I need some light.

[captain spaulding]

Alright i'm really wanting a "serious" flashlight. I have a few Streamlights and a Fenix E01 that I wouldn't give up for anything............Except maybe a E05, but that's a whole other discussion. I am wanting something that is throwing some serious Lumens (150+) on AA batteries. I really want to get a Fenix and the E21 looks just about perfect for me. Does anyone have experience with the E21? Any suggestions on lights would be appreciated. 

[enki_ck]

What's your price range?. The 150+ lumens on a AA is a tough one, Zebra Light SC51 can do 200 though on Eneloops. Travis was setting something up to become a dealer for them but I don't know how far that is.

http://www.zebralight.com/SC51-Flashlight-AA-200Lm_p_43.html

[Travis Autry]

Thanks for the referral.

I am approved as a ZebraLight reseller.  For various reasons and probably excuses, I haven't added any stock to the MTO Store yet.  However, I am open to special orders.  Once we get past the Anniversary Celebration and the SOG PowerDuo Group Buy, I will be looking at adding at least a couple of ZebraLight models to the store.

For a single AA light, I highly recommend the ZebraLight SC51 or H51.

I have been using an SC51 for awhile in my EDC rotation.  It is small, light and startlingly bright on the high setting.  The multi-click side switch lets you easily go through all of the available 6 light levels.  The only downside I have found with the SC51 is that it doesn't come with a belt sheath, which is my preferred carry method.  It does come with a headlamp strap and carrier.

The H51 is a superb headlamp.  It also makes a nifty right-angle flashlight.  It has all the positive attributes of the SC51.  The H51 easily slips into the headlamp carrier and fits light and comfortable for use.  I've used one for walking in the woods at night and for a very nice booklight.  As a right angle flashlight, the H51 can clip to a shirt front or jacket.  It also works well sitting on it's end and directing light toward a workspace.

If you want to consider a CR123/AA option, the SC80 allows you to choose your battery.  With a CR123 it is listed at 220 lumens.  I haven't used one, but am looking at it as an option.  I really like the convenience of AA batteries and like having options.

In case you can't tell, I'm pretty impressed with Zebralight.

[Gareth]

Recently retired but still to be had is the iTP SA2 Eluma.  A seriously good light that runs on 2xAA cells and throws with a tight, bright spot.  Also has some excellent features (multi modes and variable ramping option) that you wouldn't normally expect to find on a cheaper light.

Another safe bet is the Fenix LD20.

[toasterburn]

E21 is a good choice (I have a few in stock on my website). I also love my 4sevans 2xAA light.

[Heinz Doofenshmirtz]

I heartily 2nd the rec for the Zebras; great freakin' lights...      I've got four of them, am planning on getting another one, and love them all.

I'd say get the SC51w; 170 lumens max on an eneloop for about 45 min, with six total settings in three groups of two.  You can customize one of the high levels and they just updated their drivers so all modes are now current controlled; no PWM used.

You sacrifice a small amount of lumens for the neutral tint, but it's well worth it.

Some people complain about the side clicky giving them a hot pocket, as the light can sometimes turn on in your pocket, but I've never had a significant issue with it.

For pure versatility, you can't be the H51w.  The one I have is easily my favorite and most versatile headlamp.  You can also take it out of the headband and put the clip on it and use it as an EDC light as well.  Switch is on the end, so much less likely to give you a hot pocket.  Also can be clipped to a pack strap, shirt collar, etc. for use as a task light.

After a Zebra, I'd suggest you look at the Xeno E03.  There are two models available, one with an XPG and one with an XML.  Both versions are available in cool, neutral, and warm tints.  They go for about $35.  They can also use any cell chemistry, and if you go with a 14500 li-ion cell in the XML version, it becomes a cannon... max output is well over 400 lumens!     The disadvantage of them is they aren't regulated, so as the cell depletes, the light dims.  Zebras are fully regulated; when the cell depletes the light stays at a constant brightness and simply steps down to the next level.  From off, you simply loose the brighter settings with a depleted cell.

[gustophersmob]

I third (or is it fourth  ) the recommendation for the Zebralight.

I have the older sc50w+ and LOVE it.  I highly recommend the warmer tinted versions.  I have also heard good things about the Hi CRI ones, but haven't personally handled one.