Help a Noob Choose a Light (under $25)

LED Flashlights – General Info
1

Hey, all! I am new to BLF and need help choosing a light. I am a photographer and do urban exploration and I need a good, solid light under $25. I would prefer a light that uses 18650’s as I already have some lying around, but I can do other (rechargeable) batteries if necessary.

A light with a good balance between throw and flood would be best, and I would like the output to be at least 350 lumens and at most 1500 lumens, but around 700 is preferred so I’m not as noticeable as I would be if I had a 1000 lumen light.

As for the size of the light, it can be any size, but one that can fit in my sweatshirt pocket would be great. For weight, I would like to keep it relatively low because carrying around 2 cameras, a tripod, some lenses, accessories (a flash, extra batteries, etc.) and a skateboard sure does take a toll on you, especially when climbing over rubble in an abandoned building or crawling through a storm drain.

I used to use a 2D Maglight which served me very well for a while, but I would like something newer, brighter, and lighter. On my search for a good light, there were two lights that stood out to me: the Convoy C8: ( https://www.fasttech.com/products/1653/10002364/2706500 ) and the Odepro TM30: ( Amazon.com ) although I would like your guys’ guidance and recommendations.

Also, my main way of transportation around these places is a skateboard, so if anyone knows of any mounts that will let me mount the light to the top of a skateboard, please let me know.

Thanks!
-F11

2

A C8 is nice and throwy, and is meant for throw. Ie, spill is an afterthought.

An S2+ with 6 or 8 7135s and the 4C LED is nice stock, but replacing the reflector with a TIR lens gives a much nicer beam. Plus, you can swap anything from 5° to 60° for how throwy or floody you want, and can swap before each outing depending on what you want.

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3

S2+ would be optimal balance between floody and thrower and can easy fit pocket.

4

I would also recommend an S2+ with an XP-L Hi and 8*7135.

You will be surprised with how much performance you get out of such a compact package.

5

any other recommendations for something really spilly, i want something for when welding

6

An s41/e14 is under 25 these days

7

S2+ with 60° TIR optic for a nice wide beam

8

Jaxman E2L triple?

9

Skilhunt H03 in NW
A headlamp, I use it as EDC without headband.
It is pure flood
I like this light it has magnet in the tailcap and I added a magnet to the clip.
I can stick it wherever I want.
A right angled lamp excellent for working and in case use a headband.

There are coupons for gearbest which bring it below $30

10

What about an M1?
It is a nice compromise between an S2+ and a C8

11

I was just about to mention it. Really hits that sweet spot of good spill and great spot.

An M1 in 6x7135, from what the OP dictates, is pretty much perfect.

12

Thanks, I like the idea of the M1… I think the Jaxman has too much spill for the work I’m doing, itd be great for finding in the dark with my metal detector thought :smiley: I watched some videos and it looks like the go for me. I really appreciate the input people!

13

Really nobody suggested save a bit more and get the ultimate Q8?!!

I normally carry a convoy M1. Sometimes an s2+
Other times an eagle eye xr2. Almost same as s2+ but built in usb charge

14

I have a Convoy S3 [7135*8 neutral white emitter), with a holster for sale. Tested but never used. 19 bucks delivered.