First Impressions of Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom
Tactical flashlights are a dime a dozen these days, each promising brighter beams, tougher builds, and longer runtimes. But few manage to strike the right balance of performance, durability, and affordability. The Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom enters this crowded market with a promise of 1500 lumens, a zoomable beam, and a rechargeable battery, all at a price point that’s hard to ignore. This light aims to be the go-to for both everyday tasks and more demanding outdoor adventures.
As a gear specialist with over a decade in the field, I’ve seen countless flashlights come and go. Many have been overhyped and underdelivered, leaving me skeptical of bold claims. I specifically needed a reliable, rechargeable light for both my vehicle emergency kit and for nighttime security checks on my property.
The Rothco light arrived in a simple, no-frills box. Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the light’s weight – substantial enough to feel solid but not overly heavy. The aluminum body had a smooth, matte black finish that felt good in the hand. The zoom mechanism moved smoothly, and the button had a satisfying click.
I was considering the Streamlight Protac HL-X and the Fenix PD36R, both reputable lights with similar lumen outputs. I ultimately chose the Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom because of its significantly lower price point, hoping it could deliver comparable performance. My initial excitement was tempered with caution, eager to see if the low price translated to low quality.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom to the Test
First Use Experience
I immediately put the Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom through its paces during a weekend camping trip in the nearby state forest. The first night was damp, with a light drizzle falling, providing a good test of its weather resistance. I used the light extensively for setting up camp, navigating the trails after dark, and even checking for nocturnal critters around the campsite.
The zoom function proved invaluable. The wide beam was perfect for illuminating the campsite, while the focused beam reached out effectively to identify distant objects. The high mode was impressively bright, easily illuminating the path ahead, even in the low-visibility conditions.
Initially, I fumbled a bit with the single button to cycle through the modes. After a few minutes, I quickly got used to the sequence. The only immediate issue was that the battery indicator didn’t seem to be working reliably, which was concerning.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom has become a staple in my everyday carry. It’s accompanied me on several more camping trips, a couple of fishing expeditions, and is constantly used for nighttime property patrols.
Despite the initial concerns about the build quality, the light has held up remarkably well. There are a few minor scratches on the finish, but nothing that affects its performance. The zoom mechanism still operates smoothly, and the button remains responsive.
Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dirt and grime. The battery life, however, is noticeably shorter than advertised, especially on the high mode. I’ve been getting closer to 2 hours on high instead of the expected runtime. Compared to my experience with Surefire lights, the Rothco requires more frequent charging. But for the price, I can’t complain too much.
Breaking Down the Features of Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom
Specifications
- The Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom boasts a 1500 lumen output, providing a powerful beam for various tasks. This high lumen output is critical for situations requiring maximum visibility, such as search and rescue or navigating dark environments.
- It utilizes a Cree XHP70 LED bulb, known for its efficiency and brightness. This specific LED type contributes to the light’s impressive output while maintaining reasonable power consumption.
- The light is constructed from aluminum, offering a balance of durability and weight. This material choice ensures the light can withstand daily use and moderate impacts.
- The integrated zoom function allows users to adjust the beam from wide flood to a focused spot. This versatility makes it suitable for both close-range tasks and long-distance illumination.
- It uses a rechargeable 18650 lithium-ion battery and includes a USB-C charging cable. This provides a convenient and cost-effective power source, eliminating the need for frequent battery replacements.
- The light also includes an adapter for 3 AAA batteries, offering a backup power option. This ensures the light remains functional even if the rechargeable battery is depleted or unavailable.
- It features 5 light modes: High, Mid, Low, Flare, and SOS. This allows for adapting to various situations and conserving battery life when maximum brightness isn’t needed.
- The Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom is splashproof, offering limited protection against water exposure. It’s suitable for use in light rain or damp conditions, but not for submersion.
Performance & Functionality
The Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom performs admirably for its price. The beam is bright and consistent, easily illuminating large areas when zoomed out and providing a decent throw distance when focused. The different modes offer versatility, though the difference between high and mid isn’t always significant.
The light’s primary strength is its sheer brightness for the cost. Its weakness lies in the battery life and the somewhat unreliable battery indicator. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly tactical light but doesn’t exceed them in any particular area.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom has a straightforward, utilitarian design. The aluminum body feels solid in hand, providing a secure grip. The weight is well-balanced, preventing fatigue during extended use.
The single button operation is generally user-friendly, although cycling through the modes can be a bit cumbersome. There is a slight learning curve, but it is manageable.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction suggests a decent lifespan, and so far, the light has proven reasonably durable. While it’s not designed for extreme abuse, it should withstand normal wear and tear.
Maintenance is minimal – keeping the lens clean and ensuring the battery is properly charged are the main requirements. Repairing it might be challenging due to the integrated design, but replacement parts are likely not readily available.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom comes with a USB-C charging cable and an adapter for AAA batteries. Customization options are limited due to the proprietary design.
It is not designed to be compatible with aftermarket accessories like weapon mounts or specialized lenses, which may limit its appeal for users seeking advanced customization.
Pros and Cons of Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom
Pros
- Impressively bright 1500 lumen output for its price range.
- Versatile zoom function allows for both flood and spot lighting.
- Rechargeable battery with included USB-C charging cable offers convenience and cost savings.
- Durable aluminum construction provides a solid and reliable feel.
- Affordable price makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
Cons
- Battery life is shorter than advertised, especially on high mode.
- Battery indicator is unreliable.
- Limited customization options compared to higher-end tactical lights.
Who Should Buy Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom?
The Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom is perfect for:
- Casual campers.
- Homeowners needing a reliable emergency light.
- Security personnel on a budget.
- Anyone seeking a bright, affordable light for general use.
Who should skip this product?
- Users needing professional-grade durability and reliability.
- Those requiring long battery life in extreme conditions.
- Users seeking advanced customization options.
A must-have accessory is a spare rechargeable 18650 battery to extend runtime.
Conclusion on Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom
The Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom offers a compelling value proposition for budget-conscious buyers. While it’s not without its flaws, its impressive brightness, versatile zoom function, and rechargeable battery make it a practical choice for a wide range of tasks.
The price is definitely justified given the light’s capabilities and performance.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a bright, affordable tactical light for general use. The Rothco Rechargeable XHP70 LED Tactical Task Light w/Zoom delivers solid performance without breaking the bank. Give it a try and see how it illuminates your world.