Streamlight Flashlight SL-20XP LED: A Compact and Powerful Partner for Any Adventure
As an outdoor enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of using the Streamlight SL-20XP LED for various activities, from camping trips to search and rescue operations. In this review, I’ll share my experience with this incredible flashlight and highlight its key features, pros, and cons.
Design and Build Quality
The first thing that caught my attention was the Streamlight SL-20XP’s sleek and compact design. Weighing in at just 6.5 ounces, this flashlight is perfect for backpacking, hiking, or attaching to your keychain. The body is made of a durable polymer that can withstand rough handling and harsh weather conditions. The ergonomic grip is comfortable in the hand, and the knurled texture provides a secure hold, even with gloves on.
• Dimensions: 6.50" (16.5 cm) length, 0.75" (1.9 cm) diameter
• Weight: 6.5 oz (184.7 g)
• Material: Durable polymer and aircraft-grade aluminum
Light Output and Modes
The SL-20XP boasts an impressive 500-lumen output, thanks to its Cree XP-E2 R5 LED. With three adjustable brightness levels and a strobe function, this flashlight is suitable for a variety of situations. The beam is focused and well-controlled, making it perfect for navigating dark trails, search and rescue operations, or simply lighting up the campsite.
• Luminosity: 500 lumens
• LED: Cree XP-E2 R5
• Beam Pattern: Flood light
• Brightness Levels: Low (10%), Medium (100%), High (500%)
• Strobe Function: yes
Battery Life and Power Source
The SL-20XP features a reliable Ni-MH battery pack that provides up to 36 hours of runtime on the lowest setting. The battery is easily replaceable and can be recharged using the included USB cable. For prolonged use, consider investing in an additional battery pack to ensure you’re always ready for action.
• Battery Type: Ni-MH
• Runtime: Up to 36 hours (Low), up to 1.5 hours (High)
• Charging: USB rechargeable
• Battery Life Indicator: yes
Additional Features
Some notable features of the SL-20XP include:
• Tail Cap: A removable tail cap doubles as a stand or clip for securing the flashlight
• Quick-Release Photo-Cell: Allows for easy replacement of the battery
• Zamak-3clad Beam: Provides maximum light output and resistance to weather conditions
Pros and Cons
Here’s a summary of the pros and cons I’ve experienced with the Streamlight SL-20XP LED:
Pros:
• Compact and lightweight design
• High-quality construction
• Excellent light output and adjustable brightness levels
• Long-lasting battery life
• Easy to replace and recharge battery
• Durable and weather-resistant
Cons:
• No remote pressure pad or SOS function
• No option for a red light (pmac) mode
• Relatively expensive compared to similar products
Conclusion
The Streamlight SL-20XP LED is an exceptional flashlight that has become my go-to companion for various outdoor adventures. Its impressive light output, compact design, and reliable performance make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a versatile flashlight. While there are some drawbacks, the pros heavily outweigh the cons. If you’re in the market for a high-quality, compact flashlight, the Streamlight SL-20XP LED is definitely worth considering.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Recommendation: If you’re a serious outdoors enthusiast, emergency responder, or simply a flashlight enthusiast, I highly recommend the Streamlight SL-20XP LED. Its impressive light output, adjustable brightness, and reliable battery life make it an exceptional choice for any situation.
