Fenix P2D/P3D... Comments?

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Doug

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Looking for some comments on theses lights.... I noticed that there are 2 different versions of the high output models, with only slightly different max output (175 vs. 180 for example), looking for some opinions on theses lights in general, and specific comments about the various sub models .... I was thinking about getting a P2D to replace my Firefly1 as a keychain light. Is the P3D that much brighter, longer throw, etc? Thanks.

Doug
 
Doug,

I have both the P2D-Q5 and recently won a P3D-Q5 for filling out the headlight survey. Both lights are around the same brightness but the P3D is slightly brighter. Both lights have the same UI and a flood type beam which in my opinion is perfect for everyday carry and most tasks. I carried my P2D on my belt for at least 6 months everyday. You cannot go wrong with either light but for everyday carry I would recommend the smaller P2D-Q5.

Now having said the above, I would not consider the P2D small enough for a Keychain light, but this is just my opinion. You may want to look at the AAA lights for a Keychain light.


Bill
 
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I just received my p3d Q5 yesterday. I expected a lot and it has exceeded my expectations! I orderd the larger p3d because i like the feel, longer runtime, a little more power, and i carry it in a holster. If you carry in your pocket you might go with the p2d. You'll be getting an amazing light either way you go.
 
The P2D and P3D have similar performance. The P2D probably won't replace your Firefly as a keychain light.

The P1D-CE Q5 would be closer.

All three would make good EDC lights though.
 
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I own a pair of P1Ds and can confirm that they're unbeatable bang-for-the-buck quality, and excellent EDCs. The Fenix beam shape is perfectly neutral, a just-right hotspot with plenty of bright spill; not too concentrated for close-up work, and ideal for walking at night.

The big advantage of the P3D over the others is its runtime; it can run on max twice as long as the others, high mode will give you 100+ lumens for 6 hours, and low mode lasts *3+ days*.
 
The P1D and P1CE are similar to the Firefly in form factor. I have the P1CE and like it a lot. The P2D is a little larger and has more complex controls, similar to the L1DCE which I also felt wasn't up to the build quality standards of some of the other Fenixes. The P3D is largest of them all, a little bit brighter in the highest mode, and runs a lot longer because it uses two cells. I think I'd stay with the 1 cell models and carry a spare cell if runtime is a concern.
 
I'm not a big man, but carry the P3D in my jeans pocket, with after market clip, very comfortably. I usually forget it's there. I also like the nice balance of throw AND spill as well as the incredible lumens this little gem puts out. For the money, I think it's one of the most versatile lights I've purchased yet... which includes a Nautilus, Fenix L0D, Novatac 120P and Wolf Eyes Sniper to name a few. It is longer than th P2D obviously, but carries very easily. Buy one. You'll LOVE it!:twothumbs
 
I have the slighly larger PD3. The size is just perfect to me. Nice feel in your hand, excellent runtime, incredible power. If i'm going to carry a spare battery, might as well be in my light. You can't go wrong with either light.
 
My favorite light

djans1397 said:
I'm not a big man, but carry the P3D in my jeans pocket, with after market clip, very comfortably. I usually forget it's there. I also like the nice balance of throw AND spill as well as the incredible lumens this little gem puts out. For the money, I think it's one of the most versatile lights I've purchased yet... which includes a Nautilus, Fenix L0D, Novatac 120P and Wolf Eyes Sniper to name a few. It is longer than th P2D obviously, but carries very easily. Buy one. You'll LOVE it!:twothumbs
Click to expand...

I agree! I adore my olive P3D Q5, which I have carried almost everywhere since I got it last November. I also use a clip, one from a River Rock light, which enables me to carry the P3D bezel-down in my pocket, where I barely notice it.
 
Re: My favorite light

Highbeam101 said:
Does this clip need to be modified?
Click to expand...

Not at all, Highbeam101. Just pull the clip off the RR and place it on the P3D. I bought the 1AA River Rock light for around $24 at Target, pulled off the clip, and gave the light to my wife for her purse. However, the clip on the 2AAA RR light is slightly different but should fit the same, and it's only $10.

I just e-mailed John at River Rock Designs to inquire about extra clips. He had previously mentioned getting some extras from his factory, so I will keep you posted.
 
My P2D Q5 arrived today, and I am very pleased with it.
It certainly isn't a keychain light (well, not for me anyway), but it goes great in the supplied holster or a pocket.
 
I have been edcing the old, outdated, not that bright(sarcasm alert) P2D CE for almost a year now. I carry mine suspended in my front left pocket with the lanyard (made by JSmith)hanging out of the pocket for easy retrieval. It disappears in the pocket, is totally out of the way but easy to get to when needed. For the price I just can't find another light to replace it. I have a HDS U60 that I love, but it is bigger and heavier and does not quite disappear when carried the same way. I carried the P3D CE until I got the P2D. Now the P3D does nightstand duty.
 
Another consideration is how you carry the flashlight when you are using it. I have a P3D, and just received a P2D. I typically hold the flashlight in my fist, at shoulder height, with the thumb on the switch button. I found that the P2D is too short to extend out of my hand. If I move the head forward so it's not blocked by my hand, it's difficult to operate the switch. So I gave the P2D to my wife, and continue to carry the P3D.
 
Some time ago I ordered up a Fenix 4 in 1 pack with an L1 body a P2 body a Q5 head and a diffuser.

I carry it as an L1 as EDC in a Task Force flap top holster. Been doing so for quite a while now.

I change over to P2 when it's the weekend and I want to pocket carry.

It's brighter as P2 but not so much that I'm disappointed as L1. Besides I run it for free on NimH batteries.
 
So, how are the Fenix lights compared to the Nitecores? Looks like the nitecores will do 2 lumens (why is it when I think Lumen, I hear "Newman!" in my mind :)?) .... the Fenix's will only go down to 12lumens, probably not a big deal... bah, I guess I can guzzle the flashaolic coolaid and buy ALL OF THEM :), muahaha....

Ok, any other small "keychainable" light with multiple outputs, and most importantly, regulation....?

Doug
 
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