Re: Which 2 and 3 cell Incan Surefire would you bu
GarageBoy,
For what it's worth, here are my collected and considered thoughts on 2 & 3 cell SureFires:
OK. First, I think these get grouped into those which you can fit into a pocket for EDC, and those which can't. This means E2e, A2, L2, L4 in one group, and 6P, C2, M2, G2, G2Z, C3, M3, M3T in the other.
For the first group, I suggest an A2, but an L2, E2e, or L4 are also great. If you opt for an E2e or L4, I strongly recommend the clickie tail caps. The problem with the LOTC on an E2e, is that it is just too short to get a decent grip upon, and the LOTC requires significant hold down pressure. Plus, the E2e has a tendency to lie down in your pocket, which is very uncomfortable. This actually makes the A2 or L2 easier pocket carry lights, in my experience. Now, I prefer the A2 because I am one of those wacky incan guys who actually LIKES good incan light. But I won't go into any more detail. I have stated my opinion in various threads on the A2. A search will turn them up.
The U2 I have no experience with, so I don't know how or where it fits into the discussion, but if an M3 is too much cash, I guess that rules out the U2.
Now for the next group. OK. With this group, I think you're definitely going to want to be able to use the P61 (for the 2 cells), so I'd forget the G2 because its lexan lens will melt with extended P61 running. Next, I would rule out the 6P (or D2 or Z2) because they are not hard anodized. If your light is just going to sit around by your bedside, type II is fine, but if you're going to use it with any regularity, I personally just have to have type III anodize.
So that leaves the C2, M2, and G2Z. Now the thing about the C2 and M2, in my experience, is that the pocket clip gets in the way of a proper and comfortable grip when using the LOTC. I got rid of my D2 because my hand kept slipping when holding down the switch. So I picked up a C2, because I think the extra size of the S/I M2 bezel is too much--nice as an option, but I wouldn't want to be locked into it. And the grip ring helped matters, but there was something that was just plain not right. It bugged me for months and I just couldn't shake it. Again, I think with the Z58 clickie installed, the C2 would be just fine, but with the standard LOTC, I vote "no" to the C2. If you loose the clip, it's better, but even so, the square-ish body is just not quite right. And ruling out the Z2 (no type II) that leaves only the G2Z. Check out some of the threads on the G2Z, but people are generally very impressed by it. I don't own one, but I am going to buy one sooner or later. I think it is going to be a great buy. According to Size15s, you get the best shock isolation short of actually having a S/I bezel, and if you scratch the light, the scratch is the same color is the surface. Plus, it has a pyrex lens and LOTC and a combat grip with a round body and it comes with a lanyard.
G2Z is my current 2 cell recommendation, but again, I must point out that I haven't actually owned one yet, but I will soon, and I arrived at this choice by a process of elimination.
As far as 3 cell SF lights, if you're going to spend the money at all, get an M3 or M3T. Forget the C3. Similar reasoning as above.
There. Hope that helps. Good luck.