FW3A, a TLF/BLF EDC flashlight - SST-20 available, coupon codes public

I asked Digikey.

They said stocking a favorable tint bin will take quite a long lead time, as always.

I like the above, but from the 3 choices, mine is - Make the XP-L HI model now, and do the LH351D lights later.

Update: Embedded image removed. Sorry.

XP-L HI model now, LH351D lights later

Thank you guys for all the work you put into this project!

Like a D4 rough grey or the Convoy/Jaxman smooth grey?

Please add me to the list for one FW3A!

I’m happy about the grey anodizing on the light. That’s probably my favorite color for an aluminum anodized light.

That should look really good in a darker grey, like gunmetal grey would be phenomenal.

This is what I am in for, take your time for the best tint. I have one or two other lights to tide me over until then.
[/quote]

:+1: :+1: :+1:

So much effing around with this project… :person_facepalming:
After 1½ years of thinking about everything until it hurts, they suddenly decide it will be dark grey?
I have a clear anodized Lumintop HLAAA which is very well done, so WTH “didn’t work” ??

I’m not sure what the ape means though, but that pic has one of the longest location addresses i’ve ever seen.

That’s not an address, it is the actual image code.

Very naughty to do that, if everyone did the BLF server would soon grind to a halt.

Images should be linked elsewhere, not embedded. I too know how to do it, but never have.

Aha, i see.

You bring up an excellent point. However, according to Lumintop that is nickel electroplating. I guess it still retains machining marks and adds protection but without lockout, yes? Could be a compromise…

Nickel plating?
Really?
Nickel is usually ‘warm white’ -ish.
But you’re right.
Threads look coated to but can’t lock out.

I have another very well clear coated AAA light by the way, a silver Olight i3E.
Seems different from anodizing too.
It’s on there very good though, whatever it is.

After a closer look, the HLAAA is indeed slightly ‘warm white’ tinted, unlike the i3E, which almost looks like stainless steel.

You can mix metals and do varying amounts of polishing/sanding/etc to make it look anywhere from terrible to jewelry and everything in between.

It’s not sudden; it was decided months ago based on feedback here in this thread. After two rounds of prototypes, the surface still wasn’t right so we asked people what they’d like to do — the prototype’s light grey ano with seams, a traditional dark grey ano, or completely bare unanodized aluminum. About 80% wanted dark grey, so that’s what the plan is.

I was hoping more people would be interested in bare aluminum, but maybe that can happen later sometime.

The i3E has “PVD coating”.
PVD = Physical Vapor Deposition
Maybe chrome?

I thought bare aluminum was the bases from the beginning. I also like dark grey. If they later offer bare aluminum I will buy another.

Alright...

I removed my name calling in my earlier post.

Anyone that marked that post as rude can unmark it now.

EDIT: Originally I didn't think the post was all that bad, but my rudeness meter says otherwise.

I have learned my lesson and will try not to call people names in the future.