neutralwhite
Flashlight Enthusiast
two HDS's 18650's.
Thanks for the additional info. I take it that multi-group UI come out in late 2017? I had seen mention of a "new UI" in 2014 for the headlamps, but I'm guessing that was an interim UI revision from the previous one (2013 and earlier). See Zebralight model history doc.Same here as I have already offered here but it is also worth noting that the newest ZL interface can easily be programmed as a simple single level interface too as needed and pretty simply switched between this and the more standard ZL way AND even a third entirely different interface as well!
More flexible really than any other UI that I have seen.
I am working every day where I am lost essentially with no light.
So it is just as important that I carry more than 1 light that I trust than which brand it might be usually.
I always carry a Zebralight and usually a Convoy S2+ as second so that I get more throw than the ZL in my second light.
While I do trust Malkoff,SF and HDS maybe at a higher level I am also reluctant to carry the extra weight and expense in my EDC where there is a decent chance I could loose one of them too!
I have never had the ZL or Convoy fail on me either.
I also always have 2 or 3 lights on keychains and they have all been dead on reliable as needed,except the Nitecores which all seem flaky to me.
Basic survival? Peak eiger. Never had or heard of one failing. AAA batteries and potted head. Simple but totally functional/ useful.
If you wouldn't mind sharing the specifics, I think it would be of significant interest here on CPF.I have one that is a worthless pile of Stainless.
Sadly.
If you wouldn't mind sharing the specifics, I think it would be of significant interest here on CPF.
I have heard of (and had some experience with) issues from the 3mm / 5mm emitter era, but major failures from the "modern" (power emitter) era with Peak seem exceedingly rare.
IIRC, there was one post many years ago of an optic eventually melting from heat with the use of IMR in a Logan, although IMR are not recommended for use by Peak (in that particular model)
Not sure I can easily think of another example.
Note that I don't include QTC flickering and such in this category, which is certainly common, as I consider that almost a "consumable / wear" type function.
What are some of the more notable or common issues you've encountered that affect flashlight reliability, even with the most reputable brands?I have had (at least minor) issues with every major brand with which I have significant experience, including all of those commonly rated highly for reliability and durability.
Which is why I strongly believe in the "two is one" philosophy. Typically, I will have several sources of lighting handy.
That said, if I had to choose based purely on this criterion ... Peak (for pocket lights) and Malkoff (for handheld torches)
What are some of the more notable or common issues you've encountered that affect flashlight reliability, even with the most reputable brands?
I do agree, it definitely makes sense to have a backup... because you never know.
Malkoff, Surefire, and Maglite would be my choices. The last light I used for duty before retirement was the MD2 and was very happy with it. Had an HDS, cool light but no. Guys I worked with had streamlights and they swore by them, very reliable.