I’ve got a 2D Mag-Lite that I’ve had for about 6 years now. It really isn’t very bright anymore. I want to replace the bulb with the brightest one I can get that will fit in this flashlight. I’m a bit of a battery guru, so don’t worry about how much power the bulb needs. I can retrofit some 18650 cells or any number of AAA NiMH cells to give it the power it needs. I’m not so much concerned about how long the batteries last as I am how bright the light is. I want something with over 1000 lumens.
I’d slide the mag into a drawer, where it belongs and get a Convoy S2 with 8*7135 driver. Gives you the output you’re looking for, multiple modes and will almost fit behind your ear. If you want more throw, Thorfire C8 is in your budget and still very pocketable.
Mags can be modded if you are able to make your own heat sink or source it cheaply to stay within the budget. emitter and driver can be had for a few bucks.
The overall build quality and form factor/design of the light is good, mine are 10+ years old and look like they are new.
I’d recommend you just get a Thorfire C8s. It’ll throw more like a maglite. You’ll be more than satisfied and it’s a good platform to start if you get into modding.
If you want to stay incan, maybe this would do the trick:
It is a Osram 50W IRC halogen spot driven by 12 AA-Eneloops. I wanted to share the details with you anyway soon. What I can say for now is that with minimum budget it is pretty bright!
