UP my FL game? SureFire, ZL, Streamlight and SkyLumen => Malkoff?

[fwafwow]

I got (deeper) into flashlights a few years ago and ended up buying a handful of SkyLumens: XVIII, SL2c, SP11vn, Noctigon KR1vn (currently for sale) and XXI. I also have a SureFire 6PX Pro (bedstand) and Streamlight ProTac HL (currently just wasting space in a drawer). I am rethinking whether these are ideal - both the brands (especially the SkyLumens), and the models. As examples, the XXI and Noctigon just sit on my desk, so I'm thinking they can be redeployed.

I have been going down the SureFire rabbit hole, looking at the EDC1-DFT, EDC2-DFT, EDCL1-T, EDCL2-T, E1B Backup, then I found Malkoff and was about to go down that rabbit hole, especially after I figured out some of my current FLs might work with Malkoff parts, but thought it best to get some advice - especially since I'm prone to over-buying (and over-paying). And I'm sure I've not provided all of the info needed, but:

My use cases:

1. Just in case - I keep a few FLs stored around the house, in the cars, and in travel kits. Except for the SP11vn, none of the above are used for this purpose, but instead I have a a few S.O.G. Dark Energy, and a ZebraLight (SC64w). (The SP11vn is one of my favorites, and I sometimes use it for EDC.). As of now, none of my "just in case" lights are large - the biggest is the Streamlight ProTac HL. I also have cheap headlamps in my car emergency medical kits.
2. Hunting - I use a ZebraLight H600c Mk IV (4000K High CRI) headlamp and a SkyLumen XVIII with me when hunting. The XVIII is pretty bright and helps with recoveries, but it gets hot pretty quickly.
3. EDC - I need to up my EDC, but I'm often in an office environment, so something as small as the SP11vn - or equivalent - could be ideal. Maybe I should just grab a few Convoy T3s.

Finally:

• If I get one or more larger FLs - for the trunk of my car, or for the house, what do you suggest? Maybe what I have is fine.
• If I redeploy (or reconfigure) my SkyLumens, or add to my collection, what do you suggest?

Although I'm not really in need of tactical, I prefer simplicity - on/off and high/low - over some of the complicated UIs of my SkyLumens.

Thanks in advance!

 

[fwafwow]

Sorry - mods, if this should be in "Recommend Me..." please move it, or let me know and I will repost

 

[Schokokeks]

I have the Surefire EDC1-DFT, and that's pretty great if you need a small factor thrower that has a Surefire switch and quality. The EDC2 has a better run time, but I am happy with the compact form of the EDC1 since I tend to use it as a short burst light.

So, picking up from the MDC AA thread, it kind of seems like you're just looking to get something for fun, but you don't want to just get some random Chinese junk that's future e-waste.

That's kind of a great niche for Malkoff. I love the P60 ecosystem Malkoff does with the MD bodies and heads with the M31, M61, and M91 drop-ins. The VME head is cool, because then I can use the slimmer E-series bodies from Malkoff or others.

If you're just curious about a hyper reliable, well made light that is a bit more "futureproof," Malkoff is a good fit. As new LEDs come out, you can just use different drop-ins.

If you want to try out the whole CONCEPT of drop-ins, to see if you like it, check out some of the Kaidomain stuff. You can shop under their KDLITKER P6 options, and USUALLY grab one of their 519A P6 drop-ins for $16, and add an E6 body for $8. For $24 shipped to the US, you can have a non-interchangeable P60 host. It's cheap, clearly made of pure Chinesium, and leaves a lot to be desired, but for $24 to play with the idea, it's not bad. Give yourself a $50 budget, and grab two additional drop-ins, and see how you like the idea.

While the shipping is a bit steep, LumensFactory sells the Seraph SP-6M for under $50 WITH a drop-in (almost $20 shipping, though). This is also a great entry into the P60 ecosystem. It's also Chinese, but I think they make the nicest stuff coming out of China.

If you like this idea, and you think it's fun, then 100% Malkoff is worth the money. When you order the first one, and open it up, you'll audibly gasp to yourself the second it falls into your hand. "Wow, this is a light." No cheap Chinesium. A quality American-made product that represents the quintessential American small business run by a family. Honestly, if you're on the fence, feel free to call Malkoff, and just bask in how insanely friendly and helpful they are, haha.

Before you get one, Malkoff's seems so expensive, then you get one, it blows you away, and you get that 15% coupon for leaving a review, and you've got another...and then another...and then, you're shipping a giant box of parts out for your birthday, haha. I think they're a ridiculous value. There are lights 4-5X as expensive, that aren't as nice.

The great part of the P60 ecosystem is that a LOT of it tends to "LEGO" with each other. You can mix and match parts across many brands.

It's a MASSIVE read, but the Malkoff Front Porch is a really fun thing to read through and see what people do with them.

 

[fwafwow]

Thank you!

I have the Surefire EDC1-DFT, and that's pretty great if you need a small factor thrower that has a Surefire switch and quality. The EDC2 has a better run time, but I am happy with the compact form of the EDC1 since I tend to use it as a short burst light.

This is definitely still on my list. Confession - I made a spreadsheet. I figured out I own 12 flashlights. Give or take. I'm having flashbacks to knives, guns, scopes and fountain pens, paper, etc. I need medication.

So, picking up from the MDC AA thread, it kind of seems like you're just looking to get something for fun, but you don't want to just get some random Chinese junk that's future e-waste.

Nailed it.

That's kind of a great niche for Malkoff. I love the P60 ecosystem Malkoff does with the MD bodies and heads with the M31, M61, and M91 drop-ins. The VME head is cool, because then I can use the slimmer E-series bodies from Malkoff or others.

I already know I will get one. Just have to figure out the system. But I also anticipate I may buy my first with incomplete knowledge and learn as I got. I need to figure out the P60 ecosystem, but I'm assuming that's a Lego option, not one you buy "ready to sell"?

If you're just curious about a hyper reliable, well made light that is a bit more "futureproof," Malkoff is a good fit. As new LEDs come out, you can just use different drop-ins.

If you want to try out the whole CONCEPT of drop-ins, to see if you like it, check out some of the Kaidomain stuff. You can shop under their KDLITKER P6 options, and USUALLY grab one of their 519A P6 drop-ins for $16, and add an E6 body for $8. For $24 shipped to the US, you can have a non-interchangeable P60 host. It's cheap, clearly made of pure Chinesium, and leaves a lot to be desired, but for $24 to play with the idea, it's not bad. Give yourself a $50 budget, and grab two additional drop-ins, and see how you like the idea.

I may take you up on this suggestion. Let me see if I can figure it out, but if you have links to make it even easier for a noob/rookie/idiot, that would be most welcome. But see below, as a "build by parts" approach I can also take w/ the Malkoffs. I understand the rationale about learning with inexpensive parts, but I also bet that I will learn, move on, and the Chinesium parts will (also) sit on a shelf, or be given to a buddy.

While the shipping is a bit steep, LumensFactory sells the Seraph SP-6M for under $50 WITH a drop-in (almost $20 shipping, though). This is also a great entry into the P60 ecosystem. It's also Chinese, but I think they make the nicest stuff coming out of China.

If you like this idea, and you think it's fun, then 100% Malkoff is worth the money.

You had me at Chinesium, and the rest below convinced me.

When you order the first one, and open it up, you'll audibly gasp to yourself the second it falls into your hand. "Wow, this is a light." No cheap Chinesium. A quality American-made product that represents the quintessential American small business run by a family. Honestly, if you're on the fence, feel free to call Malkoff, and just bask in how insanely friendly and helpful they are, haha.

I can definitely do that, and am thinking of doing so, but I also hate bothering someone.

Before you get one, Malkoff's seems so expensive, then you get one, it blows you away, and you get that 15% coupon for leaving a review, and you've got another...and then another...and then, you're shipping a giant box of parts out for your birthday, haha. I think they're a ridiculous value. There are lights 4-5X as expensive, that aren't as nice.

I wish you hadn't mentioned the 15% discount for a review. I see problems down the road for me.

The great part of the P60 ecosystem is that a LOT of it tends to "LEGO" with each other. You can mix and match parts across many brands.

It's a MASSIVE read, but the Malkoff Front Porch is a really fun thing to read through and see what people do with them.

Thanks again. Is P60 a Surefire body or Malkoff?

 

[Schokokeks]

Thank you!

This is definitely still on my list. Confession - I made a spreadsheet. I figured out I own 12 flashlights. Give or take. I'm having flashbacks to knives, guns, scopes and fountain pens, paper, etc. I need medication.

Nailed it.

I already know I will get one. Just have to figure out the system. But I also anticipate I may buy my first with incomplete knowledge and learn as I got. I need to figure out the P60 ecosystem, but I'm assuming that's a Lego option, not one you buy "ready to sell"?

I may take you up on this suggestion. Let me see if I can figure it out, but if you have links to make it even easier for a noob/rookie/idiot, that would be most welcome. But see below, as a "build by parts" approach I can also take w/ the Malkoffs. I understand the rationale about learning with inexpensive parts, but I also bet that I will learn, move on, and the Chinesium parts will (also) sit on a shelf, or be given to a buddy.


You had me at Chinesium, and the rest below convinced me.

I can definitely do that, and am thinking of doing so, but I also hate bothering someone.

I wish you hadn't mentioned the 15% discount for a review. I see problems down the road for me.

Thanks again. Is P60 a Surefire body or Malkoff?

Oh, you can buy a "ready to go" Malkoff in the P60 configuration:

M61 High/Low Switch MD2 Flashlight – Malkoff Devices

Black Type III Hard Anodized Malkoff MD2 Flashlight with Malkoff M61 SHO, M61, M61N, or M61W. The High/Low Switch is installed and ready to go. The High/Low is controlled by head rotation. The On/Off switch is a forward clicky with momentary function. Outputs and Draws of Drop-ins Drop-in...

malkoffdevices.com

Tricap and the M61N or M61W if you like neutral or warm colors (I do) with a high CRI (I love both).

Then, if you want to swap out your drop-in, get another or two:

Surefire 6P, G2, C2, etc. (6-9 Volts) LED Drop-ins/Conversions – Malkoff Devices

LED Conversions for SureFire 6P, 9P, 6Z, Z2, Z3, C2, C3, M2, G3, and G2 flashlights. They may or may not fit other models. Not Designed for SureFire Forends. Please see our SureFire Forend specific models.

malkoffdevices.com

The Kosen 519A in 3500K is also beautiful, and you can get a "ready to go" light. You just need a KeepPower P1835J from Illumn.

"P6" is the Surefire body. P60 is the incandescent drop-in. These are mostly "vintage" lights these days, though there are still some P6's made. Surefire branded and made hosts are $$$$ (Like, well over $100). We missed that boat, ahha.


The Malkoff site takes a bit of getting used to, but you can search all the parts:

Parts and Misc Items – Malkoff Devices

Parts and Miscellaneous Items

malkoffdevices.com

The big one is:
M31 = 3V, 1 CR123 or two AA's
M61 = 6V, 2 CR123 or 1-2 Li-ion
M91 = 9V, 3 CR123 or 2-3 Li-ion

MD2 = 2 CR123 (1 18650 or 2 16340 Li-ion)
MD3 = 3 CR123 (2 18500 with extender, 2 14500)
MD4 = 4 CR123 (2 18650)


And, to be honest, if money isn't tight, I'd skip the Kaidomain stuff. Like you said, it'll sit on a shelf or be given away. I got some for a deep red and amber drop in, and while it's a GREAT VALUE for $25 or whatever, it's not Malkoff, haha. I'm sure it'd be fine for around the house for a bit, but this is NOT Zombie Apocalypse grade stuff, and it just feels cheap.

If someone was hard up for cash, I think it's a fine option to explore the idea, but if you can afford the Malkoff, I'd just jump into that.


For a small, nice light, also consider the Elzetta Alpha. Made in USA. The non-flood optic with the crenelated bezel and the click tailcap with a Thyrm Switchback 2.0 is my "with a gun" light, and it's fantastic, too.
It works like the Malkoff Bodyguard, but even better - it starts at like 500 lumens, and then gradually tapers down so you don't even notice it, and stays at the lower output. Great light, too.

For a small defensive light, I love that. For everything else, there's Malkoff.

 

[fwafwow]

Oh, you can buy a "ready to go" Malkoff in the P60 configuration:

M61 High/Low Switch MD2 Flashlight – Malkoff Devices

Black Type III Hard Anodized Malkoff MD2 Flashlight with Malkoff M61 SHO, M61, M61N, or M61W. The High/Low Switch is installed and ready to go. The High/Low is controlled by head rotation. The On/Off switch is a forward clicky with momentary function. Outputs and Draws of Drop-ins Drop-in...

malkoffdevices.com

Tricap and the M61N or M61W if you like neutral or warm colors (I do) with a high CRI (I love both).

Then, if you want to swap out your drop-in, get another or two:

Surefire 6P, G2, C2, etc. (6-9 Volts) LED Drop-ins/Conversions – Malkoff Devices

LED Conversions for SureFire 6P, 9P, 6Z, Z2, Z3, C2, C3, M2, G3, and G2 flashlights. They may or may not fit other models. Not Designed for SureFire Forends. Please see our SureFire Forend specific models.

malkoffdevices.com

The Kosen 519A in 3500K is also beautiful, and you can get a "ready to go" light. You just need a KeepPower P1835J from Illumn.

"P6" is the Surefire body. P60 is the incandescent drop-in. These are mostly "vintage" lights these days, though there are still some P6's made. Surefire branded and made hosts are $$$$ (Like, well over $100). We missed that boat, ahha.


The Malkoff site takes a bit of getting used to, but you can search all the parts:

Parts and Misc Items – Malkoff Devices

Parts and Miscellaneous Items

malkoffdevices.com

The big one is:
M31 = 3V, 1 CR123 or two AA's
M61 = 6V, 2 CR123 or 1-2 Li-ion
M91 = 9V, 3 CR123 or 2-3 Li-ion

MD2 = 2 CR123 (1 18650 or 2 16340 Li-ion)
MD3 = 3 CR123 (2 18500 with extender, 2 14500)
MD4 = 4 CR123 (2 18650)


And, to be honest, if money isn't tight, I'd skip the Kaidomain stuff. Like you said, it'll sit on a shelf or be given away. I got some for a deep red and amber drop in, and while it's a GREAT VALUE for $25 or whatever, it's not Malkoff, haha. I'm sure it'd be fine for around the house for a bit, but this is NOT Zombie Apocalypse grade stuff, and it just feels cheap.

If someone was hard up for cash, I think it's a fine option to explore the idea, but if you can afford the Malkoff, I'd just jump into that.


For a small, nice light, also consider the Elzetta Alpha. Made in USA. The non-flood optic with the crenelated bezel and the click tailcap with a Thyrm Switchback 2.0 is my "with a gun" light, and it's fantastic, too.
It works like the Malkoff Bodyguard, but even better - it starts at like 500 lumens, and then gradually tapers down so you don't even notice it, and stays at the lower output. Great light, too.

For a small defensive light, I love that. For everything else, there's Malkoff.

First answer - my spreadsheet is growing, and I'm at deer camp a few beers in, so I may pull the trigger on one of these this evening. Or two.

 

[fwafwow]

Tricap and the M61N or M61W if you like neutral or warm colors (I do) with a high CRI (I love both).

In my cart - with the 20% off calling my name.

The Kosen 519A in 3500K is also beautiful, and you can get a "ready to go" light. You just need a KeepPower P1835J from Illumn.

This one? https://www.kosen.one/product/malkoff-md2-with-m61nh-and-h-l-ring-hcri-nichia-519a-sm353

The Malkoff site takes a bit of getting used to, but you can search all the parts:

Parts and Misc Items – Malkoff Devices

Parts and Miscellaneous Items

malkoffdevices.com

The big one is:
M31 = 3V, 1 CR123 or two AA's
M61 = 6V, 2 CR123 or 1-2 Li-ion
M91 = 9V, 3 CR123 or 2-3 Li-ion

MD2 = 2 CR123 (1 18650 or 2 16340 Li-ion)
MD3 = 3 CR123 (2 18500 with extender, 2 14500)
MD4 = 4 CR123 (2 18650)

^^Homework for tomorrow.

For a small, nice light, also consider the Elzetta Alpha. Made in USA. The non-flood optic with the crenelated bezel and the click tailcap with a Thyrm Switchback 2.0 is my "with a gun" light, and it's fantastic, too.
It works like the Malkoff Bodyguard, but even better - it starts at like 500 lumens, and then gradually tapers down so you don't even notice it, and stays at the lower output. Great light, too.

For a small defensive light, I love that. For everything else, there's Malkoff.

Checking the Alpha out now.

Curse you! But actually thank you.

 

[Schokokeks]

Thank you!

This is definitely still on my list. Confession - I made a spreadsheet. I figured out I own 12 flashlights. Give or take. I'm having flashbacks to knives, guns, scopes and fountain pens, paper, etc. I need medication.

Also, this is a safe space. We're not your spouse, your family, your in real life friends. We're your internet friends, and we all have a spreadsheet, too, hahahha.

 

[fwafwow]

Also, this is a safe space. We're not your spouse, your family, your in real life friends. We're your internet friends, and we all have a spreadsheet, too, hahahha.

I appreciate the understanding!

 

[Schokokeks]

In my cart - with the 20% off calling my name.

This one? https://www.kosen.one/product/malkoff-md2-with-m61nh-and-h-l-ring-hcri-nichia-519a-sm353

^^Homework for tomorrow.

Checking the Alpha out now.

Curse you! But actually thank you.

Yup. That's the Kosen if you want a 3500K 519A in the MD2 with the High/Low ring.

Also, of the random parts, I HIGHLY recommend the "buffer kit" for the $4. You put the o-ring in the clicky switch side, so if you drop it, the switch is less likely to break.

Battery Bumper Kit – Malkoff Devices

This Kit includes two battery bumper O-rings. One each is placed in front of and behind rechargeable batteries. The bumper rings help to alleviate damage to the switch and batteries sometimes associated with rough treatment of the light. These rings are sized to fit Malkoff Devices MD Series...

malkoffdevices.com

If you don't own snap ring pliers, this makes changing the heads a breeze:

Malkoff MDX Head Wrench – Malkoff Devices

This is a Head Wrench to fit the Retaining Ring and High/Low Switch Ring in the MDX Head. There are 3 drive styles available: Standard: Simply slip a suitable rod or screwdriver through the hole to gain leverage for tightening. 3/8" Hex Drive: Any 3/8" socket should work to drive this. 1/4"...

malkoffdevices.com

I have snap ring pliers, and I am just more used to them, so I kind of prefer them. Knipex makes great ones.


The MD2 Hi/Low in N or W with an MDC AA N...That'd be one hell of a great first choice.

The M91BN and an MD3 w/ extender or MD4 is a hand cannon, hahah. That's for your review coupon hahaha