Hello from a new member... But a little help please

300zx

Newly Enlightened
Joined
Dec 13, 2012
Messages
1
First let me start by saying that from the things I've read so far, all the members here seem EXTREMELY well versed in flashlights. I am a member of several different types of forums ranging from the piano, to my motorcycle, and some forums are definitely better than others. This seems like one of the better ones and people look to have a little better attitude about helping each other out rather than just proving who has the most knowledge.

From a young age I actually started collecting flashlights and always thought they were the coolest little gadgets. I guess I never realized that their were other people out there that had a fascination with flashlights. But low and behold, here they there. And it seems in droves haha. I first stumbled across Candle Power in search of a flashlight for use in home defense situations. Essentially I wanted to find a flashlight to keep on my night stand to use at night in the case of a power outage, or in the event of needing to defend myself. I also keep a Glock on my nightstand but obviously don't always need a gun, and I have many uses for a flashlight, so I would like to avoid a gun mounted light. I'd also love to find a flashlight that is trunk mountable that could be wired into the car either hard wired/or with a cigarette lighter (I have an outlet in the trunk) so that it is always charged.

I love that there are so many things to consider when shopping for a light. It makes picking one out so much more fun. I am somewhat of a research junky. I can never just buy something without first reading, analyzing, and weighing the options. That being said, after about ten minutes on this forum, I quickly became overwhelmed by the lingo, abbreviations, and general tech talk of the more knowledgable members. My research into a light has suddenly become so complicated I am lost. (It has also got me thinking about all the other ways I could use a good light and suddenly I am shopping for 5 lights instead of one haha)

I was wondering if there is a list of all the commonly used acronyms that would help me in deciphering some of what I am reading. Also, is there an article/post that I could read that could lay down some groundwork for me learning all the aspects of a flashlight that I need to understand in order to pick the right light. I am quickly learning that there is more to them than a lightbulb with a few batteries. I am neck deep in lumens, reflectors, anti-roll rings etc that I am afraid to post any questions at the risk of completely embarrassing myself. If I could get a general breakdown of the parts, function of each, and different levels of quality that are offered of each part (essentially what is the Ford Escort version vs the Ferrari version), that would be great.

As my knowledge grows I look forwarding to posting my experiences with thte lights that I purchase. I always believe in giving back from which you receive and I'd love to contribute. Thanks in advance for the help
Adam
 
Top