Madecov, if you are going to use this as a duty light, go for the SL w/35X LA and Nimh battstick (3.5-4Ah). You'll be able to run the stock LA for much longer, and the 35X LA for around an hour. The 35X LA is much brighter than both the 20X and stock MC. No contest.
BUT, here is the crucial point: The SL20X w/35X LA is a completely stable, manufacturer authorized mod that will not have any downside or potential damage after many repeated, long duration burns. The MC using an 1160 bulb, even with precautions (unless there's something I'm not up to date on, which is always possible), will quite likely damage the bulb pedestal after repeated heavy use. The MC60 definitely throws farther, with the 35X being a bit more Pila-ish in beam pattern, albeit smoother than the MC60 (the MC with stock reflector will produce a large quantity of artifacts - better mod reflectors can be had for more $$). Also on the duty side, the SL is easier to activate with gloves on than the MC. For CPF maximization purposes, I'd go with the MC. For real-life heavy use, I'd go for the SL. Well-modded MCs are potentially much brighter with more oomph. Depends what you'll use it for. BTW, I like the SL charger. The light slides in and out easily.
Bill, isn't the MC ano type II? I know it says III somewhere, though, but I thought it was known to be II?