Don't overlook the Streamlight Scorpion. The tailcap has a positive click on/off, but no lock out. The Scorpion is as bright as the Surefire, and the Scorp. is only $35-40. I have found the Scorpion's lamp more robust than the 6P's.

Hi Natch,

As the owner of several Scorpions, I specifically would not select this light as a life-depends-on-it kind of tool. While the rubber grip is nice, the bi-pin bulb can pop out of it's socket, leaving you in the dark unexpectedly. Worse, it stays stuck in the head which you can't open. I've spent more time than I like fishing bulbs out of the head with needlenose pliers.

The rubber can also get torn up pretty easy with rough use which allows water and dust to get in.

There were some reports from Afghanistan on CPF which indicated the Scorpion didn't hold up well over there.

The SF G2 is also only $35 and I consider it much more dependable.

-john

Hey Garrett,

you're right about the G-2s. I went back and checked here and they don't have the click on/off tailcap. I guess the only thing I can suggest is buy one anyways, order the right tailcap, and at least you will have a good light for now. I can't imagine the tail cap taking any longer to ship than another flashlight would, but it's up to you. I was just thinking that, since it is here, it is handy, and can be upgraded. The best solution I can come up with for immediate need. <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Now if I had to order one, I would probably just order the M2 or the Streamlight Scorpion.

They may have something more at the Taji Base PX. That is the biggest PX in country I think. I dunno if you can get down there or not. I won't be there again for a month, but if you want I can look for you and see what they have. Probably would be quicker to order something now, though.

I heard Tadji was a nice place, even the IA side is supposed the be pretty nice. Unfortunately, Tadji is a haul for me, but if I am up there I will take a look. Last time I was at Victory, I saw quite a few at the PX there, so I may try down there next time I head up.

To the rest of you guys, thanks for your answers. I am probably looking at getting one of the E2 series lights, I just dont know which one.

Garrett

The E2e is a nice light. Just make sure you try it out before you buy to make sure it has the newer, clickie style tailcap.

Note there really aren't many different E2 lights. The main differences are 1) finish and 2) hex or round head.

The main finishes are silver satin and "natural" HA III. The HA (hard anodize) is a stronger finish and looks sort of green-brown.

The purpose of the hex head is so it doesn't roll if you set it down.

In general, the satin/round lights are not nearly as common (I actually thought they discountinued them, but SF put them back on their web site).

Almost everyone perfers the hex head with the HA finish.

-john

Yep, Tadji base reminds me a lot of Reese AFB in Northern Texas. Flat and scrubby, but relatively quiet. The coalition side gets mortared regular, but I think that's because KBR likes to keep the area well lit all night long. I've heard they have to make bunker runs during lunch hour at the DFAC off and on. Nothing big on the IA side, except for an occasional sniper incident (likely from ING anyways, go figure). The locals take anything that isn't under observation or locked down there. Victory always seems so crowded up. but they have a pretty big PX there as well.

I'd say hope we cross paths, but you know how unlikely that is out here these days. Just stay safe, practice safe sex, and watch your six if you go out on patrol.

And any of the E2 lights are a good choice. Good luck.

Many of you have asked me what I plan on using the light for, so I asked myself that. Here, in the dusty place, I plan on using it as an edc, utility light. The ground here is full of potholes and ankle breaking ruts, so I will primary use it for quick shots of light to see where I am going around camp, not outside the wire. At home, it will go in my camelbak for use in the field or camping, along with a generous supply of extra batteries.

So that being said, I went ahead and picked up the G2. Its a pretty good light. I dont know how I feel about switch quite yet. BUT, for the price, it could not be beat, even if I decide to get the switch I want, which I probably will get sometime soon. PLus, as hard as I am on gear, this shouldlast me through this deployment and longer, as long as I dont lose it.

I know, I know, I should have just done this earlier, and I am lucky that I did, as the PX was almost sold out.


THanks for your help,

Garrett

Garrett,

I suspect the G2 will serve you well.

The reason I kept asking about the use of the light was there are some practical issues using lights with longarms for example. This is much less of an issue for utility type use. Also the accessories like the red filter and lanyard are much more importaint if you are using the light for combat.

Hey, let me know if you have a problem getting one of those Z48 tailcaps.

In any case, I appreciate the incredibly dangerous and challenging job everyone is doing over there.

Thanks and be safe,

-john

Hey Garrett,

Glad you reconsidered. The E2 would be fine, but for the money that G2 is in your hands right now, and that kinda situation has changed my mind more than once here in acquiring stuff. Get that other tail cap ordered and enjoy your new light.

Hope to see your posts here often. See you around.