Fenix Tk12 alternatives ?

[qguy]

I am currently looking at the Fenix TK12 and chanced upon the offering from Ultrafire, I heard the ratings may a bit off, I was wondering which model to go If I want the same performance as the 280 Lumen Tk12

 

[sol-leks]

I think what you are probably looking for is just a p60 host with an xp-g drop-in.

 

[joe1512]

There is nothing particularly amazing about it from what I can tell.

Its an XP-E that is fully driven to 1 amp or more.

My old itp A1 EOS with a RCR123 (4.2 volts) provides 280ish rated lumens thanks to being slightly overdriven. It has 3 modes and costs a whopping 25 bucks. But you need the 1xRCR123 for full capability and its tiny size doenst make it practical as a true worklight.

Any XP-G light at 1 amp or close to it will provide the same rated light output. You can probalby get a 3xAAA light that is similar, or an 1x18650 light or 2xCR123 light.

Deal extreme will be the cheapest route, but a bit risky.

A Romisen from shiningbeam would be a good choice since they customize them with good emitters.

Heres a 25 dollar one that is the closest match. 2xCR123.
http://www.shiningbeam.com/servlet/the-218/Romisen-RC-dsh-2R4-II-R5/Detail

This one is nice too. 1xcr123 OR 2xAA (with extension tube)
http://www.shiningbeam.com/servlet/the-214/Romisen-RC-dsh-N3-II-CREE/Detail


The only problem is that you only get 2 brightness levels. However the next step up is a Fenix or a 4Seven quark which is 60+ dollars. So for you, I'd recommend the romisen.


Another alternative is a flood to throw 3xAAA light/18650 that shiningbeam sells. Less overall brightness but the flood to throw is incredibly cool and useful.

 

[rekd0514]

The Solarforce L2 with R5 would work perfectly. If you want to try and Romisen RC-N3 I have one for sale in the marketplace.

 

[LEDninja]

:welcome:

There are a lot of bad reports of the DX XP-G module.
http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?t=270143
http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?t=277805

And Ultrafire flashlights that may be using the module.
http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.35075

The failure rate is extremely high. I'd stay away.

-

Are you after total brightness (lumens)?
Or are you after throw distance (Lux)?
You only need 50 lumens in a good reflector to out-throw a 1600 lumen 100 watt husehold light bulb!

-

Have you thought of battery costs?
AA - LSD NiMH+charger, can be used elsewhere. Alkaline can be used in an emergency.
CR123A - High cost at B&M stores. High initial cost online (you need to buy in bulk to cover shipping).
RCR123A/18650 - Dedicated batteries and charger needed.

-

There are dangers to using multiple lithium batteries you should be aware of.
Exploding 123A Batteries?
http://www.flashlightreviews.com/features/123burst.htm

If you use rechargeable lithium batteries here are the safe handling instructions.
Using Li-ion cells in LED flashlights safely
http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?t=235164

 

[firelord777]

Try the TK15, or, if ur after something more modern, wait for the TK21. The Armytek Predator, but if value for the money is important, I'd personally stay far away from it. $150 for the darn predator.

 

[CarpentryHero]

Fenix TK15, Maelstorm G5 or X7, or an Eagletac T20c2 XML would be great alternatives.

Dino Direct is having sale and free shipping so you could get an ultrafire host for cheap.
I put my first order in today, ordered two camo ones for $6.08 each