Question - Surefire Z3 or L4

[Davey]

Im new to the flashlight scene but have always been interested now I’ve stumbled upon this forum I just have to buy one! But it’s a hard decision between the Surefire Z3 and the L4.. Im after a powerful torch which I get from the Z3 with P91 attachment but all the rave seems to be the L4. I’ve found them at similar prices can anyone shed some light on what one is better. (Sorry for the newbie post..)

 

[Xrunner]

Hello, welcome to CPF! It all comes down to throw... the Z3 has it and the L4 doesn't so much. You also have to factor in runtime, the L5 will run for about 50 minutes on 2x123's, with the Z3 (w/ a P91) running for only 20 minutes on 3x123's. Is there any special reason you are only considering the Z3, and not something like an E2e or Z2?

-Mike

 

[Davey]

well on the site the E2e maxes out at 60 lumens for 75 minutes where as the Z3 i can get 105 lumens for 60 minutes
and i have the option of putting on the P91 for 200 lumens if i need the power. or is there something i dont understand, Thanks. and batteries arnt really a problem im after POWER!! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[chamenos]

if you're after power, then a Z3, C3, M3, or M3T would be what you're looking for. from what i've read, the L4 is puts out a much more diffuse beam that doesn't throw too far. if you want the ultimate in throw and power, then get the M3T /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[Size15's]

Welcome to CPF Davey!

If you're after "POWER" then the M3T, M4 or M6 should be your list to pick from. May as well go straight to the M6.

Al

 

[Double_A]

Yea what Al said.

GregR

 

[Deanster]

I own both, and like them both very much, but they're so wildly different, it's hard to compare or decide between them.

L4 - an amazing amount of light for a teeny light - very nice, very white, great for lighting up the whole backyard with a diffuse light. I carry mine in my daily carry bag, and use it regularly.

Z3 - I describe this as 'the brightest light I can shove into a pocket'. I actually end up using it more than my M6, because with the P91, it's darn near as bright as the M6 LOLA, and in a MUCH smaller package. I keep the M6 near my bed as my 'bump in the night' light, but the Z3 lives in the guest bedroom for when I'm in there because the kids are sleeping with my wife (sick, etc.).

The 'spot' nature of the Z3's beam is remarkable, and it's so much more focused than the L4, that it's hard to compare.

That's a long way of saying 'L4 for daily carry, Z3 for occasional semi-pocketable power, M6 for when you know you'll need it, and can put it someplace besides your pocket.'

 

[Davey]

Thanks so much for the feedback, based on what your saying about the power of the Z3 i cant resist and have ordered one already with a P91 Bulb, i cant really afford a M6 at the moment so ill get the Z3 first... no doubt ill end up with every dam light known to man! Seems to be the trend on these forums =) now Im looking at the GG&G TID attachment any comments on that anyone?

 

[pjandyho]

Guess it is a little late for me to chip in my 2 cents worth but I will still do it nevertheless. The Z3 as what I know is equipt with a Lexan lens which is only moderately resistant to heat so having the P91 turned on for too long in your bag (by accident) will melt the lens. That happens to my friend's Z3 even though he is using only the P90. What I heard is that the new breed of Z3 comes with the Pyrex lens but I am not sure.

You could opt for the C3 too which is built-in with a Pyrex lens.

Andy Ho