tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-354636392024-02-19T14:17:58.228-03:00EDC ReviewsReviews and comments about Every Day Carry items. 300+ reviews and counting! (Ctrl-D to bookmark!)Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.comBlogger310125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-47553098674711341762008-03-10T11:10:00.003-02:002008-10-03T02:50:19.337-03:00Benchmade 1100 Pen Series<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrtYuFW4BWSEUWLWqVqIt8OgmNsmMFwNHypAihXGjh17RI2701-BZ3NjjYO0349xCk-OpJs467mCGXKWQFkNVf0T-zZrLrvFQRzv1IiHl5VLxTTWoqKUaAQ3H-szVaN_uqHSEy/s1600-h/benchmade_1100.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrtYuFW4BWSEUWLWqVqIt8OgmNsmMFwNHypAihXGjh17RI2701-BZ3NjjYO0349xCk-OpJs467mCGXKWQFkNVf0T-zZrLrvFQRzv1IiHl5VLxTTWoqKUaAQ3H-szVaN_uqHSEy/s200/benchmade_1100.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5176100110314861634" border="0" /></a>The 1100 is the first pen produced by Benchmade a company that is famous for its cutting instruments. The 1100 is a tactical metal pen intended to double as a writing intrument and self defense tool.<br /><br />The pen is made of anodized aluminum in charcoal black or a combination of black and blue. The finish is non-reflective which is good for tactical applications. The writing tip is in one and and a pointed kubaton style is at the other. The pen closes with a charcoal black cap that can be used to cover either the writing tip or the kubaton end when you are writing. In the cap there is a stainless steel pocket clip that can be removed in case of need.<br /><br />The pen writes using a fisher space pen refill, the ink is pressurized so it can write upside down, under water, over greasy surfaces, at high altitudes, etc. The grip is very confortable and the pen is heavy but well balanced for writing. We have the feeling that it will be a little too heavy for very long sessions of writing but who writes with a tactical pen for hours?. With the cap closed the kubaton has a good size, probably a little small for very big hands but perfectly grippable for normal hands. The tip is very very pointed and can certainly produce massive damage with only small force applied. The appeareance of the pen is intimidating, that is good for self-defense but is certainly a problem for airports and other locations with strong security measures, this pen looks as something that can be confiscated.<br /><br />The cap fits very well with an o-ring to seal the tip completely, it adjusts well to both the writing end or the kubaton end. The pocket clip is strong and has a good size, it maybe too strong for a shirt pocket but is very safe for a pants pocket.<br /><br />The 1100 is an expensive pen to be made in aluminum having a price similar to Titanium made pens or higher-end instruments. We have the feeling that it is an excellent combination of a pen and kubaton but it is not very discrete has a strong risk of confiscation and it is too expensive for what it is and what it does.<br /><br />You can read more and order for $120 from <a href="http://www.benchmade.com/products/product_detail.aspx?model=1100">Benchmade</a>.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-52477687575092144502008-03-06T11:58:00.004-02:002008-03-27T10:28:31.022-03:00Surefire E1B Backup<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2RYN8q8_KFfVzoTfG0fgsGRt1vt2zoBCRD0AZ7ECgds_1LgEzKm7oI7Wd5db0M-QeHKJ1ANHjXhyDcz05AgwR3QFts65-SkCFH7UNh-yeHPuca2AZRv_fe6e-tLdWJ_HkuI46/s1600-h/surefire_backup.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2RYN8q8_KFfVzoTfG0fgsGRt1vt2zoBCRD0AZ7ECgds_1LgEzKm7oI7Wd5db0M-QeHKJ1ANHjXhyDcz05AgwR3QFts65-SkCFH7UNh-yeHPuca2AZRv_fe6e-tLdWJ_HkuI46/s320/surefire_backup.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5174628014165413762" border="0" /></a>The E1B is a flashlight designed to be used as a backup light for law enforcement and related jobs. The light features a Cree LED with TIR optics and two levels of output using a single C123 battery.<br /><br />The switch of the E1B is new for Surefire lights, it is a clickie switch that goes to high mode with the first click and to low mode with a second one. A light press of the switch without clicking from off gives you momentary maximum mode. This is probably intended to provide maximum light quickly in case of need but it is certainly a problem if you just need low light and want to preserve night vision.<br /><br />The light runs for about 1.3 hours in maximum mode providing about 80 lumen of light in low mode it will last for about 35 hours at 5 lumen which is good enough for reading and general navigation.<br /><br />The pocket clip is bidirectional meaning that you can clip the light bezel up or bezel down depending on your preferences the body in anodized aluminum type III is very strong but has been streamlined so it won't be agressive with pockets or clothing this is a good detail if the idea is to keep the light clipped for very long times and use it in case of need. The clip is also very strong and unless something terrible happens the light won't be lost.<br /><br />This is not the brightest Cree light in the market and it is not the most functional light either but as a general purpose light or a backup light it is a very good option and its certainly brighter in high mode than many single cell lighs out there.<br /><br />You can get it for $110 from <a href="http://www.batteryjunction.com/surefire-e1b-backup.html">BatteryJunction</a>.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-73837367369263160582008-03-06T11:44:00.004-02:002008-03-10T11:22:10.320-02:00Leatherman Skeletool<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxvFz1p0aDzMNEJFkWbsm_spOL_sVDNmgibwvosirHdLo_on0txvCchsxax2FEC4XEJEgqnEbJwBx2ke1bVPSyEvI6tv7Dn9741amK3onGHXcu-mFxEE8BqC3Tve_UwnOcXYKg/s1600-h/skeletool.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxvFz1p0aDzMNEJFkWbsm_spOL_sVDNmgibwvosirHdLo_on0txvCchsxax2FEC4XEJEgqnEbJwBx2ke1bVPSyEvI6tv7Dn9741amK3onGHXcu-mFxEE8BqC3Tve_UwnOcXYKg/s320/skeletool.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5174624307608637298" border="0" /></a>The Skeletool is a streamlined fullsized multitool offering the most basic tools at a reduced price and weight. The tool includes pliers with needle noose ends and wire cutters, a blade, a driver that can use exchangeable bits, a carabiner and bottle opener a bit storage compartment and a removable pocket clip, nothing else. There are two versions of the skeletool, the regular one in aluminum with a plain blade and the CX version with tungsten cover and a partially serrate blade.<br /><br />The pliers are strong and good as it is common in leatherman tools, the handles are ergonomic but if you need to do a lot of pressure the grip might be a little unconfortable. The blade is made of 420HC steel and is plain in the aluminum version and partially serrated in the CX version, it cuts really well and locks in place when deployed.<br /><br />The driver is compatible with the charger bits, included are two philips and two flat screwdriver bits, you can store one bit in the driver and an extra one in the tool handle so you can carry your two most used bits in the tool, it works really well and has a good torque. The carabiner doubles as a bottle opener, it is probably not the best carabiner nor the best bottle opener found in a multitool, the tension of the spring is slightly annoying when opening bottles and when clipped the tool just moves a lot, the way the tool is clipped is a little strange so its not easy to find a way to carry it using the carabiner. The pocket clip that is removable works very well and being the tool small is quite good for pocket carry.<br /><br />At only 5 ounces (142 grams) the Skeletool is a reduced version of the Charger with many of the tools left behind but if you need a light tool and the options this tool provides are good for you then you can find a serviceable light option in the Skeletool.<br /><br />You can get it for $60 from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Leatherman-830846-Skeletool-Multitool/dp/B000XU9NXW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=hi&qid=1204811130&sr=1-1">Amazon</a>.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-12866647131215190702008-03-03T15:06:00.002-02:002008-03-03T15:14:53.221-02:00Photon Rex<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgqpA0QTHE-JK8mMQb7sz3DC7PbNCq991t__Zqv837R6HsXtKsWdgiMfSU5ug8eEAY3WgDeQbR-sjo4NeLJm651U8E2HVGO_qH6F_OQvkC6I57c8QJrRpiex2CgNHUgwNUBbo-/s1600-h/phrex.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgqpA0QTHE-JK8mMQb7sz3DC7PbNCq991t__Zqv837R6HsXtKsWdgiMfSU5ug8eEAY3WgDeQbR-sjo4NeLJm651U8E2HVGO_qH6F_OQvkC6I57c8QJrRpiex2CgNHUgwNUBbo-/s320/phrex.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173563284965357378" border="0" /></a>The Rex is a rechargeable keychain light by LRI : the creators of the Photon Freedom.<br /><br />The Rex features four bright white leds and the interface is very similar to the one in the photon freedom. The brightness can be regulated keeping the button pressed, when maximum it is about as twice as bright as the popular photon freedom. After the brightness settings there are four additional modes in the interface: a fast strobe, medium strobe, slow strobe and SOS mode.<br /><br />The single button operation is easy and the button glows in the dark after being charged by direct sunlight or fluorescent light.<br /><br />What makes the Rex so interesting is that it is rechargeable keychain light, to recharge it you have to insert the recharging kit into the Rex and then just plug the mini magnets at the other end to any 1.5v battery you have around. AA, AAA, C and D batteries work well, if you use rechargeable batteries then you have a complete rechargeable kit. Having an extra AA or even AAA battery around allows you to recharge the Rex anytime you need and anywhere you want. This curious recharging interface is like a hack but works well and it is very practical to be able to recharge the light using common batteries you can get anywhere.<br /><br />The Rex is a lot bigger than a photon freedom, being about twice as big so if the freedom was fine for your keychain the Rex might be slightly bulkier.<br /><br />A very interesting option for a rechargeable keychain light.<br />You can get it for $24 at <a href="http://www.lighthound.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=3230">LightHound</a>.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-18223316243007921732007-10-27T13:06:00.001-03:002007-10-29T11:04:04.672-03:00Arc AAA UV<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_AkNqncBA_GM/RyNiFOMEY8I/AAAAAAAAA2s/i7wt-GCMpWM/s1600-h/arcaaauv.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_AkNqncBA_GM/RyNiFOMEY8I/AAAAAAAAA2s/i7wt-GCMpWM/s320/arcaaauv.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5126048642725340098" border="0" /></a>This is an UV (Ultra Violet) edition of the Arc AAA. It features a Nichia NSPU510CS 375nm UV LED powered by a single AAA battery, it can use lithium, alkaline or nimh rechargeable AAA batteries 1.5v.<br /><br />The body is constructed from Type III Hard Anodized 6061 Aluminum and the interior is coated with chemkote for stronger corrosion reistance.<br /><br />The switch is a twisty at the head, twist the head for simple on-off activation, o-rings make the light water reistance up to a hundread feet. Runtime with an alkaline battery is about 5 hours to 50% power.<br /><br />UV lights are useful in many applications where objects need UV wavelengths to flouresce, like detecting counterfeit, scorpions, body fluids and others. Exposure to UV light is potentially harmful to the eyes so this is not a light to play. If you need a keychain UV light the Arc is probably one of the most durable versions you can get it will last forever in your keychain. If you don't need a very rugged light you have several options much cheaper and with similar runtime and output so this one probably makes sense only for those that use an UV light every day.<br /><br />You can get it for $40 at <a href="http://www.arcflashlight.com/arc-aaa-uv.shtml#">ArcFlashlights</a>.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-76072540898673522282007-10-27T12:21:00.000-03:002007-10-27T12:33:10.552-03:00Maratac Responder Bag<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_AkNqncBA_GM/RyNYbOMEY7I/AAAAAAAAA2k/8WrB6HhG_vM/s1600-h/maratac_responder.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_AkNqncBA_GM/RyNYbOMEY7I/AAAAAAAAA2k/8WrB6HhG_vM/s320/maratac_responder.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5126038025566184370" border="0" /></a>The Maratac responder bag is a pouch that can be used to carry medium sized EDC kits. The interior size is 7'' by 12''.<br /><br />One side has three velcro strips that can be used to attach accesory pockets or just strap your EDC items to the pouch interior. The other side feature three large pockets: 6.5'' by 6.5'', then 8.25'' x 6.5'' and the third one 9.5'' x 6.5''. This side has elastic loops for pens and other EDC items and a button loop that can be used for a split ring or other small EDC items.<br /><br />At the center you have a elastic loop that is perfect for a small or medium sized flashlight. The pouch is made of strong nylon and has a zipper that runs very well all along the pouch. In the exterior you have several MOLLE compatible attachment loops that can be used to add addditional pouches to this one or to just attach with carabiners or similar other EDC items to the kit.<br /><br />This is a very interesting pouch for medium sized kits because it is really designed for EDC items, you can fit your flashlight, pens, knife, notepads and other small items without having them loose in the interior it is very versatile and can be adapted to several kits. Because of its size you will have to carry it inside a backpack or a larger pouch.<br /><br />You can get it for $19 from <a href="http://www.countycomm.com/respond.htm">CountyComm</a>.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-3758646322953222502007-10-08T12:00:00.000-03:002007-10-08T12:16:27.466-03:00Glo Toob Lithium<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitER_8U94ursau3ChG2S9W7-NT59HHZYFDWDomBqoKcBEfA-g8Lar1NNl8z3BAZR47ASPKBIzOp0yDWYUbrUlFh1MlCIZjaVKhirXMO2y6oXoaRGcPS31AJIc4jJCp8QHOKE0C/s1600-h/gtlb.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitER_8U94ursau3ChG2S9W7-NT59HHZYFDWDomBqoKcBEfA-g8Lar1NNl8z3BAZR47ASPKBIzOp0yDWYUbrUlFh1MlCIZjaVKhirXMO2y6oXoaRGcPS31AJIc4jJCp8QHOKE0C/s320/gtlb.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5118981325107806130" border="0" /></a>This is a new version of the Glo-Toob designed to use a C123 lithium battery instead of the A23 battery used in the previous version.<br /><br />The toob has 11 modes of operation selected using a redesigned cap button. To switch modes you have to turn the tube on, wait five seconds and then turn it off and on without a pause. Now switching on and off will change modes. To fix a mode just leave the unit on in the selected mode for four seconds.<br /><br />The lithium version has 11 modes of operation: flash mode, beacon strobe, fast strobe, slow strobe, SOS, pulse, half flash, bounce, ramp up, 100% constant on and 25% constant on. It can use either primary or rechargeable 123 batteries without problems as long as the battery fits in the tube. Not all rechargeable 123 batteries are the same size.<br /><br />The new model is 80mm (3.15'') high and 24mm (0.95'') in diameter it is bigger than the older model to acomodate the new larger 123 battery. With this battery the tube can from 24 hours to 100 hours depending on the selected mode. The push button cap is splash proof and the standard package includes a lanyard and twist cap. With the twist cap the tube can be used up to 100m deep making it suitable for diving applications. (328 ft).<br /><br />The new model is easy to operate and the push button cap has a very good tactile response making it easier to switch modes. To our taste the unit has too many fancy modes and only two constant-on modes, it is doubtful to have 9 signaling modes and strobes and yet only 2 levels of constant brightness in the interface.<br /><br />With a long runtime and 360 degrees illumination the tube is great for small rooms, tents and as a marker if you hike, dive, cycle or do any kind of night activities it has many applications and is a practical device to have in your kit.<br /><br />The lithium version is available in blue, red, amber, green, white and IR for $40 at <a href="http://www.lighthound.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=2933">Lighthound</a>.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-37783120905438233462007-09-21T13:49:00.000-03:002007-10-03T12:53:31.419-03:00Keep2Go<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6KeNbVCIsIC50RzjZmixW99BaxgMvvIqWSilhTbq9NQg_Ydtqmruti_KWoH4bUx353Yi4rf6ik-IcSWrNh8NEAYq2D8tw4rGuaIn1HZ-VzLNokIm20OOz73FZI9XrzRijrex-/s1600-h/Keep2go_comp_300w.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6KeNbVCIsIC50RzjZmixW99BaxgMvvIqWSilhTbq9NQg_Ydtqmruti_KWoH4bUx353Yi4rf6ik-IcSWrNh8NEAYq2D8tw4rGuaIn1HZ-VzLNokIm20OOz73FZI9XrzRijrex-/s320/Keep2go_comp_300w.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5112700897510080418" border="0" /></a>The Keep2Go is a portable PET plastic tube that can be used for different purposes.<br /><br />The tubes has a screw-on plastic cap that has a hole to thread a lanyward or a cord, a small lanyard with a cord lock is included.<br /><br />The Keep2Go is available in several sizes from 1.0 to 2.5 oz in several different colors. All the models are TSA safe and can be used to transport liquids on a plane.<br /><br />The containers can be also used to store food and are dishwasher safe, they float but not if you fill them with something heavy.<br /><br />Multipurpose plastic containers are useful for small kits, for liquids and medications and are helpful when you are outdoors and can be quite practical for swimming while holding some essentials like cash.<br /><br />You can read more at the <a href="http://www.bluedesert.co.il/k2g.html">official website</a>.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-56631164045147040442007-09-18T11:38:00.000-03:002007-10-02T10:48:42.222-03:00Zebralight H50-P4 Headlamp<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf8h4o2oLdtM4-yQJkaqaALJMbaEncPJI44hjnSZwYgDC0NKWdrSbgTMUxQz3IqMGM1kMlHeB5vvuur7HOhSnyhdCJLqOo1q-lybPZ54yox2Rsg1MW13UQ0iV2qRce2AA2Fbob/s1600-h/zebralight.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf8h4o2oLdtM4-yQJkaqaALJMbaEncPJI44hjnSZwYgDC0NKWdrSbgTMUxQz3IqMGM1kMlHeB5vvuur7HOhSnyhdCJLqOo1q-lybPZ54yox2Rsg1MW13UQ0iV2qRce2AA2Fbob/s320/zebralight.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5111554276022862114" border="0" /></a>The Zebralight is one of the first headlamps in the market using the ultra bright and efficient Cree LED. The H50-P4 model features an XR-E P4 bin cree LED powered by a single AA battery.<br /><br />The headlamp construction is not common, in fact it seems to be an AA flashlight with the LED mounted in a side that was then converted to a headlamp passing the headband thru a piece of GITD plastic that holds the light.<br /><br />The Zebra has three brightness levels activated by a twisty switch, you go from off to minimum then off then medium, off again and then maximum. Brightness is 2, 10 and 50 lumen and runtime is 2 hours 20 minutes in max, 19 hours in med and 3.5 days in low mode.<br /><br />The beam is all flood with little or no throw at all, making the light excellent as a tasklight and indoors headlamp but not good for trails or outdoor activities. For reading in bed, a tent or to work the beam is just perfect. The twisty switch is definitively not practical for a headlamp and while it can be activated with one hand it will not be something that you enjoy in the long run. While it seems the beam will be offcentered due to the position of the LED in the light the extreme floody beam makes this go unnoticed.<br /><br />The total weight is 58 grams and it can use alkaline, NiMh or a lithium battery, it is confortable and almost unnoticeable, the glow in the dark bracket is a good detail to find the light in the dark or provide a glow if it has been charged during the day.<br /><br />If you are looking for a simple all-flood headlamp definitively check the Zebralight out, if you need a headlamp for hiking or trails skip, you need something else.<br /><br />You can order from <a href="http://www.zebralight.com/">Zebralight</a> for $39.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-7149684287507934872007-09-14T18:43:00.000-03:002007-10-01T14:32:02.331-03:00Energizer Folding Lantern<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVDU9LSIz11LvotwS-9OeVEgTtMpqIFq_VNufkOGlD8vjVWG34hyphenhyphenRHSPtBY9lu1NSaOnpgGhvjvcSXTJhh4rfFTVvnX_KOlSDbwYb-DUa6vGZk8ShM6WTCBSybr9XXHot6rPQ_/s1600-h/energizer_folding.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVDU9LSIz11LvotwS-9OeVEgTtMpqIFq_VNufkOGlD8vjVWG34hyphenhyphenRHSPtBY9lu1NSaOnpgGhvjvcSXTJhh4rfFTVvnX_KOlSDbwYb-DUa6vGZk8ShM6WTCBSybr9XXHot6rPQ_/s320/energizer_folding.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5110179130573897986" border="0" /></a>The Folding Lanter is a very oddly shapped flashlight made by Energizer powered by four AA batteries.<br /><br />The light has the case for the batteries and then a folding arm that holds a plastic difusser with three 5mm white leds embedded. A three way switch let's you choose from a high beam, low beam or off mode.<br /><br />The light can be used folded or unfolded in different positions, there is a low quality plastic mirror at the back of the main body to improve the brightness when the light is closed. Despite it's supossed flexibility we fail to see how the folding arm and the design can be useful besides just putting the light inside a tent or a room for ambient illumination.<br /><br />As expected the beam is just flood and works well to illuminate a tent or a small room, the runtime is excellent ranging from 100 hours on high mode to 200 hours in low mode. This makes this light an economic alternative for ambient illumination and a good backup device if you can be in potentially dark areas for a long time.<br /><br />Construction is all plastic and seems to be solid, there is a plastic flap at the end of the main body with an attachment point for a lanyard, carabiner or something similar. With the 4 AA batteries the light is quite heavy the best way to carry is probably to just put it inside your packl and use it when you need it.<br /><br />You can get it at retail stores like Wall Mart for around $10.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-28821907509006938342007-08-22T13:22:00.000-03:002007-09-26T13:48:46.705-03:00LiteFlux LF3<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AkNqncBA_GM/Rsxi_80lyvI/AAAAAAAAA0o/YwUxqg0uIdA/s1600-h/lf3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AkNqncBA_GM/Rsxi_80lyvI/AAAAAAAAA0o/YwUxqg0uIdA/s320/lf3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101561328701917938" border="0" /></a>The LF3 is a programmable EDC light featuring a SSC P4 LED using a single C123 battery.<br /><br />The light is turned on and off with a twisty mechanism, there are two positions marked P1 and P2 that are used for different levels and for programming. Going from P1 to P2 and back to P1 or P2-P1-P2 produces a "switch" the number of times you "switch" selects the mode of operation.<br /><br />The LF3 has two programmable brightness settings and one variable brightness mode, since the variable brightness mode has memory we can say it has 3 brightness levels. It also has two programmable strobes, two programmable SOS modes, battery level indication and battery discharge protection. Operation and programming is identical to the LF2 we have <a href="http://edcreviews.blogspot.com/2007/05/liteflux-lf2.html">previously reviewed</a>.<br /><br />It can use primary or rechargeable 123 batteries without any problem, the light is regulated so once set to a level it will keep at that level regardless of the battery status. Runtime is about 40 minutes at 100% brightness and more than 7 hours at 25% brightness.<br /><br />The beam is excellent with a good compromise between throw and flood, the brightness at 100% using a rechargeable battery is really amazing, probably around 150 lumen. Since all the levels can be programmed you can set a low mode as low as you want and use it for reading or navigating the house at night.<br /><br />The LF3 is built in HA-III aluminum, it is very strong and will resist drops and impacts, it doesn't have a pocket clip but can be attached to a lanyard or splitring, it comes with a diffusser and red, amber and blue filters.<br /><br />The LF3 is a solid EDC light, it is very bright, offers several modes of operation and is completely programmable, the quality is excellent and for the ones that like a programmable versatile light this one is really superb.<br /><br />Also available for CR2 batteries (LF4) or for AA batteries (LF5). You can order from <a href="http://www.cpfmarketplace.com/mp/showthread.php?t=168491">Liteflux via CPF</a> for $52.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-22823300692291897922007-08-22T13:11:00.000-03:002007-09-24T14:57:46.523-03:00Spyderco-Byrd Starling<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_AkNqncBA_GM/RsxgSc0lyuI/AAAAAAAAA0g/5fpVdmcikhE/s1600-h/starling.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_AkNqncBA_GM/RsxgSc0lyuI/AAAAAAAAA0g/5fpVdmcikhE/s320/starling.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101558347994614498" border="0" /></a>The Starling is the smallest folding knife from Spyderco's child brand Byrd.<br /><br />The total length of the Starling is 4 3/8 (111 mm) with a blade of 1 15/16'' (49 mm) . Total weight is .65 oz (15 gr). A very small and very light knife.<br /><br />The blade is made of 8Cr13MoV steel coated in black carbonitride. The blade is sharp from the factory and is easy to resharp, edge retention is quite good unless you decide to use your keychain knife to chop wood. The blade features byrd thumbholes for one hand opening, they work great and even better if you have small hands.<br /><br />The handles are made of reinforced fibergalss (FRN) and are textured, there is also texturing in the spine and the thumbhole making the grip and the operation of the Starling surprinsingly good for its size.<br /><br />The lock is a backlock mechanism at the middle of the handle, it is very strong and works really well.<br /><br />A ballchain threaded thru the lanyard hole is included to attach the knife to a keychain, purse or to use it as a zipper pull. The size and weight makes it a pleasure to carry and the performance is really good making the Starling a very nice keychain knife with a very affordable price.<br /><br />You can read more or order from <a href="http://www.spyderco.com/catalog/details.php?product=223">Spyderco</a> for about $16.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-37611346604996560182007-08-22T12:27:00.000-03:002007-09-20T10:48:57.695-03:00Streamlight Stylus Pro<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5r2_TEHqP5vnPeV8STMtBfuJiv771Ws8FfT8q-SEnAUmg3fzi2KeOyv0aCUWrRbJ8BOgzQFhs9ojE7ncUau5ZWDqb4ysZLfyq-En8R_Id-ZzNCD-wLz69WjlKD025oNECYZi7/s1600-h/styluspro.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5r2_TEHqP5vnPeV8STMtBfuJiv771Ws8FfT8q-SEnAUmg3fzi2KeOyv0aCUWrRbJ8BOgzQFhs9ojE7ncUau5ZWDqb4ysZLfyq-En8R_Id-ZzNCD-wLz69WjlKD025oNECYZi7/s320/styluspro.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101547095180298962" border="0" /></a>The Stylus Pro is the new upgraded version of the popular <a href="http://edcreviews.blogspot.com/2007/07/streamlight-stylus.html">Stylus penlight</a> by Streamlight. The changes are big, the light uses a new LED and AAA batteries now.<br /><br />The Stylus pro uses a 0.5 watt LED powered by two AAA batteries, the output of the LED goes thru an optics system called "MOS" for Micro-Optical-System ending in a polycarbonate lens.<br />The total output goes up to 24 lumen with a runtime of 7.5 hours.<br /><br />The switch is a forward clickie at the back of the pen, push lightly for momentary activation or push more to click it for constant on. It works very well with a good tactile response. The tailcap can be unscrewed to lock the light preventing accidental activation.<br /><br />The body is made of grade II anodized aluminum, it is shockproof and waterproof using orings to seal it. The pocket clip is long and very strong and will work fine in any kind of pocket. The clip also features a small hole to attach a lanyard or a splitring. Lanyard is not included. The total length is 5.3''.<br /><br />The beam offers a strong hotspot with plenty of sidespill, it is probably good as a general illumination tool and will be a big improvement compared with the old version.<br /><br />Compared to the old stylus the pro version is bulkier because it uses AAA batteries but it is also amazingly bright if compared and the runtime is really very good. If you are looking for a very slim penlight you should go with the original version, if the size of the pro is good to you then don't hesitate because the performance is really improved.<br /><br />You can order from <a href="http://www.lighthound.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=2967">LightHound</a> for $19.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-86643557590717751422007-08-22T12:24:00.000-03:002007-09-19T08:57:18.767-03:00Fenix P3D RB100 Premium<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKomJw_FS50_70NpZRNLP85-S_YMNHJfRMl5sU3_qkE-8P5ZcskPehGYo41d3qxat7BxWOZcKMJNFKF08_AHXjGgh3M9eciQZpks5bBBxnylWE3fShA5tgHuROzDPmHJQYFj_b/s1600-h/p3d1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKomJw_FS50_70NpZRNLP85-S_YMNHJfRMl5sU3_qkE-8P5ZcskPehGYo41d3qxat7BxWOZcKMJNFKF08_AHXjGgh3M9eciQZpks5bBBxnylWE3fShA5tgHuROzDPmHJQYFj_b/s320/p3d1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101546339266054850" border="0" /></a>This is an improved version of the Fenix P3D we have <a href="http://edcreviews.blogspot.com/2007/04/fenix-p3d.html">previously reviewed</a>. The only difference is that the LED emitter has been upgraded to a LumiLeds Rebel 100 Led to make the light even brighter.<br /><br />The P3D has 2 modes of operation selected twisting the head of the light, in each mode you can cycle thru different levels and modes clicling the tailcap switch. In the first mode, you start in the lowest brightness level, then medium, then high and the SOS. In the second mode you start in turbo mode and the next level is the strobe. You can go to Turbo or Minimum from any mode just twisting or untwisting the head. We have previously commented we like this user interface a lot and we still do.<br /><br />With the new R100 LED the performance of the P3D is as follows: Minimum mode is 11 lumen with 65 hours of runtime, medium is 50 lumen with 13 hours of runtime, maximum is 112 lumen with 5 hours of runtime, turbo is 200 lumen with 1.8 hours of runtime. This figures using primary C123 batteries since rechargeables should not be used.<br /><br />In Turbo mode the P3DR100 is just amazing, the amount of light it produces will outperform probably any other light you have seen, unfortunately the light gets quite hot in Turbo mode so you should not use it for more than five to ten minutes in turbo to avoid damaging the LED or the batteries. Never leave the light in Turbo without holding it because your hand is the heatsink that disipates the heat from the body.<br /><br />The new Rebel LED is not only extremely bright but it also has a very white and warm tint that is certainly more pleasant to the eye than the tints we have seen in other LED lights.<br /><br />With the six levels of operation ranging from 11 lumen to 200 lumen and with runtimes reaching 65 hours the P3Dr100 is an excellent EDC light that is probably one of the best general purpose flashlights at the moment this review was written.<br /><br />You can order for $70 from <a href="https://www.fenix-store.com/product_info.php?cPath=22_76&products_id=315&osCsid=5f2ef43632c4db3079e1abea7c7c1d3b">Fenix-Store</a>.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-18786928445356268192007-08-22T12:19:00.000-03:002007-09-18T08:52:00.022-03:00Dyno-Mite Keychain Light<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR91QBThIGbACsxq7trq6kTwCIr2jd-bFLbFY4khMP465RlmJcJobQ7-QhORNRsHawwyS77vfHI2LZN2wqsAfDtN8wtLBytSVvLOHBiUnjb4VhMJ3BXcicOzHil3_RkgRuiW-G/s1600-h/102_0717_Dyno-MiteKeychain.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 224px; height: 179px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR91QBThIGbACsxq7trq6kTwCIr2jd-bFLbFY4khMP465RlmJcJobQ7-QhORNRsHawwyS77vfHI2LZN2wqsAfDtN8wtLBytSVvLOHBiUnjb4VhMJ3BXcicOzHil3_RkgRuiW-G/s320/102_0717_Dyno-MiteKeychain.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101545037890964130" border="0" /></a>The Dyno-Mite is a keychain crank activated light that uses no batteries and requires absolutely no power source to operate.<br /><br />To use the light you crank it using the lever on the side and after one minute of winding you get 5 minutes of light from the two 5mm Leds.<br /><br />The light is of course not bright but is a perfect backup light and a very nice gadget to have in your keychain, specially considering that this is a light that will always work if needed.<br /><br />The Dyno-Mite is 1.6'' x 1.22'' x 0.6 '' (40 x 30 x 15 mm) and weights just 15 grams so it is perfect for a keychain, it has a small attachment hole for a splitring or a small lanyard. A keychain is included.<br /><br />Construction is solid and the internal parts are simple are well constructed so with normal use this light should last a long time.<br /><br />You can order for $7 from <a href="http://www.essentialgear.com/Dynamo-LED-Lights/c22/p122/Dynamo-Dyno-Mite-2-LED-Keychain-Light/product_info.html">EssentialGear</a>. Available in blue, red, green, silver, black and gray.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-76569335158230663972007-08-22T12:18:00.001-03:002007-09-17T11:48:27.066-03:00McGizmo 26mm Titanium Clip<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AkNqncBA_GM/RsxT180lypI/AAAAAAAAAz4/pCnTLm0fKeU/s1600-h/dmclipti26.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 178px; height: 178px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_AkNqncBA_GM/RsxT180lypI/AAAAAAAAAz4/pCnTLm0fKeU/s320/dmclipti26.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101544664228809362" border="0" /></a>We have <a href="http://edcreviews.blogspot.com/2006/11/berkeley-point-clips.html">previously reviewed</a> the stainless steel clips as a very useful piece of hardware to attach your EDC items to a keyring, lanyard, carabiner and others. A titanium clip was very welcomed as a premium item in the same line of clips.<br /><br />The Ti clip is 26mm long, just 1mm longer than the SS "Micro" clip. It is built completely in titanium including the gate and the spring. The spring resistance is good enough to avoid accidental release but not hard to make it difficult to operate.<br /><br />Being made in titanium the clips are very strong and very light, they will not corrode even if used in a marine environment and they are also diamagnetic so won't be attracted to magnets and will not magnetize.<br /><br />If the size is good for you the quality of these clips is really excellent and will make your keychain perfect.<br /><br />You can order for $8.50 from <a href="http://www.lighthound.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=2942">Lighthound</a>.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-82351963538443084412007-08-22T12:17:00.000-03:002007-09-14T12:03:13.098-03:00Streamlight MicroStream Penlight<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVddXkV3qPE9TCeGhDdUIHm_uBxYvbZ8gh5AJdypZ2zGXmz6mjKiRiSnFtjI-BvzCVA-wQ_kRJINk6ff78mI2utRXZboK3NY3Og6qWkJgwEu07IoiHESSsFxTdVTQ0loDf_x2J/s1600-h/microstream.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVddXkV3qPE9TCeGhDdUIHm_uBxYvbZ8gh5AJdypZ2zGXmz6mjKiRiSnFtjI-BvzCVA-wQ_kRJINk6ff78mI2utRXZboK3NY3Og6qWkJgwEu07IoiHESSsFxTdVTQ0loDf_x2J/s320/microstream.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5101545501747432114" border="0" /></a>The MicroStream is a single cell penlight powered by a AAA battery. The light uses a 0.5watt high flux LED. The total length of the light is 3.5''.<br /><br />The Microstream uses a propietary optics system called "Micro Optical System" to focus the beam in a strong hotspot. The lens is made of polycarbonate.<br /><br />The body is made of grade II anodized aluminium, with orings to make the light waterproof, the light claims to be shockproof and is very strongly built, we really think it will resist drops and impacts without a problem. The pocket clip is long and very strong, can be used to clip the light to a shirt pocket or a pants pocket without a problem, it has good tension and will not break. Attached to the clip is a small attachment point in case you want to use the light in your keychain.<br /><br />The output is about 20 lumen for up to 1.5 hours of runtime, the beam is very strong and useful for a light of its size, great to inspect places, find missing objects and the normal things you can do with a keychain light.<br /><br />Since the light is small and uses only one AAA battery it is in our opinion more a keychain light than a penlight and if you are looking for a strong hotspot portable mini searchlight this is probably a very good idea.<br /><br />You can order from <a href="http://www.lighthound.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=2968">LightHound</a> for $16.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-6703625665041293892007-08-09T15:12:00.000-03:002007-09-13T15:26:45.397-03:00Buck Summit<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUCNWloZe0kCZbdJfNRUwRTWqvvxIr3JtBg7biWPyp-62CUv6jRVatm4eOiDVtdMe6N6_3tIqwmY4VCTJ_Ll0Vl6a__VzF6GIRNaZyh0RvW3YBxV4YVDCKilnxc0Wg1Vsu7fNL/s1600-h/summit.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUCNWloZe0kCZbdJfNRUwRTWqvvxIr3JtBg7biWPyp-62CUv6jRVatm4eOiDVtdMe6N6_3tIqwmY4VCTJ_Ll0Vl6a__VzF6GIRNaZyh0RvW3YBxV4YVDCKilnxc0Wg1Vsu7fNL/s320/summit.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096765633028156050" border="0" /></a>The summit is a folding knife with a couple of extra tools created mainly for campers but also useful in urban environments.<br /><br />The knife is a liner locking folder with a 3'' modified clip point blade, half serrated made of 420H steel. It offers thumbstuds to open and locks in a secure way. We found it good enough for normal cutting jobs with good edge retention and sharp from the factory. The grip is very good due to the shape of the handle with a generous area to rest your fingers, the inlays in the handles make the grip secure and non slippery.<br /><br />At the back of the knife you will find a very generous lanyard attachment point and two small tools with their own thumbstuds. One is a can opener and bottle opener combo that can also be used to clean nails and minor cutting jobs. The second tool is a screwdriver that can work on both flat and philips screws. Both tools work very nicely and are well built.<br /><br />The last tool in the Summit is a corkscrew, that in our modest opinion is a little hard to explain combined with a knife. Some other tool would have made more sense, anyway if you need a corkscrew this one works in an acceptable way.<br /><br />The Summit is a good knife interesting if you go camping or as a multi use tool, it doesn't have a pocket clip and the corkscrew is not very useful, if you can deal with those problems then the rest is really very good.<br /><br />You can read more from <a href="http://www.buckknives.com/catalog/detail/270/236">Buck's website</a> or order from <a href="http://www.basegear.com/bucksummit.html">BaseGear</a> for $55.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-21658641208731748872007-08-09T15:03:00.001-03:002007-09-12T12:12:42.670-03:00Surefire G2 LED<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivKyvH0WNsovBvY-v0VoFSOIuLoLfa75VqlbYssKlfyaAGHijWVnjgm_UIADcxrkSYmXPAyDR-npv-p0r9s-M_cyfCgTYYou_0a0wM-lbRyAti8ZyV2esedHn1TueSIMvjyFIF/s1600-h/G2L-BK_large.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivKyvH0WNsovBvY-v0VoFSOIuLoLfa75VqlbYssKlfyaAGHijWVnjgm_UIADcxrkSYmXPAyDR-npv-p0r9s-M_cyfCgTYYou_0a0wM-lbRyAti8ZyV2esedHn1TueSIMvjyFIF/s320/G2L-BK_large.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096763167716928130" border="0" /></a>This is a new version of the Surefire G2 using a SSC P4 LED instead of the incandescent lamp in the regular Surefire G2.<br /><br />With the LED the G2 can produce up to 80-90 lumen and the runtime is 12 hours, the light is not regulated so the light will get dimmer as the batteries are consumed. It uses two c123 primary batteries.<br /><br />The body is made of Nitrolon polymer, extremely strong and resistant to all sorts of impacts and falls. The lens is polycarbonate with anti reflective coating.<br /><br />The switch is a tactical lockout switch, you can press for momentary activation or twist for constant on, untwisting the tailcap a few turns locks the light to prevent accidental activation.<br /><br />The beam is a good combination of throw and flood, the reflector is textured to make the beam of the led smooth without artifacts, this means the throw of the light is slightly compromised to make the beam more even. Compared to the incandescent version this throws less but produces more light in total output.<br /><br />With a very long runtime the G2 is a good all-around flashlight that needs very little or no maintenance at all, it never needs a new bulb and can run for many hours with one set of batteries, the beam is good for indoor or outdoors use.<br /><br />You can read more at <a href="http://www.surefire.com/maxexp/main/co_disp/displ/prrfnbr/24460/sesent/00/G2andreg-LED">Surefire's website</a> or order from <a href="http://www.opticshq.com/">OpticsHq</a>.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-65473959477625326312007-08-08T14:26:00.001-03:002007-08-20T12:49:35.761-03:00Novatac EDC 120P<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitA5wK3rjGmUDaO5AoNnk85G_UUF9jZUJ7vupq8UXIpBpstMFTlcD16vnEw3hcV2RBuOWfgmsC41mdUYe1tTO9QarlYW5xkfoQUzEQ9Hgv6vObz831HVlUbqYhWSlWhOIjd0Do/s1600-h/novatac120p.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitA5wK3rjGmUDaO5AoNnk85G_UUF9jZUJ7vupq8UXIpBpstMFTlcD16vnEw3hcV2RBuOWfgmsC41mdUYe1tTO9QarlYW5xkfoQUzEQ9Hgv6vObz831HVlUbqYhWSlWhOIjd0Do/s320/novatac120p.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096382478995679858" border="0" /></a>The Novatac EDC is the sequel to the <a href="http://edcreviews.blogspot.com/2006/11/hds-edc-basic-60-and-ultimate-60.html">HDS EDC</a> line of flashlights, the light uses a SSC P4 LED capable of up to 120 lumen and has different levels of brightness that can be programmed. It uses a single 123 battery.<br /><br />The light has four modes of operation, each mode can be programmed to a selected brightness level or a signaling function. From Off you can go to primary mode pressing the tailcap switch or to max mode doing a click-press. Once on you can change primary/secondary with 2 clicks, you can go to minimum mode via 3 clicks or to maximum doing a click-press. Each of this four modes can be programmed so we call them maximum or minimum just because it is the factory default.<br /><br />To program enter the mode you want to change and do a click-click-press, you will be able to change the brighness level with 22 levels available, if you continue past the maximum level you will be able to assign a disorienting strobe, emergency strobe or SOS to the mode. This means that if one of your modes is the strobe then you have only 3 brightness levels to set. Since you can program and reprogram the light on the fly quickly this is not a big problem. From an options menu you can also program a locator beacon and other settings that can be set on or off depending on your preferences. Programming is very flexible and simple to do without a manual.<br /><br />The light is bright reaching 120 lumen but is not as bright as other single cell Cree LEDs in the market. It can run for about 20 minutes in maximum before dropping to a lower level, all the brightness levels are regulated so the intensity won't change as the battery gets depleted. It can use any type of C123 batteries. This is good if you find a level that is perfect for your activities since it will keep constant.<br /><br />The beam is a good compromise between throw and flood, the tint of the LED in our test model was blueish / purple. The interface is very easy to use but can be a little annoying with the click, double click, triple click and click press getting confused sometimes.<br /><br />The body is constructed in HA-III aluminum resitant to scratches and impacts, the lens is polycarbonate glued to a bezel with slight crenelations to know if the flashlight is on or off. The light comes with an optional pocket clip that to our taste wasn't very good, it didn't seem to be very solid and it was too bulky and protruded a lot from the light body.<br /><br />We found the Novatac 120P and excellent EDC light very flexible and easy to set to your own personal preferences, the maximum brightness is not incredible and the runtime is a little short, the tint was poor and the pocket clip is not very good, for the price we think it is either a love or hate flashlight that will be very good for those that like programmable lights with many options, other users that focus more on the output and performance than a list features might be disappointed.<br /><br />You can order from <a href="http://www.lighthound.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=2768">LightHound</a> for $150.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-13131428421257102822007-08-07T13:38:00.001-03:002007-08-18T19:34:29.599-03:00EDC Magnets<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlBLmwuveNzgypBqOFTZysohoC3I7fpG4semPS9PcRDgotSKIpLXIrLc9AF4tBmIb3xDCOlmxhzEaOejhP91sOpxYHGFSsL_mvXzPWT7E8ACb75qLCSdgnBzHA0zEyUILODSK/s1600-h/magnets.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlBLmwuveNzgypBqOFTZysohoC3I7fpG4semPS9PcRDgotSKIpLXIrLc9AF4tBmIb3xDCOlmxhzEaOejhP91sOpxYHGFSsL_mvXzPWT7E8ACb75qLCSdgnBzHA0zEyUILODSK/s320/magnets.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095998912646343250" border="0" /></a>Magnets can be useful in several scenarios and while it is not common to see someone carrying a magnet just in case it may be a good idea to add a few to your EDC kit.<br /><br />Modern magnets today are made of rare earth aleations, mainly neodymium, they are incredibly strong and if used without care they may pinch your skin.<br /><br />Magnets can be used to hold EDC items such as flashlights to metal surfaces, hollow disc magnets can be added to a pen to clip it to a metal surface, slim discs can be used as buttons with your clothes, they can also be used to attach a light to baseball cap, collect small screws and other metallic objects and a myriad of applications.<br /><br />The collection featured in this picture shows a wide variety of neodymium magnets, including rods, spheres, cubes, discs and rings. As long as you keep them away from any electronic device they can be surprinsingly useful in many situations.<br /><br />You can order in different shapes and sizes from <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Amazing Magnets.</span><a href="http://www.amazingmagnets.com/"></a>Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-81481188439048065192007-08-06T15:24:00.000-03:002007-08-16T10:00:33.870-03:00Streamlight Sidewinder<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuVnieHkNNhhLUTf7dWnoDsTRizVYdW68655mLFoiSyCDR-9T-j5NJiRoU1tJwANmOUqljTTrCbkiDkUxQICKwaonkEv1LPbdZkkzBSN3u7LWHyu2Doy-deoCVF8O4choIJJsq/s1600-h/sidewinder_enlarged.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuVnieHkNNhhLUTf7dWnoDsTRizVYdW68655mLFoiSyCDR-9T-j5NJiRoU1tJwANmOUqljTTrCbkiDkUxQICKwaonkEv1LPbdZkkzBSN3u7LWHyu2Doy-deoCVF8O4choIJJsq/s320/sidewinder_enlarged.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095655615910373954" border="0" /></a>The sidewinder is a strange looking utility flashlight, the body is shaped in a rectangular form with an articulated head that can rotate, in the head we can find a white .5W white LED and three 5mm LEDs, the 3mm LEDS are red, blue and the third one can be either green or IR depending on the model.<br /><br />The light uses a rotating knob to select the LED to use and a switch to select the mode for the LED being used, it has 4 brightness levels 5%, 20%, 50% and 100% that can be rotated keeping the on/off button pressed. With a double click in the switch from Off a strobe function is activated.<br /><br />The sidewinder uses two AA batteries and the runtime on maximum brightness is 7 hours for the white led, 10 for the green, 12 for blue and 14 for the red one. In minimum brightness it can go for over 100 hours. The white high mode is about 20 lumen.<br /><br />The beam of the white led is a floody warm white excellent for a tasklight, the color leds have artifacts. We liked the user interface and the ability to use 4 levels or a strobe on the 4 LED colors. The body made of polycarbonate plastic is extremely strong featuring a very good clip at the back. The head can be rotated 180 degrees to point where you want if you use the light attached to a vest or pack. We found the rectangular body very compact and useful for pockets, straps and even belt carry and the light is strongly built and very useful as a tasklight or utility light.<br /><br />You can read more from <a href="http://www.streamlight.com/product/product.aspx?pid=132#">Streamlight's website</a> or order for $50 from <a href="http://www.brightguy.com/products/Streamlight_Sidewinder_Tactical_Flashlight.php">BrightGuy</a>, available in coyote tan and olive green bodies with blue-red-IR or blue-red-green leds.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-9712510417030020372007-08-06T12:39:00.000-03:002007-08-15T12:52:33.755-03:00GripMaster<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi12TRShZlh__01A0-Tq4khIu9px1gmNJOymXgAQ8oxfLNAsuw-dvZDP1zi4GIwRXJEU86zccmwH7qSgeDc-0nFMm5IqBRiUDQX33kFrphat0LthdW34p4ZJ3ZPbFRmWbxSmG7f/s1600-h/gripmaster_lrg.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi12TRShZlh__01A0-Tq4khIu9px1gmNJOymXgAQ8oxfLNAsuw-dvZDP1zi4GIwRXJEU86zccmwH7qSgeDc-0nFMm5IqBRiUDQX33kFrphat0LthdW34p4ZJ3ZPbFRmWbxSmG7f/s320/gripmaster_lrg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5095612859510942258" border="0" /></a>The Gripmaster is a small device to train the muscles in your hand and forearm increasing your strength and dexterity.<br /><br />The device has individual springs for each of the four fingers in your hand excluding your thumb, since each finger is related to its own set of muscles and tendons the Grimaster ensures that all, or most of your muscles are trained.<br /><br />The strength of each finger or the whole device can't be adjusted so the Gripmaster is sold in three versions offering different tensions, blue is the lightest, red medium and black the strongest.<br /><br />After using the gripmaster for a while you will quickly notice a burn in your hand and forearm that means that your muscles are working, the less used to work the muscle is the sooner it will burn so with time you will be able to train for longer periods and evenatually increase your hand strength, this can be useful in several activities from sports such as golf or rock climbing to tennis and martial arts.<br /><br />We found the device good to relax and discharge stress and it definitively works with your hand and arm muscles, the thumb not being used is a question mark about how the real improvementin your grip and a second criticism is that it is certainly boring to use it.<br /><br />You can read more at the <a href="http://www.gripmaster.net/gripmaster/">Official site</a> and order for $14 from <a href="http://www.actiongear.com/cgi-bin/tame.exe/agcatalog/level4c.tam?M5COPY.ctx=29384&M5.ctx=">Brigade Quatermasters</a>.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-78505574712313222662007-08-02T13:31:00.001-03:002007-08-14T12:38:17.130-03:00UltraPod Mini Tripod<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBC3LTXBZgzQjRtvePFhAJ3kxOqdFA0Wr5o3H5yR5uRaZOUhaj9587Z6IEIILn2dDwVaMgKyZMG3PjvyFC4xivkVLgN2bXAVuW6VPYivw_jW6VzrJv0IP9DQ2MO2ceKT8kKBz3/s1600-h/ultra_pod_tripod.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBC3LTXBZgzQjRtvePFhAJ3kxOqdFA0Wr5o3H5yR5uRaZOUhaj9587Z6IEIILn2dDwVaMgKyZMG3PjvyFC4xivkVLgN2bXAVuW6VPYivw_jW6VzrJv0IP9DQ2MO2ceKT8kKBz3/s320/ultra_pod_tripod.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094141661413370402" border="0" /></a>The UltraPod is a minimalistic ultralight tripod for digital cameras and other devices with a tripod mount like some flashlights.<br /><br />It has three foldable translucent polycarbonate legs with a metal cap in the end, the legs can't be adjusted in length. The head has a ball-joint adjustable camera attachment, that is used to point the camera in the right direction and angle.<br /><br />The Ultrapod comes with a velcro strap that can be used to attach the tripod to a tree limb, a chair, a pole, a rock etc. The idea is that you fold the legs, attach the folded legs and then attach the folded legs to the anchor point using the velcro strap.<br /><br />This is a tripod that works very well with the small digital cameras but is probably not a good idea with big SLR or SLR-like cameras, if you have one of the small and light cameras having one of these in your kit can always be a good idea for those long exposure night shots or to take a group picture without leaving someone behind.<br /><br />The total size when folded is 5'' and it's extremely light, it can be carried in any bag or backpack without risk of damage since the construction is solid.<br /><br />You can order from <a href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/gadgets/tools/80da/">Thinkgeek</a> for $12.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35463639.post-24269111675825979622007-08-02T13:14:00.000-03:002007-08-13T09:16:44.793-03:00Steri Pen Water Purifier<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1h8FPyNafZlF-2G2zJIPfgEsZZsk060xYrSnR5KtN0doH2A8pE7jZU4nalVStb6QitPmAxDMmJTuDYJ9BiS08Ry7aUbVUotew6foMt-MqXh25FlT-54L6iseemQ8g8xdtV0Si/s1600-h/steripen.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1h8FPyNafZlF-2G2zJIPfgEsZZsk060xYrSnR5KtN0doH2A8pE7jZU4nalVStb6QitPmAxDMmJTuDYJ9BiS08Ry7aUbVUotew6foMt-MqXh25FlT-54L6iseemQ8g8xdtV0Si/s320/steripen.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094137688568621570" border="0" /></a>For those that frequently camp or like to do adventure hikes water is a top priority and since you can't carry unlimited amounts of water a water purification device is an useful tool.<br /><br />The SteriPen uses UV light to purify water, it destroys bacteria, viruses and protozoa making the water safe to drink without leaving any chemical residue or odor in the water.<br /><br />Using the device is simple, just press the button and agitate the water with a gentle stir. 16 oz of water can be purified in less than a minute and it takes a minute and a half to purify 32 oz of water.<br /><br />The device works using four AA batteries, with alkaline batteries you can purify 20 to 40 16 oz glasses of water, using lithium AA batteries this can go up to 100 glasses so lithiums are strongly recomended.<br /><br />The total weight of the steri pen with batteries is 8oz (6.4 with lithiums), it comes with a carrying pouch so it's simple an easy to carry. We found it simple to use and effective and safe to carry, no chemicals involved. Since it uses UV light to purify the water needs to be clean for the steripen to be effective, if the water is not clean you have to filter the water first so you need to carry some kind of filtering device to make sure you will be able to use the steripen.<br /><br />There is a kit that comes with a solar charger for long trips and camping and the company also sells a filtering device. You can read about the different models and products from the <a href="http://www.hydro-photon.com/steripen_products.html">company website</a>. The version tested here can be ordered from <a href="http://www.rei.com/product/717120">REI</a> for $100.Luishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14040861037549513024noreply@blogger.com0