Re: What flashlights should we all own?
You mentioned the D25c. I would recommend the D25a to just about anybody, instead. It is by far the most used light I have, and one of the most compact rear-clicky AA lights I have used. I like that the turbo/strobe is separate from the other levels. I can easily start at the level of light I desire without blinding myself right away. The only thing I might change about the D25a is all the other nonsense blinking modes. Turbo/strobe and low/medium/high is all most would ever need.
Additionally, while I like the CR123 batteries, I have moved to the AA's. They are pretty much everywhere you go. What you lose in output is made up in easy accessibility in most situations. Not to mention, I have seen some stores selling a single CR123 for $10 or more!!! I'd much rather pick up some store brand AA's if I'm in a bind. I do use a 14500 in my D25a, so I get the performance of a CR123, but I can switch to a primary AA in a pinch if I had to.
Also, If I have to lend someone a light, I'd rather give them an AA light and a pack of AA's, than have them be confused by a "different" battery type.
Btw, I wish Zebralight would come out with an updated version of the SC80. The fact that you could switch between using an AA or CR123 without carrying an extra accessory is truly the best of both worlds. I find that unless you have the extension tubes with you at all times the versatility of a CR123/AA light is of little use. My feeling is that most would use it as a CR123 light first and switch to AA in an emergency. Without the extension tube, it's a useless option.
The next type of light would be an AAA light. Everyone should at least have an Olight i3s or comparable light on their keychain. The price on the Thrunite Ti3 really can't be beat. But, as silly as it sounds, I like the styling and colors of the Olight more. I give them as gifts all the time and people love them.
I always have both the i3s and D25a with me. I could go on about my other Nitecore, Olight or Eagletac tactical and search lights, but as the portability diminishes their usefulness diminishes. I usually have a tactical light of some kind with me, but I don't always have the ability to carry one, especially in the summer. I just don't have enough pockets.
There's a saying in photography, the best camera to buy is the one you will take with you at all times. The same goes for flashlights. The best light you can buy is the one you will take with you at all times. I love my Nitecore EAX a lot, but I only use it when I'm willing to carry it. The D25a is always in my pocket, and I barely know it's there. It's infinitely more valuable to me than my most expensive lights....
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wide flat beam is fantastic and still nice to have possibility for tight throwy beam. And you get aaa from any place.
