Review of the Streamlight Protac HL X – 1000 Lumen
As an outdoor enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of using a variety of flashlights in my adventures, but few have impressed me as much as the Streamlight Protac HL X. This beast of a light packs a serious punch, delivering an astonishing 1000 lumens of brightness from a relatively compact package.
Product Details:
- Light Source: CREE XPL-HI LED
- Output: 1000 Lumen
- Runtime: 1 hour (high), 40 hours (low)
- Battery Type: 2x CR123A or 1x 18650 battery
- Water Resistance: IP68 rated
Out of the Box Experience:
When I first opened the package, I was surprised by the solid build quality and attention to detail. The light feels substantial in the hand, with a sturdy head that resists twisting and a tail cap that’s easy to remove and replace. The box includes a quick-start guide, a spare O-ring, and a lanyard, which is a nice touch.
Performance:
The Streamlight Protac HL X is a beast when it comes to light output. The 1000 lumens of brightness are more than enough to light up even the darkest of spaces, be it a deep cave or a dark forest. The light has a tight beam that’s perfect for up-close work, and it also has a wide flood mode that’s great for brighter, more ambient lighting. The light is also incredibly bright and maintains its intensity even after a few hours of use.
User Interface:
The user interface is simple and intuitive, with a single switched that cycles through the five different modes (off, low, mid, high, strobe). The light also features a built-in memory function, which means it turns off in the last mode it was in, rather than always returning to off.
Runtime and Power Source:
The light runs on two CR123A batteries or a single 18650 battery, which can be hot-swapped for extended runtime. The runtime is impressive, with 1 hour in high mode and 40 hours in low mode. The light also has a low battery indicator, which flashes the light to alert you when the batteries are running low.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
• Unparalleled brightness, with 1000 lumens of pure light
• Durable construction with a solid, rugged feel
• Multiple modes and memory function for customized use
• Long runtime on a single set of batteries
• Water resistant to IP68 standards
Cons:
• No flash charger or accessory kit included
• No hard storage pouch or holster
• Battery compartment can be tight, making replacement difficult
• Some may find the light too bulky or heavy
Conclusion:
The Streamlight Protac HL X is a powerhouse of a light that’s sure to impress even the most seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. With its incredible brightness, durability, and long runtime, this light is a must-have for anyone who spends time in the wilderness or works in dark environments. While it may have some minor drawbacks, the pros far outweigh the cons, making this light an excellent addition to my gear bag.
