Need flashlight advice

S

SarcoBlaster

Joined
Jul 1, 2002
Messages
602
I have an old style SureFire 6P coming in sometime next week that I received through a trade deal. It doesn't have the anti-roll bezel and from the pictures I've seen of it (well, not the actual one I'm receiving, but it should be in great shape) it's not that attractive either. This is what I need advice on: Should I trade/sell the incoming 6P and get a brand new one? Or should I just keep the incoming 6P and use the money I'd spend on a new one towards accessories (the 120 lumen bulb, LED conversion, spares holder, etc.)? I really like the "new style" 6P's, but don't know if I should get a brand new one just for the asthetics. Any help, info, advice, etc. will be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
 
I bought a Surefire E2-HA and bought the E2e-HA for the new bezel, clip, and lens. It was worth it!
 
Buy an M2 bezel for $17 (amazing, yes. I got the price quote from Sableco.net). This would have the anti-roll and also a Pyrex lens, so you can use the HOLA's without worrying about the lens melting.

I'm not sure if the old style 6P has a lockout tailcap. I don't think it really matters, doubly so if you're planning on getting a clickie switch ($26 or so from Sableco).
 
The original 6P is a great light. I would suggest a pyrex window head assembly for it, mainly because the Pyrex doesn't scratch that easily. Then, buy a nice supply of batteries. You don't really need a P61 lamp assembly, or lock out tail cap.

--dan

P.S. goto the forums in my SIG line for tons of info...(shameless plug)
 
I agree with Dan. The original 6P is just fine as issued. I have an E2, which is the alledged cat's ass among flashaholics. I also have a 6P I bought many, many moons ago, and it sees as much or more use than the E2.

Try it out before you invest in any "upgrades". Unless yours is damaged, it's brilliance will probably surprise you. If I need more throw than mine can provide, it's SL-20 and up time.

Dan is probably right regarding the pyrex lens. I should get one for mine. But you won't miss the lock-out tail cap (which is a relatively new SureFire innovation, first seen, I believe, on the E2 Elite), and you'll find that 123 batteries are rather expensive. So spend your money there, instead of upgrading an already excellent light.
 
The new bezel isn't realy needed, but if you think it serves some purpose you may buy it at a later date. I do agree that the pyrex lense is a very real improvement.
 
Thanks for the replies everybody! I have a few more questions if you guys don't mind. Since I don't plan leaving the light on for extended periods of time, would the lexan lens suffice (using both the P60 and P61 lamp assemblies)? I might have it on for a while using the P60 for whatever, but the P61 will probably be used for nighttime walks alone so it's not going to be left on (probably used for momentarilly lighting up dark places). How much brighter is the P61 than the P60? I actually have 16 123's right now (a full hurricane pack and 4 extras laying around) so that should keep the 6P fed for quite a while. :) Thanks again!
 
The High output lamps don't necessarily throw a farther beam, they put more light in the same amount of throw as a regular lamp.

For quick on and off (essentially what the SF's were designed for)the lexan is o.k. but it will melt if the light is left on.

--dan
 
The old style 6P is just fine for most normal flashlight uses just as it is. I have had several of them through the years, and the lack of antiroll has never bothered me, but the LOTC might have been nice.

That said, I could use another one, so if you decide you want to get rid of it, send me an email.
 
The original 6P was my first Surefire. It is still running strong. But I' ve been very partial to the newer G2 Nitrolon. Very close in size to this 6P, it is also lighter and provides a more secure hold when conditions aren' t quite "ideal". The lighter weight/ mass, grooved tailcap and raised bumps on the head allows for a small degree of anti- roll. And it is easy on the vest and coat pockets when carried in those modes.

Nakano
 
I've had a 6P for ages - and love it. I use the HOLA, often, and it hasn't melted my Lexan lens yet.

I got an E1 for my wife's handbag[purse], and recently bought an ARC LS second. Blown away by the Luxeon Led, I've cracked and ordered an E2e HA with a KL1 LED assembly. The E2e is quite a bit smaller - I understand - than the 6P, but won't take a HOLA. [but it will do a low output - about 25 lumen - assembly]

Since I recently acquired through an error - don't ask - a G2 Nitrolon, I'm considering running my HOLA in that, and sticking a KT1 Turbo head on the 6P. Though Al (Size 15s) reckons that isn't so striking.

I'd agree with the battery comments [I have an Innova X5 and the ARC to use batteries eaten by SF]

Try using it for a couple of months as is. You'll never want to go back to an ordinary torch[flashlight].

(You think *I'm* a flashlight bore? Learn more than you ever wanted to know at the previously mentioned fora. OK, I think they're great, and I'm a member there, too)
 
If you are going to go with a 2 cell SF light you might as well spend the extra few bucks and get the M2, its got a shock isolated bezel, pyrex, Anti-roll, LOTC, and it's waterproof(had mine down to 40-50 feet, no problems) And i just ordered a KT2 Turbohead and a A19. When they arrive I will let you know how it works with them.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top