Re: SureFire E-Series
Roy,
In addition to some collars for the E series, I have ordered some collars for a generic AA sized tube. The one shown above *should* fit the mag AA, brinkman AA, craftsman AA and others. It may be the case that some tape or other shim material is used under the collar for a snug fit.
One concern I have is that the collar is mounted with a set screw that is tightened enough to hopefully secure the collar but over tightening can dimple and damage the tube or tail cap. Once the set screw is "set" the tab is screwed on and tightened against the collar. The tab is acting like a lock nut and actually puts the threads of the set screw in tension which will aid in keeping it from loosening up. Loc-Tite can be used for a more secure joint. This system works and I have been using it for quite a while. Unfortunately the system can be a source of damage to the flashlight if proper care is not taken. Some people may chose to glue the collar in place some way and not drive the set-screw with tension onto the tube at all. The tab can be locked against the collar without the set screw even contacting the battery tube.
Another method of securing the collar would be to whip a band of twine onto the tube on both sides of the collar. Some folks may want the collar fixed longitudinally but free to rotate.
I plan to put together some images and ideas of different mounts but want to wait until I am working with the production pieces.
Incidentally, since I have opted for the #6x32 thread size, I have found that the pocket clips of the E series as well as the McLux can be drilled for a # 6 screw and the tab can be mounted to the clip as an option. I think folks will find that many of the lights have material in the tail cap for a blind 6x32 tapped hole. This will allow for the tab to be directly mounted to the end of the light without need for a collar.
Some lights have a flat surface (the eternalight is one I tried) where the TheClip round plastic tab with 3M adhesive can be installed on the light and allow for swivel belt clip carry; much like the cell phones, pagers and PDA's that use this system.
- Don
- Don