Summary
Highlights
The video introduces a comprehensive test of 29 defensive handheld flashlights across 20 metrics to determine the best option. Ten specific models are highlighted, including the Cloud Defensive MCH HC3, LZA Bravo, Fenix PD36R Pro, Meloff, Nycore EDC31, Noxen Evac T1 Core, Olight Warrior X4, Sig Sauer Foxtrot EDC, Streamlight Mega Stream, and Surefire EDC2 DFT Turbo. Each light is selected for specific features or reputation, with three samples for each model to test both performance and durability.
The testing begins with performance metrics. Candela, crucial for deterrence, is measured, with the Surefire excelling at 115,000 candela and the Elefatta performing lowest at 15,000 candela. Initial lumen output is also measured, with the Olight Warrior X4 being the brightest at 2700 lumens. Lumens at 2 hours are also assessed for sustained output. Light quality, including CRI and color temperature, is evaluated, where the Elefatta's warm color temperature and good CRI stand out, and the Olight fares poorly. Consistency of output among samples is also a key factor, with Streamlight emerging as the most consistent.
Durability testing begins with a vibration test, which all lights pass. This is followed by a series of water resistance tests: a mist test (all lights pass), a 1-meter immersion test, and a 2-meter immersion test. In the 1-meter test, the Olight and Cloud Defensive show water intrusion but remain functional. In the more extreme 2-meter test, the Olight and Nightcore fail and die, while Cloud Defensive and Meloff show water intrusion but still function. The Streamlight Mega Stream surprisingly passes without issue.
The lights undergo a drop test where they are dropped 10 times on the bezel and 10 times on the tail cap. The Olight and Elefatta survive well. The Fenix fails after the fourth drop due to battery rattling and dies. The Surefire's lens cracks but it continues to function. The Noxin's switch fails, and the Meloff's tail cap spring breaks. The Cloud Defensive's lens shatters, and the Nycore entirely stops functioning. A bash test (side drops with a weighted bar) follows, where the Olight and Elefatta survive with minor deformation. The Fenix flickers but survives. The Surefire's glass ejects. The Sig Sauer's tail cap breaks, and the Noxen's glass breaks. The Cloud Defensive and Meloff show significant damage but function.
A dust test with Portland cement surprisingly kills the Nycore, making it the first light to die in this test and eliminating it from further testing. Subsequently, a temperature extreme test involves baking the lights at 140°F and then exposing them to liquid nitrogen. Most lights recover after this test, with the Meloff, Elefatta, Noxin, and Surefire turning on immediately or after a button press, and others with a fresh battery. The most brutal test, the concrete mixer, combines vibration, shock, abrasion, dust, and impact. The Streamlight and Olight die early, though the Streamlight later revives. The Cloud Defensive, Malakoff, and Sig Sauer also die during this test. The Fenix and Surefire die in the later rounds, leaving the Elefatta and Noxen as the last two functioning lights, earning them maximum points.
The top three performers (Surefire, Fenix, and Streamlight) advance to a grand finale: a 300-foot drop from a drone onto concrete. The Fenix is severely damaged and immediately dies on its first drop. The Surefire also dies on its first drop, despite a bomb tail for guided descent. The Streamlight Mega Stream surprisingly survives its first drop, and then a second drop from the drone while falling in any orientation. It finally dies on the third drop after becoming seriously bent, highlighting its exceptional durability.
Based on the extensive testing, the top three defensive handheld flashlights are: the Streamlight Mega Stream (first choice) for its quality, good output, reasonable price, and remarkable durability; the Surefire EDC2 DFT Turbo (second choice) for its outstanding candela and great durability, despite a high price; and the Fenix PD36R Pro (third choice) for its great runtime, durability, and reasonable price. The video also promotes the company's holsters for pistols with and without lights.