Can't decide on new general use / EDC light to replace old original Fenix PD35

hcanning · 2018-09-28T12:08:54.000Z

Hi guys. I already have a small variety of different lights in my collection, some just for fun. But I would like to replace my general “go-to” light which I use for every day stuff around the house and working on cars / DIY. It’s an ageing Fenix PD35, the 2013 model. I would like to replace it with something similar but more updated, for the following reasons:

I’m starting to find the two-button arrangement (tail switch on/off, mode button near the front) a bit annoying

The mode button is becoming a bit temperamental

Not being able to tail-stand is irritating

I would like to replace it (but keep it in my collection ofc…) with something which can overcome the above problems, and ideally have a magnetic tailstand. Decent build quality so it lasts years as well. I like the 1x18650 form factor, so around this sort of size.

I have a budget of around £60.

So far, the only units which have piqued my interest are the Klarus ST10, BLF A6, OLight S2 Baton, Emisar D4, Thrunite Neutron 2C. I know they don’t all have magnetic tailstands but it seems not many do!

Which one would you choose? Have I missed any?

Thanks!

FWIW, I own the following others already:

BLF Q8, Convoy S2+ (lives in my car), Astrolux C8, Olight S1 Mini Baton (lives in my work bag), ITP A1 EOS, Skilhunt H03

zak.wilson · 2018-09-28T12:28:39.000Z

The Armytek Prime series fits your description and has a magnetic tailcap. It really needs its optic replaced to perform as advertised though - more on that in this post.

The Zebralight SC64w is a popular higher-end EDC light; Zebralight ships worldwide, and 79 USD looks to be 60 GPB.

For working on cars, you might want to look at a right-angle light that’s usable as a handheld or a headlamp. The Armytek Elf C2 is a nice option there - I’d go for the warm tint myself. It has a very strong magnetic tailcap.

Jack_Kellar · 2018-09-28T17:38:14.000Z

I can say for sure: if it’s in a sale, get the S2. It’s a superb little light fitting all of your criteria.

altonx · 2018-09-28T18:21:41.000Z

Get BLF A6 (or Astrolux S1 as this contains 18350 tube included in the set and is the same light basically) along with this magnet ring:

It’s a press-fit so not even glue is needed but be careful not to push it too deep as it will be next to impossible to get out and in the result the flashlight will not stick to ferrous metal that good. Magnet need to be flush with alu rim or slightly protruding to assure good hold.

You could also consider any of the angled flashlights like Skilhunt H03(H03R/H03F or rechargeable (RC suffix) models) or Lumintop HL18.
Those are great with magnetic tailcap as worklights etc., can also be used as headlamps or be attached to your belt, backpack straps etc with a clip. In general very compact and versatile. Can be purchased quite cheap with coupons as well.
Skilhunt offers Neutral LED options and I can’t fathom why Lumintop does not…

//EDIT: I just realized you already own H03 - missed that at first…

Jack_Kellar · 2018-09-28T18:14:43.000Z

Isn’t that the Convoy magnetic ring?

altonx · 2018-09-28T18:26:16.000Z

Jack Kellar:

Isn’t that the Convoy magnetic ring?

Not sure - it might be. I bought that @BG (click on the picture for the link) and it fits my BLF A6 perfectly.