Hi to all here, I'm new here this is my first post so be gentle with me!
I've done a fair amount of reading/research but that's left me with more uncertainty...or perhaps I just can't handle the truth...
I don't think I'm quite ready for the 18650 dark side yet as 1) I have a fairly good stock of AA and AAA nimh cells, 2) 18650's are another cell infrastructure to support and 3) 18650s seem expensive in comparison, (although looking at the figures, per volume and ampere*hour stored there isn't as much difference as it first appears).
I may eventually have to make the transition to 18650 cells... so bearing all that in mind ...
I'm looking for a reasonably small edc (i.e.something which will clip into jeans pocket) with the sort of performance/lumen output that a Convoy S2+ 7135*4 or *6 has. It could be slightly bigger than the S2+ but not much.
The higher the lumen output and variability of modes the less need for a zoom (I suppose?), a flared head may possibly preclude a comfortable pocket carry?
.I don't want to spend the sort of money that Nitecore or Fenix charge, if I can get something nearly as good for a lot less.
I'm guessing that technically it would have to have either 2xAA, or 3(or 4) AAA to be feasible (which almost begs the question as to why I don't just bite the bullet and go with 18650s)
If there are any self-build options that spring to mind, I'm good with a soldering iron and putting bits together (I've been doing that sort of thing for a long time), although if it were required I'm still I'm not sure what bits I might need to load custom firmware if someone can advise please?
The price is a factor as if I can find the right product I'll probably buy 1 as a gift for a family member and 2 for me, so any savings will be x3.
Like most people on this forum I'm a lumaholic (or is it a lumatic?) My ideal would be all of the above with separate R,G,B UV and IR options! (I would be prepared for that one to be slightly bigger...)
Finally more of a general question for any seasoned UK members, I've looked at Ali Express, Gearbest, Fasttech and Banggood, at the risk of sounding indelicate, are there any reasons to avoid any of those sources, and are there any other places I should look?
Thanks in advance,
w.