The PREDATOR TACTICS INC The Laborer Clear 890 Lumens CR18650 (1)/CR123A (2) Battery Black Aluminum Alloy Body Made a Bold First Impression
The PREDATOR TACTICS INC The Laborer Clear 890 Lumens CR18650 (1)/CR123A (2) Battery Black Aluminum Alloy Body promises potent illumination in a compact, durable package. Predator Tactics INC aims to deliver a workhorse EDC (Every Day Carry) light that can handle the rigors of demanding environments. I was intrigued by its ability to use both CR123A and 18650 batteries, offering versatility in power sources.
My search began with a familiar frustration. I needed a reliable flashlight that wouldn’t die halfway through a night hike or while navigating a dark job site. I’ve cycled through countless lights, each failing in some crucial way: poor battery life, flimsy construction, or inadequate brightness.
Upon unboxing, the light felt surprisingly solid. The black aluminum alloy body inspires confidence, and its compact size fits comfortably in my hand. I was impressed with the minimalist design; it’s clear the Laborer is built for function over flash.
Compared to my older Streamlight ProTac and a Fenix PD35, the Laborer felt a touch smaller, though similarly robust. I picked the Laborer primarily for its dual-battery compatibility and the promise of high lumen output for a reasonable price. The others were either single battery type or significantly more expensive for similar performance.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality and design are promising, but I was eager to see how it performed in the field and if the 890 lumens lived up to the hype. It seemed like a solid tool, but only time and testing would tell if it could truly earn the “Laborer” moniker.
Real-World Testing: Putting PREDATOR TACTICS INC The Laborer Clear 890 Lumens CR18650 (1)/CR123A (2) Battery Black Aluminum Alloy Body to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test came during a late-night hog hunt on my property. The dense woods required a light that could cut through the darkness and provide reliable illumination. The Laborer immediately impressed with its bright, focused beam.
I tested it in moderately damp conditions, as a light rain had fallen earlier in the day. The light maintained its performance without any flickering or dimming, and the grip remained secure even with slightly wet hands. Its beam reached further than expected, easily lighting up areas 75-100 yards out.
The Laborer was intuitive to use right out of the box. A simple click of the tail switch provided instant access to the full 890 lumens. After about an hour of intermittent use, I noticed no significant drop in brightness.
My only initial concern was the heat generated when running on high for extended periods. The aluminum body did a decent job of dissipating heat, but it became noticeably warm to the touch.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the PREDATOR TACTICS INC The Laborer Clear 890 Lumens CR18650 (1)/CR123A (2) Battery Black Aluminum Alloy Body continues to perform admirably. I’ve used it during camping trips, power outages, and even as a makeshift work light while repairing my truck. It’s become a staple in my everyday carry.
The finish has held up well, with only minor scratches despite being tossed around in my truck and gear bag. The threads for the battery compartment remain smooth, and the tail switch still clicks with a satisfyingly positive action. The anodized aluminum has resisted corrosion well.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth removes any dirt or grime. I occasionally lubricate the threads with a silicone-based grease to ensure smooth operation. Overall, maintenance is minimal.
Compared to my old ProTac, the Laborer offers significantly better brightness and battery life when using an 18650. It outperforms the Fenix in terms of ease of use, thanks to its simpler interface. While not quite as feature-rich as some high-end lights, the Laborer’s reliability and value make it a winner.
Breaking Down the Features of PREDATOR TACTICS INC The Laborer Clear 890 Lumens CR18650 (1)/CR123A (2) Battery Black Aluminum Alloy Body
Specifications
The PREDATOR TACTICS INC The Laborer Clear 890 Lumens CR18650 (1)/CR123A (2) Battery Black Aluminum Alloy Body boasts an impressive set of specifications for its price point. Key specifications include an 890 lumen maximum output, compatibility with both one CR18650 rechargeable battery or two CR123A batteries, and a durable black aluminum alloy body. This dual battery support is crucial for users needing flexibility.
The light’s weight is negligible, making it easy to carry. Its compact size ensures it won’t weigh you down. The use of aluminum alloy provides a good balance of strength and weight, contributing to overall durability.
The specifications matter because they directly impact the light’s real-world performance and usability. The high lumen output ensures adequate illumination in various environments. The battery versatility provides options in situations where recharging isn’t possible.
Performance & Functionality
The PREDATOR TACTICS INC The Laborer Clear 890 Lumens CR18650 (1)/CR123A (2) Battery Black Aluminum Alloy Body excels in its primary function: providing bright, reliable light. The beam is well-focused, offering a good balance of throw and flood. This is ideal for both close-up work and illuminating larger areas.
Its primary strength is its simplicity and reliability. The single-mode operation ensures instant access to maximum brightness. The main weakness is the lack of adjustable brightness settings or a strobe mode.
The Laborer meets expectations for a basic, high-output EDC light. It delivers on its promise of providing significant illumination in a durable and compact package. While it lacks advanced features, its straightforward functionality is a plus for many users.
Design & Ergonomics
The PREDATOR TACTICS INC The Laborer Clear 890 Lumens CR18650 (1)/CR123A (2) Battery Black Aluminum Alloy Body features a simple, no-nonsense design. The aluminum alloy body feels solid and well-constructed. The light’s knurled texture provides a secure grip, even with wet or gloved hands.
It is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no complex programming or memorization of modes. The simple tail switch operation makes it easy to operate with one hand. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The PREDATOR TACTICS INC The Laborer Clear 890 Lumens CR18650 (1)/CR123A (2) Battery Black Aluminum Alloy Body is built to last, thanks to its robust aluminum alloy construction. The light has proven to be resistant to scratches, impacts, and minor abrasions. Its durability assures a long service life.
Maintenance is straightforward and minimal. Regular cleaning of the lens and threads is all that’s generally required. Proper lubrication of the threads ensures smooth operation and prevents corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The PREDATOR TACTICS INC The Laborer Clear 890 Lumens CR18650 (1)/CR123A (2) Battery Black Aluminum Alloy Body comes with minimal accessories. Typically, it includes a basic lanyard and perhaps spare O-rings for water resistance. The light is designed for simplicity.
Customization options are limited, given its single-mode design. However, it is compatible with standard 18650 batteries and CR123A batteries from various brands. It might accept aftermarket pocket clips designed for similar-sized lights.
Pros and Cons of PREDATOR TACTICS INC The Laborer Clear 890 Lumens CR18650 (1)/CR123A (2) Battery Black Aluminum Alloy Body
Pros
- High Lumen Output: The 890 lumens provide excellent illumination for a variety of tasks.
- Dual Battery Compatibility: The ability to use both 18650 and CR123A batteries offers versatility. This is great for when a charging source isn’t available.
- Durable Construction: The aluminum alloy body is built to withstand demanding environments.
- Simple Operation: The single-mode design makes it exceptionally easy to use.
- Excellent Value: At $26.99, it’s hard to beat the performance and durability offered.
Cons
- Lack of multiple modes (low, medium, strobe). A single mode limits versatility in different situations.
- Can get hot when used on high for extended periods. Heat management could be improved.
Who Should Buy PREDATOR TACTICS INC The Laborer Clear 890 Lumens CR18650 (1)/CR123A (2) Battery Black Aluminum Alloy Body?
The PREDATOR TACTICS INC The Laborer Clear 890 Lumens CR18650 (1)/CR123A (2) Battery Black Aluminum Alloy Body is perfect for anyone needing a reliable and affordable EDC light. It’s ideally suited for general use, camping, hiking, and emergency preparedness. It’s a must-have for home or vehicle.
Those needing adjustable brightness levels or specialized modes (strobe, SOS) should skip this product. Users prioritizing advanced features or extended runtime at lower brightness levels might find other lights more suitable. If you need a highly programmable or tactical light, this may not be it.
A high-quality 18650 battery and a reliable charger are must-have accessories to maximize the light’s potential. A durable pocket clip would also enhance its everyday carry convenience.
Conclusion on PREDATOR TACTICS INC The Laborer Clear 890 Lumens CR18650 (1)/CR123A (2) Battery Black Aluminum Alloy Body
Overall, the PREDATOR TACTICS INC The Laborer Clear 890 Lumens CR18650 (1)/CR123A (2) Battery Black Aluminum Alloy Body is an excellent value for the money. It delivers impressive brightness and durability in a compact and easy-to-use package. Its dual-battery compatibility is a significant advantage, and the simple design ensures reliable operation.
The $26.99 price tag is more than justified, considering the performance and build quality. It’s an affordable option for anyone needing a dependable light.
I would definitely recommend this light to anyone seeking a reliable and budget-friendly EDC option. If you need a straightforward, high-output light without the bells and whistles, the Laborer is a solid choice. Grab one today and experience its powerful simplicity!