I've taken my TK41 on several long walks/hikes at night, and now that I've had some experience with it I feel like I can confidently say that it is too big and hefty for me.
Have any of you guys carried and continuously used a TK41 for three hours? It gets cumbersome pretty quickly, IMHO.
Anybody else found this to be the case, and if so what did you replace the TK41 with?
I'm a strict eneloops-only guy, so suitable replacements aren't bountiful. The Sunwayman M40A doesn't interest me due to the mode spacing and control ring. I guess maybe I could try a PA40, or maybe even a 2xAA with high lux since I'm after something with a little bit of throw.
Anyways, I'm just curious to see what you guys think.
BLASPHEMY!! TOO BIG?!??! not according to troop...
How much throw do you need? and how important is flood (close to medium range engagements)
Super throwy single 18650 torches are more widely available.
For extreme throw from a single XP-G would be the armytek predator, but not a budget option. It compromises spill so close to medium range illumination is somewhat claustrophobic, but for anything that needs throw, its the first one I grab when the 3x 18650 format is too big for my intended purpose. Throw isn't TK41 class, but its pretty close for an XP-G
An AA version might be the LD40, its the earlier revision of the PA40, but with XP-G Neutral and smooth reflector with a ringy beam giving moderate throw. More all round than the predator, so not Very throwy but better for general use, and about half the price.
Ive got 2 predators already, and considering picking up a third (of the older shape) because I like the cleaner look and slimmer head of the older model. Moonlight mode is also pretty good with half a year of runtime on a 3100 ;)
Here it is next to a TK41 sized light. The TK41 is just a little longer, but a little more slender on the body. Realistically any 18650 light, P60 host etc.. will do the job, I just know that this one is a throw machine.
That's a good question...I'd say somewhere around 300 feet (just over 90m) is really all I really need. Of course, we all like to overindulge around here.
The thing that makes the TK41 so attractive is that it can literally handle anything. It can do everything I'd need and then some for night hiking, it's a great emergency light because the low mode lasts for 10 days, and the build quality is typical Fenix goodness. It just becomes cumbersome when I carry it in my pocket.
You know what...maybe I've been looking at this from the wrong angle. I bet if I found a good holster for it that would make it much more comfortable for carrying.
Anyone have a good recommendation for a holster for the TK41?
Now thats an offer we can't reject lol, even I'm up for that, but I'm sure you would be better off keeping the awesome TK41 because its one of those gems you really should be keeping, there are times you just need that throw.
If all you need is 90m, then any medium to large torch with a large enough head should suffice. The TK41 does have great versatility with usable modes, great throw but a nice wide spill beam.
With all that in mind, maybe even the PA40 will do the job, but give you a smoother beam with more a somewhat more efficient light output.
The PA40 is great in terms of walking around with it for long time, it's non-metallic body makes it very nice to handle in the cold days, and it's beam profile is very decent, too. Just one thing you should take in consideration - there are neutral white PA40's available. If I'd be you, I'd take one of those.
Well, I decided to try out a holster rather than consider a different model. I think that a snug fit at my waist will negate any issues with the light's size and heft.
I went with a Ripoffs holster; model number is CO-60. These holsters are made in the US and more importantly, have a reputation of being extremely well-made.
I paid $16.88 shipped, which is at least $7-$10 better than the prices everywhere else. Seems like they are on close-out at the following site. Coupon code is MW15, and if you live in any state other than California you will pay even less due to a lack of sales tax:
The holster is shown with the Streamlight 4AA (which is 6.5" long, or 1.9" shorter than TK41), and there's a good bit of slack there to fit something taller and still be able to connect the velcro.
I guess I won't know for sure until I try, though.
and smooth reflector with a ringy beam giving moderate throw. More all round than the predator, so not Very throwy but better for general use, and about half the price.
