The Ergonomic Economics of the New Solarforce L2N
It is fascinating the different lathe cuts and exterior design changes Solarforce comes up with to encourage Foy to purchase yet another torch he does not need. Among the latest from Hong Kong is this gorgeous, black P60 beauty; the L2N. If you already own another of Solarforce's fine P60 offerings, there simply is no rational reason to buy this host. No doubt a spate of dropped L2s fast tracked L2N R & D and for those of insufficient dexterity, this ergonomic miracle might seem a Godsend. For the rest of us, it's a pleasant diversion that happens to be a spectacular flashlight.
Foyapproved
Bottom line: At $15, the L2N is not the least expensive P60 host available or even the cheapest Solarforce host. Taken on its own however (think - non-flashaholic/first purchase) the L2N is a terrific choice. Machine work is typical Solarforce (stunning) with an attractive, smooth black bezel, a larger 16mm boot and Rolex-like fit and finish. The L2N is fully compatible with all Solarforce heads, tail caps and assorted bling. Although not necessarily a minus, the L2N is also a derivative addition to the Solarforce lineup; a few scallops on the tube and some tail caps flutes turns an already superb L2 into the ergonomically correct . . . L2N. A win for Solarforce and a knock-out flashlight for us. Fascinating.
What I like:
- aesthetically pleasing
- bezel
- machine work
- larger 16mm boot size
- overall superior quality (above that of any other host available)
- fast delivery
What I do not like:
- relatively small visual changes to an existing product to create a new SKU
- "Caution! Hot Surface" warning on head
Solarforce L2N Black P60 Host
$14.99 Solarforceflashlight-sales http://www.solarforceflashlight-sales.com/product_detail.php?t=FB&s=48&id=513
ordered: 11-3-12
received: 11-14-12
CNC T6061 aluminum alloy
hard anodized finish (II?)
ergonomically designed battery tube
designed for 2 x CR123, 2 x 16340 or 1 x 18650 size batteries
tactical (non-tail standing) forward clicky tail cap switch with black, 16mm "Solarforce" boot
tail cap switch rated to 3 amps
strengthened glass lens
waterproof design (package says to 1 meter)
impact resistant to 1.5 meters
compatible with all L2/P60 modules and accessories
length: 136mm, bezel diameter: 32mm, body diameter: 25.4mm
weight: 84.2g (empty)
what you get for $14.99: (plus $2 shipping)
Solarforce L2N black flashlight host
black, peggable retail packaging
Most Solarforce hosts arrive in a flat peggable package but the new L2N rates a full-on box. My light came with another new addition to Solarforce lights, yet to be reviewed. Also need to mention how pleasantly surprised Foy was to find this nice package in his mailbox, both because of the eleven day turnaround and, it came un-registered. Meaning Foy didn't have to make the 40 mile round trip journey to the post office on his lunch hour to sign for it.
One thing I can always count on from Solarforce is absolutely spectacular machine work . . .
Even with a magnifying glass, you're not going to find a single flaw, errant cut or any indication of poor workmanship. This level of quality is not just remarkable, it's unheard of at this or any price point. I've said this many times; once you hold one of these in your hand, no other host will ever be good enough. If you've never owned a Solarforce light before, I guarantee you will be more than just a little pleased with your purchase.
The cut and shape of the battery tube just below the head is similar the latest version L2M, with an edged, rather than rounded shoulder. The shoulder itself is slightly taller and the cut is wider just above the knurling than it is on the L2M.
One of the more noticeable design elements is the fluted tail cap with its eight vertical cuts. This is an L2 cap minus the knurling and plus the flutes. (and larger boot)
Of course, the piece de resistance are these pretty scallops, three opposite the other on each side. Solarforce says it "provides users with a sense of security and comfort." Holding this light is a pleasure but my confidence level remains the same and my discomfort changes little, with or without this fine torch in my hand.
I must admit however; asked to choose, I somewhat prefer how the L2N feels, over an L2. The difference is slight but if $3.49 (more than an L2) gets me pretty scallops, a new design tail cap and a bezel that doesn't rip my shorts, I'm all in.
It's just gorgeous, no matter what angle you see it from.
Not sure if the smooth, black bezel used on a few of Solarforce's new offerings is the result of years of users' harping about the stupidity of "strike bezels" but it is a welcome and attractive accouterment. The newest host usually gets my best drop-in for a time and for me right now, that happens to be the unbelievable MD26E "Meisterstück" from Vinz . . .
This incredible U3 module continues to amaze with its scorching 1,000 lumen ocean of light and its self contained/fully potted/waterproof design . . . absolutely perfect for the L2N. Hands down; the best P60 combination on the planet. Very easy statement to make.
The L2N appears to have the same anodization as the new L2M and I think also, the 2011 version L2. There is no mention of anodization type on either Solarforce site or the product packaging. It is definitely not like the finish on an L2P. Call it HA II, (Solarforce does not) it's gorgeous but does have a tendency to absorb light scuffs from say, plastic, for example that then requires strong rubbing to remove.
Light arrived with adequate o-rings and a (very) light touch of oil . . .
Stunning machine work shows up everywhere . . .
Head threads are anodized and are smoothed just a bit on top. There's also a cut for another o-ring, if you choose two . . .
Tail cap threads are square and like any quality light, there are plenty of them. Narrow screw-on and low thread count are a favorite Foy pet-peeve and an easy corner to cut to save manufacturing costs.
Glass lens does not appear to be coated . . .
Tail cap looks to be standard issue non-tail standing Solarforce (with flutes) but unlike other models, the L2N has a 16mm boot. Small point for sure but I've received only one other light equipped with a tactical switch that has this larger boot. Solarforce's site shows the new L2M with a 16mm boot but just one of my four L2Ms came with it. Foy thinks the bigger boot looks better.
The L2N is a great addition to the Solarforce lineup and would be a worthy member of any flashaholic's collection.
Foy
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” (without the quotes).