Starters Guide!

Many first time customers of premium flashlights are often confused by the myriad of product specifications thrown to them.

Here at Fstop Lights, we like to keep things simple and easy to understand, so we have come up with a list of definitions to help you out! This makes it easy to understand and compare the many flashlights that we sell. Here is the list:

Battery:
Different flashlights utilise different types of batteries, mostly rechargeable lithium ion batteries. The two most common types are the RCR123A (16340) battery and the 18650 battery.
Some flashlights utilise more common battery sizes such as AA or AAA batteries. For these, we recommend using rechargeable Ni-MH AA/AAA batteries over alkalines as they tend to leak.

Charging:
Lithium ion batteries use their own special charger, a wide range of chargers can be found in our store.

Brightness:
This is usually measured in terms of Lumens. Basically, the greater the lumens, the brighter the flashlight will be. However, some flashlights will appear brighter than others due to their more intense hotspot and dimmer side spill.

Max Runtime:
The total amount of time the flashlight can run on the dimmest setting. This value is usually an estimate and is affected by the type of battery used when testing the light. Runtime also varies with what mode you are using with the flashlight. 

Range:
Flashlights with larger heads and thus bigger reflectors usually throw better but have a dimmer side spill, making them more useful for outdoor usage.

LED Emitter:
The heart of the flashlight, the type of emitter used affects the colour and output of the beam of the flashlight, giving them a cool, neutral or warm tint. 

Multi-Mode:
Most tactical flashlights nowadays have multi-modes, either controlled by turning the head, a selector ring or by half-pressing the tail switch.

Material:
Look for solid state material in the form of Type III military anodised aluminium. More expensive flashlights usually use stainless steel or titanium to give it better durability.

Waterproof:
Most flashlights sold on the market have at least an IPX-8 waterproofing standard. This allows it to survive in water as deep as 1.5m for 30 minutes.

Accessories:
Included with the flashlight in the package. Do take note some accessories are optional and have to be purchased separately.

Technical Specs: 
Weight, length and diameter of the flashlight body. May also include other measurements.