2/8/16
All unused codes have been sent to standby list participants. Please let me know if you have any issues with the codes.
If I somehow missed you, please let me know.
Cheers,
krono
2/5/16
Hello guys!
We have allowed two weeks for those to make their purchases of the WOOD box sets. You have one more day before we release the codes to those on the standby list. So, if you have not made your purchase yet, please do so!
As far as the NON-box sets, they are now open to the standby list, and codes have been sent to you. If you wish to be added to the standby list, please let me know. If you posted previously that you wanted to be on the standby list and I missed you, please indicate that so I also put you on the list. Just let me know which post number you originally made your request. Please keep in mind that the two S/Ns on the NON-box sets are NOT likely to match..
Cheers,
krono
1/29/16
If you havent heard, S/N’s for SS/Cu sets 251-400 (Non-Wood Box sets) were mixed together upon shipment. I can only surmise that, being in individual cardboard boxes, the shipping clerks at BG pulled them not realizing that S/N’s needed to match…ugh :~
Nevertheless, we are formulating a plan to resolve this. Most likely, there will be two options for those that have a concern:
OPTION 1: For those that want to exchange their tubes directly with another member, Neal will collect S/Ns via PM from interested members, put them together/in touch with one another, let them exchange battery tubes, and BG will reimburse them for shipping expenses. What we ask is that you help your fellow BLF members out. If you are not bothered by mis-matched S/Ns, and the other person isn’t either…great! However, if the other member would like to swap battery tubes, please be open to helping your fellow BLF members out, and exchange with one another. If this option is for you, DO NOT POST YOUR S/Ns HERE. Please PM Neal the S/Ns for each of your affected sets, both X6 and X5 S/Ns. Neal will then match them up, and contact you for exchange info. This would be the most expedient way to remedy the issue.
OPTION 2: We realize that the above solution may not be for everyone. If there are those that don’t want to go this route, we are working on a solution and will release details when finalized. This plan, however, will most likely take quite a bit longer than exchanging tubes when compared to option 1.
We appreciate Neal/BG for stepping up and working with us to correct this issue. We REALLY appreciate you, fellow BLF members, for your patience and understanding during this process.
I will update as we get more information. We are fully aware that this might cause more issues, and intend to keep those to a minimum.
Regards,
krono
1/28/16
I have updated the Standby list, but it has been difficult with the number of posts showing up, and the quantity of PMs I am receiving. So, if I somehow missed you, or you want to be added to the list. Also for the Standby folks, did you want a box or not…I probably left some off. It is not necessary to indicate tint, as codes are not tint specific.
Thanks!
krono
1/25/16 Edit: Pics Added
Here is the breakdown on what is left in stock. Wow…people really helped with the lack of 3B tints 
:
48 Wood Boxed SS/Cu sets left:
4 x 1A and 44 x 3B
11 Cardboard Box SS/Cu sets left:
11 x 1A and 61 x 3B
Edit: We are waiting on these people to make their purchases. After a certain amount of time, they will forfeit their codes, and we will give them to others on the standby list.
IOW…if you received your code(s), you need to use them!
PLENTY of Aluminum sets still available. No need for a reservation since 400 sets were produced. Aluminum set GB code: 3aeb2e
Thsnks,
krono
1/24/16
Since all 400 Aluminum sets were not reserved, we are now opening the code up to all BLF members!
Aluminum X6/X5 set GB code: 3aeb2e
Some more pics from Dale:
Thanks,
krono
1/23/16 EDIT
SS/Cu codes are being PM’d out. The Al code does not appear to work yet. Waiting to hear back from Neal. Edit: Al codes working!
Cheers,
krono
1/22/16
The version of code Manker is using is now in its own branch of the repository:
http://bazaar.launchpad.net/~toykeeper/flashlight-firmware/blf-x6v2/files/head:/ToyKeeper/bistro/
UI message from TK:
1/20/16
Howdy X6/X5 GB participants. We are getting close. BangGood has received the lights! :party:
Note: If you haven’t heard, there are no assigned S/Ns. There are 250 boxes that have a S/N on them. More boxes will be made WITHOUT S/Ns for those that want them. We are painstakingly going through the thread and trying to devise the best way to accommodate everyone and get the GB codes out. We will get those out when we can. Here is the breakdown on how lights, S/Ns and boxes will be handled:
SS/Cu Light Sets (S/N 001/400 through 250/400) Cost-$96/includes box with matching S/N:
SS/Cu X6/X5 sets with Serial Numbers 1-250 have a box with a matching Serial Number. These 250 boxed, S/N sets are reserved for those that signed up for boxes first. The Serial Numbers will be random…i.e. not reserved. If you are in this group, your reservation has “Box” beside it.
SS/Cu Light Sets (S/N 251/400 through 400/400) Cost-$85/No Box. Optional Box $11:
SS/Cu X6/X5 sets that have Serial Numbers 251-400 do NOT have a box w/matching Serial Number. However, non serialized boxes will be made available as an option to those that did not reserve one of the original 250 (251-400). If you are in this group, your reservation has “(Box)” in parentheses beside it. Those boxes will probably not be available until after the Chinese New Year holidays.
Aluminum X6/X5 sets are not Serial Numbered - Cost-$50/No Box. You can buy a box as an option. Add $11.
I have also begun a SS/Cu X6/X5 ‘standby’ list starting at #401 and up. If some people drop off the list for a SS/Cu set, then those on the standby list will move into those spots.
We are trying our best to come up with a PM/GB code system that will minimize errors and over-ordering. Tint availability will be one issue. Purchasing decisions had to be made some time ago, and there are NOT as may 3B tints as was reserved. Your flexibility is much appreciated. If you don’t really have a tint preference, or can choose the 1A tint instead, please do so.
Some Other Things to Keep in Mind:
>With 400 sets on the SS/Cu list, and hundreds more Aluminum X6/X5 sets, there are bound to be issues. Your understanding is appreciated!
>A note about manners. If you behave badly, troll this thread, hound me with harassing PMs…I reserve the right to take you off the list and replace you with the next person in line. If you continue to do so, I reserve the right to ban you from our future GBs.
>Aluminum sets are still open for reservation. 400 sets are being made.
Thanks and stay tuned for GB codes!
Thanks,
kronos
Pics of production lights here!
1/14/16
Very Important Info!:
I want to update everyone on what is going on with Serial Numbers, boxes, tints etc….the Good, the Bad…and the Ugly
SS/Cu X6/X5 LE set: Firstly, we tried, we had hope, but assigning specific Serial Numbers to specific people would create a logistical nightmare, and produce a huge amount of problems. Therefore:
1) All 400 SS/Cu sets will have matching Serial Numbers.
2) Boxes with a Serial Number are limited to 250 (001/250 to 250/250).
3) Therefore, the first 250 sets will be matched to the first 250 boxes…1-250 sets, so the first 250 persons that made a light reservation with a box will get those Serial Number designations.
4) Light sets 251-400 will have Serial Numbers on the lights that match, and an option to purchase a box without a Serial Number badge.
We had to give an estimate on how many Serial Numbers for boxes there would be to be able to order the Serial Number badges. Manker/BangGood was gracious enough to order extra boxes for sale so that others could still have a box. There should be plenty enough boxes for all that want them.
If you were one of the first 250 people to make a reservation with a box, my plan is to send you a unique GB code which will secure a box w/matching S/N. If you are not one of the first 250 people that reserved a box, you will be sent a different GB code, and you can order an optional box that has no Serial Number. Remember, your light serial numbers will still match.
Tints: There are only 2 tints (C/W=1A* and N/W=3B V3) available, as XP-L Hi are difficult to come by in quantities. There will be no W/W tint available. Sorry guys. Therefore, if you chose W/W, I will change your reservation to the next logical choice, N/W. If you want C/W, or you want to drop out of the GB, please let me know. *No bin info on 1A yet.
Quantities: The reservation list for the Stainless Steel/Copper X6/X5 set is full! I will begin taking names for a standby list in case people drop out…so post you name to get on the list!
We are still great on the Aluminum X6/X5 set, so that is still open to make a reservation. But please speak up because it will be closed soon!
The latest samples I received were stunning. We are going into final production, and I will update as I’m updated!
Thanks!
krono
|
INTEREST LIST-FULL (Stainless Steel X6-SE V2 & Copper X5). Estimated at $85/set (box option, add $11): 1. kronological SS/Cu NW - Box 400 is maximum number that will be produced…a true limited-edition set. We have a BACKUP/STANDBY list in case anyone drops out: 401) Kkelleher SS/Cu NW - Box YAHOO! |
INTEREST LIST (HAIII Aluminum Set). Estimated at $50/set: 1. kronological Al NW . . 313. |
12/28/15 part B
More pics from production. Notice anything? :bigsmile:
12/28/15
More manufacturing pics:
12/2/15
Important message!
As stated previously, the box is optional only for those of you getting the SS/Cu set(s). The production box will be larger than the one pictured, and house both lights. We also plan (not guaranteed) to have a matching Serial Number on the box, either on a Stainless Steel badge, or other means! This will obviously add cost, and that is why we are making it optional.
The box option (including additional shipping), is estimated at only $11! Woot!
If you want this option, please indicate so by posting a NEW message here. I will then add ‘Box’ by your name on the list.
Note: Please do NOT edit your previous post! When that happens, it makes it difficult to determine what is new and what isn’t.
Thanks,
kronos
12/1/15
New box photos. Bugsy sez:
“These are just teasers or better stated almost teasers…at the moment intended for the SS/Cu sets. Cost is in addition to the sets.The box will be made to to house two lights and not one because shipping and manufacture WILL skyrocket.”
This box rox! :heart_eyes:
11/17/15
Overall, the lights look and feel absolutely INCREDIBLE!
The SS/Cu X6, with it’s two-tone finish, is really quite stunning. The all copper X5…WOW! I have shown these lights to many people (mostly non-flashaholics), and they all have said how beautiful they are.
That being said, we are having some challenges with the driver not doing what we want it to do. There is also some dialing in of the lighted tailcap that must be done. Therefore, we will be spending some more time on the electronics, and some very minor corrections on the hosts.
I will post updates when I have more information.
Blessings,
kronos
11/11/15
Hello folks. Here are a few updates…some you may be aware of, some perhaps new:
·Additional switch option for those that want to swap out lighted switch.
·Double spring “(Like Manker T01- See JMac’s review here)”:Review: Manker T01 Prerelease Sample (small updates 20150925)) on head and tail (all models)! Eliminates need for spring bypass.
·X5 utilizes same reflector as Manker T01.
·Protective coating added to extend lustre (estimated at 4-6 mos.).
·ATtiny25 MCU with added functions (TK’s Bistro firmware).
·Only 400 sets of SS/Cu version will be offered (True Limited Edition). Not sure about Al version yet.
·Due to upgrades (Tailcap light, protective coating, ATtiny25, etc.), price increase of $5/set ($85 for SS/Cu & $50 for Aluminum).
I will post other updates when there is more info.
Thanks,
kronos
11/6/15
Check out the gifs Dale made:
11/4/15
Feast your eyes on these sample pics from Selene and Dale. Nice pics, y’all!
11/2/15
The latest samples should reach Dale and TK today!
MINIMUMS REACHED…WOOT!
10/23/15
Some more pics of one exciting upgrade we are working on:
Notes from TK’s post:
“Not only thicker traces for higher current, but when the front of the light is off, the back turns on. It’s an ingenious design pilotdog68 came up with — if I understand correctly, it reverses the flow of current depending on the state of the switch. One direction drives the main light at full power, the other direction lets only a tiny trickle of current through to drive a low-power tailcap LED.
Try to ignore the pink boot; sourcing clear ones takes a while and this was done very quickly so they used the closest they had laying around. It seems Manker was too excited about the idea to wait.
Achievement unlocked — lighted tailcap!
(pending review, of course, to make sure everything still works correctly)
The next step is thorough review of the samples when they arrive, and then if everything checks out we can give a green light for production. Or if there are issues, go through another round of refinements. At the very least, I’ll probably need to tweak the calibration and send new firmware… I hope that’s the only change needed, since it’s easy and doesn’t incur shipping delays or production costs.”
10/21/15
Brand new samples are ready to ship. Check out these pics!
kronos
10/10/15
I changed the position and the format of the interest list so it would be easier to access. It is now in columns, SS/Cu on left and Aluminum on right. I will also keep it at the top of the OP so people don’t have to scroll down so far.
- Updated thru post #1759 -
I think I got all the names transferred correctly, but let me know of yours is mysteriously missing
9/16/15
More pics from Dale…NICE!
9/15/15
Nice pic by TK of K6 compared to X6 and SK-68.
Comparison pic added by Dale.
Original X6-SE v1 alongside latest upstart sibling, the Aluminum K6!
9/14/15
Some sample pics from Jmac:
NOTE: Triple emitter is here just for comparison. This is the original X6-SE roadrash sample. From previous GB that Dale modded.
8/30/15
Here is a pic of the Aluminum K6 prototype/sample. They should be shipping to us any day now…along with the SS/Cu X6-SE v2!
Isn’t it cute? :heart_eyes:
8/14/15
Minimums reached for Aluminum version. Keep them coming so pricing is better :exmark:
We need 200 minimum for SS/Cu version. We are at 118. Step up!!!
Good feedback is coming in on the sample/prototype pictures. Check them out below! Knurling is a little off, but the production version will match the agressive knurling on the head. Please let us know your feedback on these pics.
kronos
8/13/15
We have some very cool pics here of the first X6-v2 SE sample. Enjoy!
8/12/15
Goal for Aluminum set is 100…we are at 99!!!
Goal for Stainless Steel and Copper is 200…we are at 100…half the way there and we haven’t seen a complete sample yet!!!
I have no doubt that we will hit our goals here!
kronos
8/11/15
A sneak peak
8/3/15 EDIT:
:weary: Oh man…too early in the morning. WRONG THREAD…it is the LuckySun D80 samples that are ready…DERP! Sorry guys!
Samples are FINALLY DONE and should be in our hands in about 10 days! YEA!
8/2/15
All list swaps have been made (thanks ahirshy!), and even DB’s new handle changed as well. Although, personally, I like Bugs’ handle for DB…Dr. FrankenDale…haha…that’s a goodun! OK…I’m easily amused…
Nevertheless, it has taken me awhile to get to the swap list. It is probably apparent that I have been somewhat apprehensive in doing it. Don’t get me wrong, I TOTALLY appreciate ahirshy keeping up with it! I just don’t want to give the false impression that certain S/Ns would be guaranteed to go to certain folks. While it may be possible, it it is not probable.
Until you put one of these things together you can not possibly imagine all the pitfalls, mis-communication and silliness (in a good way) that goes on behind the scenes. Adding some sort of S/N guarantee only complicates the GB. I hope everyone understands.
Blessings,
kronos
7/29/15
A couple things:
ToyKeeper has been added to the design team. Her firmware will be used on these lights, and her expertise is sorely needed. Welcome TK to the team!
Wight has given us his blessing on using his driver design. Woot! Thanks wight!!!
Sample hosts are mostly complete! We should see samples shipping to the team, hopefully within the next few weeks! Manker is FAST!!! I will try to get some pics out as soon as available.
Cheers,
kronos
7/26/15
Interest list is almost even for SS/Cu vs. Al. Closing in at quantities of 100 of each. We will obviously hit the minimums for the Al version!
The SS/Cu is almost half the way there…and without even a sample yet! I don’t think we will have any problems hitting minimums, with positive results from the samples, of course.
Manker and samples: I wanted to let everybody know that samples are being assembled as we speak! Manker has been chosen to help design and produce the X6-SE v2. We chose Manker because of a strong combination of their technical expertise, design and quick turn-around times.
As far as a time estimate, I would say that we are 2-4 weeks out for completion of initial samples. This is blazing fast, especially when we are talking about completely new host materials (SS/Cu) :exmark:
Once we have samples in our hands, we will know much more about specs and implementation of our ideas.
Stay tuned!
kronos
7/20/15
I appreciate your willingness to help, Hirshy (and others). Please feel free to update me and I will make the changes necessary when time allows (on S/N swaps).
Everyone, please keep in mind that this is an interest list and nothing is written in concrete yet (specs, timeframes etc.)…including no guarantee of S/N assignment. As stated previously, it is likely to be a logisitical nightmare…so please don’t expect it! We will do our best to make it happen, but, ultimately, it is about the lights, not S/N placement. I am also not sure if we will be able to mix tints within a set also, but I will check on it.
Considering the brisk reaction time we have been getting on test samples, I fully expect this GB to materialize at a faster pace than previous GBs. I don’t forsee a problem having this ready for the Christmas season. Nevertheless, this is not a guarantee. There are always unforseen challenges in dealing with Group Buys!. :Sp
Additionally, we have had some really interesting suggestions on design, materials usage etc. These ideas deserve adequate attention, and are being discussed with Neal and the manufacturer of the X6-SE v2. Likewise, it is nice to see the willingness and excitement of BLFers wanting to help and push this SE light set along. The more people we have participating, the better value and specifications we can achieve.
Thanks for everyone’s effort and patience!
kronos
7/19/15
Hello everyone!
I’m back from Puerto Rico. My family and I took a wonderful vacation down there, and it was very nice. I had limited internet…so I tried to keep up as much as I could, but I was determined to spend a lot of time with my family. Beautiful country and beautiful people there!
A BIG thanks to Bugs for keeping the list updated for me! Tending the list can be a huge time killer, so I appreciate him and all the other talents he possesses! Thanks also to Dale and Jmac for answering questions and helping the other BLFers with their concerns and questions.
I think we are off to a great start, especially since we don’t even have samples yet! I believe we will get the necessary totals once we receive samples. THIS LIGHT SET IS GOING TO BE EPIC!!! Sorry for yelling…but it seemed appropriate 
Here is the copied list from Bugs…let me know if I need to make any corrections. I am planning on updating the master list (at the end of this OP) and catching up with all the posts in the next few days. (Official list updated now…some swaps might not be though!) So…please be patient with me! Please keep the ‘Horse-Trading’ to a minimum. It is really difficult to keep track of, and I don’t seem to have as much time as I used to 
Cheers,
kronos
7/11/15
Some interesting suggestions on improving this setup! We will discuss them all and see what we can do.
Keep in mind that these lights will be Serial Numbered…so…the sooner you get you name on the list, the lower the S/N you will receive!
krono
7/10/15
Time to roll out the second version of the BLF X6-SE light. This time it will be a set!
Meet the additional design team members: DBCstm (Dale), JohnnyMac and Bugsy36 (George). We will be putting the light through it’s paces, and tweaking the samples to our liking. The light will be available again through Neal/BangGood.
In addition to new a driver with MORE AMPS, firmware and emitter, the outside will have some attractive changes as well…mainly Stainless Steel and Copper! Here are some preliminary specs for each light:
X6-SE v2 Stainless Steel:
>Polished Stainless Steel Host with copper fin/pill section
>Copper MCPCB w/DTP
>CREE XP-L or XP-L High Intensity Emitter
>wight’s driver (same as bugsy’s A6-SE!)
>TK’s firmware (same as bugsy’s A6-SE!)
>AR Lens
>Lanyard
>Shared Gift Box
>Serial Numbered
>BLF Custom Logo
>Multiple Tint Selections (Hopefully 3 minimum)
>SS switch button
K6 Copper:
>Copper host, 14500 sized, same form factor as X6, but scaled down
>Copper MCPCB w/DTP
>CREE XPL or XP;L High Intensity Emitter
>wight’s driver (same as bugsy’s A6-SE!)
>TK’s firmware (same as bugsy’s A6-SE!)
>AR Lens
>Lanyard
>Shared Gift Box
>Matching Serial Number
>BLF Custom Logo
>Multiple Tint Selections (same as above)
>Copper Switch Button
Estimated cost is $80/set Edit: Now $85/set.
I am also considering a matte black aluminum HAIII version (same finish as original X6-SE) as a lower cost option, estimated around $45/set. Edit: Now $50/set.
So, this is where we are at right now. I will be adding updates to this OP as received. I hope to have this available by Christmas, since it will make an awesome gift set.
Minimums will be as follows:
200 x Stainless X6-SE v2
200 x Copper K6
(Meaning 200 sets total)
100 x Aluminum X6-SE v2
100 x Aluminum K6
(Meaning 100 sets total)
Important: Once the final specs on the light are approved, the lights will go into production. Shortly thereafter, each person added to the interest list will be PM’d a special code to have access to the Group Buy. You will not get the code unless your name is on the list! To get your name added to the interest list, (please don’t PM me!) simply post the following information in this thread:
1) SS/Copper (SS/Cu) or Aluminum (Al) set.
2) Tint (WW,NW or CW).
3) Quantities.
4) Optional Box (For SS/Cu set only)? (New: Edited in)
Note: There are TWO lists for each version/set. Lights will not be sold separately…only as a set.
EDIT: Interest lists are now at top of OP
but this is exciting! Thanks.