Christmas gift ideas

[flashlightening]

Hi. I've probably waited too long to ask this question, but I would like to buy my son a good flashlight for Christmas, something in the $200 range. I plan to sell a couple of my own flashlights to pay for it, though that will probably not take place until after Christmas. Anyway, what is a good led with good power and variable output which operates with normal li batteries? Thanks

 

[BillSWPA]

By "normal" batteries, do you mean AA or AAA alkaline batteries? While there is nothing wrong with AA or AAA, I would strongly suggest avoiding alkaline, particularly if the light will be expensive. NiMH rechargeable cells like Eneloop have the same life between charges as alkaline, do not develop memory so they can be charged at any time, and do not leak. Get a low self discharge chemistry (like Eneloop), and it will retain 75% of the charge after 3 years of storage.

It would be helpful to know something of the intended use of the light in making recommendations. $200 is an expensive light. In my experience, the expression "you get what you pay for" applies when comparing low priced products to mid priced products, but not necessarily when comparing mid priced products to high priced products. For $200 (or likely less), you could get your son a very nice mid-priced light, a Kydex belt light holder, a package of eneloops, and a nice charger.

My recommendation would be to look at the Quark, Mini, and Preon lines from FourSevens. If you decide that you like the Quarks, the Pro interface is better for general utility use, and the Tactical interface is better for "tactical" use.

 

[flashlightening]

Thanks for the input Bill. By "normal" batteries I meant lithium (li) batteries, as opposed to rechargeable. With rechargeable I always worry that the charge will get too low before I am done using it for a specific task. At least with "normal" batteries the batteries can be replaced immediately if the power starts to diminish. I'll look into the lights you suggested.

 

[flashlightening]

I have just about decided to order a M6LT Guardian for my son. (I know Christmas is over, but the whole family won't be together until New Year's Day and that's when we'll exchange gifts.) I have five sons, and Matthew, the youngest, caught the flashaholic disease from me. He is interested in a light with raw power, and the M6LT certainly fits that description. The reviews I have read have generally been positive, but some reviewers have complained that the throw is not as impressive as it might be. Anyone here care to contribute their observations? Thanks!