I took a few outdoor beamshots and put them up on the gallery. I did these a little differently - I think this makes a bit more sense.
Pics are:
4 sec.
F2.0
WB=incandecent (tungsten)
Batteries were not changed on either light since the other beamshots.
I did use a tripod, but things are still a bit fuzzy since I spaced and rested my hand with the flashlight on the camera (duh). They still serve their purpose I think.
After the indoor beamshots, I decided I was going to carry the light with the UC lens and the mild diffuser. However, after playing with the light outside, I realized it really killed the throw. So, I switched to the stock UC lens with an F04 beamshaper. This works great most of the time, then I just take it off when I want some throw.
I also did not intend to leave the F0x rubber "armor" on the light -- I just did it to see if it would work. However, it has kind of grown on me and I find myself leaving it on. It is kind of nice for a couple of reasons.
First, I would prefer a bit more agressive knurling, and feel like the light isn't as secure in the hand as I'd like it to be. The rubber really makes it feel more secure and provides a bit more "bump" to grab onto.
Second, I found the rubber (esp. with the flat sides) makes a reasonable "bite" pad. It isn't comfortable for long periods of time since your mouth has to open pretty wide, but for quick hands free operation, it works really well.
Third, the light is more quiet when I set it on the dresser at night (I know this is a silly reason).
Fourth, the non-roll is nice, esp. because I don't use the clip.
Ok, some general impressions:
When I first got it, the light was a bit thicker than I expected. It was noticable when I took the E2e out of my pocket and dropped the U85 in there. However, I don't find it big enough to be an issue. Just a data point. W/o the E2e for immediate comparison, I completely forgot about it.
Anodizing on mine is very good. FWIW, the U60 I handled briefly was not as good (in terms of match).
I don't like the laser etch (?) on the side. I think it would be much nicer looking if there was smooth spot for the writing.
I really want a lanyard for the "waist" of this light. I'm going to have to think more on this, but it would be nice if there was a factory option available.
It would be nice if a pair of set-screws were provided with the clip in case you don't want to use the clip and you want that nicely finished look.
While it didn't take me long to figure out how to operate the light, I found the "latch" terminology on the quick reference card a bit mind boggling. On the other hand, I think it is a great idea to include the credit card sized little card.
I didn't look hard, but I didn't notice any documentation with the lens kit. Everything is pretty obvious, but a brief on-pager would be nice.
My clip screw holes *may* have a small punch-through. It is pretty hard to see in there to confirm one way or another. Henry said I could send it to him and he would inspect it and repair it if needed, but I'm already pretty attached to the light and don't want to send it away! I'm going to just install some 4-40 3/16" set screws with a touch of RTV. Y'all might want check yours before you dunk 'em, just in case.
Edit: As others have reported, my U85 has a bit of a hum. Normally, you don't hear it with normal usage, but if you hold it to your ear you can hear it. The frequency appears to change with the different levels and it is easier or less easy to hear at different levels. Doesn't bother me, but keep this in mind if these types of things bug you.
As others have reported with the current tailcap button, the feel is very pleasant and postive. I find my self clicking it just for fun.
Nitpicking aside, this light rocks! It is small, and check out those beamshots! It stands toe to toe with the benchark E2e on high and yet provides the benefits of a variable output light.
Thanks Henry!
-john
HDS Gallery
Pics are:
4 sec.
F2.0
WB=incandecent (tungsten)
Batteries were not changed on either light since the other beamshots.
I did use a tripod, but things are still a bit fuzzy since I spaced and rested my hand with the flashlight on the camera (duh). They still serve their purpose I think.
After the indoor beamshots, I decided I was going to carry the light with the UC lens and the mild diffuser. However, after playing with the light outside, I realized it really killed the throw. So, I switched to the stock UC lens with an F04 beamshaper. This works great most of the time, then I just take it off when I want some throw.
I also did not intend to leave the F0x rubber "armor" on the light -- I just did it to see if it would work. However, it has kind of grown on me and I find myself leaving it on. It is kind of nice for a couple of reasons.
First, I would prefer a bit more agressive knurling, and feel like the light isn't as secure in the hand as I'd like it to be. The rubber really makes it feel more secure and provides a bit more "bump" to grab onto.
Second, I found the rubber (esp. with the flat sides) makes a reasonable "bite" pad. It isn't comfortable for long periods of time since your mouth has to open pretty wide, but for quick hands free operation, it works really well.
Third, the light is more quiet when I set it on the dresser at night (I know this is a silly reason).
Fourth, the non-roll is nice, esp. because I don't use the clip.
Ok, some general impressions:
When I first got it, the light was a bit thicker than I expected. It was noticable when I took the E2e out of my pocket and dropped the U85 in there. However, I don't find it big enough to be an issue. Just a data point. W/o the E2e for immediate comparison, I completely forgot about it.
Anodizing on mine is very good. FWIW, the U60 I handled briefly was not as good (in terms of match).
I don't like the laser etch (?) on the side. I think it would be much nicer looking if there was smooth spot for the writing.
I really want a lanyard for the "waist" of this light. I'm going to have to think more on this, but it would be nice if there was a factory option available.
It would be nice if a pair of set-screws were provided with the clip in case you don't want to use the clip and you want that nicely finished look.
While it didn't take me long to figure out how to operate the light, I found the "latch" terminology on the quick reference card a bit mind boggling. On the other hand, I think it is a great idea to include the credit card sized little card.
I didn't look hard, but I didn't notice any documentation with the lens kit. Everything is pretty obvious, but a brief on-pager would be nice.
My clip screw holes *may* have a small punch-through. It is pretty hard to see in there to confirm one way or another. Henry said I could send it to him and he would inspect it and repair it if needed, but I'm already pretty attached to the light and don't want to send it away! I'm going to just install some 4-40 3/16" set screws with a touch of RTV. Y'all might want check yours before you dunk 'em, just in case.
Edit: As others have reported, my U85 has a bit of a hum. Normally, you don't hear it with normal usage, but if you hold it to your ear you can hear it. The frequency appears to change with the different levels and it is easier or less easy to hear at different levels. Doesn't bother me, but keep this in mind if these types of things bug you.
As others have reported with the current tailcap button, the feel is very pleasant and postive. I find my self clicking it just for fun.
Nitpicking aside, this light rocks! It is small, and check out those beamshots! It stands toe to toe with the benchark E2e on high and yet provides the benefits of a variable output light.
Thanks Henry!
-john
HDS Gallery
Last edited:
Looks bright. 
