I’m starting to become somewhat concerned with something on my EA4. I have had it for about 2 months now. When I first got the light, the rubber button that covers the side switch had a textured finish. I do hold the light daily and play with it some. Now the rubber botton is almost completely smooth as the texturing is almost gone. The rubber feels quite thin like it might wear completely through. I’m wondering if anyone else is having the same same experience?
I’m thinking of putting a dab of black silicone on the button to thicken it up so it doesn’t wear through.
I really like the light. So much so that I bought it’s sister light the EC25. Very similar output. UI is the same. Just uses one 18650 battery so the shape is different. The one difference I like the most is that the EC25 has a metal switch button. I wish NiteCore would have put that same switch on the EA4.
I’ve used mine 3-4 times a week for the past couple months and the button looks and feels like new. I don’t fondle it however… okay maybe once in a while
Hi Chidwack, well. I have not run into this issue since my EA4W is resting for the summer (I bought it for the dark winter months). But perhaps worth raising it with Nitecore. Is your EA4 within warranty period? Maybe they can offer replacement switch cover, as a part at least (if we can get the light open!), if not repair.
Are you using it whilst wearing gloves? Maybe this rubber is particularly susceptible to skin oils? Silicone would be a good fix but really Nitecore should make a more durable cover.
I am not suprised, I was able to hold a brand new EA4 in my hands last weekend and the first thing I noticed was how thin the rubber switch cover was. It looked like you could tear it just taking the light out of your jeans pocket…
No I am not wearing gloves. Mostly testing it to see how it compares to my other lights and to see how long batteries burn in this light.
I really wish my EC25 had the warmer tint, increased brightness and slightly longer throw that my EA4 has. NOTE! My EA4 is the XM-L2 version rated at 950+ lumens.
I really like the size and shape of the EC25 better and especially the metal button. Although I have lots of quality 18650 batteries, I do like the fact that the EA4 uses AA batteries, not as much for my personal use, but for friends and family I intend to introduce this light too. The EA4 really is a great light with huge output for such a small light that uses AA batteries. I really don’t see myself using one of my all time favorite lights much anymore. My TK41. Never thought I would hear myself say that.
PS. Many of my best 18650 batteries will not work in my EC25. They have to have a button top that extends a little more. I have some Callie’s Customs 3100, AW 2900, EagleTac 3400 and 3100 batteries that do not work. Some work and some don’t. Even some of these batteries that I bought at the same time from the same batch, some will and some will not work. I just ordered 4 of the Panisonic 3400 batteries from Fast Tech for use in this light. Looks like their button extends more.
