I need to get some more convoy S2, S2+ or S3 flashlights for a good price (I have a knack of losing these (and loads of other things) too easily).
I just love how bright these can be. And I have loads of 18650s - when going to trade shows, they’d give battery sticks for spare power for phones. Open them up and there’s an 18650 in there.
Or maybe not the Convoy? Looking for:
Low cost
Uses an 18650
High lumens (I get the 7135x8 Convoys).
Run time is not an issue
Any recommendation on a company? And if not a convoy, what other flashlight?
I’m waiting months now for a bang good order for $11? each for 2 Convoys that haven’t (won’t) be delivered.
Is under $13 all in with shipping, etc. a realistic expectation for a single 18650 flashlight? or is it unrealistic?
Oh, and I’m not up for building / modding my own. Not good with a solder iron / parts making.
And if I can get 1000 lumens AND a much lower level in the same flashlight, that’d be another thing on my list of what I am looking for. OK, and reliable. The couple S2s that I haven’t lost? I’ve had them for a couple years now.
S2 has a longer head and reflector than the S2+ (this equals a narrower and brighter spill, NOT more throw). Dont remember what the S3 was like but all the “S” models were just variations on the tube light design.
The S2+ w/Biscotti firmware and 8x7135 is a great choice.
$13 is absolutely a realistic price. You will need to purchase batteries and charger separately if you don’t already have them of course.
There have been serious shipping issues from PRC with the pandemic until very recently where sellers found more reliable (but more expensive) services. Simon at Convoy said he specifically was having a very tough time getting products out. I would order from his AliExpress page here vs BangGood personally. Your lights may still arrive, in many places there are low-priority/cheap shipping packages backed up from months ago still - it is a complete mess.
I think these $10 convoys only have the old driver. described as 5/3 modes. In my own experience BG also won’t deliver .
My preference is the Biscotti 12 mode. Maybe it is exclusive from Simon’s store https://convoy.aliexpress.com
They cost a little more but include better modes and amazing service.
Mountain - that’s just the tube. Gotta buy the LED and the driver (at least, maybe more parts). AND put it together.
$13 is realistic? From Simon? Or where? When there’s a big sale (and how do you learn of them?) or all the time? I’m checking his aliexpress page now. The best I can find is 14.88 with free shipping. Not that its a big difference. Just want to learn how to get the best price.