A2 vs A2L vs AZ2

[grumbler]

After using my A2 for the past few weeks, I've naturally began to wonder how it compares to the other "A" series dual-beam Surefires. Does anyone own two or three of the above? Thoughts?

I'm curious because I think that they're all pretty neat.

I've never used an AZ2, but I'd imagine that, despite being brighter than the A2L, it'd be less comfortable, and over the long run, less useful because of its weapon-oriented design.

Does anyone have a favorite of the three?

 

[Tempest UK]

The AZ2 is a very specialized light; unless you really need the Combat Grip feature then I'd go with one of the other options.

The A2L is, unsurprisingly, the closest thing to the original A2. It's a highly capable light, but I found myself going back to my A2 fairly quickly after EDCing it for a while. For me, a large part of the appeal of the A2 was the fact that it was a hybrid with a regulated incandescent output as well as the LEDs. However, with the A2L you're getting increased output and runtime and you retain the option to have coloured secondary LEDs. It's all a matter of personal opinion, but unless you want that choice of coloured secondary LEDs, I would suggest looking at the LX2 instead. The A2L is no slouch, by any means, but it lacked the "wow" factor of the LX2, at least for me.

It's the A2 that I still carry on a daily basis, though. That either says that I'm too attached to it and too stubborn to move or, or that it really is that good. Perhaps both.

EDIT - having looked at your sig, it looks like you already have the LX2 anyway

 

[yowzer]

I have an A2, and wouldn't mind getting an A2Z someday. The A2L doesn't really float my boat; I'm not that interested in the colored low modes, and an LX2 w/ diffuser seems like it covers the same ground, like Tempest pointed out. I really like the Z-series body design, though. I don't use it with a pistol, but the different-diameter sections and grip ring on my G2Z make for a very secure handle, especially in the winter wearing heavy gloves. I have no reason to believe the metal ones would be different.

Other differences: Output and beam shapes. The A2Z's 'low' is pretty high at, what, 35 lumens? and the high beam is designed with a bright hotspot and lots of bright flood for clearing a room in night searches. I think the A2L's is less floody?

This review thread has some beamshots with the A2 and A2L: http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?t=238689 . A2Z beamshots here: http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?p=3438641

 

[Dennis]

I am a longtime A2 user and I also have bought both the A2L and A2Z lately. The A2L has replaced the A2 on my duty belt due to the increased light and runtime and the low light red LED's are perfect for my use. However, it doesn't quite have the "character", tint, or throw of my original incan A2 with LF bulb.

I have always liked the Z series and the A2Z is a beautiful evolution with rounded edges, great lines, and seemingly a bit thinner overall. The A2Z manages to combine a wide beam with a spot throw, but for the price and hype it just seems like they could have used a newer, brighter, LED. However, mine does seem to have a neutral tint which makes me happy, about the same as the original Malkoff M61W's, but less than a M60W. As far as comfort, I think the Z series is more comfortable to use than any other due to it being more secure in hand due to the design. You don't have to hold it as tight to activate it which is sometimes a problem with smooth round lights when the switch is a bit tight, this is especially so with a 2 stage tailcap where a bit more control is required. However, the A2L is thinner and space on my belt is at a premium so it wins for now.

I have a couple original 6Z's upgraded with M61's and McClicky 2-stage tailcaps and these are my favorite lights that don't really have an official use due to their somewhat fragile tailcap internals (spring & retaining ring. The McClicky part is fine!

Dennis.