I probably would have, too, but now I'm kind of glad I can compare the two. My problem was buying the XM-L from Tactical HID instead of CNQG because that was the only vendor carrying it at the time. He took the order but the drop shipment wasn't nearly ready and it took two weeks just to process. I had no idea Ric would be carrying it so fast, since it was ME who informed him it was actually available just a few days earlier. haha
I actually discharged one till i believe 2.1V open circuit and another time 1.7V open circuit.....so that's VERY low. But i recharged them immediately when i saw that the light was so dim. Still able to dump nearly 2.3A into the Xeno E03 when fresh, and nearly slightly over 3A in the Ultrafire XM-L drop-in so there's no damage i guess. These cells are good.
I have this torch. It's a winner. Mine draws 2 amps from a 4.1V 14500 trustfire. Pure flood power on a extremely nice built flashlight.
To all you talking about the IMR: Be advised this flashlight has a "reverse polarity protection", a nylon ring protecting the positive contact on the driver. That means flat top cells (such those BIO IMR's) won't make contact with the driver. It also has gived me some trouble with some of my trustfire flame 14500, but It can be solved using a magnet spacer. Anyway there's enough room for the protected 14500 + the 1mm spacer. ( I didn't have this small size magnets so I broke one and used the pieces)
I still don't know how to dissasembly the pill for removing this annoying "protection".
Its a nice torch, but I would like a more even design better. The head and tail "fatter" than the middle. Hopefully Balder makes one soon! they are really good priced!
Wish it were. I've tried it with assorted NiMH, NiZn, alkalines, 14500, IMR 14500 and magnets where I thought it'd help.
It isn't the switch - it tests OK and jumpering with a wire still produces no light. Will need to see if the pill can be persuaded to come out and whip the insulator off the LED.
But first will take the assistant out to let her carry out her wide range of eliminatory functions. Then I'll get to do stuff without her "helping".
I have received my Balder XM-L and I'm very impressed. This little Light looks even better than I thought and fits perfectly in my hand. Maybe I will treat myself another one with an XP-E.
Don, it appears you're experiencing the same problems I went through with my first SE-1. It must be a common error, which is definitely not good. Fortunately, the replacement and the XM-L I already had ordered from Tactical HID have been working fine, but this worries me a little about the brand. I hope it's exclusive to just the SE-1 model. Too bad, because it's an otherwise fantastic light.
I have been carrying my XPE version around for the last two days. It absolutely amazes me everytime I see how far this light throws. It is a great light and I have ordered a second XPE one. Being a fan of warmish XM-L lights because of the flood beam I have also ordered an XM-L NW version. I noticed you can take the head off so an XM-L should be great as a candle!
My friends, I bought this torch too and I´d like to know if you guys think it´s better with the IMRs batteries instead the TF 14500. I don´t have any IMR so I need to buy some if you think it´s better.
Don's SE-1 failed after tests. I don't have any 14500 IMR's but my SE-1 T6 CW runs on 14500 Protected Trustfire Flame just fine @2A. Love this little pocket rocket!!