Keep in mind there are two models of the SF L1. The older version had a wide floodish beam. The new version is much more narrow. Personally I think the old version is much better.

As stated, the SF F04 beamshaper can make pretty much any light with a 1" bezel into a flood.

In general, I love my (old style) SF L1. However, today, I think the HDS EDC lights offer everything the L1 does and lots more in a similar price range.

Consider when you look at the HDS EDC options that the L1 on high is rated at 22 lumens. If you look at the EDC options, that means a HDS EDC Basic 42 is the closest to apples to apples.

But the Basic 42 is the bottom of the HDS product line and current options go all up to 85 lumens with lots more flexibility.

review

There is also the lens kit for the EDC. If you get this option, you can choose between a lexan lens, a glass lens, and attach a mild diffuser to get the beam the way you want. This, and you can also use the SF F04 diffuser (it fits perfectly) if you want mega flood.

-john

Edit: Here are some photos of the HDS EDC compared to the SF L1 and the SF E2e. Keep in mind that the U85 pictured is about as bright as the E2e but can be set to 20 levels of light as well as SOS, strobe modes, etc. The rubber "armor" in the picture are SF F05 filters with the lens pushed out. I probably won't carry it that way, but was just seeing if it would work. pics

Edit2: This thread at CPF has links to most of the HDS EDC threads on CPF.