Let's keep on track guys. The OP is looking for a specific beam pattern, keep the focus there.
If the primary purpose of a flashlight is self-defense, how concentrated do you want the beam of light? checked some youtube videos where it was made a point to look for a deep and smooth reflector because this concentrates the light, so if you're trying to blind/disorient an attacker, all the lumens you have at your disposal goes right into the other guy's eyes instead of lighting up the general area. But thinking about it, at some point it would get too narrow I should think, because the narrower it is, the harder it would be to aim it at his eyes, right? So does this ever happen, or is that point never really reached with modern self-defense flashlights?
Looking at a few now, and if we compare Nitecore P12GT to Olight M1X Striker, which would have the better beam for self defense? According to the stats listed, the peak intensity of the nitecore is 3 times that of the Olight, and the beam distance is about double.
If we assume I won't be using it as a striking weapon, which would be the better self defense light?
Thank you
Use a light to temporarily blind an attacker and run like hell.
OK, that was clever. :twothumbs Beam pattern, focus.
~ Chance
IMO, the best light is anything with a decent hot spot and enough spill to maintain awareness of your peripheral.
For me, the best tactical light is a Surefire 6P with a Malkoff M61 drop in. Great hot spot, but a nice amount of spill too.
I immediately, in tenths of a second, reached for something that was not primarily designed to illuminate stuff.
.... I was under the impression that we weren't allowed to talk about flashlights for self defense or as weapons on this forum. But, maybe I read the rules wrong? ....
.... i doubt someone you intend to blind, will let you keep aim at their eyes....
.... The thread can stay open, as long as constructive discussion continues, without further mention of flashlights being used as other than for illumination. Not striking, not blinding, nor the like.