Hey guys. I’m looking to get a new EDC light. Having owned many, i kind of know what i like. But you don’t really know until you try, right? I came across the lumintop FW3A light and am looking to purchase. I’m all about accessories and want to just buy once and be done. So here’s my list…
Light
Gasket
Driver
Button Cap
So, is that driver already in the light? I’m assuming no, but figured i’d ask. Does the light coming with a glowing cap and gasket, i don’t think so… but again… figured i’d ask.
Is there anything else that’s recommended for purchase/i should buy? I own an XTAR VC2 charger for my zebralight batteries, i’m hoping that works for 18650 but haven’t checked yet.
The light comes with a driver, you don’t need the lume1 unless you want better runtime/and aux lights, and are good at tiny soldering. If you install all that, the glow gasket won’t fit, so it’s either-aux-lights-or-glow-gasket. If you’re new, I recommend the glow gasket.
VC2 will charge 18650s
Be prepared to use electrical (four click) lockout if you’re going to EDC an electronic switch light.
Check out Illumn for the FW3A and accessories if you would like to buy from a great dealer in the U.S. I got my FW3A from them a long time ago and it has been solid. They do fine tuning of each light before they send them out.
Also, look in to the oring mod to get the hair trigger switch under control.
I have to agree. Hank makes some great EDC high lumen torches and you get to choose your emitters. I have a couple of them and I love my D4SV2 in Cyan with the SST bezel. The D4V2’s are great as well. I really want one of his new KR4’s this year
The FW3A needs to have the inner contact tube aligned properly or it will cause issues. I know Illumn dials this in before they send the lights out. They may do more, not sure. BTW, I have no affiliation. They are just my most local flashaholic shop and they provide excellent service.
Me personally, I prefer something shorter for an EDC light than 18650 cell. I have a FW3A and like it, but my Emmisar D4 with a 18350 tube is in my pocket every day. I added a Lexel designed aux light board, couldn’t be happier. YMMV.
And FWIW, I never lockout the light, I have had it come on in my pocket, but its always set at low, and haven’t had a problem (ok maybe once ). Again YMMV.