So with the latest versions of the Wildcat 18650 and Hound Dog XP-L in hand, I've done a bit of experimenting.
With the diffusers of both removed, it's obvious that they use different TIR lenses. The XP-L produces a more focused, higher candela beam but with noticeable rings, especially a bright one just outside the corona. The WC produces a focused beam as well, but with a wider, less intense corona and more subtle rings. I prefer the wider, smoother "base" beam profile of the Wildcat's TIR lens.
The HD XP-L comes with a 1-degree diffuser behind the protective lens. With the diffuser installed, the XP-L is rated at 45k cd, but still produces the (IMO) distracting bright ring just outside of the corona.
Swapping in the 10-degree diffuser from the WC into the XP-L transforms the beam into a wide, smooth, ring-free pattern that is practically indistinguishable from the Wildcat. According to my measurements, the HD XP-L produces approximately 5k cd with the 10-degree diffuser, effectively matching the specs of the Wildcat. With the 10-degree diffuser installed, according to my eyeballs the WC and HD XP-L perform identically. However for outdoor use, I'd prefer a bit more throw than the 10-degree diffuser provides.
Swapping the 1-degree diffuser into the WC is where IMO things get interesting. Though the rings are still present, they remain largely unnoticed in normal use.
With the 1-degree diffuser installed in the WC, I measure the candela at 30k.
At 1,000 lumens and 30,000 cd, I find this beam profile provides a good balance between throw and spill, making even the low setting quite useful. Compared to the beam profile of my M91T (750 lumens / 20k cd), the corona is wider and brighter, and the spill more uniform. It's IMO a nicely-balanced beam for general outdoor use.
Overall I'm really liking the beam profile of the WC 18650 with a 1-degree diffuser installed. If I want to be picky and could tweak it at all, I'd settle for around 25k candela in exchange for some additional beam smoothing. I'm ordering additional 1-degree diffusers and will experiment with stacking them to see if I can accomplish that.
In terms of the WC-MD2 package pictured below, it's not what I'd call a true EDC light, but at just 5-1/2" AOL and 9.2 ounces with an IMR 18650 cell, it drops into a coat or cargo pants pocket without much fuss. When I need to bring more light beyond what I normally EDC, that's exactly what I'll do.
Group photo above, left to right;
- EDC light #1: E2XTD on an Oveready E35 body with LF Z14/Z31 Momentary Tailcap. This light is configured for momentary-only operation and carries unnoticed in a HBC. It is carried and reserved strictly for SD purposes.
- WC 18650/MC2 as described above. It rides nicely in the front-right zippered pocket of a pair of Duluth Relaxed Fit Foreman's pants.
- EDC light #2: M61L module/VME head on an Oveready E35 body with LF Z41 Style McClicky Tailcap. This is my general purpose EDC light which I carry in a front pants pocket. I find the 230 lumen output perfect for general use while providing 3+ hours of run time on an 18350 1200 mAh cell.
Equipped with grip rings, all three lights work well with my preferred syringe grip hold.