Ordered a Arc 6 Yesterday

[SFfanman]

Well it looks like more drama to add to this post. I was programing my light and when I got to the third stage it got real hot and shut off and it was a new fully charged battery also. I opened it up a smoke came out of it. I put it in front of a fan to cool it off and then tried a new battery and as you probable guessed the light no longer works now and it smells burnt inside. I guess this light is toast. I will call Maria in the morning and send it back but I will not be getting a new one. I was very happy with how Maria stepped up and took care of me but I am tired of the hole thing now and will just get my money back. I am not going to rush into buying another light right away till this matter is taken care of, I will wait till my money has been credited back to my charge card. As to what light I will be buying in the future time will tell.:thinking:

Holy Smokkes man!!!😱 That is terrible news. Your experience gave me hope that everything might work right with mine afterall........when I did finally receive it. What kind of batteries did you use? Where they protected on unprotected? Were you able to tell which part got fried? :shakehead

 

[fyrstormer]

Well it looks like more drama to add to this post. I was programing my light and when I got to the third stage it got real hot and shut off and it was a new fully charged battery also. I opened it up a smoke came out of it. I put it in front of a fan to cool it off and then tried a new battery and as you probable guessed the light no longer works now and it smells burnt inside. I guess this light is toast. I will call Maria in the morning and send it back but I will not be getting a new one. I was very happy with how Maria stepped up and took care of me but I am tired of the hole thing now and will just get my money back. I am not going to rush into buying another light right away till this matter is taken care of, I will wait till my money has been credited back to my charge card. As to what light I will be buying in the future time will tell.:thinking:

That really sucks man, there must've been a little extra solder somewhere and it shorted out. :sigh: I wish things were running more smoothly at Arc, because I don't regret my purchases for a minute, but it's hard to recommend them when I hear stuff like this.

 

[jimmy1970]

Well it looks like more drama to add to this post. I was programing my light and when I got to the third stage it got real hot and shut off and it was a new fully charged battery also. I opened it up a smoke came out of it. I put it in front of a fan to cool it off and then tried a new battery and as you probable guessed the light no longer works now and it smells burnt inside. I guess this light is toast. I will call Maria in the morning and send it back but I will not be getting a new one. I was very happy with how Maria stepped up and took care of me but I am tired of the hole thing now and will just get my money back. I am not going to rush into buying another light right away till this matter is taken care of, I will wait till my money has been credited back to my charge card. As to what light I will be buying in the future time will tell.:thinking:

You sure are going through the wars on this light aren't you?!:shakehead Every manufacturer has the odd faulty unit - that's where faultless CS comes into play. If the CS is not up to speed, that's when the manufacturer starts getting cancelled orders/returns.

Go get yourself a Ra Clicky and you wil be a happy camper - guaranteed!

Good luck,

James....🙂

 

[Per-Sev]

Holy Smokkes man!!!😱 That is terrible news. Your experience gave me hope that everything might work right with mine afterall........when I did finally receive it. What kind of batteries did you use? Where they protected on unprotected? Were you able to tell which part got fried? :shakehead

They were unprotected and I got them with the light so they are the ones they recommend for the light. I could not see anything burnt it just blew out a puff of smoke when I opened it and it smelled really bad, everything looks fine in there but nothing works now. Even if it started to work for some strange reason I would still return it all I need is a fire in my pocket.

 

[Per-Sev]

You sure are going through the wars on this light aren't you?!:shakehead Every manufacturer has the odd faulty unit - that's where faultless CS comes into play. If the CS is not up to speed, that's when the manufacturer starts getting cancelled orders/returns.

Go get yourself a Ra Clicky and you wil be a happy camper - guaranteed!

Good luck,

James....🙂

I was thinking about a Ra but the one thing I don't like is the pocket clip on that, I am starting to dislike 123 cells I might just stick with AA or AAA lights for a while, less chance of burning a hole through my leg.

 

[member 6142]

Daberti, lets see if anyone owns both a ARC 6 and a RA and lets see what light they like best. I can only comment on the ARC 6 and since you seem to dislike them so much I will assume you have never owned one, or you have and that is why you dislike them. So lets here from people who have owned both lights and get some hands on opinions. Remember please only post if you have owned a RA and a ARC 6 and give a side by side actual hands on review.
I was also wondering where you get the tritium vials that will fit the ARC 6 and how do you put them in do you have to epoxy them or do they have a adhesive strip on them. Thanks

No tritium to Italy to private buyers: hazardous materials.
As I stated above I played with Arc6 a couple of nights on a trekking session. A mate of mine had Arc6.
I agree with you for the remaining.

 

[member 6142]

You sure are going through the wars on this light aren't you?!:shakehead Every manufacturer has the odd faulty unit - that's where faultless CS comes into play. If the CS is not up to speed, that's when the manufacturer starts getting cancelled orders/returns.

Go get yourself a Ra Clicky and you wil be a happy camper - guaranteed!

Good luck,

James....🙂

Another Arc6 problem....another Ra Clicky suggestion :naughty:

 

[member 6142]

I was thinking about a Ra but the one thing I don't like is the pocket clip on that, I am starting to dislike 123 cells I might just stick with AA or AAA lights for a while, less chance of burning a hole through my leg.

Stay tuned with new compact 1x123 fom EagleTac 😉

Edit: the Ra clip can be dremeled though 😉

 

[member 6142]

I've seen that one. Apparently we all, including me, have implied limits for how much of one quality we're willing to sacrifice to get more of another -- such as runtime and build quality, which I believe you mentioned before. I owned a D-Mini VX Ultra MC-E for a few days; it was crazy-bright, yes, but it was awkwardly-shaped and the machining quality was crap compared to my Arc6. (the plastic internals were a particular turn-off.) I find it hard to believe you'd like it very much if you value the build quality of the Ra Clicky, and if you don't like the runtime on the Arc6, then you definitely don't like the runtime on the D-Mini VX Ultra. But then, since you sell them, I bet you love them.

You're RIGHT about the quality of machining. This is something I'm working with Ricky to be improved as I'm sending him tons of suggestions about his next to come EDC as well. Yet VX Ultra SSC tells us that we're now on the 2A with 1x123 compact (not properly pocketable) flashlights.
I'm waiting from Darkzero a KL4/P7 head which draws 2.7A at led. But boy, here we're in another realm 😉

 

[Elmie]

Wow....what's going on with Arc?

I have a K2 Arc6...paid a $hitload for it 😛 It's the famous ebay batch that Peter himself built. I have had zero problems with mine. It's bright as hell and just destroys my LS27 on high (LS27 high output has been modded). It saddens me to hear all these issues...

I once was a huge fan of Henry with his HDS EDC's, but with RA's I just couldn't do it. I hate that he made the light bigger and ugly too *puts on flame suit* 🙂 That said, I still have a first run HDC EDC U60.

I'm really surprised to hear all the logistical issues that Arc has now. Mind you I haven't ordered anythign from them in the past 2 yrs now since getting the Arc6. They always ship by Fedex to me and usually takes about 2-3 days to arrive (Canada).

 

[chef4850]

Well as I said yesterday recieved the light and it was growing on me.........UNTIL! the died last evening. I did not run it on high for more than a few seconds just to see how bright it was (usually use the lower settings on any light). So here is what is happening.

When I initially turn on the light it lights up on the low mode and with in a couple seconds it almost shuts off. The led gets so dim it is barely even noticable. I have cleaned, checked kilroy hight, different batteries and still the same thing. What a shame!

Called Maria yesterday and she said that she would get another in the mail today with pre paid envelope for the return. I really hope this doesn't take another month to get the second one. When I get the second one if it doesn't work out I will opt for the refund. I just want a "working" light and with the WAAAAAAYYYYYY to long wait for the first I have a "bad taste" in my mouth. Hope the second one is better.

Just a shame that this is or was supposed to be "one of the lights to have". Dissapointing to say the least. Just hope that they are in fact getting another in the mail today and I do not have to go through all the fuss like with the first.

Chef

 

[Per-Sev]

Well here is the end of the story. I called Maria told her what happen she asked me if I wanted another light that would not ship out till Friday I said no I want my money Back. End of story. I take back everything I said that I would buy another light from ARC I will not be buying anymore lights from ARC this was the end of the line for me. I have never went through so much for so little. I did have fun talking to everyone and hearing all your stories and I did learn quite a bit. I will never buy a light just because I like what there web site has to say. I will research my next light in depth. Thanks

 

[Gatsby]

I'm sorry several folks have had their stories end unfortunately.

The Arc6 represents some important things for an EDC light - it continued the McLux basic chassis and UI which many people love (and to some degree lament it's passing), but was smaller than the comparable PD lights, smaller than a Novatac, smaller than a Ra, smaller than a Surefire E1L/B or L1, and was equally bright albeit for shorter times.

It's unfortunate that reliability and customer service is dampening the appeal.

As for the Ra lights I've held off on one mostly because as someone else noted, they are quite ugly, and they are also bigger than the predecessor Arc4/HDS/Novatac lights. I've upgraded my Novatac with a K2 TFFC and it puts out plenty of light for my needs so I don't have a compelling need. But if I did I'd have a hard time going with the current Ra design. The Novatac is about as big an EDC as I care for and the Ra is headed in the wrong direction.

But Henry wasn't really setting out to make an EDC light in my opinion, despite the name, as he overlooked form factor almost entirely in the Ra design. I believe he really is making a work/tool light. To me at least the ruggedness of the light and tank like qualities were primary in his design, and for a light that is used in hard environments as a tool that is probably not a bad choice. Not the least of which is the option to carry it in a holster in that kind of environment and use. I have to pocket carry in my office so that really isn't an option for me and for many. Take the bezel for example. The aluminum bezel on the HDS B/U series was a real weak spot - one that was addressed both with after market bezels, as well as with the stock stainless bezel in the Novatac lights. FWIW the huge stainless bezel on the Ra is overkill for most average EDC users. I've dropped my Novatac once and the stock bezel was more than sufficient to protect the integrity of the bezel end. It wasn't from 15 feet but I don't use the light 15 feet above ground with any regularity - and if I do I'll use a lanyard to provide additional security!

What I really wish Henry would design and make is a truly pocketable EDC light - with the same UI and circuitry but in a smaller 1x123 form factor. I'd sacrifice a bit of ruggedness for a more EDC friendly format.

 

[member 6142]

I'm sorry several folks have had their stories end unfortunately.

The Arc6 represents some important things for an EDC light - it continued the McLux basic chassis and UI which many people love (and to some degree lament it's passing), but was smaller than the comparable PD lights, smaller than a Novatac, smaller than a Ra, smaller than a Surefire E1L/B or L1, and was equally bright albeit for shorter times.

It's unfortunate that reliability and customer service is dampening the appeal.

As for the Ra lights I've held off on one mostly because as someone else noted, they are quite ugly, and they are also bigger than the predecessor Arc4/HDS/Novatac lights. I've upgraded my Novatac with a K2 TFFC and it puts out plenty of light for my needs so I don't have a compelling need. But if I did I'd have a hard time going with the current Ra design. The Novatac is about as big an EDC as I care for and the Ra is headed in the wrong direction.

But Henry wasn't really setting out to make an EDC light in my opinion, despite the name, as he overlooked form factor almost entirely in the Ra design. I believe he really is making a work/tool light. To me at least the ruggedness of the light and tank like qualities were primary in his design, and for a light that is used in hard environments as a tool that is probably not a bad choice. Not the least of which is the option to carry it in a holster in that kind of environment and use. I have to pocket carry in my office so that really isn't an option for me and for many. Take the bezel for example. The aluminum bezel on the HDS B/U series was a real weak spot - one that was addressed both with after market bezels, as well as with the stock stainless bezel in the Novatac lights. FWIW the huge stainless bezel on the Ra is overkill for most average EDC users. I've dropped my Novatac once and the stock bezel was more than sufficient to protect the integrity of the bezel end. It wasn't from 15 feet but I don't use the light 15 feet above ground with any regularity - and if I do I'll use a lanyard to provide additional security!

What I really wish Henry would design and make is a truly pocketable EDC light - with the same UI and circuitry but in a smaller 1x123 form factor. I'd sacrifice a bit of ruggedness for a more EDC friendly format.

Your post is quite fair and balanced.
Just some remarks though.
If you look for a ultra pocketable EDC there are many out there, included 47's MiNI line. If you look for something configurable (led, output, tailcap switch, bezel, lens....) mantaining the form factor of Arc6 you've to go in the custom making realm.
Henry did make an EDC that is still pocketable (even in my sundek's back pouch), built as a tank for every possible use. EDC is quite limiting to this extent. I'm quite sure he could possibly build a CR2 Clicky or Twisty. But he must have considered many factors and reliability at each and every output level and in every environment are his own goals. That have been achieved since HDS times.
Support: Henry gave support of HDS line to Novatac at time of their "joint venture". Novatac didn't fullfill what it was kept to. Thus Novatac will be never worth a penny by my wallet.
Once back to the market as RaLights, Henry resumed support of HDS. I cannot even figure what more could be asked.

Arc6 is a beautiful flashlight on the chart. Yet support sucks, delivery is a mistery and possibly we could talk about other problems. It is a sin.

 

[JNewell]

Well here is the end of the story. I called Maria told her what happen she asked me if I wanted another light that would not ship out till Friday I said no I want my money Back. End of story. I take back everything I said that I would buy another light from ARC I will not be buying anymore lights from ARC this was the end of the line for me. I have never went through so much for so little. I did have fun talking to everyone and hearing all your stories and I did learn quite a bit. I will never buy a light just because I like what there web site has to say. I will research my next light in depth. Thanks

I had been planning to buy an Arc 6 in spite of my difficulties with a prior order. This thread has totally convinced me to skip it. :thumbsdow :sick2: 😡

 

[Elmie]

Solution to the problem is finding one is B/S/T 🙂 At least this way you know that the light is working and you will receive it!

I really can't believe how bad it's gotten...truly at a lost for words here.

 

[jimmy1970]

As for the Ra lights I've held off on one mostly because as someone else noted, they are quite ugly, and they are also bigger than the predecessor Arc4/HDS/Novatac lights. I've upgraded my Novatac with a K2 TFFC and it puts out plenty of light for my needs so I don't have a compelling need. But if I did I'd have a hard time going with the current Ra design. The Novatac is about as big an EDC as I care for and the Ra is headed in the wrong direction.

But Henry wasn't really setting out to make an EDC light in my opinion, despite the name, as he overlooked form factor almost entirely in the Ra design. I believe he really is making a work/tool light. To me at least the ruggedness of the light and tank like qualities were primary in his design, and for a light that is used in hard environments as a tool that is probably not a bad choice. Not the least of which is the option to carry it in a holster in that kind of environment and use. I have to pocket carry in my office so that really isn't an option for me and for many. Take the bezel for example. The aluminum bezel on the HDS B/U series was a real weak spot - one that was addressed both with after market bezels, as well as with the stock stainless bezel in the Novatac lights. FWIW the huge stainless bezel on the Ra is overkill for most average EDC users. I've dropped my Novatac once and the stock bezel was more than sufficient to protect the integrity of the bezel end. It wasn't from 15 feet but I don't use the light 15 feet above ground with any regularity - and if I do I'll use a lanyard to provide additional security!

What I really wish Henry would design and make is a truly pocketable EDC light - with the same UI and circuitry but in a smaller 1x123 form factor. I'd sacrifice a bit of ruggedness for a more EDC friendly format.

I've had an original Novatac Serial 10006 and I agree that it was a great light. Somehow, the recent Novatacs don't seem to be as good as the original.

It is true that the Clicky is bigger and heavier than the Novatac but hey, I wouldn't call it ugly!! The light is overbuilt for EDC use in my opinion - but I like things that are over-engineered. Looking at some of my current torch collection, the MD2/MD3, Surefire 6P, Surefire A2, Surefire U2A, Ra Clicky 140Cn, Peak Eiger, etc - they are all theoretically over built IMHO.

But that is part of their charm for me as a consumer. There aren't many manufacturers prepared to design and build a product in such a way to make it better than it needs to be.

James.....🙂

 

[Per-Sev]

Since my first encounter with 123 RCR's was a disaster I want a light to run on AA or AAA and I took a liking to the Quark AA2 Turbo Cree XP-G R5. Since I have had good luck with my Preon II Ti I decided to stay with Quark for now. I read some good things and a few bad on some of the threads here and I know its a good size light but I like the features and the price of $73 is not bad. Considering all the crap I went through with the ARC and I still have to return it and wait for them to credit my charge I did not want to tie up a lot of money and I did need a second light so after this is all settled I might look into having a light made just how I want it. So for now the Preon II and the R5 will have to hold me over. I don't think I will ever own another light that takes 123 cells, I will get a lot a comments from this statement but when there are some nice lights that just take simple AA or AAA and get the long run time with the lumens they are able to produce that is all I will need. I would still love a handmade titanium light I just would want it to use AA or AAA batteries with 3 brightness levels and put a McGizmo pocket clip and a clicky and you have my light. Who wants to make me one for under $500.

 

[carrot]

Per-Sev, it sounds like a McGizmo Haiku with the optional 2xAA body would be right up your alley. I won't comment on your feelings about 123's, but I think most know my highly positive opinion of them.

 

[Per-Sev]

Per-Sev, it sounds like a McGizmo Haiku with the optional 2xAA body would be right up your alley. I won't comment on your feelings about 123's, but I think most know my highly positive opinion of them.

I just looked at that and its a option and adds $210 to the $440 price tag and that is too much for me to spend right now on a light. I have a Quark AA2 Turbo R5 coming and that will work for now. Thanks for the heads up it is a good idea I wish he offered it without having to buy both set ups.