Replacement for Surefire A2

D

Dan Harris

Joined
Oct 31, 1998
Messages
156
I need to replace my Surefire A2 which was recently lost. (Memo to Self - Do not lend expensive gear to pre-teen daughter.) This was my last flashlight purchase, so I have not really kept up that well with all of the new technology. I also own an original 6P as well as an E2. I’ve edced a Photon on my key ring for the last forever, too.

I had the A2 for years and it was a constant travel companion both in the states as well as abroad. The features I really liked were the extremely easy two stage push button switch, bulletproof construction, great low light capability for use in a room or tent. I often run in the dark, early morning or after work, in strange cities. The A2 felt good in the hand or clipped to my shorts, ready to light up the area or as a striking tool.

Either AA or 123 batteries are fine as I always carry spares and they both are easily available. Since led technology has advanced so substantially since the A2 came to market, I would prefer a single led vs. the led / xenon combo. I do not have much use for strobes or more that a few intensities. Simpler is better. While there are several interesting custom lights, I want a rugged, proven production light.

Your recommendations are welcomed!

Thanks

Dan...Since 1998!
 
If you want small, Surefire E1B. Runs off 1 Cr123A battery. Has 2 outputs, high at 80 lumens and low at 5 lumens.

If this is too small and you prefer a 2 cell light, then Surefire's E2D LED Defender. High mode of 120 lumens and a low of 5. You mentioned the use of the light as an impact tool, this light has a crenellated strike bezel.

Check out the above on Surefires website.

For AA lights, Fenix are popular. They are well built and cheaper than Surefire, if cost is a factor. If you travel abroad frequently, a Fenix is well worth considering in addition to any CR123A lights you may get or carry. AA batts are usually cheaper and easier to get abroad than CR123A's.

As you don't want multiple modes, Fenix have the L1T (1AA cell) and L2T (2AA). These lights have 2 brightness modes, a high and a low selected by tightening/loosening the head.

Best place for Fenix lights is at fenix-store.com.
 
There is nothing that offers quite what the A2 does... unless you fancy a McGizmo Lunasol. It is rugged and proven!

In any case, you may also wish to consider (besides the above poster's comments) the new L1, which is shorter and brighter than the old model, or the E2L.

Another choice may be abandoning Surefire altogether and picking up a Nitecore D10 or EX10. Either has been pretty highly praised recently and in my sample of 1, has proven to be durable and trustworthy thus far.
 
If you just want a Cree Q5 emitter in a nice frame, look at the O-Light T-20. I have the A2 with red, and the T-20, along with a bunch of others, and I really like the T-20. Nice forward tail clicky. 2 123A's. Other than that, for 25 bucks shipped, KAI Domain sells a great little AAA with the Q5. I bought 12 of them (there's a 6-pack special), and have put one in each vehicle and have them laying around the house and garage in various places.
 
If you liked the A2 body a lot I would take a look at Surefires offerings with a similar body style.
 
I'd suggest the Surefire L1 for a compact light or the E2DL for the larger two cell light. Both have the dual output options and pocket clips. I've read good things about the Cree LEDs so that is something worth looking into. I lean more toward Surefire since I have received excellent service from them. The pocket clip on my E2E got caught on the car door as I was exiting the vehicle and broke. I emailed Surefire inquiring about a replacement and they sent me a new one for free. Two years later the tailcap switch became difficult to press for constant on/off. Again I inquired about repair or replacement and they sent me a new tailcap for free.
 
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