I don't have an 8X, but I do have the 9N, and 9P. The 9P is 105 lumens instead of the 8X's 110. I also have the Stinger.
At close ranges, say 15 yards (or meters) or sothe 8NX will have a better beam. It is a very uniform round or oval pattern with no dark spots or rings. At further distances the focusing ability of the Stinger helps it reach a further distance, especially into shadows.
The 8NX seems to be the better buy as it comes with two batteries, and the 2 hour rapid charger. The Stinger only comes with 1 battery, and the price goes higher than the 8NX if you get the Stinger with the fast charger, but it comes with 2 bulbs and they are only about half the price of the Surefire replacement lamps. The Stinger bulbs might be more shock (drop) resistant than the SureFire.
<FONT COLOR="#000000" SIZE="1" FACE="Verdana, Arial">This message has been edited by Unicorn on 12-11-2000 at 02:43 AM</font>