Review 2019: Nitecore P12 and Nitecore MH12GT

roma58 · 2019-08-04T11:00:49.000Z

NITECORE P12 and MH12 Series
and their evolution

A few years ago, Nitecore presented two new EDC (Every Day Carried) products that have certainly brought innovation and performance in a compact body; precisely the Nitecore P12 of the "Precise" series and the Nitecore MH12 of the "Multitask Hybrid" series.
These two tactical torches differ substantially, among themselves, for the possibility of the integrated recharging on the MH12 via Micro-USB connector, still considered a standard today, and always on the latter the 18650 battery included in the sales package. These cigar-shaped torches, mainly powered by a 18650 Li-Ion battery, are recommended for many uses, they are compact and light torches with excellent luminous power and simple to use. They are designed, in particular, for military personnel, police forces, hunting, research and all outdoor activities.
The Nitecore P12 and the Nitecore MH12 both have one of the best LEDs produced by CREE, the CREE XM-L2 LED U2.

These versions were then updated with other LEDs and features. In the next series, Nitecore P12GT and Nitecore MH12GT we find the highest performing LED, the CREE XP-L HI V3 which brings a greater intensity of the peak radius and the distance covered. The ATR (Advanced Temperature Regulation) technology is also introduced for advanced temperature control by adjusting the light output to adapt to the surrounding environment, maintaining optimal performance.

Another update was made in 2018 with the new Nitecore P12GTS and the Nitecore MH12GTS.
Also following the evolution of CREE LEDs, the CREE XHP35 HD LED was mounted in the two torches.
This LED raises the light output to 1800 lumens but reduces the throw in candles that fall at least compared to the previous CREE XP-L HI.
In these two versions, slightly larger in size and weight, other important changes are made, such as, for example, a new side switch, the construction of the double-layer pipe and randomly changing strobe mode.

We see the Nitecore P12, the Nitecore MH12GT and the Nitecore MH12GTS side by side:

Nitecore P12 Review:

For technical data: https://flashlight.nitecore.com/product/p12
For the purchase: https://www.nitecorestore.com/Nitecore-Precise-P12-Tactical-LED-Flashlight-p/fl-nite-p12.htm

The Nitecore P12, "Precise Series", is a compact LED torch that offers power and performance. It has small dimensions and produces up to 1000 lumens with 232 meters of launch. Nitecore P12 is equipped with a CREE XM-L2 U2 LED, has 4 light levels (Lower, Low, Mid and High) plus 3 special levels (Strobe, SOS and Location Beacon). It is powered mainly by a 18650 battery or alternatively by 2 CR123 batteries. It is IPX-8 certified with 1m impact resistance.
The Nitecore P12 is equipped with two switches, one in tactical and one side. These two switches, together with a simple user interface (UI), allow an easy and fast use of the torch.

MAIN FEATURES:

• Premium CREE XM-L2 U2 LED
• Maximum power of 1000 lumens
• The second generation "Crystal Coating Technology" combined with "Precision Digital Optics Technology" offers extreme reflector performance
• It boasts a peak beam intensity of 13.500cd and a projection distance of up to 232 meters
• High efficiency circuit board provides up to 520 hours of autonomy
• The side switch interface allows one-handed use and easy access to all functions
• The side switch has a light that shows the remaining battery charge
• The secondary function of the power indicator shows the battery voltage (accurate to 0.1 V)
• The intelligent memory function stores your preferred brightness settings
• The high efficiency regulation circuit guarantees constant delivery
• Ultra-clear tempered mineral glass with anti-reflective coating
• Made of aeronautical quality aluminum alloy with a hard anodized military finish
• Waterproof according to IPX8 (two submersible meters)
• Shock resistant to 1 meter
• Titanium plated stainless steel clip included
• Tail stand capability

Dimensions:
Size: 5.47 inch(L) x 1.00 inch(Diameter) ( 139mm x 25.4 mm )
Weight: 3.10 oz (88 g) (without battery)

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THE PACKAGE and ACCESSORIES:

The Nitecore P12 is sold in the classic Yellow / Black packaging by Nitecore. On the sides of the box are listed the main features of the P12, while inside we find beyond the Nitecore P12 also the Clip, the holster, the tactical ring, the lanyard, the spare cap, 2x spare O-ring, manual and warranty.

The holster supplied with the Nitecore P12 is of good quality. It is made of cordura with non-elastic sides and a velcro closure. At the top there is a D-ring at the top and in the center a double loop, one of which has a Velcro closure. If we leave the tactical ring in P12, the torch will be inserted into the holster with the head down (the tactical ring prevents insertion with the head up). The P12 once inserted remains well stable without strange movements.

The Clip in titanium-plated stainless steel included in the package is short but still allows easy insertion in the jeans. It can only be inserted on the torch in one position.

The tactical ring when inserted into the torch body also acts as an anti-roll and can be removed easily (even without removing the sealing O-ring). It is then possible to insert the cord into the hole on one side.

THE MANUAL:

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The Nitecore P12 has good build quality, there are no strange edges or construction residues. It is made of aluminum alloy with an anodized finish, glossy black, military grade hard. Taking it in your hand, you hold it well and also the weight is not excessive.
IPX8 water resistant (submersible from 2 meters) and withstands impact up to 1 meter.

On the head of the Nitecore P12 we find a SMO reflector with the CREEXM-L2 U2 LED in the center. Thanks to the PDOT (Precision Digital Optics Technology) the beam is optimized for a more uniform radius. The tempered ultra-clear mineral glass has an anti-reflective coating.

There are circular cooling fins to cool the heat produced, and the base has a polygon shape.

Laterally, above the head, there is the electronic button that allows us to manage the 4 levels available, beyond the specials Strobe, Sos and Beacon, but not to turn the torch on or off. This rubber side button has the word "MODE" on it. It has a not so noisy click and it's easy to find it in the dark or if you wear gloves.

Under the rubber button there is a blue LED notification light to indicate the battery charge status and with fast flashes when it needs to be replaced because it is discharged.

The central body of the Nitecore P12 has a very pronounced non-slip rhomboid shape knurling. The thicknesses are good and the writing is very readable.

The threads on the torch body to tighten the tail cap have a good thickness and arrive well greased. They are anodized and therefore, by partially unscrewing the tail cap, they allow the mechanical locking of the torch.

At the two poles, for contact with the battery, we find a positive plated button in the center, with the plastic base for protection against reverse polarity and a plated spring to the negative. However, I managed to run the P12 with a 18650 flat positive battery (Sony).

The only unscrewable part of the Nitecore P12 is the tail cap. On the tail cap the diamond knurling is similar to that seen on the torch body. There are also two holes for inserting the cord supplied with the torch. The U-shape of the P12 tail allows the operation with gloves and prevents accidental activation of the switch.

In the queue we have access to the tactical rubber button that allows you to turn the P12 on and off. Pressing the button without going to the bottom we get momentary lighting (Momentary On). The button is noisy and has a good grip.

The Nitecore P12 has tail stand capability.
The Nitecore P12 next to other torches.

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USER INTERFACE(UI):

The interface of use of the Nitecore P12 is very simple. The P12 has two switches, one side and one tactical (in the queue).

With the torch we have 4 brightness levels and 3 special modes available.

High: 1000 lumens - 1 hr 15 min
Mid: 240 lumens - 6 hr
Low: 70 lumens - 28 hr
Lower: 1 lumen - 520 hr

Strobe: 1000 lumens
SOS: 1000 lumens
Beacon: 1000 lumens

N.B. The runtime values are reported using a 2600 mAh Nitecore 18650 battery as power supply.

Momentary illumination
Momentary illumination mode is accessed by half pressing and holding the tail switch with flashlight turned off. Simply release the switch to turn the light off again.
Switching ON/OFF
To switch ON: Press the button on the tailcap until a "click" is heard.
To switch OFF: Press the button on the tailcap a second time until a "click" is heard.
General Operations
With the light turned on, press the side switch in quick succession to cycle through the following brightness levels: ultra-low, low, medium and high. Once a desired setting is displayed, it may be saved by turning the light off at the tail switch.
Note: For user safety and to prevent overheating / failure, the P12 will automatically switch to a lower mode after three minutes of use at its highest level of output.
Special Modes
With the light turned on, press and hold the side switch to activate Strobe mode. Press and hold once again to access Location Beacon mode and repeat once more for SOS mode. To exit any one of these modes simply press the side switch to be returned to your previously used brightness level.
NB: Strobe mode is the default special mode and is the only special mode that has a memory function. If the light is turned off at the tail switch while in strobe mode, strobe will resume when the light is next turned on. SOS and Location Beacon modes have no memory function.
Power Tips
1. With the light switched on, the power indicator will blink once every two seconds when power levels reach 50%.
2. With the light switched on, the power indicator will blink rapidly when power levels are low.
3. With the light turned off, press and hold the side switch while
simultaneously pressing the tail switch to display the battery voltage (accurate to ±0.1V) with a series of blinks. For example, when the battery voltage is at a maximum charge of 4.2V, the power indicator will blink 4 times in quick succession, followed by a one second pause and two more blinks, indicating a total battery voltage of 4.2V.
Changing Batteries
When the power indicator blinks rapidly this indicates the batteries need to be replaced. Alternatively if the light becomes dim or unresponsive to adjustment this also indicates batteries need to be replaced.

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BEAM and RUNTIME:

Good the beam and the color of the Nitecore P12 without strange artifacts. In the center, the spot is white while the crown that surrounds it tends to yellowish until it reaches the edges of the spill with a tint that turns slightly to violet. I didn't notice any PWM at all levels.
The beginning of the spill from the feet is about a meter or more.

From the graph we see the runtime performed with the HIGH level (1000 lumens), in a closed environment with a temperature of about 28 ° C. The battery used is a fully charged 2600 mAh Nitecore NL1826. At the end of the test the battery measured approximately 3V.

I would like to underline that the values expressed by the graphs must be taken as a reference especially because they are made with means and environmental conditions different from those used by the parent company in the laboratory.

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Review Nitecore MH12GT

For technical details: https://flashlight.nitecore.com/product/mh12gt
For the purchase: https://www.nitecorestore.com/Nitecore-MH12GT-Flashlight-p/fl-nite-mh12gt.htm

The Nitecore MH12GT is part of the Nitecore Multitask Hybrid Flashlight series. These torches were created by Nitecore to be used in different situations without interruption, guaranteeing numerous possibilities of use, also thanks to the integrated USB charging. The Nitecore MH12GT is a compact LED flashlight with reduced dimensions that produces up to 1000 lumens and covers with its beam the distance of 320 meters. The Nitecore MH12GT is equipped with a CREE XP-L HI V3 LED, has 4 light levels (Ultralow, Low, Mid and High) plus 3 special levels (Strobe, SOS and Location Beacon). It is powered mainly by a 18650 battery, included in the package, or alternatively by 2 CR123 batteries. The Nitecore MH12GT is equipped with two switches, a tactical one in the queue that also allows momentary switching on, and a lateral one for managing the available levels. It is IPX-8 certified with 1m impact resistance.

MAIN FEATURES:

• Use a CREE XP-L HI V3 LED
• Maximum power up to 1000 lumens
• It boasts a peak beam intensity of 25.700cd and a projection distance of up to 320 meters
• The integrated "precision digital optics technology" offers extreme reflector performance
• The high efficiency constant current circuit offers a maximum autonomy of 520 hours
• The design of a side switch provides access to 4 brightness levels and 3 special modes, ideal for outdoor applications
• The power indicator integrated under the side switch shows the remaining battery charge (patent n. ZL201220057767.4)
• The power indicator can also return the battery voltage to the nearest 0.1V
• A built-in charging module quickly charges lithium ion batteries through a micro USB port
• Includes a Nitecore 18650 battery (NL1834 3400mAh)
• Features an intelligent memory function (except for SOS and localization beacon mode)
• Reverse polarity protection prevents damage caused by incorrectly inserted batteries
• Ultra-clear tempered mineral glass with anti-reflective coating
• Constructed in aeronautical grade aluminum alloy with hard anodized finish military grade
• Waterproof according to IPX8 certification (two submersible meters)
• Shock resistant up to 1 meter
• Tail stand capability

Dimensions:
Length: 139.2mm (5.48 ')
Head diameter: 5.4mm (1 ")
Tail diameter: 25.4mm (1 ')
Weight: 87g (3.07oz) (without battery)

Accessories: Nitecore 18650 battery (NL1834 3400mAh), USB charging cable, holster, clip, tactical ring, lanyard, spare rubber cover, 0-ring spare, spare USB port cover.

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USER MANUAL:

The packaging:

Complete the sales package of the Nitecore MH12GT which arrives in the classic Yellow / Black cardboard box by Nitecore. The main features of the torch are listed on the four sides of the box. Inside we find, in addition to the Nitecore MH12GT, a Nitecore 18650 3400 mAh battery (NL1834), the USB charging cable, the Clip, the holster, the tactical ring, lanyard, the spare cap, cover for USB port of replacement, 2x replacement O-ring, manual and warranty.

Similar to others in the same series but still very valid the holster of the Nitecore MH12GT. It is in fairly soft cordura with a very secure tear-off closure. On the back we find the plastic D-ring at the top and a double loop including a tear-off one. Also in this case the MH12GT must be inserted with the head down if in the torch we have put the tactical ring that hinders its insertion in the opposite direction. Once inserted in the holster the MH12GT remains firmly in place.

Change the clip with respect to Nitecore P12. Now it's slightly longer.

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The TORCH:

The Nitecore MH12GT is built well, it is made of aluminum alloy with a hard anodized finish. The surface is difficult to scratch and has no manufacturing defects. In hand he holds himself well and does not weigh much. It consists of 3 parts: Head, Body and Tail.
It has IPX8 impermeability (submersible from 2 meters) and holds up shocks and falls up to 1 meter.

The Nitecore MH12GT has a SMO reflector and at the center of this is the CREE XP-L HI V3 LED. This LED, without dome, has increased the distance illuminated by 190% compared to the previous MH12 with CREE XM-L2 U2 Led, bringing the peak radius to 25700cd with a maximum distance reached of 320 meters. The tempered ultra-clear mineral glass has an anti-reflective coating.

On most of the head of the Nitecore MH12GT there are circular cooling fins, while going down we find the side switch and the Micro-USB charging socket. The shape here becomes from round to polygon; this shape helps prevent the torch from rolling.

The side switch of the MH12GT has a good decided and noisy click. On it you can see the word "MODE" which indicates that it is the mode button. Being in rubber and slightly raised it is quite well in the dark even if sometimes I confuse it with the rubber protection of the USB charging socket.
With this switch we manage the 4 levels available in addition to the special Strobe, SOS and Beacon. However, with the MODE key we cannot turn the MH12GT on or off, this operation must always be done with the key in the queue.

Under the side switch there is a notification LED with blue color. The LED lights up when we recharge the torch by flashing every second until it is constantly lit when charging is completed. The LED, during torch use, flashes quickly when the battery is almost empty and must be replaced or recharged.

On the opposite side of the side switch is the Micro-USB charging socket. This socket, where we will connect the charging cable included in the package, is protected by a a soft rubber cap engraved with the USB symbol.

The central body of the Nitecore MH12GT has a very beautiful marked knurling with rhombus design. The writings are fairly legible and the thicknesses are discreet.
The thread, both on the head side (shorter) and on the tail side, are anodized, allowing by slightly unscrewing the tail to obtain the mechanical block. In my copy they arrived well lubricated.

The tactical ring, once inserted, facilitates tactical grip with one hand and also acts as an anti-roll. To insert it, it is not necessary to remove the O-ring, but it's enough simply push it into its seat. It is then possible to insert a lanyard into the hole on one side.

On the tail cap we find the same knurling seen on the torch body. The particular design of the cap partially protects the button from accidental ignition, still allowing the use of gloves. There are two holes for the insertion of a lanyard. The tail switch has good grip and has a noisy click. With it, in addition to turning the flashlight on or off, we have the possibility of having the momentary light (Momentary ON) by pressing the button halfway. The Nitecore MH12GT has tail stand capability.

For the contacts with the battery we find at the positive pole a plastic base for protection against reverse polarity with a plated button in the center, while on the negative a double plated spring. Even here as in the Nitecore P12, I managed to run the flashlight using a flat-head Sony 18650 battery.

The Nitecore MH12GT next to other torches.

USER INTERFACE(UI):

The user interface of the Nitecore MH12GT is simple. The MH12GT has two switches, one side and one tactical (in the queue).

With the torch we have 4 brightness levels and 3 special modes available.

High: 1000 lumens - 1 hr 15 min
Mid: 280 lumens - 6 hr
Low: 55 lumens - 28 hr
Ultralow: 1 lumen - 520 hr

Strobe: 1000 lumens
SOS: 1000 lumens
Beacon: 1000 lumens

Note: The runtime values ??are reported using a 3400 mAh Nitecore 18650 battery as power supply.

Momentary Illumination
Press the tail cap switch halfway to switch the light on. Simply release to switch the light off.
ON/OFF
To switch ON: Press the tail cap switch all the way down until a "click" is heard To switch OFF. Press the tail cap switch all the way down again until a "click" is heard
Brightness Levels
With the light switched on, press the mode switch repeatedly to cycle through brightness levels of ultra-low, low, medium and high.
ATR
With Advanced Temperature Regulation module, the MH12GT regulates its output and adapts to the ambient environment, maintaining optimal performance.
Special Modes (Strobe/SOS/Location Beacon)
When the light is on, press and hold the mode switch for over one second to enter strobe mode; when in strobe mode, press and hold the mode switch for over one second again to cycle through SOS, location beacon and strobe modes. To exit and revert to the brightness level last used, simply press the mode switch. Note: The MH12GT memorizes its previously uesd brightness level as well as strobe mode the next time it is turned on. (Except for SOS and Location Beacon modes)
Charging Function
The MH12GT can charge an 18650 Li-ion battery with the included USB charging cable by following the steps below. 1. Click the tail switch to turn on the light. 2. Connect the USB cable to the MH12GT's charging port and a power source (USB chargers, PC or other power terminals). Fully charging a depleted 18650 battery takes approximately 6 hours. Under normal charging conditions, the blue power indicator light will blink once per second. If CR123/RCR123 batteries are inserted, or there is no battery inserted, or the tail switch is not at the "on" position, the blue power indicator light will blink rapidly to notify users. When charging is completed, the MH12GT will terminate the charging process automatically and the blue power indicator keeps on.

Power Tips
1. When the light is on, the power indicator will blink once every two seconds when power level drops to 50%; the power indicator will blink quickly when power level is low.
2. When the light is off, press tail cap switch while holding down the mode switch to activate the power indicator light to report battery voltage (accurate to ±0.1V). For example, when the battery voltage is at a maximum charge of 4.2V , the power indicator will blink 4 times, followed by a one second pause and 2 more blinks before entering the previously used brightness. Different voltages represent the corresponding remaining battery power levels:

Changing Batteries
Batteries should be recharged or replaced if any of the followings occurs: The power indicator blinks rapidly; output appears to be dim or the flashlight becomes unresponsive.

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BEAM and RUNTIME:

Good the beam and the color of the Nitecore MH12GT2 without artifacts. At the center the spot is white and intense and the crown with the spill does not have strange toning but remains of a pleasant white. The side lighting starts from the feet with rings that are not very bright; for the beginning of the luminous spill the distance between the feet is over 1 meter.
I didn't notice any PWM at all levels.

The runtime was executed in HIGH mode (1000 lumens) and in MID mode (280 lumens). The tests were carried out in a closed environment using the battery supplied with the MH12GT, a 3400 mAh fully charged Nitecore 18650 (NL1834). At the end of the test the battery measured approximately 3V.
A test was made, in HIGH mode, using a small fan near the torch to see the operation of Nitecore's advanced temperature control ATR system.

I would like to underline that the values ??expressed by the graphs must be taken as a reference especially because they are made with means and environmental conditions different from those used by the parent company in the laboratory.

In HIGH mode without forced ventilation:

In HIGH mode without and with forced ventilation:

The first 10 minuts:

In MID mode without forced ventilation:

VIDEO.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/mKXPwR6f9xM

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IN CONCLUSION:

The Nitecore P12 of the "Precise" series and the Nitecore MH12GT of the "Multitask Hybrid" series are two compact torches with excellent performance for tactical use or as EDC for everyday use. Built with quality materials, they have a luminous power that goes from the Ultra-low from 1 lumen up to 1000 lumens of the High level. Good beam quality as well as the runtime. The two Nitecores have well-spaced light levels and a simple user interface. The Nitecore MH12GT goes up on the highest step as it also has a USB charging port and a 3400 mAh Nitecore 18650 battery included in the package. It also has the most performed CREE XP-L HI V3 LED which boasts a peak beam intensity of 25.700cd and can cover a distance up to 320 meters. The Nitecore MH12GT supports ATR (Advanced Temperature Regulation) technology that regulates the light output adapting to environmental conditions while maintaining excellent performance.
With the advent of the new LEDs, Nitecore was able to successfully update the two series by subsequently presenting the P12GTS and the MH12GTS. Surely these two "classics" will continue to be updated in the coming years with new versions, remaining reliable products for tactical and everyday use.

Thank you for reading the review.

ollywood · 2019-08-04T11:55:38.000Z

Wow, what a awesome review, thanks for your work!!!
I enjoyed reading it!