I haven't bought anything yet, but I am shopping. Fenix just started their 20% off everything sale. I'm considering a Nitecore 21700i lantern/charger/powerbank kit.
And just now, I was looking at the Nitecore MT10c and EC11, and was very disappointed to find out the EC11 is discontinued. The MT10c has no direct, one-hand access to the red light mode, which kind of makes the red light mode totally useless. In order to access red light mode while the unit is off, you have to hold the mode button and simultaneously depress the tail switch. WTF??
The EC11 had direct access to the red light mode with a single button press, and a more sensible 40 lumen output on Low when used with a 3V CR123A. So, at the moment, I'm trying to decide if I am interested in tracking down an EC11, or not.
I'm looking maybe for something that can take an RCR123A and/or 16340 to replace my old Leatherman Serac S3, in which I am afraid to stick a 3V regulated RCR123A due to the excess length. I was thinking maybe a Fenix E18R (out of stock) or one of the Nitecores, when I discovered the difference between the EC11 and MT10c.
It's also a bit disappointing that the EC11 and MT10c both have no modes between 1 lumen and 40 or 50 lumens (with 3V battery). It would have been better if the Lower Low mode was 5 lumens.
I also might maybe get a Nitecore LR10 CRI mini-lantern for my backpacking kit, in which I've standardised on single AA lights, just because it's cute and effective. But I really don't need the additional weight in my pack.
