Surefire KL5 & something odd....

[Monocrom]

Bought a KL5 head a few days ago. Took a look at the packaging, and there was a list of different Surefire lights that the KL5 would fit onto. Here's the list....

"Fits 6P, 9P, C2, C3, D2, G2, G2Z, M2, Z2, Z3 flashlights."

Notice anything odd?

A couple of lights are missing. I can understand the G3 not being on the list because I think this particular KL5 was shipped to the B&M store I bought it from before that light was produced.

But the D3 isn't on the list either. And I'll give you one clue which light I planned on using with the KL5 head.

It's too bad the D series are being discontinued. Anyone know if the KL5 won't fit onto a D3? I'm thinking a 9P with a carry clip shouldn't be a problem with the KL5. But I might be wrong. :shrug:

 

[Bullzeyebill]

D's have same threads as all of the C's, so are interchangeable. You will find that most KL5's will probably run hotter with 3 cells than 2 cells. The exception might be a particular KL5 with a high vf lux V emiter. Yes, I know that Surefire says the KL5 can be used with three cell bodies, but not really a good idea, if you want good regulation.

Bill

 

[Monocrom]

.... You will find that most KL5's will probably run hotter with 3 cells than 2 cells. The exception might be a particular KL5 with a high vf lux V emiter. Yes, I know that Surefire says the KL5 can be used with three cell bodies, but not really a good idea, if you want good regulation.

Bill

That's actually the first time I've heard that. :sigh:

A couple of CPFers have told me that the only thing that'll happen is increased runtime with no increase in brightness. The last thing I want is an unreliable Surefire lego. (Perhaps it would be best to just convert my C2 with the KL5 head).

 

[Bullzeyebill]

You can test your KL5 with two CR123's, check current at tailcap, then test with three CR123's, or two LiIon's. If current is significantly higher with the three CR123's or two LiIon's then you are overdriving the circuit/emiter. Let it run for a few minutes to see if the current drops, using the CR123's, or two LiIon's. If you are overdriving the KL5 you will also notice significant heat on head within a few minutes. Normally the KL5 runs pretty cool, but not so with added cell.

Bill

 

[Monocrom]

.... If you are overdriving the KL5 you will also notice significant heat on head within a few minutes. Normally the KL5 runs pretty cool, but not so with added cell.

Bill

Thanks for all the advice you've given me on this thread. Based on that, and the more and more I think about it, I think I made a mistake getting the KL5 head..... I should have just gotten an L5!

KL5 head = $145
L5 light = $189

Seems obvious.... The C2 was my first Surefire, and I'd prefer to leave it as is.

The head's going back, the L5 light is coming home with me!

Thanks again for the advice.

 

[Bullzeyebill]

Monocrom, hold on before you take back the KL5. Look at lighthound.com. They have some Leef 18650 bodies that work with the KL5. Look at the C2C bodies. C head, C tailcap. The 18650 is a wonderful battery and will run your KL5 longer, much longer.

Bill

 

[Monocrom]

Monocrom, hold on before you take back the KL5. Look at lighthound.com. They have some Leef 18650 bodies that work with the KL5. Look at the C2C bodies. C head, C tailcap. The 18650 is a wonderful battery and will run your KL5 longer, much longer.

Bill

Took a look at the Leef bodies on lighthound.com

Must admit, I'm very tempted to combine the KL5 with a Leef body, and perhaps a Surefire z49 clickie....

But as much as I'd love such a lego, I must admit that a carry-clip is a must for my needs. Realistically, even with a perfect holster, such a lego would get left at home on most occasions. Still, I really like several things I saw on that site, and have bookmarked it for future projects.

Thanks again for all of your help.