Another cheap XML t...
 

MegaSack DRAW - This year's winner is user - rgwb
We will be in touch

[Closed] Another cheap XML torch option

1 Posts
2 Users
0 Reactions
65 Views
Posts: 457
Free Member
Topic starter
 

So, I've been doing some research on cheap, bright, 185650-powered torches.

I know we've done one of the Deal Extreme options, but I thought I'd go a different route - mainly because I've had lots of stuff from DX in the past. The quality has been variable and the delivery has been slow.

I did a some research over on Candlepowerforums and decided that I'd try a P60 host with an XM-L T6 drop in module.

As I understand it, it's a bit like lego - you can drop (more or less) any p60 module into a p60 host and it should work. So when a new, brighter LED comes out next year I'll only need to buy a new module rather than the whole torch.

Can't seem to link to larger pics on their website, so you'll have to make do with these tiny ones for now - I might be able to add some of my own tomorrow.

[img] [/img]

The best value host I could find was the [url= http://www.solarforce-sales.com/product.php?sname=&s=7&t=FB ]Solarforce L2P[/url], which has HAIII anodising and comes in a range of colours. I went for the grey option at $19.99.

[img] [/img]

I decided I didn't need flashing modes so I went for the 3 mode XM-L T6 drop-in at $17.50.

[img] [/img]

I also ordered a smooth stainless bezel because I'm fed up of the pointy ones destroying my pocket/bag, and a couple of their protected 18650 cells as they seem to be reasonably well reviewed on CPF.

So it came to ~$56/~£37 all in.
Ordered on the 18th, arrived this morning.

The host/body is lovely - nice colour anodising, smooth threads (they don't appear to be lubed though) and feels nice in the hand.

Changing the bezel and installing the drop-in is easy.
The drop in rattled around a bit, so I wrapped some aluminium foil around it - this should also help conduct heat away from the drop-in and into the body.

Inside it's loads brighter than anything else I've got, though as others have said, the XM-L seems to produce tighter beam than a P7.
Seems a little more purple than the P7's against a white ceiling too, but only barely.

Took the dog for a walk and it's brilliant - the beam is a perfect balance between flood and depth. Can't vouch for what it's like as a bike light yet though, nor for waterproofness.

Niggles/observations:
It's a forward clicky switch, which is taking a bit of getting used to.

All in all I'm properly chuffed - lots of light, (seemingly) good quality, not many pennies, and can be upgraded as and when necessary.

Any questions?
Hope this helps someone!


 
Posted : 22/11/2011 10:11 pm
 P20
Posts: 4183
Full Member
 

I've seen one of these in the metal they are quite impressive. I've just ordered one for work


 
Posted : 25/11/2011 6:51 pm