It has an Optic
It throws it's narrow beam a fairly decent distance for it's power. It works really well for duties where you have to discern detail at a distance of say 10-50 feet without lighting-up everything in between.
I have one. I really like it for a cheap-o light. I used to use it for checking the front and back door locks from the stair landing amongst other tasks indoors and out. Checking under the couch/bed/ etc. Now I keep it as a backup light when I travel or for storms and power outages. The runtime is pretty good. No regulation, but it doesn't really need it. Useful light for several hours.
A modern LED behind the Firecracker's optic would really be nice. The OP did try it a few years back, but it was more complicated than thought, so I don't think it progressed beyond putting GID paint inside the optic housing. It is no barn burner, but it is very useful considering it can be used w/o blinding everyone or giving away your position.