My first REAL flashlight

[fishinfool]

Aloha! I stumbled upon CPF looking for info on AA batteries for my dslr flash and found out that there was a huge population of flashlight collectors. I had no idea there was that many different kinds, makes and models of flashlights. Overwhelming amount of info just from looking around CPF.


So now I’m looking into buying my first decent 2AA flashlight. I know nothing about flashlights other than buying cheapies from Wal-Mart, putting batteries inside and turning it on. I chose 2AA’s because I just bought a bunch of eneloops and powerex 2700’s for my dslr flash. It’s mostly going to be used for home and maybe a little outdoor use.

I want to keep my first flashlight around $50+ and of course one that uses 2AA batteries.


I’m a long time collector of different things so this will not be my first flashlight. This is only the beginning. :ohgeez:


Thanks guys!

 

[paulr]

There are a heck of a lot of lights that fit your description, and the 2aa format actually doesn't get all that much respect around here. And, there are different design philosophies going into them. I have noticed the Icon Rogue series (they have a 2AA model) showing up in retail stores recently and I've been impressed by what I've read about them, though I don't currently own one myself. I prefer their UI approach to that of Fenix and Quark, probably the two other main recommendations you're likely to receive in this thread. So I'd suggest checking them out. But, choosing is a matter of preference and each approach has its adherents.

Welcome to CPF, and hold on to your wallet ;)

 

[omegaman]

Fenix LD20 for me, no regrets

 

[fishinfool]

Thanks Paul! I just got done looking at the Fenix website and the one that caught my eye was the LD20. I'll be going thru the Quark website later on.

 

[pwatcher]

I'd start with this: 4Sevens Quark AA R2 with free prism kit: http://www.4sevens.com/product_info.php?cPath=297_365&products_id=2079

use the coupon code "cpf8" when you checkout for a little discount!

 

[fishinfool]

I'd start with this: 4Sevens Quark AA R2 with free prism kit: http://www.4sevens.com/product_info.php?cPath=297_365&products_id=2079

use the coupon code "cpf8" when you checkout for a little discount!

Thanks pwatcher! I really like the accessories and the additional prism kit which includes a headband. I don't think the LD20 comes with any extras but the LD20 looks better to me (which shows how much of a flashlight newb I am). lol

So now it's between the Fenix LD20 and the Quark AA R2. :confused:

 

[alfreddajero]

I like the ITP C8...uses two`AA's and if you get`the C7 and C9 tube you can use a single AA cell or 16340 as well. The UI is great. One head with different battery configs just as long as you have the corresponding body tube.

http://www.itplight.com/product_list.asp?bid=13&sid=9

 

[orchid_guy]

I would say any person interested in a 2AA flashlight should look at the Fenix E20. It's an upgrade to the common mini mag AA without coming of as "fancy", expensive or complicated.

The E20 is hard anodized(quite well for the price), uses a clicky on/off switch and is focusable(like the minimag).

I ordered one and liked it, unfortuneately so did my son. He hid it somewhere and hasn't shown me yet. So now, I need to order another.

 

[alfreddajero]

More like you got, got....lol....My little one likes to put my lights in with her toys.....lol so it makes finding them that much harder.

 

[pfccypret]

First of all, I have not been to Walmart in awhile. But a couple years back I picked up a "Rayovac" LED flashlight that takes AA batteries. Definitely not top of the line compared to other things on the market, but not bad. So don't discount everything at stores like Walmart/Target/Ect. Lights like that probably won't get you much respect on here, but you can find decent lights.

Anyways, you are asking a tall order. There are probably easily a dozen lights that do what you are asking. Browse the forums, make an informing decision and everything will be kewl. Besides, we all know you can't just buy one flashlight ;)

 

[Jash]

Nitecore D20 is a top little light. Great low and nice bright flood. So simple to use it's not funny (no head twisting needed). Looks tough and is built really well. Comes with a removeable pocket clip (mines gone for good) and a lanyard that could hold your body weight.

Fenix E20 is also tops, but a little less versatile. I've got both and would hate to have to choose. So if I lose one, I hope it's not the D20.

 

[CampingLED]

I like the ITP C8...uses two`AA's and if you get`the C7 and C9 tube you can use a single AA cell or 16340 as well. The UI is great. One head with different battery configs just as long as you have the corresponding body tube.

http://www.itplight.com/product_list.asp?bid=13&sid=9

Although I do not have one, I have played with one before. My recommendation as well. The programmable UI is one of the nicest that I have seen and very easy to change brightness.

 

[fishinfool]

Thanks for all the replies. From everything you guys recommended, I like the Fenix LD20, Quark AA R2, and the Nightcore D20. I like each one for different things and of course each one has something I don't like. Dammit....now I'm actually thinking about getting 2 of them. :hairpull:


Do certain brands have a better or longer warranty? Which brands have the best warranty?

 

[amigafan2003]

They are all very nice lights but for some they don't really fit in the "budget" category.

If you funds are a bit more limited I reconmend the Romisen RC-N3 II from Shining Beam - comes in at $24.45. Very happy with mine and it's taken a lot of abuse from being passed around my kids. Very bright with 3hrs/8hrs run time on a pair of Eneloop LSD batteries.

 

[Jash]

Dammit....now I'm actually thinking about getting 2 of them. :hairpull:


What's wrong with having two?

You have now posted on CPF, you are obligated to own at least two lights of reasonable quality.

 

[jugornot]

You say you are a collector, but if you are somewhat of a tinkerer then you might consider the Dereelight Javelin. It has a replaceable p60 drop in and can be configured as 2xaa or 3xaa. The beam is very good with lots of usable spill. If you are a collector only feel free to ignore this advice. However even without the options the javelin is a very good light.

 

[CampLite]

I would stick to either the quark or nitecore. Nitecore is gonna cost a little more plus 4sevens is sold out so no discount.

+1 quark AA 2 Tactical R2 its my favorite light! :welcome:

 

[vali]

Nobody mentioned Fenix TK20 yet? If you want a tough light with neutral white tint and high throw, take a look at this one.

The only bad thing is the lack of a low mode: it only has high and med.

 

[joe1512]

Any reason you want a 2AA format, other than the rechargables you already have?

A 1xAA light can be used as a keychain and is a heck of a lot smaller.

On the other hand, a 6xAA itp Polestar is 80 bucks, but is a 700 lumen monster light! It is surprisingly light and small with eneloops to be honest. I dont think it is appreciably bigger than 2AA lights. (same length, a bit fatter, but not hugely fat.)

You can get free shipping and 10% off a Goinggear, which is where I got mine. You can get a 94 dollar christmas set and get the A6 and a stainless steel A3 1xAAA keychain light which saves a bit of money (though out of budget).


The Fenix TK40 is considered the ultimate AA light. It can use 4 or 8 batteries, has a more balanced beam (more throw, less flood than a6) and is a bit brighter, and very high build quality. Budget goes out the window though at 140 bucks. I onlymention it by way of comparison.

 

[alfreddajero]

Why is this thread in the budget section.......because some of these lights are not considered budget at all for the price. I know budget can mean a lot of things for us.......