SureFire constant on Tailcaps - Z48 / 49

[Spark]

Pretty cool. I've had one on my C2 for a few days now and once I got over the "no more Roger's" hold, I'm pretty impressed with it. Solid function, good design (duh) and it was a worthwhile upgrade for me personally. Anyone else out here get one of these things?

Kevin

 

[Dave in PA]

Do you have a picture or link?

I have an original 6P that I've been considering updating and you now have me interested. Thanks.

 

[DonL]

Kevin, there's actually two different styles.

On the left is the SW-02, and on the right, the Z48. It's my understanding that the Z-49 is the black Type II anodized version of the Type III hard-anodized Z-48.

I have both (SW-02 annd Z-48) of them and have had the ability to putz around with them for a while on both my M2 and M3.

The SW-02 is a kick-ass switch, and the extra width helps keep the light very firmly in your hand (preventing forward creep) while using the switch, especially on the M3, with its elongated body. It looks great on the M3, but on the M2, it looks like it gives the light too much "ass" because of the change in proportion. The larger bezel of the M3 balances very well visually with the SW-02 on it. In addition, the extra bulk at the tail end is less important on a larger light that's much less likely to find itself stuffed into a pocket.

M3 with the SW-02 switch tailcap.

(Photo from Sean at SFDB.)

M3 with Z-48 tailcap and bezel filter assembly.

(Photo from PK Engineering website.)

The Z-48 gives both the M2 and M3 their slender looks back. While it works great on both lights, I've found that I prefer it more on the M2, it doesn't overpower the light dimensionally or visually. The shorter body of the M2 also allows sufficient grip without the added diameter of the SW-02. It also give less bulk to the M2, important with a light that's sized to fit in a pocket.

M2 with Z-48 tailcap.

(Photo from PK Engineering website.)

My only negative comment would be that the rubber crown is a bit tall for me, being cursed with wide palms but short fingers, so it's sometimes a bit of a "stretch" to hit the button properly. I'll probably end up trimming it down a bit.

Dan, your 6P is the original Type II black anodized, IIRC, so the Z-49, on the left, is your ticket to happy clicking.

(Photo from PK Engineering website.)

 

[Spark]

The SW02 is actually intended for the weaponlights (hence the larger diameter); operators use gloves and need the extra gripping area. The Z48/49 is meant for the handhelds.

I tried the SWO2 on a few lights and it ruined the pocket profile for me and made the flashlights a bother to sheath / pocket carry. The Z48/49 however is dead sexy and despite the increased length, really seems to be a winner.

Maybe SureFire will offer these standard with the M series in the future - or offer models of light with them on standard. Then again, it'd be a bitch to stock all those models, and maybe it's better left as an accessory.

Anyone know if they are coming out with one for the Executive series?

 

[DonL]

Kevin, you're right that the SW-02 is a weapon switch. I think the "plug-and-play" qualities of alot of Surefire's parts encourages wackos and malcontents to put together Franken-lights out of whatever fits together. There are several over at the SFDB that are using the SW-02 for general use, and I like mine alot on the M3, however, my M3 is mostly a bump-in-the-night light or is kept in the car on trips, so pocketability isn't as important.

I agree whole-heartedly that the Z-48 is dead sexy and works alot better for a light that'll find its way into a pocket or is carried alot. I've been looking at the SOE sheaths/holsters/pouches (?) and they look like they more easily adapt to the slight extra length with the Z-48. Regardless, I don't think pants or jacket pocket carry is compromised at all with the Z-48 like it might be with the SW-02.

I've seen a couple of references to a clickie tailcap for the E-series at the SFDB, but it's the "wouldn't it be cool?" or "how many would like to see?" banter from members, no word from SF directly. However, I don't recall seeing any SF representatives saying that it would never happen. They're still running behind on the KL LED conversions and the MN-02 LOLA for the E2/E2e, as well as the rest of their digital and LED products that were slated for 2002 release. If they make one, I wouldn't expect it soon at all.

 

[Dave in PA]

I aked for additional information and all I can say is.....WOW. I sure got it. Thanks for the assistance, but while I'm not as confused now, I am overwhelmed with options and a sudden renewed interest in the whole Surefire line.

Dave

 

[DonL]

Bahahaha!

Run away! Run away, Dan! Before you get sucked in like alot of us! Go now, while you're credit card and checkbook are still intact!

 

[craigz]

So where can we get these without paying retail at surefire.com?

 

[DonL]

I'd say try LPS Tactical, Arizona Gun Runners, Texas Tactical, maybe Tanner's Storefront, or drop Tim Flanagan an email. I kinda doubt that anyone really has them in stock, but they can always see about ordering one from SF.

 

[Spark]

Here's another pic or 2, I took them on Friday while messing around with the light.

 

[DonL]

Kevin, that black version looks awesome! It looks damn near elegant outfitted like that. I'd expect to find that exact light in the pocket of James Bond's tuxedo jacket.