Information - Torch Buying Guide & FAQ - 2024/2025

[MotionlessMike]

Interesting that this thread has popped up this morning as I find myself a bit stuck with torches currently...

Anker LC90 was my go-to zoomable torch for light painting for years until I finally lost it in December, only to find out they've been discontinued. After this I switched to the Lenser P7R which I found a bit shit in comparison but have now lost this too 🤦‍♂️

So yeah, recommendations for a zoomie that isn't shit? Alternatively if you find yourself with a spare LC90 and want to make some quick cash - DM me!

 

[Grom]

Interesting that this tread has popped up this morning as I find myself a bit stuck with torches currently...

Anker LC90 was my go-to zoomable torch for light painting for years until I finally lost it in December, only to find out they've been discontinued. After this I switched to the Lenser P7R which I found a bit shit in comparison but have now lost this too 🤦‍♂️

So yeah, recommendations for a zoomie that isn't shit? Alternatively if you find yourself with a spare LC90 and want to make some quick cash - DM me!

Led Lenser having been living off their brand name for years now, they are pretty shit.

Zoomies are generally not often recommended in 'torch enthusiast' circles.

Convoy Z1 is meant to be decent, but it's got a twist head mechanism rather than a push/pull mechanism. Output depending on LED is meant to be hilarious, especially when fully zoomed in.

Other recommendations are Welltool M8 and Sofirn SC11C.

 

[Sewage_waste]

Seconding the convoy Z1 it’s a great torch. I’d recommend going SFT-25R for the emitter, 12 group UI as it gives you more options in terms of control and a Vapcell 60E for best runtimes without sacrificing performance.

You’ll also need a battery charger if you go for the Z1 as it doesn’t have onboard charging. I’ve linked a decent charger from the same store that’s at a good price.

Here’s a link to the Z1 page: https://convoylight.com/products/convoy-z1-21700-flashlight-zoomable?data_from=app_searchbox&variant_sku_code=4110467-4075536-80928193-4075537-19841413-4075538-80928194

And the battery charger: https://convoylight.com/products/liitokala-lii-s1-charger?data_from=app_searchbox

 

[403forbiddenexploration]

That’s a top torch there. Hank makes some really good stuff. What emitters did you go for 519A?

If you ever get a second torch check out fireflylite they have the best driver + emmitter combo at the moment.

519A 4500K domed + Lume X1 driver

Thanks. I think my torch needs have been satisfied for the time being, but i'll check em out if that ever changes.

I still use my dinky little Lumintop AA or whatever it's called too, which I bought based off a previous post.

 

[wormster]

If you can find them LGchem (outa China) are electrically ok, but the build quality is a bit rough, avoid Aspilsan cells from Turkey, they're as dogy as fuck!!! Don't ask me how I know!! They have tendency to turn into Roman Candles!!!!

 

[MotionlessMike]

Thanks for the recommendations.

I gave in and ordered one of the few remaining Anker LC90s all the way from 'Murica.

Convoy looked okay but £££. Guess I'll just have to look after this one a little better

 

[Grom]

The convoy is £21 directly from Convoy.

Convoy Z1 21700 flashlight,zoomable

The beam focus can be adjusted to switch between spotlight and floodlight modes, adapting to lighting needs at different distances, both near and far, with versatility and brightness flexibility.

convoylight.com

Hopefully the LC90 treats you well though!