"I specifically chose it over the PC series because I wanted one with just a HIGH and LOW. Generally I avoid lights with a zillion different modes; I don't want them or need them, and they drive up the price of the light and make it harder to use IMOHO. So far I've never once used SOS or strobe nor wished I had them. I guess I can imagine a scenario where they'd be useful but when it comes to light I like the KISS approach! "

+1.
I agree totally.
All I need is a light with Hi and Lo capabilities. Nothing more.

I also like AA batteries - for the simple reason that you can buy them in most parts of our planet. You can't get always get the high grade alkaline ones, but you can get some kind of AA. The CR123 are fine for use in USA or Europe, but not easy to lay your hands on in third world locations.

Pete2

Actually CR123s are quite difficult to get hold off in the UK and are very expensive as they are usually sold in Supermarkets and Retails chain stores singly, typically costing around $7 a piece. Hence I use rechargeable RCR123s (impossible to find at a retail store outlet) and the occasional Internet online bulk purchase of the primary CR123s at which typically work out at around around $1.50-2. Energiser Lithium AA are generally easier to find than CR123s in the UK at retail outlets. CR123s are therefore relegated to last resort use!

CR123A batteries are common here. Ultimate Lithiums are pushing $2 each for AA so CR123A are considerably cheaper for me.

The Quark Pro QP2A-X (and boy do I hate their new model name convention) has these specs:



The QP2L-X has these specs:



As you can see, the CR123A model has significant output and runtime advantages almost across the board (no output advantage until Medium. I'd expect these were developed with alkalines in mind for the AA versions, so you'll most likely see an improvement there in the real world using Energizer Lithium cells. But it won't make up the difference.

The Jetbeam E3S looks like my next flashlight.

http://www.jetbeamusa.com/products/E3S.html

That's a nice looking light, Ireckon! While not quite the same type of light we've been discussing, a couple days ago I received my Surefire X300 Ultra weapon light- and all I can say is WOW! Incredible brightness with an immaculately focused beam. I hung it off the end of my FNP 45 Tactical and banged 150 rounds through it and the light was unfazed.