Which SF "E" series should I buy?

copperfox

Enlightened
Joined
Sep 11, 2007
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774
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RI
I'd really like to buy an E series light, and ever since I got an opportunity to handle a few at a local shop, I've been trying to decide which one to buy. I like the E1E because of its small size, but I also like the E2E because it has more output. Also, I really really like how the E2D looks, but I'm not sure it would be suitable to carrying in a pocket.

My primary criteria are a round (not oval) hotspot and white color. I will probably buy a Lumens Factory LA so that I can run rechargeables. Which of the E-series LAs gives the whitest and roundest beam? The answer to this question may determine if I get the 1 or 2-cell E series.

Have you purchased an E1E and later been much more satisfied with the E2E, or visa versa? Feel free to comment in general about what you like and dont like about them. The only SF I have as of yet is a 6P and I love its quality feel. Thanks in advance.
 
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I have an E1e and a few E2e's. The E1e is nice is you really need the small size...but I found I actually prefer the size of the E2e. The E1e is too small to hold comfortably in my hand. If you have fairly big hands then this might apply to you, too.

The E2e always saw more use. I liked the higher output of the E2e (using the MN03), but if I wanted lower output and longer runtime then I could still use the MN02. The E1e just had less flexability.

Both lights seemed to have an equally white beam, but I imagine the increased brightness of the E2e would make it seem whiter than the E1e, if anything.

Regards,
Tempest
 
E2E all the way!

The clip on the E1E works better as an anti-roll feature than a clip. The body is just too short, unless you have small hands.

The E2D will jab you on the hand if you reach for other items kept in the same pocket. Lights with clips and strike-bezels are best carried bezel-down, in a pants pocket.

The E2E is sweet. Nice grip with plenty of barrel to hold onto, it won't bite you if you reach for something in your pocket, and it won't scare the sheeple.
 
I love the E series. I have a E2E & E2D. Perfect size for me and plenty bright for my needs. I have never had a problem with the E2D and it's spikes, and it does look cool.
The only thing that separates the E2E & E2D is the reflector. They have varying degree's of op finish. The E2E has an aggressive op finish while the E2D is more subtle. The beam on the E2D is a little tighter than the E2E, you can almost tell when illuminating in the distance.

 
I have an E1E and E2E. I prefer the E2E because it feels better in my hand and the output is greater.
 
The E series are very compact and rugged. The E2E gives you more options, but the E1E is nice little light. The difference is more broader beam rather than the actual brightness itself between the two lights.
 
The E1es are very cute and very obsolete. 15 lumens in a package that size and with that runtime is just about a joke these days. There are a number of LED lights that will blow the E1e away with brightness and multiple modes. It is also my opinion that 6 volt/2 battery incandescents are also obsolete, unless you have a particular need for incandescent light over LED light. All my 2 battery lights are now changed over to LED. Half my 3 battery lights are changed over to LED. Look at an E2l or an E1l or an E2e with a KX2C head. The Fenix P2D and P3D are also excellent lights. You can always change over a SF E series incandescent light to LED later. I have been where you are now and that is my best advice. I do not own a SF Defender light, but all I can see when I look at them are holes in my pants.

Look at all this advice and scratch your head, then buy what you want. You are on a learning curve, and that is half the fun of this hobby.
 
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Ugrey, I appreciate your concern, however what I'm looking for right now is an incan light. I have plenty of LED lights; NDI, 120P, and a Malkoff M60 in my 6P just to name a few. I am aware of their benefits, but they have their place. What I want now is a Surefire hotwire in a small, rugged, and reliable package.

Thanks to everyone so far that has provided input.
 
I think you will be VERY happy with an E2e. Smaller, brighter and better. They are great incandescent lights and you can always play SF leggo.
 
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Definitely Get The E2E. There Are Plenty Of Lamp Options If You Get Both Bodies:

E1E=MN01, HO-E1A, HO-E1R, EO-E1R

E2E=MN02.MN03,EO-E2R,HO-E2R

15 Lumens To 110 Lumens

------

But Only One Thing Bugs Me....

No Regulation.:(
 
I carried an E2e for years and was very pleased with it's performance. Although it takes two CR123's it is still one of the smallest two cell lights out there. I no longer use the incandecsant head and have just purchased a KX2C head for it. Since this was completely like my E2DL, and not wanting two of the same beams, I sent it to Milky to Mod.

Anyway I can highly recommend the E2e.

Bill
 
The e2e, it's large enough to be comfortable in the hand and it's bright. A near perfect incan edc light.
 
....and sure, if all the narrow body lights are fair game the L1 is a great single, all-around light and one of my most carried.
 
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