subject: Review for iTP E50 [print this page] The E50 model reviewed here has iTP's tactical user interface with a textured reflector. The head is made up of 2 pieces, the bezel and main head itself. The 6-point bezel can be removed by simply unscrewing it from the head. This gives access to the lens, reflector and LED module. The E50 uses a toughened ultra-clear glass lens which sits above the smooth aluminum reflector. Both of these are held in place inside the bezel by a retaining ring. The reflector and LED are very well aligned and does a great job of focusing light from the emitter. Viewed from the rear we can see PCB and gold-plated spring used for the "+" battery contact. This mean that you can use flat-topped li-ion cells without problem. Threads inside the head are clean and smoothly cut. The threads aren't coated as the user interface requires electrical path through the front threads. The entire exterior of the head is coated in black Type 3 anodizing which has a matte finish. Around the middle of the head is a band of stripped knurling which helps when twisting the head.
The battery tube of the E50 has a rather unique look and design to it. As you can see from the following images, is has a considerably more aggressive design than most other flashlights. The battery tube has ridges and curves running along its length, similar to the design as some kubatons/kogas. This design actually provides a very secure and comfortable overhand grip with the pinky finger resting just below the head, but doesn't work well when held with a underhand grip. The battery tube is wide enough to accommodate a protected 17670 cell snugly, thought the downside to this is that there is almost no battery rattle when using 16340 or CR123 cells. The threads on the rear end of the battery tube is anodized which allows the light to be locked-out by loosening the tail cap. Rubber o-rings are placed at either ends of the battery tube help keep the light water resistant. Coating throughout the light is very smooth and consistent with no marks or scratches to be found. The switch cap of the tactical E50 houses a forward push button which allows for momentary activation. The switch is very responsive and provides great tactile feedback with an average amount of tension. The rubber switch cap sticks out quite a bit from the tail cap which allows for easy activation and doesn't allow the light to tail stand.
The E50 reviewed here comes with a textured reflector which focuses a very intense and narrow hotspot with a good sized corona around it. There is a slight dark ring right around the corona, it's subtle and not very noticeable thanks to the textured reflector. Beam temperature on my sample has a neutral white, slightly cool tint when compared to natural daylight. It is rated at providing a maximum of 230 lumens, and a minimum of 6 lumens.
The user interface of the tactical model is fairly straight forward and simple to use. To activate the light, simply click on the switch or half press it for momentary activation. The brightness can be ramped up or down by loosening the head, once the desired brightness level is reached, simply tighten back the head. The ramping sequence alternates in direction each time you loosen the head. The light will blink 3 times when the minimum and again at maximum level as an indicator to the user. Regulation is well maintain when using either 2x 16340, 2x CR123 and also with a 17670 cell, unlike previous iTP models which didn't regulate that well with a single 3.7V battery. No flickering/pulsing effect could be detected even on the minimum brightness level.
The Good - Very good fit and finish with very comfortable ergonomics when held in overhand grip. Very bright while providing good runtime. Simple interface for setting brightness. Regulates well with all battery configurations.
The Bad - Relatively short runtime with 2x 16340 cells.
The Relative - Beam has a slightly cool tint. Uses a forward push button switch which allows for momentary activation. Not able to tail stand.
Review for iTP E50
By: lightake
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