Bounty-Hunter

I am certain this answer will likely spark great debate just like comparing guns, knives and meatloaf recipes. I have one of the very same Surefire 6P models you are seeking information about. I bought mine about 14 years ago when they first appeared on the Law Enforcement market. I was working as a patrolman for an agency at that time and was looking to replace an aging 5-D cell KEL-LITE duty flashlight. Believe me the old KEL-LITES was very popular amongst police officers just about everywhere. They proceeded the Streamlights and Mag-Lites by quite a few years. Unfortunately; they like the Streamlight and Mag-lite were very bulky and heavy. I received the KEL-LIGHT as my main duty flashlight when my “old training Sgt.” found out all I had was a 2-D Cell “borrowed” Mag-light. The main reason for replacing the Kel-Light was the age, abuse and bulk. Nothing can abuse a flashlight more than public safety work. <img src="images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" /> So, having said that, I want to pass on what I know about the Surefire 6P.

PROS: Good solid lightweight flashlight with claimed ability to be submersible, though I have not tried to accomplish that task. Weighs a mere 5 ounces with batteries.

Very Bright- I have known officers to actually temporarily blind a suspect or an inmate who was “charging” toward them. Easily lights a jail cell or interior of a car. Came with a warning to not look directly into the light when on.

Easily slides into a hip pocket, a coat pocket, or in a thigh cargo pocket. Also incorporates well on an officer’s duty belt.

Decreases liability if used as a “tactical defensive light.” Basically, you should not use this light for this purpose.


CONS: Expensive—Though I have seen the 6P on sale for $34.00, The average price is around $56.00 (USD) After 14 years and several other styles using the same batteries one would think the price would have dropped significantly. This is just not the case.

Batteries—Also expensive and were not long lasting. While the Lithium technology is great and storage is about 10 years (Again, I have not tried to verify this!) replacing 2 costs about $5.25-$7.25 (USD) apiece and the batteries only last about 1 to 1.5 hours maximum. Again, with the proliferation of flashlights and cameras using the CR123 battery technology the price should have come down. In my experience this is not the case.

Bulb replacement—Basically, the bulb and reflector must be replaced. I have done this twice. At $14.95 (USD) this is an expensive ordeal as well.

Momentary On/Off tailcap switch. In a pocket, or even a duty belt carrier, simple bending and compressing the leg can activate the switch. I have known cases of burnt leather (stinky) holsters (kind with the flap) and pants pockets to almost burn when this happens; not to mention the burned skin. Surface gets very hot to the touch after a couple of minutes. Which is warning number 2.

Twist on tailcap switch—Not a positive on/off push “click” style switch, which I prefer, but a twisting on (compressing a spring) switch. I have actually twisted too far then inverted the light heads up for holster placement and had the tailcap come off. Try finding the parts in the dark on asphalt (mine is black) and while the rain is pouring!

Cannot be used as a “tactical defensive light.” In the past some police officers have used their flashlights as an “extra” baton. My initial training actually covered using the flashlight as a defensive baton. I don’t recommend this as several lawsuits have proven this to be nothing more than using a “lead-pipe.”


OVERALL: Well ok, in all fairness, I would like to mention a couple of things. While the cons outweigh the pros, this flashlight is now riding along in my briefcase as a secondary light source. It is very wise to have a back up. BTW I carry the light in its original box with the batteries out.
The flashlight did actually find good use as a duty light for 4 solid years by me and 1-½ years by a friend after I had left full time law enforcement. The lightweight spoke volumes. Especially when on a dayshift and trying to secure a dark warehouse for the weekend; this light was there as opposed to not having any light.

Would I recommend this light? Yes and No. Depending upon your application. Daily Law Enforcement, EMS, Fire, or even SAR (public safety) work then NO I would not due to maintenance cost alone. If you plan on using the light around camp or even on a hike, then again NO! There again I cite the cost and the "burn" time. Storing the light and using it in an emergency, then YES! As a back up, or secondary source, then YES!

If you really are set on this light, then I recommend the rechargeable battery option, which I am considering myself. After at least 8 battery replacements you will have paid for this option and then saved more money. This option would clearly extend the capabilities of the light to full time use.


Hope this helps,

Stargazer

ASAP = Always Suspicious, Always Prepared