I carried a Jetbeam BC-10 from 2011-2012. Then a Zebralight SC-52 from 2013-early 2016, then lost it. After that I’ve been somewhat disappointed with the next 2 lights I’ve used over the past 10 months. I had bought both of them back in 2012, but didn’t start using them til my SC52 was lost. First was the Spark SL5-220cw, which I liked(until it’s side switch failed and broke), now I’m using my Eagletac D25C Ti. Its moonlight isn’t adequate and it’s low and medium settings are nearly identical, both are a HUGE jump up from moonlight.
So I’ve been looking at the Jetbeam Jet II Pro Al, and the Olight S1 and S1A. I prefer the S1A of those 2 Olights. But after my Spark switch failed, I’m more leery of the side switches of these lights.
I do like the Olight’s magnetic tailcap. But I like the newer LED in the Jet II Pro, and it should fit my Eagletac D25C holster. Plus it’s offered on a group buy here(still available??)
I’m completely new to the Olight’s “TIR” lens, so I don’t know what to expect there. There seems to be a LOT of online info and videos related to the Olight Baton series, but not much about the Jetbeam Jet II.
So, which seems like it has a more durable switch, better tints, less annoying and inconvenient interface, and better beam profile(decent mix of throw and flood)?
I would vote for the S1R. It has electronic lockout, is very compact and more than bright enough for most situations. You can still use a standard 16340 if you wish and remove it to charge. My S1A does not have lockout and must have the tailcap backed off in my jeans pocket. The S1R is now forsale with a NW led, if it is the same NW that the H1 Nova has, it is an awesome tint. My S1R has an XM-L2 5A1 in it and I love it, might be to warm for some.
I suggest you research the UI of the Olight and think about your preferences compared to the Zebralight experience. You seemed happy with the Zebra, maybe get another one?
> better tints
since your Zebra was cool white light and Low CRI, maybe consider the slightly warmer and higher CRI of the SC52d
> better beam profile
knowing what you know about the Zebra beam, you have the option to go with their frosted lens if that appeals to you, either SC52f if you want to stay cool white, or SC52fw if youre ready for a change of color temperature.
I personally EDC the Jet MK II its a great light but i am a big fan of the twist to activate switches so it depends on what you like. If you like moonlight mode its a great light for you. My discount code is still working.
I considered the Jetbeam Jet MK II as well, but I was concerned about the durability of its twisty switch because it supposedly works by twisting it back and forth to move through its settings, and I wasn’t sure whether that type of switch would be more likely to fail or break, and I wondered whether it would be inconvenient to get to high if you must keep moving the head back and forth. My Thrunite Ti twisty switch stopped working just sitting in its box because the little rubbery o-ring that the positive end of the battery pushes against, actually disolved and sort of rotted into a gooey mess. What’s the durability of the MK II like?
I looked at your Olight S1R video, now that’s become another option I’m considering.
Ironically, after reading your post and being reminded that I have a Zebralight SC600 Mk1 from 4.5 years ago, I decided to take it out of its box for the 3rd time in 3 years and actually give it a try as a carry light. It rained today and I stayed home as a result, but it’s lighter than I thought. It has no holster and I don’t want to carry it in my pants all day, but I’m going to anyway. I’m sure I’ll get tired of that and get back to looking for a smaller light.