Replacing a reflector with a Collimator lens ...

What would be the result/consequence of replacing the reflector, say a OP reflector, of a flashlight with a collimator lens ?

For eg., if I managed to replace the reflector in a Rom RC-G2 with a collimator lens.

The spec for a collimator lens at KD says "Light collection efficiency of >85%". How does that compare to a reflector ?

Thanks.

Efficiency differences are negligible.

However beam patterns can be radically different depending on the output angle of the collimator.

It's a difficult job to fit a one on the G2, the F4 is far easier. Also if it's the 8degree unit on KD your looking at this will be quite a bit more floody than the standard reflector.

IMO the G2 reflector is top class, I wouldn't replace it unless you want flood, but then I would just buy another none turbo head AA and save the G2 for what it's good at, ie one of the best AA throwers.

when you say collimator lens are you talking about those total internal relfectioin type stuff?

if you were i was wondering the very same thing about switching out the reflector of the U2 for a lens system

were you talking about this? http://www.luxeonstar.com/item.php?id=396&link_str=88&partno=LXHL-NX05

No, the RC-G2 is a good looking, well built and cheap FL. I was wondering if I could get a G2 and mod it to be a more general-purpose FL. I use FLs more close up work - for example repairing/tinkering with computers.

I asked about the "Light collection efficiency ... ", because I was wondering if I do manage to replace the reflector with a 8 deg collimator lens if that will make the beam very much dimmer compared to the reflector.

Perceived brightness will be lower obviously.

Just to reiterate; the G2 is completely the wrong choice for this mod because of the turbo head, the G2 reflector is a lot longer than the collimator by about 5>10mm. The head will need chopping down OR the led will need mounting on an extra chunk of metal plus complications associated with that.. driver wires lengthing etc.

The 8 degree collimator at KD taken out of the holder and trimmed a tiny bit is the perfect fit in diameter and length for almost all ~20mm head sized AA and CR123 lights, so its a very easy mod for any of these. Also the RC-F4 which has the same G2 head has a much longer pill that will unscrew this distance for an easy mod, still I'd stick with the normal head sizes for this mod as if you mod a normal ~20mm sized head, you will get exactly the same smooth flood beam but in a much slimmer package.

You might look into a Terralux clip star. It has a really nice work beam....use 3 AAA batt. Bright, but not blinding...does not flash back with too strong a spot.

OK, thanks.

the best thing you can do for you Rc-G2 is change the driver, and upgrade the LED. It makes a helluva AA thrower once you get past 100lumens.

Crenshaw