I need suggestions for first led flashlight

[Raven]

I was thinking about this:

http://www.brightguy.com/detail_int.tpl?cart=103482555193297&sku=STR68202

I think it's a good fit for me, because:

I've ordered from brightguy before
It uses aa batteries - like most of my electronics
It's a major brand - streamlight
It's not terribly expensive

I basically want a medium sized light that can perform the same task that I use my UKA (4 aa) for, except hopefully I can get more life out of my batteries with an led.

Any opinions or suggestions would be welcome.

Raven

 

[rlhess]

That is a lovely area light but its peak output is only about 15% of the UKE 4AA.

There is enough more light out of the Streamlight 3C that made me select that for the general utility flashlight around my house (I bought 5 3C and 3 4AA).

The Arc sLS is brighter than either SL unit, but the SL 3C has much more light output over a broader pattern than the Luxeons.

I do sympathize with the AA battery need, so that my over-ride the light output. I bought mine from BG as well.

Good luck!

Richard

 

[Empath]

Welcome to CPF, Raven.

You've made an excellent selection. For value and functionality, the Streamlight 4AA Poly 7 LED light is great. As with most lights, there are features in which it excells, and there are some characteristics that are a compromise. The Streamlight tends to get excessively warm if left on for an extended period of time, particularly if it's stationary and doesn't have any airflow around it. It is an excellent light though; enjoy.

 

[brightnorm]

Originally posted by rlhess:
That is a lovely area light but its peak output is only about 15% of the UKE 4AA.

There is enough more light out of the Streamlight 3C that made me select that for the general utility flashlight around my house (I bought 5 3C and 3 4AA).

The Arc sLS is brighter than either SL unit, but the SL 3C has much more light output over a broader pattern than the Luxeons.

I do sympathize with the AA battery need, so that my over-ride the light output. I bought mine from BG as well.

Good luck!

Richard

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial">Richard,

Have you had a chance to compare the Streamlight to the LW 3000/4000 and the Trek 1400? I have those three and wondered how the Streamlight measured up.

Brightnorm

 

[Saaby]

You need an Arc AAA...that would make a good first (Or second I guess?) LED flashlight.

 

[brightnorm]

Raven,

Empath reminded me. Do NOT use lithiums in the 4AA LED! I made that mistake and ended up with a completely destroyed, "fried" flashlight head.

*** Anyone have runtime figures for the Streamnlight 4AA LED? (steady on, regardless of heat buildup)

Brightnorm

 

[webley445]

Got one, good choice, i don't think you'll be disappointed. After playing with the single LED keychain lights you will be surprised at it's performance. Do a search here about this light. As stated above and from what others have figured out, use only alkaline batteries in it. The SL 4AA is great for close to medium work and gives a nice flood effect. I relate it to the difference between a regular light bulb and a flourescent light ( and consider a SF or Scorpion as an outdoor flood light). These are the terms I use to describe flashlight performance to the "non-aholics".