[Newbie] Jetbeam BC40 or...?

[hcanning]

Hi all,

First post here but I've been looking around for quite some time. It's certainly a wealth of info! :)

Anyway my question is, I fancy a new general purpose torch. I guess my main criteria is build quality and brightness.

I've been looking at the Jetbeam BC40 and for the budget (it's £70, about as much as I want to spend really) it seems unbeatable.

Should I go for it? Or look at something else?


Thanks!

 

[joe1512]

I am not really a huge fan for several reasons:

1) Batteries. They need very expensive CR123s OR rechargable 18650s which have a decent amount of initial-cost built into them. They are useless for anything else.

2) 2 modes only - Some like the simplicity but for a general purpose light, I really like having at least 3 brightness levels.

3) Unnecessarily big. 2x18650 is kind of overkill for a general purpose light. Hard to pocket due to big reflector.

4) Lots of THROW. A high throw light with big reflector makes for a bad work-light. It will have very concentrated beam which is blinding, while not lighting up the surrounding area very well. I prefer a light that is floody.


I would look at some of the 2xAA lights instead as 200 lumens should be plenty and it will be easier to carry. Also has multiple modes. An old itp A6 Polestar can probably be found on sale and it has 6xAA size with a similar 600ish lumens. Has 5 modes, 3 brightness levels. The TK41 is the more modern version but is more expensive.

If you don;t mind the 18650/CR123....
The Klarus XT10 looks pretty nice and is 1x18650 or CR123x2. There are several other 1x18650/2xCR123 lights that might be more compact and easier to carry.
The Fenix TK35 is similar in brightness, but might be a bit more compact.

 

[ScaryFatKidGT]

Id say get the TK35 also but its more money, but also has more brightness levels for up close stuff.W

What kind of light are you looking for? When are you going to carry it?

 

[trevordurden]

Why do you need 830 lumens for? I got my first 800+ Lumen torch (Fenix TK41) and now I'm wishing that I didn't get something smaller instead. It's fun for the first month or so to watch people's jaws drop, but then after that it the size becomes an annoyance.

Have you looked at any single 18650 lights?