LED torch newby questions

Hi all,

I'm new here :wave:, have a couple of questions (probably dumb newby questions).

I have 2 LED torches, for hunting. The first is an Ultrafire C8 which has a cree Q5 and
2 x 16340 batteries it has a reflector type head approx 45mm diameter.

The second I recently purchased, a EDI-T P15 it has the XM-L T6 and one 18650 battery, this one has no reflector but has an "aspherical?" lens.

Now for my questions..... The newer torch seems to have more output, but less distance at 10 meters there is a bright 2 meter square illuminated, the original seems to have a more usable 'spot"and cetainly illuminates further.

EDI-T are soon to release an updated torch with 2 or 3 18650 batteries and slightly larger aspherical lens...

OR

Ultrafire now offer the same C8 torch but with the XM-L T6 LED and 1 18650 battery

Which would be better for me?

Is it the battery, lens/reflector or chip that makes the difference?

Can I buy a XM-L T6 to put in my Ultrafire?

Hope this all makes sense :sick2:

Howdy wastednights and welcome to CPF,
I can't answer your questions directly, but will attempt to offer a bit of perspective. There are many variables in flashlight construction which affect how the beam projects, and it's how these different variables are matched up that determine how well a torch will work for a particular situation.

Those variables include (but aren't limited to) all the things you've mentioned..... batteries, LED type, choice of reflector or optic (which includes the size and depth of the reflector or shape of the optic), and the electronics used to control everything.

I'd recommend that you plan on spending some time reading here at CPF before purchasing another light. This will give you the information you need to make an informed decision.

Here are a few links that you should find helpful:
http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?277224-The-Welcome-Mat-a-FAQ
http://www.light-reviews.com/reviews.html
http://www.sliderule.ca/flashlight.htm
http://www.lygte-info.dk/review/Reviews UK.html
http://batteryuniversity.com/

Yep, it's a lot of reading...... but you'll find that it's all very useful in helping you to find the right light for YOUR particular situation.

Have fun .