Hi - I really like this light but am on the fence if I should buy it. Ive never used a side button light on a modern light of this size/type. (Im sure side switch is great on the TK41 and 2D Maglite, but those are larger.)
To me issues would be:
-How durable is the plastic switch, is there a washer around it, hard or soft plastic, etc?
-I cant change modes with one hand easily, I have to locate the little switch each time.
-No way to instantly get to high(On my LD20 high is tighten and it brings you right to high.)
-Difficult to use with gloves...
-Another potential point of failure...is it the tailcap at fault or the switch?
But it has mode memory - and Fenix must know their stuff vs me I have no experience at all with this light and have not even seen it. I am just trying to research fairly if I should order this or get the LD10 while I still can. (Both lights are about 50USD.)
So what are your thoughts about it, on this speciffic light and switch? Thanks.
I really like side-switch lights. It is much easier, or at least more natural for me, to carry a torch underhanded than in the 'tactical' overhand position. That is one of the reasons I like my TK41 and my ST10 so much. I wouldn't let it be a deal breaker for you.
The 18650/2xcr123a version of these lights (PD32) has been out for a little while now. There are a few reviews around but here's mine:
I guess whether to get the ld12/ld22 vs the ld10/ld20, depends on what UI you prefer. If you do not want memory and prefer to have a light that starts in low or high (depending on whether the head is tightened or loosened), get the older version. If you like having memory, and having the light start on the last level, get the newer fenix.
I find having the side button actually makes it easier to change modes one-handed. With the older fenix, if you want to access turbo, you need to use two hands to tighten the light.
The side switch is soft plastic electronic switch, it should be pretty easy to use with gloves. Doesn't take a lot of force to click.
From the beginning, I’ve always preferred the side switch as well. Although there are more rear clickys in production, the side switch has always been more ergonomic for my hand and finger dexterity. Clicky has always been more cumbersome to operate for me. That said, I only have 3 or 4 side switch lights out of the 40 or so lights that I have.
