kj2
Flashaholic
Olight has released a new light, in their self-defense section. The M1X Striker, which is the successor of the M18 Striker. The M1X shares the same looks, but has more output, modes and improved runtimes.
They added a side-switch for mode changing.
The stainless steel strike bezel is still present, for defense purposes. Using a XM-L2 cool white led, the M1X has a max of 1000 lumens.
The packaging:
The M1X comes in a see-through plastic box, with information and specs printed on it.
The M1X comes with a manual, Olight leaflet, CR123 battery magazine, lanyard and spare o-rings. Pocket-clip is already attached to the light.
Features and Specifications: (given by Olight)
* Beam Distance: 190m
* Candela: 9,000cd
* Waterproof Rating: IPX8 (waterproof up to 2 meters)
* Impact Rating: 1.5m
* LED: Cree XM-L2 CW
* Compatible Batteries: 2 x CR123A or 1 x 18650
* Dimensions: 136mm (Length), 26mm (Diameter)
* Weight: 80g (excluding batteries)
MSRP: 69.95USD
The M1X steps-down, if needed, after 5 minutes to prevent over-heating. It's very honest from Olight to mention the step-down in the specifications. Most manufactures don't mention it so clearly.
The manual gives information on specs, user interface and more. Always handy to read before usage
As you can see, the M1X can headstand but it can't tailstand because of the protruding tail-switch. The pocket-clip is reversible, so you can choose to carry head-up or head-down.
The side-switch features a low-voltage warning led, which lights-up red when it's time to change or charge the battery. The strike-bezel is aggressive, but it won't tear-up your pants.
Knurling is quite smooth. Most grip I've on the light, comes from the clip. I wish the knurling was more aggressive, so you would've enough grip even when wet or when wearing gloves.
There are small ridges on the side-switch to provide so grip.
It isn't possible to remove the strike bezel, but it's possible to unscrew the whole bezel, which gives you access to the reflector. There is a o-ring to keep water out, but you
do want to make sure, the bezel is tightened.
Anodizing is quality is good, although my review-sample has some chips. But that happens often with review-samples
Laser engraving is nicely white and sharp.
Low-voltage indicator in the side-switch.
User Interface:
To turn the light On, fully click the tail-switch. Click again to turn Off. The M1X has mode memory for any mode.
When On, click the side-switch to cycle between modes. Press and hold the side-switch for about one second, to enter Strobe. When you enter Strobe this way, and you would turn Off the light, it will turn On
in Strobe the next time.
From Off you can enter moonlight mode. Press and hold the side-switch and then click the tail-switch.
From Off half press once for momentary, two half presses for High and half press three times for Strobe.
Nicely centered led with smooth reflector.
Tail-switch is easy to operate, because it protrudes. Even in dark, the switch is easy to find. The side-switch can be tricky to find, at night.
The lanyard can be attached to the tailcap.
Dual-springs for extra shock resistance.
Threads are well cut, and came very well lubed out of the box.
Size comparison:
Olight 18650, Fenix TK12 (TK09), Olight R20, Olight M1X, Fenix PD35
Indoor Beamshots:
ISO400, 1/100 sec, f/4.5, auto WB - Canon 500D. Light approx 0.25m / Camera 0.75m away from wall. Eagletac 18650 batteries were used.
M1X moonlight not on photo.
Outdoor Beamshots:
ISO400, 2.5 sec, f/5 - Path about 60 meters deep.
Conclusion:
The M1X is a nice new addition to the Olight line-up. It's very bright and with his metal teeth, bad guys (or girls
) will probably think twice.Operation of the light is simple, although you must remember what your last used mode was. Entering Turbo from Off, while you used the Low mode last, is tricky. Two half presses in a stressful situation,
is almost impossible to do. I do like, that you can have Strobe directly from Off. But yet again, that mode has to be last used. A big positive is that you can change the clip position for head-down or up carry.
All-in-all the M1X has received his place in my EDC-rotation. The clips holds on tightly and the strike bezel doesn't tear-up my pants. Because you've such a wide output range with this light,
you can use it for multiple tasks.
M1X Striker was supplied by Adola for review, on behalf of Olight.
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