Is Jetbeam up there in quality?
http://www.jetbeam.com.cn/links/default.aspx
You decide.
:naughty:
I'm a noob to both high-end flashlights and this forum. But I have a brain that works and can read and synergistically understand what I'm reading; a dangerous combination.
:thinking:
Being a noob is an advantage in that you're not caught up in the mystique, glitz or glamor of the whole flashlight thingy. My conclusions, based on comments and the wonderfully in-depth reviews posted in this forum, "FOR MY PURPOSES", for many different reasons, the JetBeam comes out on top.
:thumbsup:
My philosophy, don't over think it by losing contact with the ball; the act of simply finding a flashlight that works for you. Also, don't get caught up in the minutia or esoteric; wax candle Vs a generator driven search light.
My conclusions as to purchasing, based upon reading the many extensive reviews posted as well as the many user comments? I purchased four JetBeam flashlights plus a boatload of support gear (batteries, cases and chargers) to service my flashlight needs. I also see a fifth and final light in my very near future. Doing this gives me a "useful" range. I find, that for my purposes, I actually "need" four lights. One was purchased out of ignorance; part of the learning curve.
I found the Raptor series serves "my" needs best. This is due to the clean user interface (selection ring), style, build quality, throw and available multiple battery choice options. My overall flashlight conclusions below:
First, does it pass my son's simple smell test; "
That's stupid!"
Sample distances? That ain't a hundred or two hundred yards! Get a tape if you don't believe me.
How will you "really" use the flashlight?
What will be your "true" working distance?
"No" flashlight works, for all distances.
"No" single flashlight works, for all lighting needs or conditions.
"Quality" is always money well spent.
Spouses "don't" understand, so just grow a pair and do it.
"Don't" fall in love with your flashlight, it's a tool to be used, not loved.
"No" flashlight works, if you don't have it in your hand.
I "need" (not want) a work related flashlight (that I can use at home) which works for a given distance, doesn't fail me at the edges of my given distance, fills in the deep shadows, yet isn't so bright the beam burns a hole in what you're looking at with it's hot spot; thrower vs flooder. An overpowered or underpowered light, for the distance, effectively ruins the joy of it's usefulness. We have different hammers, screwdrivers and pliers, so I don't see a need to try and find a one-size fits all flashlight. In truth, if you're in it for just a flashlight and not in it for the collecting, bragging or hobby aspects, it boils down to how much money can you throw at the project; the act of buying a flashlight (or several flashlights) to service your flashlight needs. I have to say, this is a good time to be buying flashlights as the era of quality flashlights has begun; matured industry.
If I were to buy a single flashlight and call it a day, I'd recommend the
RRT-2, plus rechargeable batteries and a quality carry case. No junk allowed.
If I were to buy only two lights, I'd buy the yet to be released
RRT-3 or a
M2S and a
RRT-0. YMMV as it all depends on what your lighting needs are and the size of your lighting budget.
Now if I were to buy three lights.....
:naughty:
(The above comments are all my personally biased opinions, based upon what I've read on the pages of this forum and my limited personal high-end flashlight experience.)
Hope the above helps.