Recommend a flashlight for me to buy the guys at work

I'm looking to buy flashlights for a bunch of guys to use at a power plant. These lights will be used and abused. They need decent throw so they can trace pipes. Nothing really complicated because most are not "flashlight guys" and won't want to mess with a bunch of modes. I don't want to spend a ton because some will be lost and others "lost" at home. Let's say $30 max and lower is definitely better.

We have aa and aaa available at the plant so those are preferred.

Mostly we we have bought streamlight 4aa led lights which are fairly well liked. I just figure there has to better for the money. What would you recommend?

I carry either a streamlight stylus pro (nice but not quite bright enough to trace lines) or a thrunight ti4 (more lumens but more of a flood so still not great for tracing lines. I also don't like the switch as well and it borders on to complicated for some of the older guys)

Streamlight 3AA ProPolymer Dualie-These are just under 30 bucks and come in either yellow or black. Here is a copy/paste from their site for the light.

The 3AA ProPolymer Dualie is the first intrinsically safe flashlight and floodlight from Streamlight. The dual beams are independently controlled by separate pushbutton switches, so you can choose the right beam for your task. Use the spot beam as a traditional flashlight for navigating in the dark. Switch to the flood beam for up close tasks or to light up an area. Turn on both beams to see what's ahead of you and your feet at the same time, avoiding obstacles as you walk.

The Streamlight 3AA ProPolymer Dualie is rated intrinsically safe for use in hazardous locations. See the safety rating details below.

What's included in the box -
STR68750 and STR68752: 3AA ProPolymer Dualie flashlight, three AA alkaline batteries.

STR68751 and STR68753: 3AA ProPolymer Dualie flashlight only (batteries not included)

Features of the Streamlight 3AA ProPolymer Dualie Intrinsically Safe flashlight/floodlight:
• intrinsically safe for use in hazardous locations:
Class I, II, Division 1, Groups A,B,C,D, E, F, G;
Class III;
CL 1, ZN 0, IIC;
Exia;
T-code: T4
(approved for use with Energizer E91, EA91, L91, Duracell MN1500, Rayovac NO.815)
• three output modes:
Spot mode - 140 lumens, 18 hour run time, shines for 561 feet (171 meters)
Flood mode - 140 lumens, 18 hour run time
Combined spot & flood mode - 245 lumens, 9 hour run time
• use combined spot and flood mode to avoid trips while you are walking
• powerful C4 LED technology
• beam distance of 171m (561 feet)
• two independently operating pushbutton switches:
spot switch - press for momentary on or click for constant on
flood switch - located adjacent to flood LED - click for constant on
• switches are easy to activate with gloves on
• powered by three AA batteries (alkaline or lithium) - Energizer E91, EA91, L91, Duracell MN1500, Rayovac NO.815
*note: only the 68750 and 68753 packages include batteries
• integrated spring-loaded belt clip is snag-free - it doesn't protrude out from the body
• high performance anti-static thermoplastic body is chemical and solvent resistant
• unbreakable polycarbonate lens with scratch resistant coating
• impact resistant to 2 meters
• O-ring sealed, IPX7 rated waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes
• dust-tight
• measures 7.0" long x 1.86" head diameter x 1.52" body diameter
• weighs 6.8 oz with alkaline batteries
• engineered in the USA, made in China
• limited lifetime warranty through Streamlight

That must be new since the last time I looked at the Streamlight site. Looks like it would fit your needs to a 'T'. There is also a laser version that adds a laser pointer to the mix, which I think would be really handy for tracing lines, especially when you are trying to show someone else where the line runs.

Good suggestion!!

I did not know they had this light either lol. Once I read the OP's post I knew Streamlight would have something so I just skipped over and took a look. Hell I just bought a yellow one will have it next week. Got the non laser one as the laser according to their spec sheet eats the batteries up pretty quickly. Looking forward to getting the light seems like one hell of a value for only 30 bucks

Wow, that looks really nice. Brighter, cheaper, more flexible, and just all around better than the old streamlights we used to get. Thanks!

Not as good a suggestion as the ones you already got above, but the Rayovac indestructible 2AA can take a beating, and has a pretty focused beam @ only $14 with batteries, it's hard to beat, especially if these lights have a tendency to walk off the job.

The durable LiL Larry from NeboToola, $19.95: powered by 3 AAA's, 250 & 90 lumens, with magnet, COB lighting, available in black, red, gray, and patriotic colors.

It can be shortened by removing end tube and one battery.

Gifted it to my friend's son who uses it working on aircraft engines and loves it.

That Streetlight looks very interesting. Output is a bit low, but probably a good choice given the power source and it's intended use. It would have been nice if the Laser version also retained the flood light and made a Triplie. I think it's quite a practical light for it's intended use. It does not recommend use of NiMH batteries, but does support the Lithium. If someone get ones it would be good to have a report on how it does with NiMH. I might just order one myself. Maybe as a gift for someone.

Nitecore MT21A

less 25% off right now from batt junc