Thank you for the suggestion. The C8 is a zooming light, right? I would assume (based on the many opinions here) that a fixed focus unit is better, no?
You get throw when the LED is relatively small compared to the reflector.
So an XM-L2 in a Astrolux S1 or a Convoy S2 or any other cigar shaped 18650 light will not be a thrower.
To make an LED optically smaller you can de-dome it or get an LED without dome like the HI versions Cree has.
This will improve throw significantly.
Top thrower on the market is Thrunite TN42.
It has a XHP35 HI in a (almost) 10cm diameter smooth reflector.
The C8 is a fixed focus reflector light which is very popular round here. The head is just over 1.5” and it’s about 5.5” long. Actually it’s a pattern of light and there are loads of versions from generic tat to good quality ones.
The one I have is the updated Convoy version mentioned earlier
Very nicely made, especially for the money. Plenty enough throw, perhaps even a bit too much throw. How tight a beam do you need?
It also suited my pocket. As you may have gathered I’m seriously keen on the budget - but not rubbish - flashlight idea.
I do covet this
You might have a look at the reviews on ebay. Some of them are “box openings” which don’t convey much but there are some thoughtful ones with beam shots.
Utorch UT02 for sure. Better then C8.
Convoy C8 can not give constant 1000 lumens. They are 1000 only when battery is full.
Convoy L2 2 x 26650 is good also.
WW and NW is recommended too.