Maglites

So you've all been making comments about Maglites, eh, and as such, here's a little info on one of the most recognizable names in flashlights.

I've mentioned Drop In LED modules before, with the SureFire lights (the host).  Well, you'll be happy to know that the 20 year old, worn and beat up 2D or 3D Cell Maglite that's kicking around your dad's toolbox can be upgraded to a modern powerhouse.

3D Cell model on bottom.  3C Cell model in center - drop ins also avaiable!

Seriously - that flashlight may look like it's seen a few years, but it can go from throwing ~50 lumens with that little incandescent bulb to a measured 240 lumens out the front (Illuminating objects at 1000 feet with ease - anyone within ~100 feet that gets hit in the face should see spots for 8-10 seconds, and will cause eye damage at much closer ranges).  The reason for the incredible throw that this light offers (Throw = illuminating objects at distance, spill = illuminating a wide area) is the ~2" smooth reflector.

In comes Malkoff Devices, who I've discussed before, with a drop in LED module that replaces the incandescent bulb.  Installation is simple: remove the existing bulb, push the drop-in down as far as it will go inside the flashlight and tighten the screw (which wedges the drop-in’s heat sink against the flashlight body). The bottom part of the reflector needs to be cut off to accommodate the drop-in. This is a simple cut with a razor saw. If that is too much for you, Malkoff Devices sells a pre-cut Maglite reflector for 7$.

You'll be kicking out lumens in no time!

The difference between the original bulb and the newer LED module is staggering!

New LED drop in LEFT, Incandescent original RIGHT.

And speaking of kicking, if you ever felt the need to kick someone's head in with one of these lights, feel free to add a crenelated bezel to the front, also available from Malkoff Devices.