I think there aren't too many "forward" clickie flashlights in the budget world. Try checking out SolarForce lights which are SureFire copies. The only other one I am aware of is the TrustFire X9. But the X9 has 5 modes so you have to wait 2 sec before you can turn it on again or else it will cycle to the next mode.
I don't mind my X9's forward clickie with 2-sec memory combination (it should be 1/2 second) but you might. It's so bright it makes up for the strange combo.
I work as a security officer also and have tried every light I own for work..I currently use my uf-980l as my belt light..amazing output with great throw and has a medium and low mode..there's no strobe though..stobe does comes in handy at times for ambulane/police signaling so I usually have my itp sa1 running on 14500 set to strobe for that use..it doubles as a backup/pocket light..
only downside is the 980l is a reverse clicky so no momentary on..not a real issue for me..
As far as tactical lights go I have to agree that they are as well made as a Surefire but at a fraction of the cost. I just got one and for a p60 type host it's pretty awesome.
Fandyfire STL-V6 as a two cell setup will give you all the above plus good battery life, BUT you need to know and obey the basic dual Li-ion battery safety rules. It is a bit longer than above mentioned X9, but IMHO not too long. One of my favorite lights at the moment!
Yes you can. Most 18650's are rechargeable. In fact, I haven't seen any 18650 primaries in any shop.
At least in Fandyfire STV-V6 the also the momentary mode memorizes the last used mode: If the last used mode is strobe, momentary on will be strobe (unless you use momentary on straight after turning off, which changes the mode, of course)
Sorry, but I can't comment on Solarforces. I don't have L2t. :(