March 11, 2017 Share 0 Tweet Share 0 The Outlite A100 Tactical Flashlight is the perfect piece of equipment for the outdoors, or if you work in law enforcement or security, then a durable, high-quality flashlight is a necessary piece of equipment. For some, a flashlight is more than just a source of light in dark places. It is also a survival tool that could make the difference between life and death. Considerations Tactical flashlights can be very useful in different situations, no matter the severity. Depending on your flashlight’s model, modes, features, and settings, it can help you find a missing item in the dark, or provide a strong SOS signal in any emergency situation. But before you commit to a flashlight, there are some important things you need to keep in mind. The Battery Type There are 2 main categories of batteries to choose from: non-rechargeable and rechargeable. Non-rechargeable batteries are good if you’re on the go, but you might have to pick up a spare set of batteries when needed. Disposable batteries are also cheaper and available almost anywhere. Flashlights with rechargeable batteries, on the other hand, are great if you tend to use your flashlight more frequently. Some consider them more convenient, but remember to recharge the batteries. So, if you’re always venturing outdoors, this might be a good option for you. Some flashlights like the Outlite A100 are compatible with both types of batteries. Light Output and Lumens A lumen refers to measure the light output. When a flashlight has more lumens, your flashlight’s beam will be able to put out a brighter light. Select the lumen output that’s best suited for your needs. Some of the better products on the market have a lumen output north of 1000. Also, another helpful feature to look for is a floodlight or spotlight function, which will allow you to either focus the light on a specific item or illuminate a general area. Durability If you want to have a flashlight that lasts long, then durability will be one of the most important factors you have to consider. It comes down to its design and materials. For example, aluminum is a solid material that some of the quality flashlights on the market are made from. There are now a lot of durability tests and quality certifications that make some flashlights almost indestructible. Modes One setting is enough for a general purpose use. But, if you are in need of having a product for a variety of reasons, then you may want to select one with different modes. This will allow you to select or adjust the light according to your needs. Outlite A100 The Outlite A100 is a multi-functional, high powered handheld LED tactical flashlight. Some view it as an impressive survival tool, and useful while you’re camping, hiking, or any other outdoor activity. It is made from 6061T aluminum alloy, which makes it scratch proof and sturdy. Though it is designed to be water-resistant, and withstand the elements, we do not suggest submerging the product under water. It could be a useful item to carry around with you everyday. But, if you are looking for bigger flashlights or need to light larger rooms, you may want to look for other alternatives in the market. Pros High lumen output considering its size zoom feature allows for spotlight or flood flight Water-resistant 5 modes – 3 brightness levels, SOS, and strobe High efficiency LED lights – 100,000 hour lifespan Durable and scratch-resistant – made from 6061T aluminum-alloy Compatible with rechargeable lithium-ion or AAA batteries Cons Lack of memory mode function No instruction manual included Batteries drain quickly Not 100% waterproof Features and Benefits There are many things I love about this handheld portable flashlight. Among my favorite features about it include: Multiple Light Modes. There are times when you don’t really need an extremely bright light, but sometimes you do. Instead of buying separate flashlights, you could benefit from Outlite A100. It has five lighting modes, including medium, low, and high, strobe for intermittent flashing and SOS for an emergency signal. Batteries and Charging. For best results, use a 18650 rechargeable battery with the Outlite A100. It also capable of running off of 3 AAA alkaline batteries. However, for optimal results and brightness, the manufacturer recommends using an 18650 battery. Though the charging time would normally require five to seven hours, it long run time per charge. It is also easy to determine when charging is complete or not, thanks to its assistive indicator light. The output voltage is 4.2 volts and the input voltage is 100V~240V 50/60Hz, and supports all brands of 18650 batteries. Easy to Use. One of my favorite features of the Outline A100 is that it is easy to use; all with the press of single button. By pressing the on/off button that is conveniently located at the end of the handle, you can toggle among the various modes and brightness levels. So, if you are in need of a user-friendly option, this is a solid choice to consider. It also delivers a smart beam that comes with the zoom feature. A full beam is able to reach a distance of up to fifteen feet from your vantage point. Or, if you choose the full zoom, it will deliver a distance of about one-hundred fifty feet. Though zooming out would reduce the beam sharpness, it will still be illuminate an area from twenty-five yards or more. Durability. This product has a body that’s made of solid, quality 6061T aluminum alloy for durability. Additionally, it can withstand a hard drop to the ground, which makes it a nice flashlight to have for hiking and camping. Even though it’s durable, you still want to use caution due to its plastic lens. Therefore, be careful not to drop it on its head. Portability. At 5.3 ounces, its weight makes it is a nice device to carry around. You can hold it comfortably in your pocket vest. It has a body size of 130mm or 6.8 inches, with a head size of 4.5 inches or 38 mm, and a tail size of 1.9 inches or 26 mm. Additionally, it’s small enough to fit in compact places, such as your car’s glove compartment, or side pocket of your handbag. Its portability allows you to take this tactical light anywhere you go. Light Quality and Output. The Outlite A100 claims to feature the highest lumen output for a portable flashlight. It is equipped with a CREE XM-L T6 LED bulb that outputs an extremely bright beam, with the bulb lasting for over 100,000 hours. It’s also capable of reaching a maximum of 900 lumens on its brightest setting. The zoom in and zoom out capability will allow you to easily adjust to different lumens. Ideal for Self-Defense. If you want a flashlight to serve more than a light source in an emergency or when you’re on an excursion, then you might benefit from the Outlite A100. Its high power capability allows it to produce blinding lights. You can use this to temporarily blind your attacker in moments of confrontation. I personally find this feature extremely useful and beneficial. As security personnel, the safety of my clients and their property is my top priority. Therefore, it is inevitable that dangerous and confrontational situations will occur. This product’s jagged-edge can be used for self-defense. Water-Resistant. Find a handheld flashlight that you carry around during rainy days. This is why I am very thankful to have the Outlite A100. Though it is not waterproof, its water-resistant capability gives me peace of mind knowing that it is fine to use outside even when it pours. Alternatives If there are particular features and functions that seem to be missing with the Outlite A100, then there are other alternatives you can consider, such as: SOLARAY Handheld LED The SOLARAY Handheld LED is a high-powered professional ZX-1 series. It is equipped with super bright 1200 Lumens and five light modes. It is water resistant, durable and built to last. It features versatile and easily adjustable zoom focus lens vital for long-distance and close up lighting. It claims to provide high quality and extreme performance at a low cost. It is also made of rugged aircraft grade aluminum. This handheld flashlight is professional grade and sturdy, yet lightweight. This makes it a wonderful light source if you are looking for a product for outdoor sports. It is used by fire departments and police, as well as other working professionals. Vizeri Cree XML T6 The XML T6 LED flashlight is able to create a bright intense beam that is said to be brighter than any other lights that claim to have higher Lumens. It has five light modes, including SOS, Strobe, low, medium and high. It has the most flexible options when it comes to power since you can choose from CR123 or low-cost AAA alkaline batteries. The device is also made from a military-grade aluminum and comes with a hardened anodized finish. OxyLED MD50 LED Flashlights The OxyLED MD50 LED Flashlight is a portable handheld flashlight that’s equipped with five light modes for hiking, camping and hunting. It is water-resistant with the highest resistant level of IPX-6. It has an anti-abrasive coating and tough, ultra clear glass lens. It is made from an aircraft grade allow, so it is durable and sturdy. It also uses Cree LED, which can last for more than fifty thousand hours. It works well even in heavy rain, so you can use it even during wet conditions. This product is equipped with Li-ion battery that has a built-in protection from over discharge, overcharges and to extend battery life. This makes it safer for you. Comparison Table Features Outlite A100 SOLARAY Handheld LED Vizeri Cree XML T6 LED OxyLED MD50 LED Flashlights Measurement 5.4″ x 1.8″ x 1.8″ 6.2” x 1.1” x 1.5” 4.2” x 1.1” x 1.3” 2.1” x 8.3” x 4.7″ Weight 5.3 ounces 5 ounces 3.68 ounces 4.6 ounces Battery 1 rechargeable 18650 Lithium-ion Battery or 3 x AAA Battery 18650 3.7V Batteries (included) or 3 x AAA Batteries (not included) AAA or CR123 alkaline batteries 18650 rechargeable Li-ion battery or 3 AAA batteries Lighting Modes 5 5 5 5 Lumen Capability 900 1200 460 800 Conclusion Being part of a security team is not easy. There are times when I am faced with difficult situations where my safety is in jeopardy. Having reliable and sturdy equipment to use while on the job will not only make things easier, but will also give me much confidence to fulfill my duty. Thankfully, I found the OutLite A100 to solve the problem. In addition to being an incredible source of light for my evening duties, it also allows me to remain safe and protected. If you are looking for a device for your outdoor activities or in the security industry just like me, then this is a great product to consider.
