Sofirn SP31A and SP31T? Did we know this was a thing now?

Maybe we’ll see performance versions with the C8F driver?

I don’t understand the point for having the SP31A or SP31T when the C8F and C8T is same size but much more powerful. I would much rather see a XP-L2 V6 version of C8F.

If the driver of SP32A fit it would be nice with 8A current.

You don’t understand the point of having a regulated light with longer battery life and a side switch?

Now it’s time for them to make 21700 or at least 26650 version of C8F :slight_smile:

Tracy replied to a PM about these lights. She said they were created to the specs of their agent in South Africa, for what that is worth.

Hmm, so, kind of like if they took the SP33 and did something similar to what they did with the SP31 here, and add larger reflector…

hate hate hate! me too and three

wle

I just ask Sofirn for SP31T with DTP copper MCPCB with SP32A driver let see if it could happen .

I realize that this initial design might not be ideal, but I wanted to use my AE coupon ($4 off $20+) and the C8T kit was sold out. I was needing a 18650 compact thrower and this SP31T seemed too good for my situation to pass up… I learned from my failed Imalent DX80 experience… don’t spend more on a flashlight than what one can afford to lose. I’m not a modder. Hopefully the switch mounted on driver will endure for me, and no DTP copper MCPCB with SP32a driver yet.

What method do you prefer? Having the switch mounted on a PCB in a parallel orientation, so that there is no torque on the switch & the solder joints when it is clicked?

Well, that’s what Sofirn seems to be doing on many of their side-switch lights. This photo shows the SP32A driver. The SP10a/b drivers are the same, as is the SP33s. The SP31 is almost certainly using the same arrangement, and the SP31A/T probably do as well.

From what I’ve seen, the vertical PCB that the switches are mounted on slip into a milled channel in the head.

I have learned from my Imalent DX80 failure to heed forum members observations. Can I rely on my Sofirn SP31T to be failproof enough to use in miles long concrete underground tunnel urbex or should I bite the bullet here and spend more money and buy a C8T?

I wouldn’t rely on any single light to be failure proof.

I would use the SP31T and carry an additional 18650 tube light like an S2+ or VG15s.

Personally? I’d stick with a tried’n’true light like a C8 form, whether C8F, -T, or -A, depending what you’d want.

Also, “two is one, and one is none”, so it’s just smart to carry backup(s).

Awesome advice and input. Thanks.

There are observations, and there is speculation. I saw plenty of speculation.

I hope you’ll share your observations when yours arrives.

I agree with the others. I wouldn’t rely on a single light, and I’d probably give the SP31T, or any other relatively new flashlight model, some low-risk field trials before taking it underground.

I think the SP31T is like a monster, and two completely uncoordinated things are forced together, and there is a feeling of wanting to throw up and this is a very failed flashlight look.

The manufacturer of the sofirn brand lacks a lot of big guys, and I want to have a bigger flashlight for a bit longer so I don't have to worry about its brightness and battery life.

I compare the 2. First of all, Sofirn is superb. I spent $15.83 after sale and $1.00 off coupon. Shipped. Not a hoax. $15.83 for the Sofirn C8T from AliExpress. I hold it in my hand. Put in a LG MJ1 flat top. Not the most powerful cell. But it’s definitely a dedicated thrower. Much more throw than the SP31T. The SP31T is cold snow white. Faded tint on trees. Can’t reach a group of trees behind the far neighbor’s house. Sofirn C8T obviously reached it. C8T is definitely much more throw, output, and better tint than the SP31T. C8T is good enough throw to take on a cruise ship.

Opinions differ greatly I guess. I quite like the way it looks personally.

My SP31 stopped working after falling from my pants pocket onto asphalt. The problem is the driver. The SP32 driver is available. I think I will be putting one in to see if this otherwise wonderful flashlight can be salvaged.