Review: Solarforce L2r

While waiting for my L2T, 2011 version L2 and other such nonsense and . . . because I'm oddly excited about having 1,000 posts (never had that many and probably not that many even combined) I've been playing with some of my favorites (L2i) and while taking a break from packing today, I'm having a another look at my much ignored L2r.

Some may recall that, right out of the envelope my L2r became a handy hand-hold during the learning curve creating the first Foybezels. Its length and compatibility was perfect for taking down so many bezels and I eventually succeeded in making its head unfit for use. Following this ignoble service, months of shelf time occurred but this afternoon I screwed on a spare head in good condition, dropped in the 5-mode XP-G I had in there before and discovered once again, how great the L2r is.

Chest height moving boxes are perfect for Sunday afternoon flashlight photography.

This R5 drop-in from Manafont is 8.4 volts max, ideal for a 2 x 14500 configuration and the slender body might also be ideal for slender hands.

I Foyed the tail cap to match the bezel and I'm a sucker for boot-bling.

One thing that probably does not matter to most people is the sometimes slight machining bug-a-boos of budget hosts. Solarforce is mostly pretty good about the knurling cross-hatching continuing into the flat nameplate area.

The above is one side of my L2r and below is the other . . .

This is how nearly all Solarforce tubes I have look; consistent knurling (however aggressive it happens to be) and sharp definition at the edge. Aluminum machining and finish work are some of what makes Solarforce a superior product.

Here's a better look at the XP-G. This bright, long running, 5-mode drop-in is perfect for bike use.

In this comparison groupie, the L2r's slender tube and extra length can be seen. I plant to take my L2r to work with me the next few days to see what kind of run time I get with the 14500s and possibly discover if my heretofore 2nd string torch is more than just part of an impressive bench.

redundantFoy

Update - From the department of keeping-it-real . . .

Used the L2r today at work . . . as configured . . .

it sucks.

dontbuyitFoy

Can you please expand on the reason why...Im a flashligh noob, and seriously this was going to be my next flashlight on payday...

But if you say is sucks it must have a problem with it - thanks.

Sorry, revenge for not watching this thread -

I guess I'm spoiled because even with two 14500s, it just was not bright enough to justify the extra length sticking out of my shorts side pocket. I didn't like how small the boot felt when clicking it on and I couldn't get used to its thin shape in my hand. It might make a great XR-E torch running primaries but those kind of lights lack the ooh-ahh factor that has become important to me. There was nothing inherently wrong wih it - terrific flashlight but not for Foy. That doesn't mean you won't like it.

Foy

Is it possible to fit a Mc Clicky into an L2R tailcap? Or are they’re any other tailcap options for the L2R?