The Bottom Line
The eGear XT-130 Polymer K2 Tactical Torch uses a single Luxeon LED that is the brightest light I have ever seen. It is lightweight, rugged and weather resistant. There is an instant on/off tactical switch in the base. Runs on two CR123A lithium batteries (included). Output maximum 130 lumens for up to 10 hours. MSRP: $45.00
Pros
- very bright - 130 lumens
- rugged polymer body
- weighs 4 ounces with batteries
- LED never needs replacing
- lifetime guarantee
Cons
- use with caution, do NOT look at the LED light directly
- do NOT let children play with this flashlight
Description
- Dimensions: 32.5mm x 131.5mm
- Weight: 4 ounces with batteries
- Body: black polymer
- Brightness: 130 lumens
- Battery type: 2 3v CR123A Lithium
- Battery life: 10 hours
- Bulb type: K2 Luxeon white LED
- MSRP: $45.00
Guide Review - eGear XT-130 Polymer K2 Tactical Torch
The eGear XT-130 is extraordinary. When I first turned it on (indoors in the afternoon with a light on), I had to squint my eyes. This little "hand torch" is the brightest flashlight I have ever seen. It uses a single K2 Luxeon LED with a power output of 130 lumens. Two CR123A batteries will power the XT-130 for up to 10 hours. I purchased a separate CR123A battery charger to save on battery expense. The instant on/off tactical switch in the end of the light is convenient too. This light fit comfortably in my hand, and it had a rugged feel. The XT-130 reminds me of the flashlights used on "CSI," and it very well may be. I saw dust in places around the house that I thought were clean.
Warning: do NOT look directly into this light and do NOT let children handle one. It really is that bright. The Luxeon LED actually heats up, whereas lesser power LEDs are generally cool to the touch. You should avoid touching the LED cover after extended use.
The XT-130 sells for $45.00, which seems high, but you'll never need to replace the bulb. Couple that with a $40.00 investment in a charger and 2 rechargeable CR123A batteries, and it will be a very long time before you need to spend another penny. That is a great investment for a quality flashlight that will likely last you a lifetime.
3 out of 5
Very Bright, But DisappointedMarch 28, 2009By amsgator
"I got this flashlight for our nighttime qualification because I could not afford one of the Surefire tactical flashlights. One of my friends had the Surefire G2...and this light is actually brighter. However, comparing the two lights, I find it hard to believe this light is in fact 130 lumens. It was definitely brighter than the Surefire, but not 50 lumens brighter. I rated this 3 because Essential Gear is very bad about responding to emails, and very misleading, if not straight out falsifying. No where on their website does it state there is a lifetime warranty (as claimed on all it's vendor websites) and after emailing them about it I receive no reply. Their website states: ""100% Satisfaction Guarantee Our 100% customer satisfaction guarantee ensures that every item you purchase at Essential Gear meets your high standards or you can return it for a replacement or refund within 30 days of the order shipment date. The order shipment date and order notification are provided to you by email."" So as far as I am concerned there is a 30 day warranty...very disappointing. I am not thrilled at all with this discovery after I ordered the light, and I intend to continue contacting Essential Gear about the issue. The light itself is bright, I do not know about the run time, I once again doubt the 10 hour runtime considering the Surefire lights that are only 80 lumens run about that long, so I find it difficult to believe a 130 lumen light will do the same. I will update any changes that occur."