Re: If you could buy any EDC flashlight you wanted
this question is ALWAYS on my mind. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif
Just when I think I've finally decided on ONE type of FL to EDC I learn about an entirely NEW one that changes my mind completely! Augh! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif
(*ahem*)
that being said, I do have my two-cents for your question. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif
after playing with several FLs so far (while indoors & outdoors) I've found that for EDCing, I prefer a "small form" (ie. 2x123) flashlight. And this FL has to have a beam with "some" side-spill (for upclose tasks) but also has to have decent-to-excellent throw (for distance lighting).
It's the classic argument: flood or throw? For me, I prefer throw with some side spill. Others might prefer side-spill with some throw. To each their own. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif
For me, I can make do with "some" side spill for close up tasks. But if a beam simply does not have enough throw, then there's only so much you can do to try to make that particular beam work for you when you're trying to light up something far away from ya, eh?
As per my sig, I EDC an Aleph III-HA (DB1000 TWOK) hosted on a SF E2o-HA. With this piece of kit, I have the 2x123 form whose beam provides modest side-spill AND (of course) provides major kick-*** throw!! Woo-hoo!! I am considering upgrading to a 3x123 form as well for longer runtime.
So IMHO I've found the "perfect" EDC (for my preferences & applications) in the Aleph III. I know the other Aleph heads are smaller & therefore, more pocketable or more EDCable. But I still find the Aleph III head "not that big"... and on an E-series light it's still very compact. Plus the fact it's a luxeon led (that's regulated!!) gives me peace of mind with respect to reliability (no bulbs to replace) and regulation (even output over the life of the batts). It cost me a fair bit of coin /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/broke.gif but it was well worth it! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bowdown.gif
FYI - you cant really tell the power of the Aleph III during the day. The beam's awesome power is more evident at night. It's like the Aleph III gets "stronger" as it gets darker! heheheh. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/evilgrin07.gif Tonight, it was very foggy by the time I got off shift. My A3 just blasts holes in the dark through the fog!! It's almost UNreal seeing the amount of light that comes out of this little flashlight, heheh. I use my SF L7 for close-up / indoor tasks and I keep the A3 for outdoor / distance lighting.
The Aleph III. My "bestest, most favorite-est, & coolest" EDC! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsup.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif
CQB /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif