I have put one together, even though I am very challenged in my ability to assemble things. If I can do it anyone can!
My recipe:
1. Mag 2d from Walmart
2. Glass borofloat lens from Lighthound.com
3. Dual function metal reflector, smooth, from fivemega (his sales thread can be found in the group-buy/passaround area....)
4. Battery adapter, 6aa-2d from modamag. Since I bought mine, he transferred his stock to the Sandwich Shoppe
(http://theledguy.chainreactionweb.com/index.php)
They may be out, in which case, you can get a very good adapter from fivemega.
5. 1 package of Pelican bulbs from Lighthound.com (2 bulbs from package: 11W "low" bulb and 24W "high" bulb.)
6. 2 packages of Energizer 2500 AA batteries (4 to each pack) from Walmart
I already had on older Maha charger that I have used for a digital camera.
When I got everything, I replaced the plastic lens with the glass one. Replaced the plastic reflector with the metal one. Took out the stock maglite bulb and put in the Pelican low bulb. Charged the batteries, put them in the holder, put holder in the body and voila! Even a clumsy oaf like me was able to do it.
The bottom line:
1. for the "low" bulb, I get an estimated 323 torch lumens and a run-time of 50 to 60 minutes.
2. for the "high" bulb, estimated 669 torch lumens, run-time of 34 min.
This is a great alternative to buying a Surefire M6 which costs over $300.
My cost: about $110, including shipping and taxes. If you do not already have a charger, plan to spend at least $20 more.
I must warn you: Once you move into the hotwire area, you can never go back!! Hold on to your wallet and enjoy the ride. I predict that if you go the ROP route, then you will want to consider other Mag mods such as the Mag85, or perhaps the Mags with 100W Osram bulbs. I speak with great authority on this matter. My wife thinks I am in desperate need of therapy, but what does she know?
Regards.