Hi BLFers…been lurking a while, but this is my first post here.
Having ‘discovered’ the power of LED torches late last year, I set to upgrading my collection of Clulite CB2 spotlights. These are huge beasts - powered by a 7ah 12v lead-acid battery, with a spot head that’s 4” in diameter and fitted with a Xenon bulb. 1 million candlepower, apparently.
They’re great lights for these rural areas where it’s completely pitch black at night - especially when you’re out looking for a wayward dog or cat. But, they’re very heavy.
I did some browsing and ended up buying a Fenix PD35. Nice bit of kit, very well made…but very expensive, and the short step-down time is rather…disappointing.
I did some more browsing, this time courtesy of BLF, and ended up buying a Convoy C8. Sure, it’s not as slick and solid as the PD35, but boy does it chuck out the goods. Utterly delighted with it - and it’s not the XM-L2 version… got a bit overexcited (as you do) and pulled the trigger on the wrong one.
However, it’s still not quite enough.
As you can see from the pics, the Clulite has a fantastic flood, coupled with a really useful central throw (and this is on an old battery too). This makes it ideal for being able to spot things lurking in the hedgerows while still being able to pick out animals and objects at a distance.
I went for the PD35 because of its relatively wide spill - but I’m afraid the throw isn’t quite hefty enough, and the 3 minute step-down just doesn’t cut the mustard.
The C8 fares better (and I much prefer the tint of the 4C), it’s got more of the throw that I want, but not enough flood.
Something with at least the throw of the C8 and with at least a slightly wider spill than the PD35 is what’s needed - anything extra is a bonus.
And if that isn’t being picky enough, I’d prefer something with a side on/off rather than a tailcap switch, and if at all feasible I’d like to stick to a single battery - either 18650 or 22650 - but all options are negotiable. However, the one thing that isn’t is the runtime. It’s got to be able to do at least 30 minutes on full chat before stepping down.
For the right torch I could be tempted to run to the £80 mark, but if I can do it on a budget I’d be much happier. And, of course, that leaves more money for buying more torches (cough).
For the time being I’d say it has to be a stock solution - I have the wherewithall to mod, but not the inclination at the moment.
I could, of course, just buy loads of budget lights until I find the one that does it for me…and much as this solution appeals to me, I have a feeling it wouldn’t go down so well with other parties…
So…any suggestions?
