I need help with the L1

[sbebenelli]

I was all set to buy the L1 and now I see Surefire has a new version with optics like the KL1. What I would like to know is how is the beam with the current style L1? Is it more of a flood? I don't know if I should hold off and get the newest version and who knows how long it will take to get one. Help me out.

 

[scudinc]

If you must get an L1, get the new version. I would just get the E1 and a KL1.

 

[Xrunner]

The newest version is more of a tight spot with very little to no side spill. Before that there are 2 main versions of the L1. The first is a Low Dome Lux, which had tint problems. The second was a High Dome Lux with a little more throw than the LD and less tint variation, but a distinct beam pattern. The third is the newest one that uses the same optic as the 4th gen KL1 with a very tight spot. Personally, for general use I like the HD L1s, or one with an upgraded (aftermarket) LED. Hope this helps.

-Mike

 

[cia]

I just got a L1 in the mail today and the bezel is just like the newest KL1.

Very bright and very tight spot.
I like it. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[wasBlinded]

Interesting that they would change the character of the L1 so much with the new bezel. The L1 HD, which I have has a lot of spill. If its now a tight spot like the KL1, some people might find it a less useful utility light - I know I would.

 

[sbebenelli]

cia, where did you get it from?

 

[sotto]

If the new L1 has a Tiros type optic in it like the new KL1, I'm very happy that I have the previous HD L1 which has a great balance of moderate spill and a nice bright hotspot. I would not like it to have a beam like my KL1. It would make it less useful to me, and as it is, my L1 is my most used light.

 

[cia]

[ QUOTE ]
sbebenelli said:
cia, where did you get it from?

[/ QUOTE ]

PM sent with dealer info. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

I also did not care all that much for the new KL1/e2e I had.
It was not as white as I had wanted (compared to my L4) but the LED in the Surefire L1 is very "white" and has such a bright hot looking center.

The low level on the l1 with little side spill was great in the car tonight. I can spot light something in the car on low without blinding everyone.

I like the KL1 with LuxIII bezel on the L1 much better then I liked the new style KL1 on the E2e.

 

[sotto]

I just called SF Customer Service and spoke to Summer and asked her if they had ANY L1's in stock with the TIR type optic in ANY color LED.

Answer: None.

I got this same answer when I called 2 months ago./ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleye11.gif

 

[sotto]

An email from CS also said they are on 4-6 week backorder.