Yes, the L1 is too focused on the low beam. I'm aware of beamshapers but don't know of a UK supplier. Also I'm having doubts about the whole package. It's not the smallest torch for what it does, and I can't really see me carrying it every day.

The light I really rely on at the moment is a Zipka+ headlamp. It's just so convenient to have something hands-free, and it gives more light than the L1 on low and more useful light too. That's what I use around a campsite or if I am at home during a powercut. I don't quite EDC it but I'd have it with me if I were far from home, eg on London tube. I'm very happy with it and can't see myself giving it up, whatever else I get.

The U2 looks great but frankly is getting a bit pricey. $250!

I guess I'm trying to think through what the roles of a really bright light actually are. For most uses I don't need a lot of light. I EDC a Photo Freedom and that's often enough. I'm not a policeman or anything. Although I'd like a light bright enough for search and rescue use over many hours, for that role it doesn't have to be a survival torch I carry everywhere. And in fact the L1 would probably do me in that role. (I prefer LEDs to incandescents, by the way, which probably means compromising somewhat).

I am wondering if when you do need a bright light in a survival situation, you maybe don't necessarily need it for very long. If you are in a smoke-filled room, you need to get out of the smoke pretty quick anyway.