Noob looking for a specific light recommendation.

[oranges]

Hi guys. I am more of a knife guy, but have been looking for a flashlight to accompany me in my edc. I am looking for a light ready to go out of the box. Not looking to modify it. I plan on carrying the light, but won't be abusing it. I would like one with an assault crown. Nothing too big as I am a minimalist. I have been looking and it seems there are so few options with an assault crown. I have been eyeing a Surefire 6P LED Defender. But then I have heard people talk about some Surefires giving issue with their tailcaps and such? I don't want to deal with that, if possible. I then saw some Ultrafire ones with good reviews that seem to cost a fraction of what the 6p does.

Any help or guidance, besides "STFF Noob", is greatly appreciated. Thanks again.

 

[1dash1]

If the 6P form factor is acceptable to you and you really want a crenelated bezel, I suggest trying the E2DL.

P.S. This is a polite forum, no one here is going to tell you to ST*F. However, quite a few will advise you to do your homework and Search The Forum.

P.P.S. As a minimalist, I'd suggest that you consider a used L0D CE running on a 10440 battery (the output is boosted by overdriving the light on lithiums) or, if you're not into recharging batteries, a new LD01 running on AAA's (very bright running stock on AAA's).

 

[325addict]

You might also consider a Fenix TK10 or TK11. You can look at them on www.fenix-store.com

I suggest the newest version of the TK11 with the higher efficiency R2 LED, which is even better than the Q5:

https://www.fenix-store.com/product_info.php?cPath=22_85&products_id=650

I think, this will be the light for you.


Too big? Take a look at the Fenix P1D. This one is only 7,1cm long, runs on one CR123A battery but.... has no striking bezel!

I personally don't know of any issue with Surefire tailcaps, but I don't know everything! When considering a small SureFire, I can recommend this one:

The 6P LED-defender: http://www.surefire.com/6PDL OR:
The E2D LED-defender: http://www.surefire.com/E2DL

Want a smaller Surefire, running from 1X CR123A? Then, you might as well consider the L1 LumaMax:

http://www.surefire.com/L1-LumaMax


I hope, this helps you to find out which one you like most. There's soooo many too choose from...

Timmo.

 

[oranges]

If the 6P form factor is acceptable to you and you really want a crenelated bezel, I suggest trying the E2DL.

P.S. This is a polite forum, no one here is going to tell you to ST*F. However, quite a few will advise you to do your homework and Search The Forum.

P.P.S. As a minimalist, I'd suggest that you consider a used L0D CE running on a 10440 battery (the output is boosted by overdriving the light on lithiums) or, if you're not into recharging batteries, a new LD01 running on AAA's (very bright running stock on AAA's).

Thank you very much! I didn't know what to search. I am as green as it gets when it comes to flashlights. I recently saw a photo of a flashlight with the crown on it and that is what peaked my interest. I really am a big believer in searching before posting, but I had no idea where to start in this case. Appreciate the info.

I will definitely check out the LOD CE you speak of. LD01 as well. I can have no problem charging. Basically just want something reliable, that has no history of breakdowns. Other than that, very flexible on brand, price, bulb, casing, etc.

 

[kicken_bright]

Although they are not as recognized of a brand, I would recommend solarforce L2.

Here's the solarforce website that has all of their products.
http://www.solarforcestore.com/servlet/StoreFront

although I currently don't own one, I have heard they are good quality!:twothumbs

 

[Zeruel]

+1 Surefire E2D Led. :thumbsup:
For something else at a fraction of the cost, Solarforce L2 R2 Cree, choice of black, gunmetal and stainless steel. If you prefer something smaller, go for Nitecore Extreme or Defender Infinity. Only L2 and Extreme has detachable assault bezel option.

 

[oranges]

You might also consider a Fenix TK10 or TK11. You can look at them on www.fenix-store.com

I suggest the newest version of the TK11 with the higher efficiency R2 LED, which is even better than the Q5:

https://www.fenix-store.com/product_info.php?cPath=22_85&products_id=650

I think, this will be the light for you.


Too big? Take a look at the Fenix P1D. This one is only 7,1cm long, runs on one CR123A battery but.... has no striking bezel!

I personally don't know of any issue with Surefire tailcaps, but I don't know everything! When considering a small SureFire, I can recommend this one:

The 6P LED-defender: http://www.surefire.com/6PDL OR:
The E2D LED-defender: http://www.surefire.com/E2DL

Want a smaller Surefire, running from 1X CR123A? Then, you might as well consider the L1 LumaMax:

http://www.surefire.com/L1-LumaMax


I hope, this helps you to find out which one you like most. There's soooo many too choose from...

Timmo.

Awesome information too! Thanks so much. I really really like the 6P LED Defender. Aesthetically, it is right on with what I want. I actually heard the tailcap issues on a knife forum when people were talking about their edc. A few seemed to echo the sentiment. No idea though. But I consider you guys the experts, hence my posting here. haha

I am also LOVING that Fenix you suggested. Only thing, it looks like the crown is not as "aggressive" on it as the Surefire seems to be.

I appreciate your help. It is definitely helping a lot. Would you recommend the Fenix or Surefire over the other? I really have no idea which is which. Price isn't a factor for me on them. Thanks again.

 

[oranges]

Although they are not as recognized of a brand, I would recommend solarforce L2.

Here's the solarforce website that has all of their products.
http://www.solarforcestore.com/servlet/StoreFront

although I currently don't own one, I have heard they are good quality!:twothumbs

Thank you sir. Well check out their products as well. Name brand means nothing to me. Just want something reliable.

 

[oranges]

+1 Surefire E2D Led. :thumbsup:
For something else at a fraction of the cost, Solarforce L2 R2 Cree, choice of black, gunmetal and stainless steel. If you prefer something smaller, go for Nitecore Extreme or Defender Infinity. Only L2 and Extreme has detachable assault bezel option.

Thanks! I would really like to have that bezel, so will look for the L2 and Extreme. Thanks!!!

 

[tx101]

Is that "Assault" enough for you
The 6P is the one on the right

 

[RGB_LED]

oranges, first of all, :welcome:! Second, you were asking about issues with SF's and tailcaps... I personally have never experienced any failures on any of my SF lights which include a SF 6PD. As for whether they are worth the money... that is whole other can of worms that is best left unopened; there are supportes and detractors. For me, they are solid tools that are capable of withstanding tons of abuse but there are other lights that are just as well-made and sturdy.

Re: your question regarding Ultrafires; generally speaking, they are inexpensive lights and can be considered decent value for money by those who purchase and use them. Be forewarned: sometimes you can get some real gems and other times, they are duds. I have purchased a few UF AA / 14500 lights but are a little rough in terms of machining, lube, o-rings, etc.

If you want solid and reliable out of the box and similar to SF, there's the aforementioned Fenix, also check out the Dereelight CL1H, RaidFire Spear, Olight M20 Warrior is another one - check this link. Fyi, the Solarforce is a SF clone that appears to be quite well-made. You may also want to check out the Reviews section for a detailed look at some of the lights.

A couple of questions for you: you mentioned that you wanted an edc light - just curious to know if size is a factor. Although there are many who don't mind edc'ing a 5.5" - 6.0" light such as the SF 6P (2xCR123), there are also many more who consider a edc light to be a bit smaller such as a 1xAA or 1x123 light. Also, do you have any preference for battery types? Or, is 2xCR123 fine or preferable?

Good luck with your search.

 

[bullfrog]

+1 Surefire E2D Led. :thumbsup:

This gets my vote as well. Add a F04 beam diffuser and you have the perfect package. It is MUCH less bulky than the 6PD.

If you spend the $$$ for the E2DL, I think it is the last light you will need for EDC and will be well worth the investment. You can usually score one on the marketplace for between $110 and $120.

Welcome to CPF!!!

 

[Gunner12]

IMO an Assault bezel doesn't do much if the person you are using it on is drugged or has his/her mind set on hurting you(that's a guns and self defense training's job).

All the lights that have been recommended are good lights. I'll throw in another one, the Nitecore Extreme.

:welcome:

 

[oranges]

Is that "Assault" enough for you
The 6P is the one on the right

Where the heck can I get one like that?? The one I saw was like baby teeth, that is like a full on shark!

 

[oranges]

oranges, first of all, :welcome:! Second, you were asking about issues with SF's and tailcaps... I personally have never experienced any failures on any of my SF lights which include a SF 6PD. As for whether they are worth the money... that is whole other can of worms that is best left unopened; there are supportes and detractors. For me, they are solid tools that are capable of withstanding tons of abuse but there are other lights that are just as well-made and sturdy.

Re: your question regarding Ultrafires; generally speaking, they are inexpensive lights and can be considered decent value for money by those who purchase and use them. Be forewarned: sometimes you can get some real gems and other times, they are duds. I have purchased a few UF AA / 14500 lights but are a little rough in terms of machining, lube, o-rings, etc.

If you want solid and reliable out of the box and similar to SF, there's the aforementioned Fenix, also check out the Dereelight CL1H, RaidFire Spear, Olight M20 Warrior is another one - check this link. Fyi, the Solarforce is a SF clone that appears to be quite well-made. You may also want to check out the Reviews section for a detailed look at some of the lights.

A couple of questions for you: you mentioned that you wanted an edc light - just curious to know if size is a factor. Although there are many who don't mind edc'ing a 5.5" - 6.0" light such as the SF 6P (2xCR123), there are also many more who consider a edc light to be a bit smaller such as a 1xAA or 1x123 light. Also, do you have any preference for battery types? Or, is 2xCR123 fine or preferable?

Good luck with your search.

Awesome post. Thank you for the welcome. I look forward to much posting together.:twothumbs
I completely understand Surefire being worth the money. I will NEVER ask such a question. I am a big believer in paying for something if it truly is a great product. When I heard the talk of the tailcap issues(which now seems to be null and void) I started to worry that perhaps the 6P wasn't what I wanted.

Thanks for the warning on Ultrafires. I guess I was being a bit naive thinking it would be ok. I don't like the idea of a crap shoot in terms of getting lucky on getting a good product or not. I am happy to pay more, for peace of mind to know that the product I buy will be right the first time I use it.

Thanks for the link and other suggestions. I am gonna check them out too. There are just soooo many options. AHHH!!!! And I just want to be clear, I am not trying to cut corners when it comes to spending money. If a product is truly best, let me know. I am all aboard. Not trying to save a few bucks here. Just want to make sure I am getting the best product.

Truthfully, I am not sure what size is OK. I don't want anything Miniscule. But I also don't want to be walking around with a nightstick on my belt. The 6P photos seem to show an ideal size? I think around there. The E2D seemed a bit big... but then again, maybe its just a bit more slender?

I am so new to flashlights. Not sure what battery I want. Rechargeables are OK, regular, or CRs are fine too. Whatever I can use that isn't going to die real fast, or isn't an ultra rare battery that I have to find online only.

 

[oranges]

This gets my vote as well. Add a F04 beam diffuser and you have the perfect package. It is MUCH less bulky than the 6PD.

If you spend the $$$ for the E2DL, I think it is the last light you will need for EDC and will be well worth the investment. You can usually score one on the marketplace for between $110 and $120.

Welcome to CPF!!!

Nice. Thank you for the welcome! I worried the E2D was a bit too thin. But you bring a good point about bulk. I wanted something to wear on my belt. So bulk does matter for sure. I like the idea of it being the last light I'll need.

 

[oranges]

IMO an Assault bezel doesn't do much if the person you are using it on is drugged or has his/her mind set on hurting you(that's a guns and self defense training's job).

All the lights that have been recommended are good lights. I'll throw in another one, the Nitecore Extreme.

:welcome:

I'd rather bludgeon someone with the crown then my knife. Makes life easier that way. Not too concerned about being out skilled. If it happens, it happens. Just want a solid dependable light that has that added point to it. Thanks for the welcome. Appreciate the link!

 

[angelofwar]

:welcome: A good knife/light combo is the C2/Z2 series. I'd try a C2L-BK with a black defender bezel. Goes good with benchmades!

 

[hyperloop]

a new LD01 running on AAA's (very bright running stock on AAA's).

+1 on that, i got myself an LD01 and am very pleased with the performance, used it all night on a night fishing trip out at sea and hung it on a neck lanyard, never felt its weight at all. Other than that, it now sits on my keychain and the E01 is relegated to home navigation now.

 

[hyperloop]

I am so new to flashlights. Not sure what battery I want. Rechargeables are OK, regular, or CRs are fine too. Whatever I can use that isn't going to die real fast, or isn't an ultra rare battery that I have to find online only.

I live in Singapore and batteries here are EXPENSIVE so I had to go the rechargable route. I resisted getting what i thought were 'rare' batteries but realised that in the long run, it made sense.

18650s are a great combination of power and runtime and i strongly recommend AW's batteries, you can order them (including the charger) HERE

To go along with 18650 cells (or batteries) get a Jetbeam Jet III Military with assault crown, it's a great light and gives you the option of running it on 18650s or 2xCR123s or 2xRCR123s. You can check out a greatreview of the light HERE

Good luck with your EDC light hunt!