Rebel [LED] Alliance: Impressions + Review Directory

Early Rebel equipped flashlights recently shipped, more new models are shipping this week, and others (L0D) aren't out yet. Some people are waiting to place orders, some are waiting for orders to arrive (myself included), and a lucky few already have them. For you lucky ones, what's it like in your hands? Other threads have focused on the naked LED itself or technical aspects, I'm wondering more about owner experience. Any observations would be great, here are a few ideas:


What model do you have?

What manual did it come with and does it describe time limits on Turbo mode?

What was the appeal of this specific model (size/output/simplicity)?

Did you get it for a specific role or because you had to have it?

How are the new parts (reflectors/filters/diffusers)?

If there's a choice, what batteries do you plan to run (alkaline/NiMH/NiMH LSD/lithium)?

How is it at throwing light (flood/spot/spill/quality)?

Are the new bodies (L2T 2.0) improved (grip/finish)?

If you've seen Cree's, do current Cree versions still have play?

If you have a Rebel80 and a Rebel100, can you see a difference?

First impressions, might this be your favorite new bulb/light?

And of course, how does it compare to non Rebel's (beamshots, etc)

:thanks:



Edit: Here are...

Rebel Reviews:

Fenix P3D Premium (R100) Temperatures - 8/06
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/posts/2106306#post2106306

MTE 5-Mode (R100) - 8/17
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/172416

MTE 5-Mode (R100) - 8/20
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/172686

Fenix P3D Premium (R100) - 8/23
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/172957

Fenix L1T 2.0 (R80) - 8/25
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/173158

Fenix L2T 2.0 (R80) - 8/26
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/173208

Fenix L2D/L1D (R100) - 8/27
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/173305

Fenix L1T V2.0 Battery Tests (R80 relative output) - 8/27
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/posts/2131017#post2131017

Fenix L0D (R100 - not a typo) - 8/29
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/posts/2132830#post2132830

[Dual] Fenix L2D (R100) - 9/04
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/posts/2140201#post2140201

Ultrafire Rebel WF-R2 - 9/09
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/posts/2144962

Fenix L1T 2.0 (R80) - 9/15
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/174889

Lumapower M1-R w/NovaTac comparison (R100) - 9/21
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/175392

Fenix P3D (R100) - 10/19
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/175392


Comparisons

Fenix P3D (R100) vs P3D (P4) vs Surefire (E2e) - 8/01
http://candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?p=2104059

Fenix vs. Surefire - 8/07
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/171535

Multi Rebel beam views - 8/28
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/173349

Multi Fenix body/beam views- 8/29
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/173506

Fenix P3D (R100) vs ___ - 8/30
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/posts/2134432#post2134432

Huge beamshot comparison vs Fenix L2D (R100) - 8/30
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/173535

Fenix L0x Shootout - 9/10
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/174515

Rebel vs Cree (images) - 9/11
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/174561

Multi Fenix Rebel beamshots - 9/11
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/174565

Rebel vs Cree (data) - 9/13
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/174741

Fenix L1T 2.0 vs L1T 1.0 (Luxeon III) vs L1Dce - 9/17
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/175072

Mega Comparison with outputs/runtimes (must see) - 9/21
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/172434

Fenix P3D (R100) vs P3Dce vs L0D (R80 + 3.7V Li-Ion 10440) - 9/24
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/175599

Fenix L1D (R100) vs L1D (Cree Q2) vs L1D (Cree P4) - 9/25
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/175758


Accessory Reviews

Batteries - 7/04
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/posts/2068387#post2068387

Fenix Diffuser Tip
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/173244 - 8/26
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/posts/2131991#post2131991 - 8/28
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/posts/2142335#post2142335 - 9/06

Fenix Red Filter Adaptor - 9/10
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/posts/2146210#post2146210


Modifications

Fenix Lego Mod - 8/25
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/posts/2128879#post2128879

Fenix Grip Mod - 8/31
https://www.candlepowerforums.com/posts/2135268#post2135268

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

Model is Fenix L2D RB 100

The appeal to me is the high output, use of AA batteries, and runtime

I got the light for use on my bike, camping, power outages due to hurricanes (long runtime and AA batteries), and any other things around the house that require a light

The reflectors ar nice. Im really glad thy are OP

I plan to run the light off NiMH most of the time, and alkalines when im out camping or during power outages.

The light has a decen amout of through. The beam is smoother and less ringy than my old P1D CE.

Grip is better with thing fenix compared to the other ones I have owned due to its length but the body may be a little slick with wet hands.

Not sure about this question.

I dont have an RB80 to compare it to.

Not going to take the place of my HDS edc which is still my favorite light.

Im trying to get some beamshots but I cant seem to get them to accurately represent the beam.

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

Great questions.

I got a Fenix P3D Rebel 100 just before they were generally released (I got one of the "test the waters" batch.

The claimed 200 lumens was a big enough draw to get me to buy a multi-cell 123 light. I try to stay with AA format. AND, it was a Fenix, which is a known quantity to me and something I really like.

I occasionally do outdoor pyrotechnics, and running around in a dark field you can never have too much light.

It came with a textured reflector, which I like very much.

I'm running rechargeable 123 batteries right now. If I had a choice, I'd run it on a single 14500, but there's no 200 lumen option for that battery yet.

The amount of light the thing puts out is incredible. It outthrew my Surefire G2Zw/P61. oo: In addition to the throw, there is a huge and usefull spill. I just noticed last night, actually. I was burning some weeds and shined my light into the smoke. I remember being a 12 year old Boy Scout sitting around the campfire with our flashlights, and shining the lights into the smoke making "light saber" sound effects and saying "Look at it beam!" I was initially disappointed shining the Fenix into the smoke, because there wasn't a beam to speak of, and certainly not as I had remembered from many years ago. Then I noticed that it's not a "beam" per se that the light puts out, but more of a cone of light. There is a very bright section in the middle of the cone, but it's more of a cone than a beam. This really helped me to see just how much light is being thrown out of the thing, and how bright and useable the spill can be.

Body was the same as every other Fenix I've had.

I think the Cree lights definitely still have "play". They're still incredibly bright, and for any non-flashaholic they'll still be absolutely astounded at how much light can come from such a small thingy. They have their place and are VERY useful... but if you want best and brightest right now they ain't it.

I've only got the 100, so I can't compare it to an 80.

When the Rebel was first released I thought "that's goofy" and didn't ever think I'd buy one. Now, it's my favorite emitter, goofy form factor notwithstanding.

Comparing it to the other emitters I've had experience with, the Rebel's got a nicer tint and renders colors better than anything I've seen, including Luxeons, Seouls, and Crees.

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

I got the L2T V.2.0 beause I wanted a model with the Rebel LED, using a battery type I can easily get at work . I got this light to be my EDC at work, and as I really only have a need for high power, I got the two-level L2T instead of the 5-level one. It puts out a satisfactory amount of light, but I would not really call it a thrower. I have other lights for that, anyway. It gives a good flood of light at the close ranges I use a work light for.
I'm not too impressed with the grip of most of the many Chinese-made lights I have (MTE, Lumapower,and this Fenix). All of them are a bit too slippery for my taste, and could benefit from some sharper Surefire-type knurling. I do like the Fenix belt holster-slim, elegant, and an easy one-handed draw and return. I probably draw a light more than 20 times a day.
All I have tried so far in this are standard alkalines. I may explore other battery options later, but as this is pretty much dedicated to work use, I will mainly use what they have there. I work on and in machine tools all day, so I am constantly using multiple lights. I'm constantly looking to upgrade to brighter and brighter lights, so that is the main reason I picked this rebel-based light. I just ordered an Ultrafire Cree from DX yesterday, to replace a Brinkmann 3W LED light I had in my toolbox, that is getting rather battered,but I don't anticipate getting too many more Cree lights.

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

anyone got the L2D RB100? is it much brighter than L2D CE?

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

scubasteve1942 said:

Im trying to get some beamshots but I cant seem to get them to accurately represent the beam.

Click to expand...

The two big challenges are getting setting that work and then applying those same settings across every shot (so the camera isn't auto correcting). Try this:

1) Figure out which light lights up in the middle average for brightness

2) Get the lights, the target, and camera all placed and stabilized

3) Set the lens' zoom to something and the ISO to 100

4) Leaving the flash off, put the camera in P mode and play with the settings (especially Exposure Compensation) to capture a good shot of Mr Average < - lots of trial and error

5) Note the best settings from #4, then lock/manual the settings for focus, shutter speed, aperture, and white balance.

6) Fire away

Tip: If you don't have a remote shutter release and you're taking long exposures (< 1/32), use the self timer to engage the shutter.

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

scubasteve1942 said:

Model is Fenix L2D RB 100

I got the light for use on my bike

I plan to run the light off NiMH most of the time

Grip is better with thing fenix compared to the other ones I have owned due to its length but the body may be a little slick with wet hands.

Click to expand...

I use a AA LED for a bike headlight with a TwoFish block. Does it have more than enough light/spread alone or would a a second light of the same power help with seeing things? Specifically, is the beam wide enough that having two (one pointed down and one pointed out) would not add much?

I currently run Energizer NiMHs (2500) and they have proven unreliable. I want to upgrade to Eneloop LSDs.

So are you saying the grip itself is improved over previous Fenix designs or its the same and just easier to hold because its longer?

mchlwise said:

Comparing it to the other emitters I've had experience with, the Rebel's got a nicer tint and renders colors better than anything I've seen, including Luxeons, Seouls, and Crees.

Click to expand...

Awesome, just what I was looking to hear with that question. Color rendering seems to be the next thing in LEDs.

jeep44 said:

I got the two-level L2T instead of the 5-level one. It puts out a satisfactory amount of light, but I would not really call it a thrower. I have other lights for that, anyway. It gives a good flood of light at the close ranges I use a work light for.

Click to expand...

I like the L2T 2.0 too. Taking into account that Fenix reports the output at the emitter, what features do the "throwers" have than this lacks? Specifically, could the design be changed (power, emitter, reflector, lens) in such a way that it could become a thrower, even if it meant giving up spot capability?


Thanks!

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

I think that one pointed down and one pointed outward would be optimal, but not necessary. I haven't taken mine on a night bike yet but I don't see me needing more than one. The grip is the same old fenix style. The only thing that makes it easier to grip compared to my previouse fenix lights (P1D CE & L1T) is the length.

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

crislight01 said:

anyone got the L2D RB100? is it much brighter than L2D CE?

Click to expand...

"much brighter" is a strong word.

I'd say it's NOTICEABLY brighter... and the tint is quite a bit better.

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

What model do you have? MTE Rebel 0100 from dealextreme.

What was the appeal of this specific model (size/output/simplicity)? AA batteries, small size, multi-mode, high [advertised] output.

Did you get it for a specific role or because you had to have it? To evaluate for future purchases and to give to a friend or relative afterward.

How are the new parts (reflectors/filters/diffusers)? This one has a smooth reflector which causes a lot of artifacts.

If there's a choice, what batteries do you plan to run (alkaline/NiMH/NiMH LSD/lithium)? Regular disposable AAs.

How is it at throwing light (flood/spot/spill/quality)? Wider, dimmer and with more artifacts than my Fenix P2D. Purple tint on low. Ugh.

If you've seen Cree's, do current Cree versions still have play? My drop-in G2 Cree smites this with a vengeance, my Fenix P2D is just plain better on all modes, and my single SSC modded 4D Mag absolutely blows it away for output and tint.

First impressions, might this be your favorite new bulb/light? I would like to get my hands on some bare 0100s, but it is far from favorite due to its only impressive feature being the size.

And of course, how does it compare to non Rebel's (beamshots, etc). Can't compare, or at least the MTE Rebel 0100 can't compare. The beam is PURPLE at low levels. Maybe it's just the MTE electronics. The P2D is much more useable on all levels, but the MTE on high has more flood and on high the tint is OK. Be sure to get a textured reflector.

Maybe the review isn't what you were asking for, but I hope it contributes to the over-all impression of the new Rebel.

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

gearbox said:

MTE Rebel 0100 from dealextreme

This one has a smooth reflector which causes a lot of artifacts.

Maybe the review isn't what you were asking for, but I hope it contributes to the over-all impression of the new Rebel.

Click to expand...

Actually, the sum of your answers demonstrates the importance of a good housing, an important question I didn't even ask. A good emitter can't compensate, for example, for a smooth reflector. Speaking of which, I've found UCL lenses effective at reducing the ills of over zealous reflectors - and they're cheap!:

http://www.flashlightlens.com/

Thanks

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

meuge said:

"much brighter" is a strong word.

I'd say it's NOTICEABLY brighter... and the tint is quite a bit better.

Click to expand...

btw do batteries still rattle?

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

ElectronGuru said:

Color rendering seems to be the next thing in LEDs.

Click to expand...

i hope so.


got my MTE rebel100


outdoor it´s noticeable brighter than my first
luxeon torch i bought 2 years ago.
the naked numbers are ~400 vs ~1300 lux @ 1meter.



also LEDs made in 2007 still wash out colors outside... green/brown
color rendering is no way near a common bulb.

More lux unfortunately doesn´t solve the problem
so don´t wast too much money on expensive torches...

crislight01 said:

btw do batteries still rattle?

Click to expand...

wrap a piece of paper and it´s solved...


@gearbox,
mine shifts a little bit towards purple, too but still far better than any 5mm LED i have...

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

I have to say this forum is awesome!!!

I didn't have alot of money but wanted one of the new generation LEDs for EDC so I got 2 of the MTE Rebel 0100 5 modes. One for me & one for my Dad.

IMHO is it is a great deal for what it is. Thanks to all of the info on this site I pretty much knew what to expect when I ordered it.

So heres my feeling. The output has to be within 10 or so lux of the Maxfire LX which would put it in the 50-60 range. Pretty darn impressive if you ask me. I picked it over the cree and SSC because of the tint and on high it is bright and white makes the incans look sick yellow.:candle:
Aside from the few things gearbox pointed out it is a pretty solid usefull little light. I used it for camping and lit up a path for four people to walk very easily. Even got to blot out someones 4cell Mag ahead of us. (Lol)

I am wondering however if the tint is changing on the rebels in the high current lights like the Fenix rebel P's because the pics don't seem to show the color difference from the cree I would expect? It still looks a little on the blue side at least by the photos I've seen posted so far.

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

ElectronGuru said:

Early Rebel equipped flashlights recently shipped, more new models are shipping this week, and others (L0D) aren't out yet. Some people are waiting to place orders, some are waiting for orders to arrive (myself included), and a lucky few already have them. For you lucky ones, what's it like in your hands? Other threads have focused on the naked LED itself or technical aspects, I'm wondering more about owner experience. Any observations would be great, here are a few ideas:


What model do you have?

What was the appeal of this specific model (size/output/simplicity)?

Did you get it for a specific role or because you had to have it?

How are the new parts (reflectors/filters/diffusers)?

If there's a choice, what batteries do you plan to run (alkaline/NiMH/NiMH LSD/lithium)?

How is it at throwing light (flood/spot/spill/quality)?

Are the new bodies (L2T 2.0) improved (grip/finish)?

If you've seen Cree's, do current Cree versions still have play?

If you have a Rebel80 and a Rebel100, can you see a difference?

First impressions, might this be your favorite new bulb/light?

And of course, how does it compare to non Rebel's (beamshots, etc)

:thanks:

Click to expand...

Hi Friends
The light is p2d rebel 100
Appeal was size and output 175 lum
Had to have it
Reflector is factory OP with nice smooth bright beam
Lithium Battery only
Good throw, great spill wonderful warm tint
Cree is good...
It is great EDC, a little too small for the hand great for the pocket...
Thanks Arnon :twothumbs

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

Next Fenix batch is in the mail: Rebel LOD shipping confirmation!

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

I just got 2 P2D-P100's (Rebel):

I picked ones with a bluer/whiter tint, since that's my preference. But we tried 6 brand new ones, and all the tints were slightly different, some of the others were more pinkish, 1 even looked greenish. Only with direct comparisons. In general and compared to other LED's, they were all good. And, they were all very bright, virtually no difference there.

In hand it feels better than my P1D-CE and yes, it is brighter. I just switched batteries back and forth and it seems noticeably brighter. But more than that, a much better beam. All the beams of the Rebel P2D's were much nicer than any of the 3 P1D-CE's I have. Also I never cared for the back part of the P1D-CE and the hexagon sape that still rolls on a table, but feels weird in my hand.

This just became my #2 for EDC, just behind my FF3. And that's mostly due to overall feel and size.

Edit Added: Does anyone know if RCR123's work in these?

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

Tremendo said:

Does anyone know if RCR123's work in these?

Click to expand...

This review mentions the snug fit of RCR123's

https://www.candlepowerforums.com/threads/172957

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

What model do you have? Fenix L2D/L1D Rebel 100 What manual did it come with and does it describe time limits on Turbo mode? Manual seems to be messed up as it mentions CR123 batteries which this unit doesn't use. And yes it does mention the ten minute time limit, which may apply to the CR123 unit. What was the appeal of this specific model (size/output/simplicity)? Wanted to upgrade from a Luxeon to new LED, Rebel 100 seemed like latest and greatest, like common AA format and easy to use nimh lsd, this model can be single or double AA with extra body, four brightness modes, UI seemed good. Did you get it for a specific role or because you had to have it? Well, it was a upgrade... If there's a choice, what batteries do you plan to run (alkaline/NiMH/NiMH LSD/lithium)? nimh lsd How is it at throwing light (flood/spot/spill/quality)? OP gives a soft spot which is nice but decreases throw a bit. But on turbo this thing still can throw with the big MAG boys. I would say spot and beam quality are very good for a small reflector. If you've seen Cree's, do current Cree versions still have play? I can't compare, but from detailed reviews seems these units are neck and neck. First impressions, might this be your favorite new bulb/light? Favorite until a better one comes along. We are fickle aren't we? And of course, how does it compare to non Rebel's (beamshots, etc) Compared to my Luxeon Fenix's the beam is almost exactly the same. Just the Rebel 100 can go brighter, way brighter. BAM

Re: Rebel [LED] Alliance: What's it like in your hands?

Hello,
Yesterday I received my L2D Rebel100. So now I have both the L2D 100 and the L2T V2.0

What model do you have?

What manual did it come with and does it describe time limits on Turbo mode? Both said to use turbo sparingly (10 min)

What was the appeal of this specific model (size/output/simplicity)? Both: size&output. L2T: simplicity and the useful low at 15 lumens. L2D: good regulation with all modes, except turbo (alkaline). Both have very good runtimes at their lower (but still useful) levels.

Did you get it for a specific role or because you had to have it? Role: I am a flashaholic. Also as edc lights.

How are the new parts (reflectors/filters/diffusers)? Uh? Well, ehm, the new parts are... well... new, I guess...
Seriously: The forward clicky (L2T) is GREAT.

If there's a choice, what batteries do you plan to run (alkaline/NiMH/NiMH LSD/lithium)? NIMH (eneloop)

How is it at throwing light (flood/spot/spill/quality)?
Lighting up a buiding at 50m (55yds) is easy with both lights at maximum setting. It is neither a floodlight, neither a pure thrower but the sheer amount of lumens makes it throw quite a distance.

Are the new bodies (L2T 2.0) improved (grip/finish)? Same as old L2T

If you've seen Cree's, do current Cree versions still have play? A lot may also depend on the ruggedness of the led as well. Some lumens less is reasonable if the led should have a longer lifespan. But maybe the rebel is stronger? I do not know.

If you have a Rebel80 and a Rebel100, can you see a difference? Rebel 80 seems whiter, rebel 100 more blue/purple. Output: when both the 80 and 100 are on maximum (140 vs 175 advertised) they are very difficult to tell apart, when it comes to output. Similarly, the L2D100 at "high" (100 lumens) is difficult to tell apart from the L2T at maximum. L2D: the difference between high and max is noticable, but small to the eyes.

First impressions, might this be your favorite new bulb/light? Yes, maybe the L2T v2.0 because of the great clicky and the very useful 15 lumens on low.

And of course, how does it compare to non Rebel's (beamshots, etc) When the L2D 100 is set at 50 lumens it compares somehow to luxeon leds I have: Peak Mediterranean, Fenix L2P v2.0. It seems quite similar, but not more pleasing. It seems the rebel100 is more blueish were the Peak and the L2P seem whiter.

One of the advantages of the L2D100 seems to me: both are not meant to be used for longer periods at maximum output. But the L2D100 has a "high" of 100 lumens which is very bright and can be used, I guess, for longer periods (walking at night).

I found out that the forward clicky also functions on the L2D100. But when clicked on, you can not change the levels by "tapping" on the button. When clicked on, you are limited to either 11 lumens and 175 lumens. Other levels only by momentary use.

Kind regards,
Joris