I think I’ve seen the answers to these somewhere in this forum, but I’ll ask to be sure.
Is it possible to get an OP reflector in the Convoy s2+ with biscotti? I think I remember seeing that Simon will put one in if asked. Is that correct? If so, how would I put in that request?
Maybe before that, though, I should have a better understanding of the significance of the differences between smooth and OP. Is it merely a matter of taste, or are there real pros and cons of each? This video gave me an idea of the general difference, but I wonder if there’s more to it than what I can see here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klfE5B-wmkQ
I also think I’ve read that the 7135x6 will step down from high mode after a few minutes whereas the 7135x4 will not. If that’s true, then it looks like the x4 gives more usable modes (for longer use). (If it matters, I prefer the T6-3B or –4B).
Meanwhile, while being mostly interested in the Convoy, I keep casting my eye over at the Wowtac A1S because it comes with a battery, so I don’t have to worry with getting batteries and a good charger. I’ve looked for a video comparing the two; I’d especially like to see if the field angles are comparable. Does anyone reading this have experience with the two to give an opinion?
A smooth reflector will give you more of a focused beam so longer throw. A OP reflector spreads the light more. If you send Simon a message on aliexpress with a request he will respond to you.(its chinese new year so it can take a little longer)
If you’re not sure which reflector you want, im sure simon can send you both.
It is snowing hard right now so throw distance comparisons won’t work . I will say that the NW Wowtac is a much nicer tint than the U6-3A Convoy , especially in the snow . For $30 with a battery and you don’t need a charger , it is probably a better deal if you only plan on buying one light and you can get it from Amazon quickly . The best way to order a Convoy is from China but patience is a must. Wait for a coupon code here to come up then wait a month for it to come . Buy the battery here in the US though .Or do what is common and get both. :+1:
There should be a “Contact Now” link part way down the left hand side of the page.
S2+ lights never step down by themselves, no matter which driver you choose. If it gets too hot, you have to choose a lower mode manually. Never leave a 7135×6 or 7135×8 S2+ running unattended on the highest mode. They will get hot enough to burn you.
Biscotti drivers have mode groups that let you constrain the light to half power (groups 7, 8 & 9). If one of those groups covers your needs, you could buy a light with a more powerful driver and constrain it most of the time, but still have the option for more power if you wanted it.
I actually have two Biscotti S2+ lights - one 7135×3 and one 7135×8, both with the U6 3A emitter, so I can just grab the one that suits me at the time. I almost always use mode group 2, for the maximum number of non-blinky modes.
A link to the Desert Tan S2+ with Biscotti, for convenience:
Simon only could wish Aliexpress wass his company!
Simon is one of the thousends of sellers on Aliexpress. Do a google search Aliexpress Simon Convoy flashlight and you will come at the right spot. There you can sent messages to the seller.
I recently ordered a green S2+ from Simon's store, but wanted the biscotti firmware. I simply placed the green S2+ in my cart (without paying), then emailed Simon the request.
His response:
Just make sure you include his response when you make payment.
Yes, I do. It was in the running along with the Astrolux S1. The Astrolux got nudged forward a little bit because I read that it has better build quality and has the extra battery tube. But for some reason, the Convoy went ahead of both of those. I’ve read so much about these things lately I can’t keep the details straight. I had to create a chart to try to keep it in order! I just want to wind up with something about the size of those lights that has a good central spot with decent spill and good usable modes. And it’s a bonus if I don’t have to buy more batteries and a charger and wait a month to get it.
I swapped the smooth reflector for an OP one in my Desert Tan S2+. I had it left over form a triple build host.
It smoothed out the focused hot spot and I greatly prefer it. I didn’t notice a great reduction in throw and with my aging eyes, I can’t make out all that much at the distances these lights throw anyway. I prefer floody lights over throw and would much rather see a larger illuminated area over a focused spotlight-looking beam.
For what it’s worth, the S2+ with Biscotti is a great light. I got the x8 version and enjoy the extra brightness if I need it. I’m very conscientious about my lights and don’t find it a risk with the way I care for them. With Biscotti, you can most likely find a mode that allows you good spacing. I’ve got mine set up with 4 levels and no blinkys. It works for me very well.
Although the original poster has gone down the Wowtac A1S route (I’d also recommend the Thorfire TK15S), this a comparison between a Convoy S2+ beam profile with XM-L2/OP reflector (left) vs XP-L HI/SMO reflector (right).
My Wowtac has smooth reflector but the beam is very spread out . I don’t know much about leds light others here do but I know what I like and this beam is warm and pleasant with the neutral option . It is similar to my S2+ lights with OP reflectors . Don’t know why.
Simon only could wish Aliexpress wass his company!