Review: Streamlight Protac 2L X 500 Lumen
Introduction
The Streamlight Protac 2L X 500 Lumen is a high-performance flashlight designed for law enforcement, military, and search and rescue professionals who require a reliable and durable light source. As an experienced professional in the field, I was eager to test this product and share my thoughts on its performance, features, and overall value.
Design and Build
The Protac 2L boasts a rugged and waterproof design, with an IPX7 rating, making it suitable for harsh environments. The flashlight is constructed with high-quality materials, featuring a machined aluminum body and a robust grip for secure handling. The tail cap is removable, allowing for easy battery replacement and a lanyard attachment point.
Light Source and Performance
The heart of the Protac 2L is its 500-lumen Cree XPG2 LED, producing a powerful and efficient light beam with a smooth, consistent output. The light’s beam is remarkable, with a tight hotspot and a well-defined corona, illuminating targets with unmatched efficiency.
User Interface and Settings
The flashlight features a simple and intuitive user interface, with an easily accessible mode selector located at the top of the light. The Protac 2L offers three modes: High (500 lumens), Low (100 lumens), and Strobe.
Battery and Runtime
The light is powered by a single CR123A lithium battery, providing up to 20 hours of runtime on Low and 2.5 hours on High. The battery compartment is accessible from the tail cap, making it easy to replace and maintain. The LED indicator shows the battery level, ensuring you’re always aware of your power status.
Pros and Cons
Here are some key points to consider when deciding on the Streamlight Protac 2L X 500 Lumen:
Pros:
- High-quality construction and durable build
- Exceptional light output and beam quality
- Simple and intuitive user interface
- Long runtime on low and high modes
- Submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes
- Lifetime warranty from Streamlight
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other flashlights on the market
- No momentary-on feature
- Limited customizations for mode settings
- Battery life may be affected by frequent use of high-mode setting
Conclusion
The Streamlight Protac 2L X 500 Lumen is an excellent choice for professionals requiring a reliable, high-performance flashlight. Its rugged design, exceptional light output, and easy-to-use interface make it an outstanding option for any demanding environment. While it may have a higher price point, the quality and performance of this flashlight justify the investment. If you’re in the market for a high-end LED flashlight, the Streamlight Protac 2L X 500 Lumen should be at the top of your consideration list.
Rating: 4.8/5
Recommendation:
The Streamlight Protac 2L X 500 Lumen is ideal for law enforcement, military, search and rescue, and first responder professionals requiring a high-performance flashlight for their line of duty. It’s also suitable for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and professionals in extreme environments. If you expect to use the flashlight regularly, I recommend purchasing extra batteries, as the runtime can be affected by frequent use of the high-mode setting.
