Maglite ML300L

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kubaduba!

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Hello has anyone bought a Maglite ML300L ? Are they as tough as the incandescent version ? I know LED's are brighter but im wondering how do people like it ? I plan on getting the 4D size but cant decide on which version . Thanks !
 
I really like mine! The barrel is not as thick/heavy as the old D cell Mags, so it might not make as good a hammer. Aside from that, it seems to be pretty tough.

If it's something you think you might like - go for it! I don't think you will be disappointed.

The real question is what kind of batteries to use. Alkalines are not very good when it comes to performance and they leak. Some of the low self discharge NiMH's D cells, like the Tenergy centuras, are good but they will need to be charged if they are stored longer than 6 mo. or so. AA eneloops or protected Li-ions in adapters are other options.
 
I really like mine! The barrel is not as thick/heavy as the old D cell Mags, so it might not make as good a hammer. Aside from that, it seems to be pretty tough.

If it's something you think you might like - go for it! I don't think you will be disappointed.

The real question is what kind of batteries to use. Alkalines are not very good when it comes to performance and they leak. Some of the low self discharge NiMH's D cells, like the Tenergy centuras, are good but they will need to be charged if they are stored longer than 6 mo. or so. AA eneloops or protected Li-ions in adapters are other options.
Yeah i know they are not made like they used to be. I dont mind the Alkaline batteries i read the amazon ones are ok and duracell are terrible. I want to get a Maglite mount for my ford ranger to carry along.

Maglite sells a bundle kit i have been looking at because you get 3 of all sizes. I didnt think the LED's were any good in them some people complained about it flickering or dimming out and the button not working. Thats why i thought if i got the incandescent bulb version it would be tougher. I like the style and also they are made in USA

Thanks for the reply !
 
The LEDs are more dependable, because there is no bulb filament to break on you. They are brighter than the old incan Maglites, and the batteries last longer in them.

The incans still have their place, so I say get both kinds, use them both and see what you like.
 
They are wonderful lights. No matter if it's 2,3 or 4 cells they are all bright. Many ways to power them but alkaline are going to leak. Eneloop and it's attendant charger are easy. Don't forget to unscrew the tail cap a quarter turn when not in use because of parasitic drain.
 
I have a ML300L 3 D cell, and two of the 2 D cell versions.

3 D is a good light. Thing is, the switch has some parasitic drain. So I usually unscrew the cap a little, when not in use, to prevent drain.
Could do without the twist to focus head. Seems useless, only one good setting. So its mostly a nuisance, when it moves.

Has four function sets: different combinations of full power, low power, eco mode. My 3D is set for 1 click momentary (high power), 2 clicks high power continuous On, 3 clicks eco mode. My 2 D lights are mostly for working in small spaces, set for 1 click high power On, 2 clicks low, and 3 clicks eco.
 
I have a ML300L 3 D cell, and two of the 2 D cell versions.

3 D is a good light. Thing is, the switch has some parasitic drain. So I usually unscrew the cap a little, when not in use, to prevent drain.
Could do without the twist to focus head. Seems useless, only one good setting. So its mostly a nuisance, when it moves.

Has four function sets: different combinations of full power, low power, eco mode. My 3D is set for 1 click momentary (high power), 2 clicks high power continuous On, 3 clicks eco mode. My 2 D lights are mostly for working in small spaces, set for 1 click high power On, 2 clicks low, and 3 clicks eco.
I think the focus enables putting the hot spot on regardless of range. It will focus the spot at one position for close-up, but a different position for farther away. So, it does what a single focus lens cannot do, IMO.
 
I have a ML300L 3 D cell, and two of the 2 D cell versions.

3 D is a good light. Thing is, the switch has some parasitic drain. So I usually unscrew the cap a little, when not in use, to prevent drain.
Could do without the twist to focus head. Seems useless, only one good setting. So its mostly a nuisance, when it moves.

Has four function sets: different combinations of full power, low power, eco mode. My 3D is set for 1 click momentary (high power), 2 clicks high power continuous On, 3 clicks eco mode. My 2 D lights are mostly for working in small spaces, set for 1 click high power On, 2 clicks low, and 3 clicks eco.
I would recommend some loktite "purple" on a few areas on the head threads should lock it down and still allow you to remove the head If needed
 
I think the focus enables putting the hot spot on regardless of range. It will focus the spot at one position for close-up, but a different position for farther away. So, it does what a single focus lens cannot do, IMO.


I will try some distant, and close spotting, see how it compares to the incandescent version. Was buying a few lights at the time, got distracted. Noticed SF G2x Pro gets by without focus capability. Main gripe is when it moves.
 
Thanks for the tip.

Haven't tried any thread locking compounds, but on a couple of AA Minis I have with tailswitches installed, I've applied some Teflon tape to the head threads to reduced undesired rotation. It's not 'elegant', but it does help and doesn't make much of a mess. I can't say which is a better solution (well, problem mitigation measure anyway) 'cause I haven't tried both.
 
Cannot go wrong with any of the new XML2 Mags. The ONLY thing I modify is I put high quality glass lenses in them. Remember those big batteries they take equals great run time.
 
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