Evaluate this gift idea

LED Flashlights – General Info
1

I have a buddy/running coach who is into caving. He has a couple of Petzl headlamps already. I’m going to buy him a Christmas gift. It should be pocketable so he could carry every day. The secondary function would be to serve as an emergency backup he could stick in his pocket while caving or running at night. The light needs to be small have have a low mode for up close work.

I was thinking of these lights:

Xeno E03 v3
4Sevens Mini AA
Solar Force L2m with a drop in… maybe the Solarforce 320Lms R5 XP-G Cree Led 3 Mode 0.8V-4.2V Bulb (Orange Peel Reflector)?

Each has advantages, but I’m leaning towards the Solar Force since it comes with a CR123 and 18650 tubes. What do you think of this light/drop in? Should I use a different drop in? If so, what would you recommend? Thanks… this is a GREAT forum, by the way!

2

The L2m is the most versatile of the bunch, I own four and love them. 3 mode xpg should do nicely, and will have better runtimes than an XML

I use a Solarforce L2m on my hardhat at work, using the same Blackjack clip the firefighters use on their helmets :wink:

3

Thanks! I appreciate your feedback.

4

I'll second what he said, the L2M is a great light.

5

The L2 is a mostly 18650 light. If you choose to go this route it would be impolite to not include the appropriate battery/charger.

If this isn’t someone into this sort of hobby a 2AA can be almost as bright but much more convenient.

6

I disagree with the L2m it's not a pocketable light .. even as a 16340 0r a 18350 it's too big too fat too heavy .

The answer is Xeno Eo3.. i'd suggest an Eagletac over the Quark

7

The 3 mode intl outdoor EDC lights like the Roche f12 or LXP look good. I like recommending those because they’re one of the few where you know you’re getting a light with a known good driver and your choice of modes. I really like the Nanjg drivers because their PWM is invisible.

They have an extremely pocketable cylindrical 18650 design which honestly isn’t that much bigger than a single AA design but you get the advantage of much longer runtimes and better maximum output on high.