What flashlight do you have?

[Darrell KSR]

We have about one gazillion flashlights, most of which are junk, I think.

Picked up three headlamps from Harbor Freight a couple of weeks ago just to throw in the trunks of cars in case got somewhere and needed a flashlight. Think I paid $3.99 for each of them. Have used one a few times already, and for a cheap light, it works well.

Son has a nice headlamp he paid about $40 for, but not sure of the brand/model.

We've had some Maglites over the years--do not know where a single one is today.

One of my favorites is a basic "C-cell" flashlight that has a vinyl-covered metal "cord" at the end of it, with a clip at the end. It lets you unclip it, take the cord out, then wrap the cord around something and reclip it. Basically, instead of just a hook at the bottom, you can hook it around anything--a bicycle handlebars, the handle of a refrigerator, a paper towel dispenser--anything.

Anyway, I'm looking to get another flashlight because I am walking so much at night in my neighborhood--which is extremely dark. I do not live within city limits, and there are very few street lights in my area. I walk often between 11 pm and midnight, and it would be good to have a decent flashlight to be carrying--or wearing.

What do you have? And no, I'm not going to buy some $100-200 flashlight that burns paper it's so bright. But I would like to have a bright flashlight with good battery endurance, and maybe a headlamp one. Just seems to make more sense to wear one rather than carry one.

[BigBlueBrock]

http://www.thewebprograms.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Torch-and-Emergency-Light-Android-app.jpg

[dan_bgblue]

Which one?

1 Maglite 3 D cell
2 Maglite minis
1 LED mini
1 LED headlamp
1 carbide lantern
1 6 volt lantern
1 million candlepower spotlight with 12 volt plug in adapter

And yes I know exactly where all of them are

[blue2ksr]

Got 2 for $3 from Wal-Mart.

[dan_bgblue]

Maglite mini would be great for walking. Plenty of power and I use rechargeable batteries in mine. Gander Mountain has a great little LED headlamp, that runs on 3 triple a batteries. Really comfortable 2 piece headband and plenty of light for walking.

Both run about 20 bucks including throw away batteries. Maglite comes with a wrist strap

[jazyd]

I am like dan, like the mag lites, and the mini would be perfect. Now if you feel there oculd be danger at any point, go with a bigger one that you could use for protection, and I have the halogen light bulbs. very bright. I bought 3 last year at Lowes on special.

[Darrell KSR]

I am like dan, like the mag lites, and the mini would be perfect. Now if you feel there oculd be danger at any point, go with a bigger one that you could use for protection, and I have the halogen light bulbs. very bright. I bought 3 last year at Lowes on special.

I keep something else with me for protection, but I do need a good flashlight.

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[CitizenBBN]

I keep something else with me for protection, but I do need a good flashlight.

Sent using Forum Runner

I keep telling you that cease and desist letter won't do as much as you think.... ;)

I don't need a flashlight. I've spent so much time as a night owl I actually see better in the dark. I really do need better flashlights. Have oil lamps for power outages but my phone isn't the world's best flashlight.

[suncat05]

I have several Maglites, one in each of our POV's, bunches of cheapie flashlights from Guide Gear that I have the "Boss" keep in her purse(s), as well as my daughter, and keep in strategically located places around the house.
I have a Fenix TK10 that I carry on my duty belt. I really, really like that flashlight, very bright, not heavy in relation to all of the other crap I have to keep on my duty rig, and even though I work almost exclusively days it does come in very handy from time to time. It was kinda pricey though when I bought it about 5 years ago, but it has been worth every penny.
We keep lots of candles for power outtages around the house.

[PedroDaGr8]

Most of the brightest flashlights use the Cree XM-L LED.

I have two major flashlights that I use. They are both from Home Depots christmas sale.

The one I like the most is a Defiant 500 Lumen Cree XM-L (http://www.homedepot.com/p/Defiant-500-Lumen-Tactical-Flashlight-DISCONTINUED-809-2781-D/203418847#.UeyWwZyOnIs) flashlight. This is a true 500-550 lumen based on what i have seen, not a listed 1000 Lumen LED but only puts out 400 lumens. It uses 3 C batteries, which actually is nice, because most flashlights use D-Cells. A guy I know who got hit by hurricane Sandy said when you went to the store D-cells were GONE but he had no problem snatching up a bunch of C-cells at a couple of places. The best part is it was an x-mas special and was only around $20 after tax. This light has great reviews on the candlepower forums and infact a youtube review mentions that it compares VERY favorably with the Fenix TK41 800 (which is over $100).

The other I use for tighter space work is a Defiant 100 lumen (http://www.homedepot.com/p/2-Pack-100-Lumens-LED-Flashlights-HD12OTB14/203278149#.UeygxJyOnIt) which came in a 2 pack for $9+tax. These actually put out closer to 200lumens according to the candlepower forums. They are great for tighter up work and feel very nice in the hand. Especially when you consider the $5/pc price. More importantly, the emitter in these lights are about the BEST for candle mode (remove the reflector and let the LED shine like the old mag lights) that I have ever seen. Perfectly even and wide flood.


These things aren't perfect but they are amazing lights for the price and have handled almost daily use for over 7 mo with no problems at all.

[Darrell KSR]

Most of the brightest flashlights use the Cree XM-L LED.

I have two major flashlights that I use. They are both from Home Depots christmas sale.

The one I like the most is a Defiant 500 Lumen Cree XM-L (http://www.homedepot.com/p/Defiant-500-Lumen-Tactical-Flashlight-DISCONTINUED-809-2781-D/203418847#.UeyWwZyOnIs) flashlight. This is a true 500-550 lumen based on what i have seen, not a listed 1000 Lumen LED but only puts out 400 lumens. It uses 3 C batteries, which actually is nice, because most flashlights use D-Cells. A guy I know who got hit by hurricane Sandy said when you went to the store D-cells were GONE but he had no problem snatching up a bunch of C-cells at a couple of places. The best part is it was an x-mas special and was only around $20 after tax. This light has great reviews on the candlepower forums and infact a youtube review mentions that it compares VERY favorably with the Fenix TK41 800 (which is over $100).

The other I use for tighter space work is a Defiant 100 lumen (http://www.homedepot.com/p/2-Pack-100-Lumens-LED-Flashlights-HD12OTB14/203278149#.UeygxJyOnIt) which came in a 2 pack for $9+tax. These actually put out closer to 200lumens according to the candlepower forums. They are great for tighter up work and feel very nice in the hand. Especially when you consider the $5/pc price. More importantly, the emitter in these lights are about the BEST for candle mode (remove the reflector and let the LED shine like the old mag lights) that I have ever seen. Perfectly even and wide flood.

These things aren't perfect but they are amazing lights for the price and have handled almost daily use for over 7 mo with no problems at all.

Couple o-questions, great one.

First, does Home Depot carry those in store? The link has them as discontinued online.

Second, is this correct?--I read (from some link, somewhere, while searching for those Defiant brands) a discussion that claimed something like a 500 lumens flashlight isn't 4x brighter than a 125 lumens flashlight; it's only like 40% brighter--a significant improvement, to be sure, but if you're looking at a Mag lite at 125 lumens that claims a 79-hour battery life, and a 500 lumens Defiant with an 8-hour battery life, it might make me tend toward the former, rather than the latter, especially if I'll be using it a ton.

Here's the 131-lumens Mag lite--it's 3D cell, rather than 3C (I do like the idea of C batteries, rather than D, if I can get it), but that 79-hour run time is insane, even if it's only a fraction of it in real life.

http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/product/index.jsp?productId=12080369

Review:
http://www.geartechreviews.com/maglite-3d-led-flashlight-review

(Note--in doing some digging, it looks like what happens is it goes down to like 40% of normal power in about the same 8 hours the 2-Cell one uses up. From there, it just barely diminishes over time. At 79 hours or so, it's at 10% brightness, or about 13 lumens. So if you're really needing 130+ lumens, you won't have it long, and if you need even 50-60 lumens, you will only have that about 8 hours. But if you want to just have one around, with spare batteries for the major power, and it "always" working otherwise, just for a small light, that battery life is crazy.)

[Darrell KSR]

Wow, this discussion of run time is interesting. Just for the heck of it (I am not in the market for one of those expensive Suncat type premium flashlights, although I'd love to have one), I took a look at a Fenix. Here is the run time on this bad boy:

Output/Runtime:
Low: 5 Lumens/160 Hours
Medium: 80 Lumens/20 Hours
High: 190 Lumens/7 Hours 30 Minutes
Turbo: 520 Lumens/2 Hours 10 Minutes

So you can get great run time (20 hours) out of good lumens (80)--but if you turn that baby on 520, you're down to 2 hrs or so. I guess that's ok, especially since the 190 would probably do everything you'd ever need, and it's 7-1/2 hrs.

[suncat05]

Just off the top of my head, I don't remember how many lumens I have at my command, but my Fenix only has 2 settings, high & low. I keep it on low, which for my purposes is plenty, and at that setting IIRC, I have enough battery to last me for about 10-12 hours.
And yeah, it was a little pricey when I bought it, but it had excellent independent reviews and it is an excellent product.

The only thing I don't like about it is that it's made in............China.

[BarristerCat]

I've tried every headlamp coming and going, and for my money it's Petzl every time. They are well made. The light is bright and holds up well. The strap doesn't lose it's shape after a few uses like many of the cheaper ones I've tried. Also, on all the Petzl lights I've had the position/angle of the light itself is adjustable. Other lights have that feature, but the Petzl is the only one I've had where the light actually stays in the position that you put it in.

As far as handheld flashlights go, I really can't say enough about Surefire and Streamlight LED lights. My small, pocketable Streamlight (http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/product/index.jsp?productId=13238459) puts out far more light to my eye (so, I'm talking practical light, not lumens) than the biggest Mag lite they make. Also, they seem to be quite a bit tougher. I assume that's because Mag lites use a traditional element that can break when it is hot and takes a hit.

Of course, it also depends on how you use and treat your stuff. I'm the type that takes pretty good care of my stuff and I rarely lose anything. So, spending some money on a flashlight isn't as big a deal to me because I'll almost definitely have the thing for 10+ years.

[jazyd]

Stream light makes a good one, I really get a lot of run time on my mags, can't say for sure because I haven't replace batteries yet :).

[ukblue]

Got a bat light. About 16" long with a coarse grip on it and it looks like a small bat. Has 3 setting on it, the 1st is 200 lumens with amazing distance on the beam. The 2nd setting is 100 lumens and the 3rd is a strobe light which destroys night vision on the receiving end. A amazing and useful light.

[dan_bgblue]

ukblue, you got my interest up and I had to google for a bat light. That is pretty cool

[ukblue]

It's a useful home defense item as well Dan. If you get one you will not be disappointed.

[PedroDaGr8]

Couple o-questions, great one.

First, does Home Depot carry those in store? The link has them as discontinued online.

Second, is this correct?--I read (from some link, somewhere, while searching for those Defiant brands) a discussion that claimed something like a 500 lumens flashlight isn't 4x brighter than a 125 lumens flashlight; it's only like 40% brighter--a significant improvement, to be sure, but if you're looking at a Mag lite at 125 lumens that claims a 79-hour battery life, and a 500 lumens Defiant with an 8-hour battery life, it might make me tend toward the former, rather than the latter, especially if I'll be using it a ton.

Here's the 131-lumens Mag lite--it's 3D cell, rather than 3C (I do like the idea of C batteries, rather than D, if I can get it), but that 79-hour run time is insane, even if it's only a fraction of it in real life.

http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/product/index.jsp?productId=12080369

Review:
http://www.geartechreviews.com/maglite-3d-led-flashlight-review

(Note--in doing some digging, it looks like what happens is it goes down to like 40% of normal power in about the same 8 hours the 2-Cell one uses up. From there, it just barely diminishes over time. At 79 hours or so, it's at 10% brightness, or about 13 lumens. So if you're really needing 130+ lumens, you won't have it long, and if you need even 50-60 lumens, you will only have that about 8 hours. But if you want to just have one around, with spare batteries for the major power, and it "always" working otherwise, just for a small light, that battery life is crazy.)

There is no magic to this. All of the brightest flashlights use the same LED (though the optics can play a role its a difference of around 20% not of 100's of %). Quite simply, the brighter the flashlight the shorter the battery life.

This flashlight worked just fine for me with the included cheapie C cells. Its contruction is solid but I wouldn't call it premium. Fine threaded joints rubber O-rings on each joint etc. For the price its killer there are better flashlights out there but you will pay 3x as much. Personally, I like having a flashlight that I don't freak out if I drop it off the car and scratch the heck out of it.

[Darrell KSR]

Very cool light, ukblue. Reasonably priced, too (I thought it was going to be one of Suncat's high dollar items, and it's in the ballpark. Get it--in the ballpark? I amuse myself).

Great look. Like the 100 lumens setting for 8 hours with 4AA's. Can get those on sale for about $0.20-0.25 each, so for a buck you can get 8 hours or so at a nice, bright setting, and if you need to, you can get more (I was going to say double, but I now know that 200lumens is not double 100 lumens.)

Fascinated by all the flashlight buffs out there. I do want to get a couple of "good" flashlights, but I'm more in the $15-30 range, not the $100+ range. This barely sneaks in under the wire.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/21tZQ7TX2WL._SX342_.jpg

[Darrell KSR]

It's a useful home defense item as well Dan. If you get one you will not be disappointed.

About the size of a billy club, ukblue? Decent weight, but not too heavy?

[Darrell KSR]

Stream light makes a good one, I really get a lot of run time on my mags, can't say for sure because I haven't replace batteries yet :).

Maglite is certainly in the running...not that they need my one or two. I know they sell a ton of them. Lot of happy customers for years.

[Darrell KSR]

There is no magic to this. All of the brightest flashlights use the same LED (though the optics can play a role its a difference of around 20% not of 100's of %). Quite simply, the brighter the flashlight the shorter the battery life.

This flashlight worked just fine for me with the included cheapie C cells. Its contruction is solid but I wouldn't call it premium. Fine threaded joints rubber O-rings on each joint etc. For the price its killer there are better flashlights out there but you will pay 3x as much. Personally, I like having a flashlight that I don't freak out if I drop it off the car and scratch the heck out of it.

I found a Defiant at Home Depot; not the same exact one you posted, but another one with 3C, 493 lumens, for about $23. It looks great. Throws nearly 500 YARDS. CRAZY.

Right now I'm looking at 6 different ones. I'm thinking buying one to carry, one for small spaces, and a headlamp.

* The Defiant above ($23). How can you not love a 1450+ foot carry distance at that lumens? Very strong contender at that price and feature. By the way--I LOVE the on/off, no frills part of the flashlight. I know it's cool to have strobe (defensive, too), and low and high settings, etc., but I just like to click a button and it work.
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Defiant-LED-Tactical-Super-Thrower-Flashlight-809-2791-D/203651023#.Ue3-vGfzvfs

* The Defiant mini-lights ($9). For that price, it's ridiculous not to get that, almost no matter what.

* The Defiant headlamp ($18)--I love headlamps, and this 7-lamp one looked good, with good reviews. I'm not big on "frills,' but for something like this--yeah, I dig that it has a red light setting in addition to the normal setting (two other settings, too). 110 lumens is nice.
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Defiant-7-LED-Headlight-809-2631-D/203138531#.Ue4AdWfzvfs

((But also greatly considering--and probably leading--with this one--
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Defiant-3-Pack-5-LED-Headlight-809-2613-D/203138523#.Ue4A_2fzvfs

3-pack, 5 LED headlight, only $15, with high and low setting. Can get one of these to "wear" for safety on low setting and save battery power, too. Didn't see the lumens, know it will be less but ok with that.

* The Maglite with 3D cells. ($27). Here's the camo version. I think it's cool you can go on "ultra-battery saving mode" and milk it up to 79 hours.
http://www.amazon.com/MAGLITE-ST3DMR6-Cell-Flashlight-Universal/dp/B001DZO7KU

4.9/5.0 stars with 105 reviews. That's pretty dang strong. 95 of 105 are 5-star, 8 4-star, 1 3-star and an isolated 1-star that claimed false advertising, and it wasn't really LED.

* The Bat Light ($28)
http://www.amazon.com/Nebo-5904-PROTEC-Bat-Light/dp/B0091MAUTY/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

* The Rayovac indestructible ($25). Tough as nails, 140 lumens, 3C cell. 38 hours on "high," 85 hours on the low setting of 45 lumens.
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Rayovac-Indestructible-3C-140-Lumen-Flashlight-DIY3C-B/202968172#customer_reviews

Man, those are cool flashlights.

[ukblue]

Darryl, the light is made out of heavy duty aluminum and is very sturdy.

[blueboss]

MagLite 3D cells in the car

MiniMag here, there, and everywhere

IkeLite underwater lite...well for underwater and also one in the sock drawer for power outages, it turns any dark room into high noon.

MiniMag is a good tool to use to site in your shotgun for bird season.

[dan_bgblue]

Darell, DO NOT price IKELITE. The part of your brain responsible for reserved spending habits will wiggle and squirm if you do, giving you a headache that could last a day or two.

[dan_bgblue]

boss, are you into underwater photography?

[CitizenBBN]

It's a useful home defense item as well Dan. If you get one you will not be disappointed.

What calibers does it come in? ;) nothing says home defense like a 12 gauge flashlight.

[BarristerCat]

What calibers does it come in? ;) nothing says home defense like a 12 gauge flashlight.

Speaking of which, I'm in the market for a rail mount light for a .45. Got any recommendations on such a thing?

[Darrell KSR]

Bought the two mini lights tonight Pedro recommended. Two for $9? Crazy.

Tested tonight on my walk. I know stop signs are highly reflective, but it illuminated the stop sign that is 815 yards from my house. My daughter and son saw it and couldn't believe it. Then on the way around, at the top of the hill maybe 150 yards further, tried it again, and boom, it did again.

Clean white light, beautiful circle, almost a mini flood.

Nice pick.

I went to the store by my house and they were supposed to have 16 in stock of that 493 lumens one, 3C cell. Unfortunately, they couldn't find any.

They did have a 590 lumens D cell, but didn't have the range, etc. of the other one. But really, now I'm fine with these two small ones and probably get the bat flashlight one. That will be a good combination for me.

Sent using Forum Runner

[blueboss]

boss, are you into underwater photography?

Not so much anymore, back in the late 70's and early 80's I was doing some hard hat stuff in the gulf. SCUBA was kind of a bus mans holiday and I dabbled in it in my spare time. I went to school down in Doc's neck of the woods at FIT. Now and again I like to get out and just plant myself and watch the underwater world go by maybe snag a bug or two for dinner. I prefer early evening and dusk dives right when everything starts winding up and gets going. Underwater photography has come a long way and is a lot more simplistic in regards to equipment but still requires a lot of things coming together to minimize the frustration. I suppose I've grown more sedentary when it comes to being underwater.

[dan_bgblue]

Way cool boss. My only venture into the art was from snorkeling 10 to 15 feet deep, always in the daylight and never deep enough to need the lights. I tried SCUBA, but could never work out relieving the pressure in the nasal cavities. I would have loved to be able to do it, but it just was not meant to be for me.

[blueboss]

Still amazes me that we don't spend as much time exploring down as we do up. SCUBA technology has also come a long way but Charles/Boyles and Henry's laws are still unbendable (no pun intended)

[ukblue]

What calibers does it come in? ;) nothing says home defense like a 12 gauge flashlight.

Agree with that Chuck:4chsmu1: However when you turn the strobe light on in someones face their vision is gone. If someone breaks into a home you can effectively beat the hell out of someone with it as well.

[dan_bgblue]

Still amazes me that we don't spend as much time exploring down as we do up. SCUBA technology has also come a long way but Charles/Boyles and Henry's laws are still unbendable (no pun intended)

Yeah I had to memorize the charts in class before they would even let me in the pool.

[PedroDaGr8]

Bought the two mini lights tonight Pedro recommended. Two for $9? Crazy.

Tested tonight on my walk. I know stop signs are highly reflective, but it illuminated the stop sign that is 815 yards from my house. My daughter and son saw it and couldn't believe it. Then on the way around, at the top of the hill maybe 150 yards further, tried it again, and boom, it did again.

Clean white light, beautiful circle, almost a mini flood.

Nice pick.

I went to the store by my house and they were supposed to have 16 in stock of that 493 lumens one, 3C cell. Unfortunately, they couldn't find any.

They did have a 590 lumens D cell, but didn't have the range, etc. of the other one. But really, now I'm fine with these two small ones and probably get the bat flashlight one. That will be a good combination for me.

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Glad you like it. These are amazing lights for the price. At $9 for two, even if you drop it down the drain or perform a Darryl-ectomy on it trying to upgrade its RAM you aren't out enough to worry much (if at all). Also, try taking the lens/reflector unit off and see how good it is at filling a room like a candle. The uniformity of output is really striking.

[Darrell KSR]

My wife saw it and when I told her the price, she asked me to go buy more packages of them.

I did put one in the kitchen, turned out the light, took the reflector thing off, and amazing uniformity in the room. Those are winners.

Now that I have those and see what they do, I'm pretty sure I'm going to go with the bat light for my other one I wanted. Maybe I'll go back and look at that other Defiant one, too. Very cool stuff in this thread; I think this is one of those categories where there are a bunch of great choices.

[CitizenBBN]

Speaking of which, I'm in the market for a rail mount light for a .45. Got any recommendations on such a thing?

Picatinny? Do you already have a laser? You could look at the combo units Crimson Trace makes if you want both but it's really gun dependent. I don't use a light but people seem to like the Streamlights a lot, run $100 to $200 for their best stuff. They have them with and without remote switches. Look at their TLR-1 if you want a good one that can install on Glocks or most handgun rails. No remote switch but good switch placement from what I've seen. IMO a laser needs grip pressure switch but the light is something you'll turn on and leave on and I think I'd go with a separate switch for one if I were picking.

[CitizenBBN]

Agree with that Chuck:4chsmu1: However when you turn the strobe light on in someones face their vision is gone. If someone breaks into a home you can effectively beat the hell out of someone with it as well.

Don't want to hijack the thread but tactically people forget about vision in a night time home situation. In the gun world the first thing that happens if you fire a gun indoors at night is everyone is blind and deaf. Some even train to close their eyes at the last moment before firing then opening them to keep from being blinded by the flash.

A flashlight will work, but my 357 will have the neighbors seeing spots for a week. ;)

[CitizenBBN]

Great timing b/c I took 3 to a sale yesterday for inspections and all 3 gave me some troubles. Looks like one of the local HDs has some left, going to grab them up.

[Darrell KSR]

Get that 2-pack for $9. I have used both of them on two successive nights for an hour each night. Used to work under the sink yesterday and to hunt in the garage tonight, which made it look like daylight. These are very small, fit in the palm of your hand and bet you'll find they do exactly what you need.

[Darrell KSR]

Darell, DO NOT price IKELITE. The part of your brain responsible for reserved spending habits will wiggle and squirm if you do, giving you a headache that could last a day or two.

lol. I inadvertently ran across a FLASHLIGHT that was almost $400 on one site--maybe it was that one. It hurt my eyes and I had to turn away immediately--not the flashlight, but seeing the $360 or whatever it was in print.

I'm a $20-25 splurge for a flashlight kinda guy so the prices some of these can reach does hurt my brain. It would hurt me to spend $50. I know you get value for those things, and they are very useful tools, and really, it's worth it. But still...

[Darrell KSR]

As far as handheld flashlights go, I really can't say enough about Surefire and Streamlight LED lights. My small, pocketable Streamlight (http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/product/index.jsp?productId=13238459) puts out far more light to my eye (so, I'm talking practical light, not lumens) than the biggest Mag lite they make. Also, they seem to be quite a bit tougher. I assume that's because Mag lites use a traditional element that can break when it is hot and takes a hit.

Of course, it also depends on how you use and treat your stuff. I'm the type that takes pretty good care of my stuff and I rarely lose anything. So, spending some money on a flashlight isn't as big a deal to me because I'll almost definitely have the thing for 10+ years.

I saw

Two 3V CR123A lithium batteries included

Are those button cell type batteries? What is their cost, and how long do they last?

[Darrell KSR]

Oh--ukblue, or really any one--

If you got that "strobe" light setting on, would it disorient, say, a charging dog, too? Or would their sense of smell be so good they would just proceed forward?

I would try to shine the light I am carrying in their eyes to see if it slowed them down before taking any other defensive action in the event they charged, but was curious as to whether something like that may be effective.

[suncat05]

Picatinny? Do you already have a laser? You could look at the combo units Crimson Trace makes if you want both but it's really gun dependent. I don't use a light but people seem to like the Streamlights a lot, run $100 to $200 for their best stuff. They have them with and without remote switches. Look at their TLR-1 if you want a good one that can install on Glocks or most handgun rails. No remote switch but good switch placement from what I've seen. IMO a laser needs grip pressure switch but the light is something you'll turn on and leave on and I think I'd go with a separate switch for one if I were picking.

BarristerCat- CBBN is right on the money. Lasers......there's several types of lasers that you can attach to a .45 with a built in picatinny rail, but you also get side mount lasers too. It's all a matter of what is most expedient and comfortable for you.
The flashlight/laser combos are nice, but pretty pricey and also can make your handgun feel a bit "clunky" until you get used to it.
Here with my agency most of our uniform deputies have a flashlight mounted to their handguns. I do not, but I don't patrol at night anymore, hence the Fenix TK10 on my duty belt.
As with many things in life, it's all a matter of what will work best for you and whatever your personal preference may be.

[CitizenBBN]

Oh--ukblue, or really any one--

If you got that "strobe" light setting on, would it disorient, say, a charging dog, too? Or would their sense of smell be so good they would just proceed forward?

I would try to shine the light I am carrying in their eyes to see if it slowed them down before taking any other defensive action in the event they charged, but was curious as to whether something like that may be effective.

Hey, I'm "anyone"!

With dogs I'm not sure but I'm going to bet my $5 it's far less effective for two reasons. First it's almost bound to be outdoors and outdoors you have a lot more ambient light than the theoretical home defense scenario with all the lights out, so the eyes aren't as dark adjusted and thus the sudden light might not have as much impact and be as overwhelming for the eyes.

Mostly though I'd say dogs are less dependent on vision anyway, they can literally smell you and locate you blind, so while on a given dog it may think twice and work, their other senses would be able to give them a big edge over a person if they weren't dissuaded by the shock of it. I wouldn't rely on it nearly as much as with a person b/c we're so universally sight dependent. I wouldn't be surprised if dogs didn't adjust quicker optically either, but that's pure conjecture on my part. Humans from a purely mechanical standpoint have so many weaknesses compared to animals I wouldn't be surprised if this weren't another one.

They sell pepper spray and stun guns that have strobes on them for just this effect, as well as to attract attention and thus discourage an attack from a person. Also super loud sirens. There are some good off the shelf disorientation devices, and for dogs I'd like the idea of one with the loud siren on it as well. that's one place they may be more sensitive, and it of course also attracts potential help.

[Darrell KSR]

I think I'll have to get the "bat light," then, for purposes other than the strobe--although I don't mind using it initially in case it works.

Sort of a 3-part defense system. Blind them with the strobe light, club them, and if necessary, eliminate the threat entirely.

Pedro--not only do I like those two small Defiant lights, I picked up 4 more yesterday (two packages), 6 flashlights total. Going to spread them around the house so I can find one when I need it. Very nice flashlight.

Speaking of nice flashlight, they had the one similar to the one you described in stock yesterday. 493 lumens, 445 meter throw rating, 3 C cell batteries, $22.93. I did not buy it, but I held it for awhile. I may go back and get it. I am between that one and the "bat light" described above. Since I often walk around midnight in my dark neighborhood, and would not mind having one that is sorta designed for use as a hand-held baton type weapon, I probably will still go with the bat light. I just need to justify getting both, I suppose. :)

[Darrell KSR]

Oh--I will say that there is very little ambient light in the areas I describe. We have an occasional street light, but not many. I live outside the city limits, and private individuals have to spring for them here. You can get a good deal on them, but most don't bother, so our streets are very dark, especially around 10pm-midnight, when I typically walk.

[ukblue]

Darrell, another positive point on the bat light is that it is so slender it is extremely easy to store. I keep one behind my truck seat in the same place that I keep my atlas.

[Darrell KSR]

Do you have the one with AA batteries or C cell? Does it have enough heft to it with the small batteries?

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[Darrell KSR]

FWIW, I had a large dog viciously charge me at a gallop growling and barking last night during a brief walk. It left its yard, crossed the street, and hit the street I was walking on (with my back initially turned to it.)

I turned to see it charging, and shined the 200 lumens or so directly in its face, and it stopped cold maybe 10 feet from me, a very scary episode. I would do almost anything to avoid hurting an animal, probably somebody's pet, but the line is where it endangers me. I am glad it stopped.

A bat light would make me feel better.

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[ukblue]

The one I have uses the AA batteries Darrell and it's great and has plenty of heft. The hd aluminum body is all that you need for multi purposes.

[Darrell KSR]

The one I have uses the AA batteries Darrell and it's great and has plenty of heft. The hd aluminum body is all that you need for multi purposes.

Great, thanks.

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[dan_bgblue]

Darrell, it might be a good idea to consult suncat on duty belts. Cell phone, sidearm, pepper spray, bat light, first aid kit. Have you ever considered walking in the daylight?

[CitizenBBN]

Darrell, it might be a good idea to consult suncat on duty belts. Cell phone, sidearm, pepper spray, bat light, first aid kit. Have you ever considered walking in the daylight?

Or at least doing some crime fighting along with the walk. Just needs a cape and a grappling hook. Walking up the outside of buildings has to burn calories like crazy.

[Darrell KSR]

Darrell, it might be a good idea to consult suncat on duty belts. Cell phone, sidearm, pepper spray, bat light, first aid kit. Have you ever considered walking in the daylight?

Man has to work.

Just finished 3,000+ steps before 10pm. For most days, that will be about as early as possible.

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[suncat05]

Darrell, it might be a good idea to consult suncat on duty belts. Cell phone, sidearm, pepper spray, bat light, first aid kit. Have you ever considered walking in the daylight?

Pepper spray 'usually' works pretty well on canines. Raccoons, possums, cats, foxes, assorted wild dogs.......I'm not gonna lie to you, I have had to "gas" my share of animals, either 4 or 2 legged, but the pepper spray will usually get the job done. I have had to shoot and kill 2 pitbulls that assorted nasty citizens have tried to put on me for nefarious reasons, but discounting those two incidents the pepper spray works fine.
It's the 2 legged animals that concern me the most.

[KeithKSR]

I saw

Two 3V CR123A lithium batteries included

Are those button cell type batteries? What is their cost, and how long do they last?

This is a 3 volt camera type battery, it is the one shaped like regular alkaline batteries, looks about the same diameter as a AA, but shorter. Official dimensions are 34.5 mm high with a diameter of 1.7 mm. Most I have seen are lithium, so longevity is better than alkaline batteries. You can get rechargeable versions and those that are not rechargeable.

My next flashlight purchase will be a light with the Cree XM-L LED circuit and rechargeable 18650 batteries. The 18650 is a rechargeable 3.7 volt Lithium-ion battery that is 18.6 mm in diameter by 65.2 mm high. Some of these lights also come with alkaline battery cradles, adding flexibility to the light.

I've got four incandescent Maglites, two 3D lights, a 2D light and a mini 2AA size. I prefer the LED lights now available. I have a cheap headlamp I picked up for $4, an inexpensive LED light that uses three AAA batteries, and a Brinkman LED light I got at Walmart on clearance for around $12 5 or 6 years ago.

The Brinkman is about 6 in long, the barrel is about 1 in in diameter, the business end is about 1.5 in in diameter. Drops easily into my pocket, and is solidly built. It is the light I usually reach for.

The little LED lights are brighter than my bigger Maglites and batteries last much longer.

I've got some really cheap LED lights that take 3 AAA batteries, one was free when I had a Harbor Freight purchase, got a couple more for $3 at Harbor Freight. Got a couple that were political campaign giveaways. These are all about 3/4 in in diameter, about 3 in long. Great for leaving in the car, have two at school, one in the emergency supplies and another in my desk drawer. Batteries really last, and for the size they are great to have when needed.

[KeithKSR]

FWIW, I had a large dog viciously charge me at a gallop growling and barking last night during a brief walk. It left its yard, crossed the street, and hit the street I was walking on (with my back initially turned to it.)

I turned to see it charging, and shined the 200 lumens or so directly in its face, and it stopped cold maybe 10 feet from me, a very scary episode. I would do almost anything to avoid hurting an animal, probably somebody's pet, but the line is where it endangers me. I am glad it stopped.

A bat light would make me feel better.

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You should have growled at it and marked your territory, just to let the dog know its your neighborhood.

[PedroDaGr8]

By the way supposedly the Defiant lights are actually made by Brinkman for Home Depot

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[CitizenBBN]

Just bought a pair of Defiants. 120 lumen iirc, the 2 for $10 pack. Still need a bigger unit probably, but these will work in a complete pinch. Long term I have the oil lamps, and if it really hits the fan it's a well known fact zombies are flammable.

[Darrell KSR]

Just bought a pair of Defiants. 120 lumen iirc, the 2 for $10 pack. Still need a bigger unit probably, but these will work in a complete pinch. Long term I have the oil lamps, and if it really hits the fan it's a well known fact zombies are flammable.

Wait til you try those bad boys out. Have 6 of them now. I still want a bigger one, too, but those are stout and probably exceed the ratings by a long shot.

Sent from my SGH-M919 using Tapatalk 4

[suncat05]

you should have growled at it and marked your territory, just to let the dog know its your neighborhood.

lol!

[Darrell KSR]

You should have growled at it and marked your territory, just to let the dog know its your neighborhood.

Well, heck. You think I haven't already done that?

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[Darrell KSR]

Man, those Defiant flashlights get great reviews.

Going to try to pick up a Defiant 650 today. It uses the heavier, more expensive, maybe harder to find D-cell batteries, but I'm ok with that, especially with the 6 smaller ones I have that use the AAA batteries.



http://www.homedepot.com/p/Defiant-650-Lumen-Flashlight-809-3771-D/204287899#customer_reviews

Defiant 650 Lumen Flashlight
Model # 809-3771-D Internet # 204287899 Store SKU # 1000015067
4.9 out of 5
(11) Write a Review
$19.88 / each

[dan_bgblue]

If it is brighter or better made than this one, it is one heck of a light.

http://www.homedepot.com/p/Maglite-Lens-Pack-Combo-3-Cell-D-and-2-Cell-AA-Aluminum-Flashlights-JX0101R/100057933#.UpjSNHcvxO8

[Darrell KSR]

I doubt seriously it is better made, but it is brighter. 45 lumens vs 650, about half the throw distance. Great deal on the Mag, though.

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[Darrell KSR]

By the way--what is it with flashlights seemingly getting better and better and the cost going down? Mind you, I'm not complaining....like this technology improving and getting cheaper.

[PedroDaGr8]

By the way--what is it with flashlights seemingly getting better and better and the cost going down? Mind you, I'm not complaining....like this technology improving and getting cheaper.

One word, Cree. The same company that introduced the inexpensive led lightbulb that is as good as advertised. If anyone knows LEDs it's Cree; they have been making LEDs for several decades. They are one the big four in performance LEDs (along with Philips Lumileds, Nichia and OSRAM). They are an American company by the way, located in North Carolina. Anyways the Cree XML led was the first to hit 800-1000 lumens output at the emitter (using standard voltages) making 500-600 lumens total output in a flash light an easy task. This led was released about 5-6 years ago. In that time the technology has matured so much that they released the XML2. Which improves the efficiency and performance. Instead of discontinuing the regular XML, they repositioned it as an affordable high output led. The end result is that the XML is now quite inexpensive in 1k+ quantities. Realizing what they had in basically locking down the high powered flashlight market they also released the XB-D which is targeted at low to medium powered lights. This is what's found in 200 lumen lights.

On a related note, iirc home depot also has a retrofit for ceiling can lights aka pot lights that uses Cree leds. This thing has great reviews as well. Though some say they are actually too bright.

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[bigsky]

Not to bust the thread too much, but LED's are gonna take over from fluorescents and high pressure sodium too.

[CitizenBBN]

Not to bust the thread too much, but LED's are gonna take over from fluorescents and high pressure sodium too.

I'm moving to LEDs where I can. Those bulbs you hate to change are ideal for LEDs even at the current price, much less where that price will go. It's a superior technology long term, the only thing I see as really superior to incandescent across the board from production costs to life to disposal.

[PedroDaGr8]

I'm moving to LEDs where I can. Those bulbs you hate to change are ideal for LEDs even at the current price, much less where that price will go. It's a superior technology long term, the only thing I see as really superior to incandescent across the board from production costs to life to disposal.

They also have the added benefit of having much higher diversity of application than ccfls. Need the best efficiency then choose it, need the highest cri go for it, need to change colors depending in time/mood/lunar phases you got it. They will eventually allow for complete reimagining of entire lighting systems. Way more than they have now.

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[kingcat]

Living here by Fort Knox has its advantages.
http://www.traditioncreek.com/storefront/images/products_supplies/Angle_Head_Flashlight.jpg

These grunts in the field get lost a lot. Some can hear a racoon squall, drop their pack, and run like heck toward the nearest street light...and a guy has a civic duty to clean up the mess they leave behind.

I do a pretty good racoon immitation by the way.

[dan_bgblue]

I doubt seriously it is better made, but it is brighter. 45 lumens vs 650, about half the throw distance. Great deal on the Mag, though.

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I have not been pleased with the LED lights I have had in the past and the light producing ability has been very sub par, hence my reference to the Maglite. I have had my Maglite for several years and been completely satisfied with its light producing capability. I was picking up a couple of things at the local Home Depot just a short while ago, and they had a large display of the Defiant lights standing in my way taunting me to buy one. I could not resist putting a Defiant to the test.

If you have not already bought one, do not hesitate. Man that thing is very, very bright. I will test it tonight against the Maglite, but I have no doubt which will win. Did I mention that the Defiant is very, very bright? By the way it comes with the 3 D cell batteries one needs to light up the day or night

[Darrell KSR]

I have six of the small ones and love them. Can't wait to get a big daddy one. Glad to get a first hand report, Dan. You and Pedro both singing their praises.

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[CitizenBBN]

I picked up 2 of the Defiants at Home Depot a couple of months ago when we were talking about them. They are great. HD also seems to have the best prices on LED bulbs as well as the flashlights. I can get them cheaper over here at the store than I've found on the net.

Probably going to pick up a couple more when I'm there next. Price is cheap and I could actually use a really bright one for work sometimes. I put the others at the house for emergencies and home use.

[dan_bgblue]

After the test last night I still have to give the nod to the Defiant. There is a patch of woods about 400 feet from my front porch and that was the area I illuminated for the test. The Maglite had no trouble reaching the woods, but the area illuminated was about a 20'x20 circle'. It was well lit and I would have no trouble seeing a dog, person etc in that circle. The Defiant illuminated an area approximately 75'x75' and was brighter lit than the previous test with the Maglite.

At close range, it would be no trouble to blind a person temporarily with the Defiant.

[Darrell KSR]

Got the 650 3D Defiant today, along with a 200 lumens, 3AA headlamp from Defiant. Looking forward to trying both out tonight.

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[dan_bgblue]

Bright enough to suit you?

[PedroDaGr8]

I'm waiting to see if D finally found his desired flashlight. I have to say I use my 200 lumen small flashlights ridiculously often. It's the perfect flashlight for me. Small, compact and puts most similar lights to shame. I keep one in the glove box and the other in my toolbox. The larger one is just too bright for indoor use. :D Frankly, these are the first flashlights in a long time that I haven't been wanting. I did get a kobalt snake light for Xmas, will check it out and let you guys know.

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[Darrell KSR]

Bright enough to suit you?

I'm like a kid with a new toy.

My grandmother was poor as dirt. As a little boy, one Christmas she gave me a race car blanket and an all metal flashlight from the hardware store in downtown Hickman. That was one of my favorite Christmas gifts ever. This one is a close second :).

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[Darrell KSR]

I'm waiting to see if D finally found his desired flashlight. I have to say I use my 200 lumen small flashlights ridiculously often. It's the perfect flashlight for me. Small, compact and puts most similar lights to shame. I keep one in the glove box and the other in my toolbox. The larger one is just too bright for indoor use. :D Frankly, these are the first flashlights in a long time that I haven't been wanting. I did get a kobalt snake light for Xmas, will check it out and let you guys know.

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I love them all. The 6 small ones I have are in various places, including one at my bedside. I also have the big daddy beside my bedside if I go out.

I will probably use the headset more than any when the weather cooperates and I have my night walks. But you wouldn't even want to use it for under the sink work, as it is just too bright. Definitely an outside light. I have cheap $2.99 Harbor Freight headlamps for inside work.

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[PedroDaGr8]

By the way HD has the 650 lumen flashlights on sale for $9. A steal of a deal.

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[suncat05]

Check out this flashlight. I just found this a couple of days ago, and they're on sale.

cfx.supertorch.com

I wonder how I'm gonna slip this past the Boss without her noticing.............

[dan_bgblue]

By the way HD has the 650 lumen flashlights on sale for $9. A steal of a deal.

Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk

In store only deal. Stores close to me are out of stock. Thanks for the tip anyway. I was set to start Christmas shopping early

[Darrell KSR]

By the way HD has the 650 lumen flashlights on sale for $9. A steal of a deal.

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I will drop by the one close to me today.

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[CitizenBBN]

I will drop by the one close to me today.

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Apparently you won't. What a day for you guys.

I'm going to try to get over there, I need a couple more.

[Darrell KSR]

Obviously, you're correct--I didn't make it out. I will today, although the online site shows my local store as out of stock.

It also shows a bunch of the Defiant flashlights on closeout, including some headlamps. Those things are great, and far more useful than that powerful baby (although not as much fun). There are some terrific prices on it; all in-store only, so just head over to your local store and browse. I intend to do that today some time after I catch up on a few things. And after Matt Elam announces. Probably more in that order.

[Darrell KSR]

Well, that stunk. Went to my local Home Depot, and they had zero--none--of any of the Defiant flashlights that are on clearance. Not just the model Pedro mentioned, which is the "cool" one, but none of the headlamps (I wanted to pick up several of those, too) and others.

I may try one in another part of town tomorrow if I get a chance, but that's a bummer.

[PedroDaGr8]

Well, that stunk. Went to my local Home Depot, and they had zero--none--of any of the Defiant flashlights that are on clearance. Not just the model Pedro mentioned, which is the "cool" one, but none of the headlamps (I wanted to pick up several of those, too) and others.

I may try one in another part of town tomorrow if I get a chance, but that's a bummer.

You can check online before going. It's usually reasonably accurate.

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[Darrell KSR]

You can check online before going. It's usually reasonably accurate.

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It said limited quantities, but was limited to none :).

via mobile app

[CitizenBBN]

I went by mine and they were all out of the sale models as well. It's OK, the non-sale ones were still cheap and have enough power for my needs, I had to go there and get some other stuff anyway.

[Darrell KSR]

Well, I went to three different ones in my area, with no results. I happen to be in the area of two others due to other plans, so wasn't a big deal, but was hoping to land something for my trouble. Two more here, but no plans to be anywhere close to either of them.

via mobile app

[dan_bgblue]

Have to share this. It is unlikely that you know what a Badar filter of Badar foil is so it is a filter used when viewing the sun thru a telescope or camera lens. Hold either one up to your eyes and look at a light source in your home or office and you see nothing, but look at the sun and the image is readily visible. My SOL is now into photographing the sun and built a custom Badar foil filter to fit over the end of a big honking telephoto lens. He showed the custom filter to me Sunday afternoon and asked me to look thru it. We were in the house and it was cloudy outside so I could see nothing even with it right up against a 100 watt light bulb. I had given him one of the Defiant lights for Christmas and he got it, turned it on and pointed it thru the filter and aimed it at me. The end of the flashlight and the light were plain as day. Did I ever mention that the Defiant light is bright?

[Darrell KSR]

lol--good story and great testimonial, Dan.

[Darrell KSR]

Btw, if your local store has it in stock, the price is now $2 for that flashlight.

via mobile app

[dan_bgblue]

The 1000 lumen is on sale for $2.00 as well.

[Darrell KSR]

They have several outstanding closeouts. Interestingly, in reading about the Defiant lights, it almost looks like they have two "levels" of lights, with very, very high praise for the ones we've discussed here--but very low marks for the lowest end of what they sell.

You start with a $20-30 flashlight--a great price for flashlights of this genre anyway--and those are getting rave reviews. I am enjoying my 650 lumens one, although I don't use it that often, maybe once a week. (Surprisingly, my wife also got me the 200 lumens headlamp, and I use it several times a week. Before I replaced my car tire, I would go out at night, pump the tire up from the few pounds it lost--headlamp. When we had snow/icy conditions, go out to car or take out trash at night--headlamp. Wife went to grocery at night, need to carry groceries in--headlamp. Didn't realize how nice that would be to have a hands-free light.) Only problem with it is....if I need to get under the kitchen sink to work on something, it's just too dang bright. I have a couple of Harbor Freight headlamps that work great for that, though.

Defiant has some cheaper headlamps, a cheap penlight, and a cheap tactical flashlight I looked at for their closeouts, and the main issue people have is those on/off switches appear to be very poorly made or designed, or both. I wouldn't touch one of those.

Could not be happier with the 3 different types of Defiant lights I have--the big 3D cell, the headlamp, and my introduction to them, the small, palm of your hand, 200 lumens handheld that I bought 2 for $9. I have one of those on my nightstand, and use that often as well.

[CitizenBBN]

I've got 4 of those 2 for $10 ones, they're fine. I just needed some little flashlights, they do the job. I saw one at HD that was a single LED type thing that was way more lumens, but it was $30-40 iirc, I just don't need it for the basic stuff I do.

[kingcat]

http://www.photonlight.com/led-flashlights/full-size-led-flashlights/?sort=bestselling