First impressions on the Eternalight MAX
Here's a bit more info, guys:
If you had any of Technology Associates' previous Eternalights, I highly recommend this one. While all of you probably are aware of all the features, I guess I can tell you what it's like to actually use.
First off, you can take it out of the box and use it w/o reading the "manual." It behaves just like the older Eternalights. Techass included a very nice "mini" screw driver for changing batteries--very cool! It's small enough to fit in the coin pocket of your jeans, for example...but probably better for storing in a take-along battery case, etc. (Unless you really need a screwdriver with you at all times!)
It's not all that hard to learn the new functions of the light. I really like the battery check feature. Way cool! Now I know when I should be charging my nimh batts...
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All in all, this light is very versatile. You can use it as a simple flashlight (on/off), or turn all the features you want on....it looks just like the previous Eternalight Elite X-ray (blue) and feels very solid.
Although the regulation mode is nice to have, I really don't think it's necessary, especially when you're using lithium batteries or nimh batteries. Still, it's a feature many CPFers are seeking these days. And it's cool...
The "overdrive" mode, which can be turned on (even when the light is off) by the push of a button (the "adjust" button) is very nice--you can use it for signaling, etc. and you don't have to cycle through the modes to get to this "momentary mode" now (like you did on the older units. The "overdrive" mode also gives the brightest output I've seen from a four led light....I believe it's brighter than the Inova in this mode, but I'm not sure.
I kind of wish the "instructional labels" on the light were printed on the inside, so there would be no chance of them getting scratched off, etc. By instrucitonal label, I mean the labels that mark what mode you are setting when you're configuring the light. (In the configuration mode, each of the four led's represents a different mode and whether it is on or off). I guess seeing these labels through the blue case would be a bit difficult though...
All in all, a very nice light! Well worth the $ (to a flashaholic) and definitely THE MOST TECHNOLOGICALLY ADVANCED FLASHLIGHT ON THE MARKET!
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