Ra Ra Ra - does an LF3XT lover need a RA too?

[DHart]

Well, RA sure has been getting a lot of attention around here and from what I've read, they're no doubt excellent lights!

So, being the flashaholic that I am and really not NEEDING any more flashlights at this point, I'm still wondering (on a daily basis!) if a Ra would bring something to my flashlight experience that I'm lacking with my Liteflux LF3XT and I don't know it yet.

Does anyone here have both a RA and an LF3XT to directly compare, day-to-day, for an evaluation between the two.

Right now, I'm thrilled with what the LF3XT does.... I can't imagine a general purpose light getting much better than this... but I am wondering, does the RA offer something the LF3XT doesn't offer? Sure would appreciate your thoughts...

 

[mbassoc2003]

IMO, what your title should have said was Ra Ra Ra - does an LF3XT lover need a RA instead? Yes they do. I find the LF3XT to be an abismal light. I've had it les that a week and it only cam out of it's box to see that it worked. The production quality is passable, but the lack of tactile response from the button is horrific, the built in delays in the UIs are a fantastic pain in the arse, and you comparing the two, you can really tell the difference between quality engineering and cheap crap.

IMO, you can tell a lot about a man and his abilities based on the tools he chooses to carry. If you meet a guy, and he can't tell the difference between good quality workmanship, and poor, he really isn't anyone you want working on your house/car whatever.

Oh, and if you're LF3XT wants a retarded twin brother, I have a brand spanking new one who can join him fot $50.

 

[DHart]

mbassoc...

I've had it (LF3XT) les that a week and it only cam out of it's box to see that it worked.

So you say you don't have any user experience with the light. That puts your comments into clearly into perspective.

Now let me ask this... do you have a Ra? Which model? How long have you been using it?

You say you prefer the switch feel on the Ra. OK. Fair enough. As for myself, it took a little time to warm up to the switch, but it works fine and feels fine to me. While I suppose it could be better, it works well for me. (This is NOT a "tactical" use light for me. I have a number of other lights for that purpose - my application for the LF3XT or RA is general use.)

Here's what I (and many others) love about the LF3XT. Remembers setting to turn on at. Very programmable if you want that, or very simple if you prefer that. Instant to minimum output (which is verrrrry low), instant to MAX output, (still remembers your preferrred level even after going to min or max), and has instant access to ramping for infinite brightness adjustment on the fly. Then there's the remarkably superb beam. Luscious! Build quality is fine. Reliability has been perfect. Built-in voltage tester under load is a very useful and wonderful bonus. Runs well on primaries or 3.7v-4.2v rechargeable. I am very, very happy with the LF3XT. But definitely want to know the Ra better, as I am considering adding one to my flashlights (wouldn't replace my LF3XT) ... that's why I started this thread.

So, what functional advantages does the Ra have that one would make it worth adding to an LF3XT -or- switching over to Ra?

Hows the beam on the Ra? I am extremely happy with the beam on the LF3XT and would hope to have a beam as good on the Ra...

 

[oldpal]

Well, RA sure has been getting a lot of attention around here and from what I've read, they're no doubt excellent lights!

So, being the flashaholic that I am and really not NEEDING any more flashlights at this point, I'm still wondering (on a daily basis!) if a Ra would bring something to my flashlight experience that I'm lacking with my Liteflux LF3XT and I don't know it yet.

Does anyone here have both a RA and an LF3XT to directly compare, day-to-day, for an evaluation between the two.

Right now, I'm thrilled with what the LF3XT does.... I can't imagine a general purpose light getting much better than this... but I am wondering, does the RA offer something the LF3XT doesn't offer? Sure would appreciate your thoughts...

DHart, yes I have both an LF3XT and a Ra EDC Exec. I won't comment on the virtues of the LF3XT. You know how good it is. I just received my Ra yesterday afternoon, so I can't give you much information. It is heavier and about 0.5 inch longer than the XT. The beam is excellent, in fact similar to that of the XT. It appears to be very well made. The Ra Clickys have a sophisticated programmable UI, also like the XT. The default factory settings are very usable. I intend to modify these settings only a little to have the Ra and the XT behave alike. I installed the clip that was supplied, but decided to remove it. It is too big and bright for me. All in all, I am pleased with the Ra and think that it and my LF3XT will be very happy together.

I was going to respond to another post in this thread trashing the LF3XT, but decided not to wast my time.

Hugh

 

[Oddjob]

For general use the Ra is probably not going to give you much more than the Liteflux. In fact its larger size may make it less preferrable for you. The difference IMO would be if you were taking the light into situation requiring a more durable light. I don't know if the LF3XT could withstand the same punishment the Ra can. IMO for your uses you do not need a Ra but if you want a light for serious outdoor activites I would pick one up (or if you just want a new toy to play with).

 

[wingnutLP]

IMO, what your title should have said was Ra Ra Ra - does an LF3XT lover need a RA instead? Yes they do. I find the LF3XT to be an abismal light. I've had it les that a week and it only cam out of it's box to see that it worked. The production quality is passable, but the lack of tactile response from the button is horrific, the built in delays in the UIs are a fantastic pain in the arse, and you comparing the two, you can really tell the difference between quality engineering and cheap eastern crap.

Whenever I see anyone bashing this light this hard I just assume that they are an idiot that can't work out how to program it...

 

[coloradogps]

 

[callmaster]

If someone has a Ra Clicky and can program that. Then there's nothing they can't program.

Could just be personal preference, etc. I'm not a big fan of the LF3XT or the other models in the series.

 

[cave dave]

... The production quality is passable, but the lack of tactile response from the button is horrific, the built in delays in the UIs are a fantastic pain in the arse...

I don't have a LF3xt but I do have a LF5XT and will agree on the above points. The Ra button just feels so much better and I don't notice the much smaller delay.

I will also say trying to own both is a pain because the UI's are similar but different so if you use one then the next day try to use the other you won't get the commands right.

PS I think the beam is much better on the Ra, the narrow beam Ra's have better throw and the LF lights have such narrow spills (tunnel vision) they are hard to use for hiking. Trying to use a LF?XT for hiking is like trying to walk around with two toilet paper tubes taped to your eyeballs.

 

[wingnutLP]

I don't have a LF3xt but I do have a LF5XT and will agree on the above points. The Ra button just feels so much better and I don't notice the much smaller delay.

I will also say trying to own both is a pain because the UI's are similar but different so if you use one then the next day try to use the other you won't get the commands right.

The LF3XT is an evolution of the LF5XT and addresses many of the issues with the former. There is no pause on turning on and only a slight one on turning off. Cycling modes is double click and instantaneous.

The LF3XT is the best beam I have seen I think. It would e interesting to see beamshots that compare the two side by side. The real killer for the RA for me is the size and weight. I accept that it can take a massive amount of pounding but at the end of the day I don't need a heavy built like a tank light as I look after my stuff! Being able to drop my flashlight from two stories up may be a cool party trick but I can't say I have ever in my life treated anything like a flashlight so carelessly...

 

[matrixshaman]

I don't have a LF3xt but I do have a LF5XT and will agree on the above points. The Ra button just feels so much better and I don't notice the much smaller delay.

I will also say trying to own both is a pain because the UI's are similar but different so if you use one then the next day try to use the other you won't get the commands right.

PS I think the beam is much better on the Ra, the narrow beam Ra's have better throw and the LF lights have such narrow spills (tunnel vision) they are hard to use for hiking. Trying to use a LF?XT for hiking is like trying to walk around with two toilet paper tubes taped to your eyeballs.

I'd say the silent smooth switch on the LF3XT is a personal preference. I like both the Ra and the LF3XT switch.

However this is totally wrong in what you are saying about the spill of the LF3XT. It is nearly identical in size to the Ra Clicky and probably even has a bit more light in the spill area than the Ra tactical types or the Osram based models. Overall the Ra will throw a little further but there is certainly no problem with spill on the LF3XT. But then I guess you wouldn't know since you don't own one. Of course if you really want to get away from toilet paper tube tunnel vision a light like this should fill the bill:

600+ Lumen wall of light with more throw than a Ra 140-Cn

 

[WadeF]

The LF3XT has been my EDC as it handles my every day needs very well. If I were to go hiking, I would take other lights along with it, like a Zebralight, etc.

I recently handled a RA Twisty. It was very nice. Felt solid, good beam, cool UI. I have no experience with the RA clicky. If I were to go caving, etc, the RA lights would be preferred to the LF3XT based on how bomb proof they are. I wouldn't carry an RA light as my main EDC because of the size and weight. I just wear my LF3XT my belt in a little P2D holster so it's always at the ready.

For me the pro's of the LF3XT are:

- Very low low (not the lowest I have, but low enough)
- Can be programmed to turn on in the lowest low,
- Once on you can access max output by simply pressing and holding down the button, and a random strobe is available with a tap, then press and hold of the button.
- Smooth beam.
- Accurate voltage report of the battery, I run a AW R123, so it's great to be able to keep an eye on it's status, only takes 5 clicks in a row to access.
- Light is small, can tails stand, can operate all functions via the switch which is silent to operate, allowing for one hand operation.

The con's:

- The beam is narrow, but I haven't found it to be a problem so far for what I used the light for.

- The switch does feel a bit sloppy, there is a lack of tactical feedback, but it's not a big enough problem to out weigh the pro's.

- The raised X design around the button has sharp corners. This makes the light uncomfortable at times, but they could be used for self defense if you had to strike someone with the light. I have actually used the sharp corners to slice into things I have needed to open.

- Programming interface maybe too much for some people, but I find it straight forward and easy to use. I don't see how it could be made any easier based on how much you can customized the light.

I think it makes for a nice EDC for people who want something a bit smaller than a RA or Novatac if they don't mind trading away some of the tank like construction.

Liteflux flashlights are certainly not junk. I think they are some of the nicest lights coming from over seas.

 

[WadeF]

600+ Lumen wall of light with more throw than a Ra 140-Cn

What is the host? I'd love to see more lights like this, even if they only topped out at 300 lumens. They make for great floody lights.

 

[litework]

PS I think the beam is much better on the Ra, the narrow beam Ra's have better throw and the LF lights have such narrow spills (tunnel vision) they are hard to use for hiking. Trying to use a LF?XT for hiking is like trying to walk around with two toilet paper tubes taped to your eyeballs.

There must be a world of difference between the LF5XT and the LF3XT because the beam pattern you describe for the LiteFlux LF3XT is simply not true. I have both the LF3XT and the new Ra Clicky Executive. Their beam patterns are very similar, as is the Novatac 120P. They are all quite floody and have a ton of spill. The Ra is unquestionably brighter even after burst mode and has slightly more spill, but the LiteFlux isn't a slouch either. The LiteFlux has a much cooler tint.

DHart, the Ra is probably the most robust light I own and I'm happy that I have it. It seems very tough and I'm not afraid to use it in the rain or snow. Even though the Ra is much bigger and heavier than the LiteFlux, I'm using it a bit more because the knurls on the LiteFlux are aggressively eating the wallet I carry in the same pocket. I could switch pockets, but I have another light so that just seems counterintuitive to me-or maybe it's the other way around? I don't know...I'm buying more lights.

I much prefer the UI on the LF3XT and I don't think the Ra is as refined as your LiteFlux, but you should pick one up and decide for yourself. It's certainly worth owning.

 

[matrixshaman]

Well, RA sure has been getting a lot of attention around here and from what I've read, they're no doubt excellent lights!

So, being the flashaholic that I am and really not NEEDING any more flashlights at this point, I'm still wondering (on a daily basis!) if a Ra would bring something to my flashlight experience that I'm lacking with my Liteflux LF3XT and I don't know it yet.

Does anyone here have both a RA and an LF3XT to directly compare, day-to-day, for an evaluation between the two.

Right now, I'm thrilled with what the LF3XT does.... I can't imagine a general purpose light getting much better than this... but I am wondering, does the RA offer something the LF3XT doesn't offer? Sure would appreciate your thoughts...

The Ra is heavier and has a feel all it's own. I think it's worth owning and I'd rate both it and the LF3XT right at the top of my list of 'must have' lights.

I do feel there has been a lot more problems with the Ra initially than many lights and mine was in for repair for a broken spring in the head for a month. I do think Henry's catching up though but I'd probably wait another month or two if I was looking to purchase one. I would expect by then things may smooth out a bit more.
One major plus on the Ra for me is the 'neck' provides a more ergonomic grip to activate the switch. The UI is intuitive for me but that is probably because I've owned Henry's designs since the days of the Arc 4+ and HDS models. The UI has stayed very similar throughout these models. I think the LF3XT has a great dual UI too. The smaller size can be a plus in some cases but I doubt it is as rugged. Overall I think the LF3XT is a much better value for the money and has a lot to offer. But if you can own both I think you'll be glad to have the Ra also.

 

[matrixshaman]

What is the host? I'd love to see more lights like this, even if they only topped out at 300 lumens. They make for great floody lights.

That's a Military version of the HDS Ultimate 60 - looks more like a Novatac in the body as I believe this came out in the very early stages of the Novatac. It's a custom by darkzero and must use the new IMR 16340 cells due to the heavy current draw on higher levels. It can also use a 17670 with the 17670 tubes that Lighthound had a while back. It makes my Surefire L4 former wall of light look small and wimpy

 

[h2oflyer]

Gave up on the RA as too big and heavy. allthough I understand it's bombproof. Bought a LF3XT instead. Didn't like it and gave it to my grandson. The only thing I liked was the programmable UI.

Didn't like bluish tint/narrow beam that was mostly spill/marginal output/finicky switch/poor run time/sharp tail corners/inductor whine and uneven knurling which I felt reflected less than prefect manufacturing.

I replaced it with a PD20 which outperforms the LF3XT in all of the above points and also has a ring free beam. Same price and fit and finish is WAY better. Same size as LF3XT but a lot lighter.

I will probably get a RA one day. I was on the preorder list initially, but jumped off when the first lights had uncentered bezels/crummy ano. and flashing issues. A round about way to end up owning a PD20.

Anyway, I liked the LiteFlux programmable UI so much I ended up getting an ARC mania ExtremeIII ("LF2" with a Rebel)

Walter

 

[cave dave]

There must be a world of difference between the LF5XT and the LF3XT because the beam pattern you describe for the LiteFlux LF3XT is simply not true.

I wasn't talking about the floodiness, or pattern or brightness of the spill I was taking about the spill angle or resulting diameter of the beam. The LFXT series are about the narrowest (using a reflector) on the market. In my use I notice this as an undesirable tunnel vision. YMMV.

The below photo shows the LF5XT spill has about 72% diameter of the D10 for instance.

Beamshot by selfbuilt.

 

[PsychoBunny]

Whenever I see anyone bashing this light this hard I just assume that they are an idiot that can't work out how to program it...

I like mine, have never had any problems, and it's made every bit as
well as my Nitecore D10, and has a nicer beam.
For the price, I think it's one of the best buys in a EDC.

 

[Flying Turtle]

Interesting thread. The Ra does look tempting, but I think I can rest easy with the LF3XT. Henry's line of lights has always been great, but also seemed too big for me to ever get used to. I'm afraid a Ra would quickly become a shelf queen, and I don't need another one of those. And, of course, the price was always too high for my liking, too. Think I'll just sit back, not worry, be happy, and wait for the next big thing.

Geoff