Flashlights - SureFire, Malkoff, SkyLumen, etc.

[fwafwow]

I am thinking about some flashlight changes. I currently take a ZebraLight H600c Mk IV (4000K High CRI) headlamp and a SkyLumen XVIII with me when hunting. (I also have a few more SkyLumens - XXI, Noctigon KR1vn and SL2c.) The XVIII is good, but it gets hot pretty quickly. I'm now debating whether to get another SureFire (I have a SureFire 6PX Pro for bedstand, and a currently unused StreamLight ProTac HL) or go down the Malkoff path. I know @Marbles has a Malkoff, but can anyone else give me some advice (including to stay away and avoid the rabbit holes) before I invest some serious time and $?

 

[Team4LongGun]

Streamlight

 

[fwafwow]

Streamlight

You reminded me I have a Streamlight ProTac HL in a drawer that isn't being used or stored in a usable place.

 

[Marbles]

I stopped looking at SureFire and Streamlight after getting a Malkoff. If Malkoff makes something that fits your needs, you should give them a try.

 

[fwafwow]

I stopped looking at SureFire and Streamlight after getting a Malkoff. If Malkoff makes something that fits your needs, you should give them a try.

Thanks. After a bit more digging, I thought you might say that. From a rookie's perspective, it seems a bit daunting as to where to start. Buy direct from Malkoff, go to Kosen or another company, etc. And then I found Elzetta. And HDC. And terms like "duel fuel" and why a rechargeable isn't always as good as primaries (and which explains why my SkyLumens drain so quickly). More time to look around/waste.

 

[Marbles]

I have always bought direct from Malkoff.
Some of his lights can be used with 18650s or CR123s, at least one of my 2 can be, though I have never done it.

When I was looking a few years back, the MDC Bodyguard was what I would consider the best option available for self defense. The UI is very simple. If you want a general use flashlight, not the best choice for the very features that make it a great defensive light.

Personally, I have found a small AAA light more useful for day to day and carrying a Prometheus Beta for that.

 

[fwafwow]

I have always bought direct from Malkoff.
Some of his lights can be used with 18650s or CR123s, at least one of my 2 can be, though I have never done it.

When I was looking a few years back, the MDC Bodyguard was what I would consider the best option available for self defense. The UI is very simple. If you want a general use flashlight, not the best choice for the very features that make it a great defensive light.

Personally, I have found a small AAA light more useful for day to day and carrying a Prometheus Beta for that.

Thanks. Like every good rabbit hole, this one is deep.

I am just now figuring out the debate of rechargeable vs primaries. And while I'm not tactical, I like the idea of primaries in some of my FLs (cars, as examples) - especially because the rechargeable batteries tend to deplete much more quickly, even when not in use. Although I decided to schedule battery replacements, I realize I may skip or forget. I also just purchased a ZTS Mini battery tester so I can periodically check them. Or at least plan/intend to do so.

Well said on the UI. I want something for SD that goes immediately to hi, but with an option for low if I think about it. The normal and most likely use is for low, so I get the Prometheus (probably similar to a ToolVN I sometimes carry, which will go to pretty bright with some thought.

 

[rj2]

Zebralight all the way.

 

[EazyID]

I switched to malkoff years ago - they are great

 

[98XJRC]

I've always been a streamlight or surefire guy for my handhelds. Switched to a Fenix PD36R and absolutely love it. It's bright when I need it and will make my back yard look like daytime, but for most times I am able to use it on one of the lower settings. I'm also not chewing through batteries and recharge it as needed.

 

[Trial153]

Fenix has been money for me, i have two handhelds and head lamp.

 

[brndog1]

Fenix is great and reliable. Love mine but also check out the Nitecore. Lightweight and bright with many features.