Database of lenses -- has this been done?

[PhotonFanatic]

Has anyone built a database of lens sizes for the various models of flashlights?

I am thinking specifically of diameter and thickness of lens that can replace the stock lens.

My reason for asking is that I'm constantly buying the odd sized lens to fit my light builds, but there isn't any one good source for a complete range of sizes. I may be tempted to jump into the lens selling business, by offering some decent double-sided anti-reflection coated Borofloat lens. However, before I do that, I need to get a handle on the possible number of lenses that might suit 90% of a typical modder's needs.

So, either point me in the right direction, or feel free to post specs for any and al lenses that you might own. Thanks.

 

[Nereus]

I guess that you mean flat lenses? Not e.g. aspherical or fresnel lenses?

-N

 

[Eric242]

flashlightlens.com has a small chart for some lenses they are selling. It´s not much but at least a start.

Eric

 

[PhotonFanatic]

I guess that you mean flat lenses? Not e.g. aspherical or fresnel lenses?

-N

Nereus,

Right, flat lenses only at this time. Good point.

Eric242,

Thanks, that helps. Need to get out my micrometer/calipers and just start measuring the stock lenses in the lights that I have, too.

 

[PEU]

Found a local shop that sell mineral glass lenses (for watches) from 15mm to 36mm in 0.1mm increments in 1mm or 2mm thickness. My lens problems are history

No they can't AR coat them


Pablo

 

[PhotonFanatic]

Found a local shop that sell mineral glass lenses (for watches) from 15mm to 36mm in 0.1mm increments in 1mm or 2mm thickness. My lens problems are history

No they can't AR coat them


Pablo

While there are lots of mineral glass lenses available in a wide variety of sizes on the web, they vary considerably in their quality--some have beveled and polished edges and some don't. Some are more prone to shattering than others; and none of them come with AR coating.

Borofloat lens are very shock resistant, take heat well, are very flat even without polishing, and are available with AR coatings. To me, this makes them the superior choice. Not that there aren't other good choices, too.