So if all the lights made in the USA were junk you would but them over a quality Chinese alternative?
Gee, did an American solder snatched your lollipop when you were a kid?
If you're new to high-end flashlights, I'd recommend starting with a Fenix AA/AAA light. They have several available, so get whichever one suits your needs. Personally, I have the e11 and love it. It's also very affordable.
I did buy the Fenix E11 recently. It's not too cheap yet affordable and it's a simple light so I expect it to last for at least a couple years. My only issue is that the core of the light is not perfectly round. There's a slight deformity but oh well, as long that it works, I'm ok with it considering the price. I would have been more annoyed if I had paid more than $50.
Canuck21 (OP), you've been quiet for a couple of days. Have you anything to say/add?
I just came back from a vacation in Cuba. I brought along my newly purchased E11 as it's a small light. I used it a few times; it fulfilled its purpose well.
I rarely think in absolute. Nothing is perfect so of course even the best brand will fail one of those days. There are good brands and lesser brands so I wanted to see what the majority think. I wanted to see the big picture based on the different opinions. Regarding patriotism, I have geographical preferences based on my own experiences. That's why I also asked for non-Chinese brands. Having said that, quality tromps country (in time of peace of course). Anyway, I'm Canadian and as far as I know, there's no Canadian-made flashlight nor Canadian brands, but I do favor North American and European brands based on reputation and my own purchasing experience on other products. Again, I'm no Nazi and can be flexible. I just have preferences.
Having said that, I would have bought a US-made flashlight by now, mainly a Surefire, if not for the "uncommon" battery. For now, I only want AA/AAA flashlights. As for the other American-made flashlights, to be honest, I find them ugly. Yeah I know, I asked for reliability, but I would be much happier with a flashlight that is reliable AND good to look at too if possible LOL.