactical (not recessed) tailcap? Although based on what they currently have for sale on their website, you'd have to lego from it a complete QP2L light, and an additional body and tailcap ($94?)

A high CRI Mini ML would be a simpler prospect, but they're twisties and apparently not legoable.

BTW, would a control ring interface work instead? I think the MBI Torpedo X has a neutral (but not warm) tint, and it looks like it might be usable one-handed...

 

[pepekraft]

maybe a foursevens preon P1 with the clicky tailcap accessory would work. fairly lightweight, protruding button. I _think_ they have an attachment point for a split ring, but I can't confirm that from the website.

I also think the prometheus AAA might work, but I don't know how heavy it is. it's Kickstarter (which is over 400% already) ends on october 21. I don't know what it will weigh - might be heavier than you want, but ... hard to say. :) I know there are a couple with my name on them.

I really like the LRI Photon Proton PRO (quite a mouthful there) for a keychain sized AA. it has a non-recessed side button, which I think would be compatible with nails.

 

[davidwestonh]

A separate gold chain dropped under the top with a quark mini AA.
just leave name tag on the chain showing.
everything else on hidden chain.
then nothing hitting desk.

 

[ErinB]

Do you like twisties, or no? I'm thinking something like a Peak Eiger (AAA or 10440) or El Capitan (AA or 14500) in stainless, but the optional tail switch is momentary only. If you typically carry it on a carabiner as you show you probably would want it without the tail switch so it would be twisty only. It is available in a high-CRI version which is a Cree XP-G which is a warmer tint (~3000K) than, say, a Nichia 219 (~4500K, which I really like).

Agreed! Played around with a E03 Nichia 219, excellent color! Not a fan of twisties, but the Peaks sure look nice.
(Side note- how do you pronounce Nichia? I just call it a Nikon 219 cause that's the closest approximation my brain can come up with.)

Also, adding a three way switch at the end of your dark hallway is really not that difficult (I know, that's not what you asked, but it may be a good idea if others occasionally go down there too who don't EDC.)

The building is former livery from 1895 so the electrical is kinda... funky. But good idea since I'm the only one out 40 who EDC *cringe*

Edit: after looking up the Peak lights to make sure my memory was correct, I'm starting to think that maybe I need one. Dammit.

Edit2: Been trying to think of a light that actually 100% meets your requirements (yes, questions like this get into my brain and I can't get them out until I've actually come up with an answer) and the only OTS good lights that I can think of that have an unshrouded tailcap clicky are Surefire... maybe an E1L Outdoorsman? Might be larger than you really want though, and it uses a CR123A not AA or AAA, and you'd have to figure out a lanyard ring for it. If you're like me and prefer rechargeables, I think you would need to use the Surefire lithium phosphate and NOT your typical 16350 Li-Ion.

Edit3: I think I've got it! Check out Streamlight MicroStream - if it's bright enough for you, that is a much more affordable alternative to the other lights I recommended and checks all the boxes. Only downside is only 28 lumens and I suspect the tint will be in the 5000K+ range.

Edit 1 - I hope you get a Peak for Christmas
Edit 2 - Thanks for putting your experience and thought toward my dilemma. I truly appreciate how much time you saved me wading through the hundreds of lights out there.
Edit 3 - Ding ding ding! We have a winner! Even if it doesn't become my EDC it's still a plenty fine indestructible clicky :)

 

[N8N]

I would pronounce "Nichia" as "Nee-chee-ah" but I'm not sure if my Japanese pronunciation is really that good.

If you were local to me I'd offer to stop by and take a look at the "dungeon..." often things are not as difficult as they seem. But if you are renting the building the landlord may object to electrical work without a permit...

Hope the microstream works for you. But if you haven't ordered yet, I have another suggestion as I've seen it mentioned at least three times today and while I never considered it before it looks pretty cool - L3 Illumination L10 w/ 219. It's another twisty, but a pocket AA light with a 219 and a firefly mode (if you get the four mode version) does look awful cool. Also eminently affordable at $25. Like you I prefer clickies but I don't have the same issues w/ recessed ones :) - so my EDC is a Fenix E11. That one has a recessed tailcap clicky and - here's why I bothered to mention it - it has low/high modes and changes modes by tightening/loosening the head, just like a regular full twisty interface. I find that I can operate the light completely one handed, so I'm guessing a traditional twisty wouldn't be as bad as you'd think.

I also hadn't really given much thought to the MBI Torpedo X but am intrigued after checking it out. (I'm learning from this thread too, apparently)

 

[ErinB]

What about a Foursevens high CRI (warm) quark with a tactical (not recessed) tailcap? Although based on what they currently have for sale on their website, you'd have to lego from it a complete QP2L light, and an additional body and tailcap ($94?)

Hadn't shopped Foursevens yet. I forgot how clean the Preons look! As for the QP2L it feels like it may be a bit too big/heavy to wear on a lanyard.

A high CRI Mini ML would be a simpler prospect, but they're twisties and apparently not legoable.

BTW, would a control ring interface work instead? I think the MBI Torpedo X has a neutral (but not warm) tint, and it looks like it might be usable one-handed...

Ooooooohhhhh..... That's a gorgeous light.

With my job, it would be a bit like drinking a Slurpee in an Austin db9. It'd break my heart a bit to see anything unfortunate happen to it.

 

[ErinB]

maybe a foursevens preon P1 with the clicky tailcap accessory would work. fairly lightweight, protruding button. I _think_ they have an attachment point for a split ring, but I can't confirm that from the website.

Yep. Last time I checked the clips were flimsy, and there wasn't option for lanyard style, it's worth investigating though.

I also think the prometheus AAA might work, but I don't know how heavy it is. it's Kickstarter (which is over 400% already) ends on october 21. I don't know what it will weigh - might be heavier than you want, but ... hard to say. :) I know there are a couple with my name on them.

DID YOU SEE THE COPPER ONE??!!? OH MY GOSH!!!

Ahem.
Pardon me.

A while ago, I watched his video of his process and his commitment to the visual aesthetic. It was wonderful to see someone craft a beautiful object; I just never thought I could own one!

I really like the LRI Photon Proton PRO (quite a mouthful there) for a keychain sized AA. it has a non-recessed side button, which I think would be compatible with nails.

Good light. Terrible name.

Thank you for both recommendations, it's a tough choice!

 

[N_N_R]

Lumapower edc LM21 ... or whatever the model was... http://www.lumapower.com/Online Web/contents/media/l_edc_lm21_01_resize.jpg

It's a clicky with a protruding button, so nails should be safe, lol. It's a 1 x AA, so it should be small & light. It's one of the "tactical" lights so it should be tough enough. I don't have any experience with them, though, just thought of sth..

 

[N8N]

another idea - JETBeam RRT-01? the "big A" has a package with Xtar charger & rcr123A

 

[ErinB]

Lumapower edc LM21 ... or whatever the model was... http://www.lumapower.com/Online Web/contents/media/l_edc_lm21_01_resize.jpg

It's a clicky with a protruding button, so nails should be safe, lol. It's a 1 x AA, so it should be small & light. It's one of the "tactical" lights so it should be tough enough. I don't have any experience with them, though, just thought of sth..

I played with an LM21 today, and honestly, it was like a Michael Bay movie. You catch a glimpse and think, "Hey, Transformers looks like it might be alright."

And then no.

Just.

No.

Transformers was not alright.

Sure the LM21 worked fine, but the light was cold, and the knurling was more annoying than grippy. If you get one, let me know your review. It just may be your flashlight version of a giant robot that can turn into a car. Aaaannnndd now that I've taken that metaphor WAAAAY too far. I'm just gonna go facepalm for a while.

 

[ErinB]

another idea - JETBeam RRT-01? the "big A" has a package with Xtar charger & rcr123A

Hmmm.... Lots of options.

I'm putting your E11 with a high CRI my short list.

Thanks again for all the suggestions :)

 

[kukkurovaca]

another idea - JETBeam RRT-01? the "big A" has a package with Xtar charger & rcr123A

The RRT-01 is a great light, has a good lanyard attachment point, and is easy to use one-handed, but it's only available in cold tint. (Barring mods.)

Would a side-clicky work? If so, what about an Olight S10 Ti? Neutral tint, switch isn't recessed, should be able to stand up to being banged around. However, accidental activation might be an issue.

If bulkier lights might work, then maybe an HDS high-cri clicky with protruding switch and a lanyard ring? But that would probably be a bit much to have hanging lose around one's neck. Also, would take a while to get one.

Similarly with small P60 setups, although you can get fairly lightweight depending on what parts you use, and it's easy to find neutral or warm dropins. (Best I could do out of what I have on hand is an Oveready TL20+Solarforce bezel and clicky tailcap, and a CR2 battery. Still pretty bulky for lanyard use, though.)

If 2xAAA would work, how about the Terralux high CRI penlight? Dunno how securely it would attach to a lanyard, though.

 

[buds224]

I'm thinking of getting one of these for my wife. Focusable, rear clicky, x1 AAA. Led Lenser p3 afs. From a youtube video, the light seems neutral to cool white, but videos do not always portray accurate color rendition.

 

[N_N_R]

Yeah, as someone before me suggested, have you considered penlights? They won't be attached to your... bunch of stuff there, lol, but they're light enough for you to clip on the neck line of your blouse/T-shirt/whatever. I have the Oligh O'Pen and I do it all the time, the light actually lives on my neck line, lol. I did it with smaller lights before, but as you don't want twisties... :D

 

[N8N]

Hmmm.... Lots of options.

I'm putting your E11 with a high CRI my short list.

Thanks again for all the suggestions :)

I'm assuming that you meant L10, not E11 - the E11 is a great functional light, but the tint is noticeably cooler than a 219 (not a *bad* tint mind you, not to the "angry purple" stage, but definitely a cool white.)

Given the choice today I might have passed on the E11 and bought the L10 for myself, but I didn't know the latter existed at the time, nor how much I was going to use the thing...

 

[N8N]

I'm thinking of getting one of these for my wife. Focusable, rear clicky, x1 AAA. Led Lenser p3 afs. From a youtube video, the light seems neutral to cool white, but videos do not always portray accurate color rendition.

Wow, LED Lenser is back in the game... 75 lumens isn't earth shattering, but I'd grown to associate them with Fenix E01 levels of output from their smaller lights.

 

[Mr Floppy]

Lumapower edc LM21 ... or whatever the model was... http://www.lumapower.com/Online%20Web/contents/media/l_edc_lm21_01_resize.jpg

It's a clicky with a protruding button, so nails should be safe, lol. It's a 1 x AA, so it should be small & light.

You mean 1 x AAA.

The Tank007 PA01 is also another good protruding clicky but it doesn't have a keyring attachment and comes in 1 or 3 modes, and it is a neutral tint Osram LED (which is quite warm actually). I bought a 1 mode (well they didn't specify the mode but I got a 1 mode) for a friend and added a keyring attachment point by using a cable tie and removing the clip. Not the prettiest but it works. Cheap too.

 

[ErinB]

You mean 1 x AAA.

The Tank007 PA01 is also another good protruding clicky but it doesn't have a keyring attachment and comes in 1 or 3 modes, and it is a neutral tint Osram LED (which is quite warm actually). I bought a 1 mode (well they didn't specify the mode but I got a 1 mode) for a friend and added a keyring attachment point by using a cable tie and removing the clip. Not the prettiest but it works. Cheap too.

Love the description on the newegg site:

"#5. Unique golden ring embedded in the connection between battery tube and tail part, harmonious, graceful and royal."

Mr. Floppy, do you have one these? I'm curious if it's as zen as advertised :)