First Impressions of Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin
The Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin promises to be a game-changer in the world of P60 drop-in flashlights. Sportac claims to have addressed the common heat dissipation issues found in many P60 drop-ins, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. With its all-brass construction and supposed superior thermal management, this drop-in boasts the ability to drive LEDs harder and run brighter.
As a seasoned outdoor gear specialist, I’ve dealt with my fair share of flashlights and their various components. The search for a reliable and efficient upgrade for my aging Surefire 6P led me to the Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin. I’d been consistently disappointed by the short lifespans and lackluster performance of other P60 drop-ins, especially when pushing their high output settings.
Upon receiving the Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin, the first thing I noticed was its solid construction. The brass body gave it a reassuring heft and immediately suggested better heat sinking capabilities than the aluminum alternatives I’d used before. Compared to the generic Chinese-made drop-ins that flood the market, this felt like a premium product.
I considered other options, such as drop-ins from Malkoff Devices, known for their robustness and performance, or even exploring full-fledged LED flashlights. Ultimately, I decided on the Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin because I wanted to breathe new life into my existing flashlight body without replacing the entire unit, and the promise of superior heat management piqued my interest. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see if the performance matched the promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin occurred during a nighttime navigation exercise in a densely wooded area near the Appalachian Trail. The conditions were damp and the air was cold, providing a good test for both the drop-in’s light output and its ability to withstand environmental stressors. The low mode proved sufficient for close-up map reading, while the high mode offered excellent throw for spotting trail markers.
Using it was straightforward: simply drop it into my existing Surefire 6P body. I did not need any time to get used to it; it was immediately functional. A surprise was the focused beam; it was tighter than other P60 drop-ins I’ve used.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple camping trips and late-night security checks around my property, the Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear, and the brass construction still looks as good as new. The drop-in continues to perform consistently, with no flickering or dimming, even after extended periods of use.
Maintaining the Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin has been simple; occasionally wiping it down with a cloth to remove dust and debris is all that’s required. Compared to other P60 drop-ins I’ve used in the past, the Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin significantly outperforms them in terms of brightness, beam quality, and overall reliability. This is a marked improvement, and something that gives me confidence in this drop-in’s long-term usefulness.
Breaking Down the Features of Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin
Specifications
The Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. It is constructed from all-brass for maximum heat sink capability. The Manufacturer is Sportac.
- Material: Aluminum and Brass Construction
- Power: 1800 mW
- Bulb Type: 3 UV-395nm LED
- Modes: High-Low
- Adapter Ring: Includes an 18650 adapter ring.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the flashlight’s brightness, beam quality, and thermal management. The brass construction is especially critical for dissipating heat generated by the LED, which allows the drop-in to run brighter for longer periods without overheating.
Performance & Functionality
The Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin performs its intended job admirably. The two levels of brightness provide versatility for different situations, from close-up tasks to long-range illumination. The beam is focused and provides good throw, making it suitable for navigation and search operations.
A major strength is the heat dissipation. Even on the high setting, the drop-in manages heat effectively, preventing the flashlight body from becoming uncomfortably hot. One area for potential improvement is the spacing between the high and low modes; a lower low mode would be beneficial for preserving night vision in extremely dark environments. The Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin meets and exceeds my expectations for a P60 drop-in of this price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin is excellent. The brass construction feels robust and durable. The drop-in is easy to install and fits snugly into compatible flashlight bodies.
The design is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills or complications. It’s user-friendly and requires no special tools or expertise to operate.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin is built to last. The solid construction and quality materials suggest a long lifespan. The brass body resists corrosion and wear, ensuring that the drop-in remains in good condition even after prolonged use in harsh environments.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth. There are no user-serviceable parts, but the overall design is simple enough that repairs, if needed, should be relatively straightforward for someone with basic electronics knowledge.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin comes with an 18650 adapter ring, which allows it to be used with both CR123A batteries and rechargeable 18650 batteries. It’s compatible with a wide range of P60 flashlight bodies, including those from Surefire, Streamlight, and other popular brands. There are no specific customization options for the drop-in itself, but the ability to swap out the reflector or lens in the flashlight body provides some degree of personalization. Sportac could consider offering different LED options in the future to further enhance customization.
Pros and Cons of Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin
Pros
- Excellent heat dissipation due to the brass construction, allowing for sustained high output.
- Bright and focused beam suitable for both close-up and long-range illumination.
- Durable construction ensures long-term reliability, even in harsh conditions.
- Easy to install and use with compatible P60 flashlight bodies.
- Includes an 18650 adapter ring for greater battery versatility.
Cons
- The spacing between high and low modes could be improved; a lower low mode would be beneficial.
- While durable, the brass construction adds weight compared to aluminum drop-ins.
Who Should Buy Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin?
The Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, security personnel, and anyone who needs a reliable and high-performance flashlight. It’s particularly well-suited for those who already own a compatible P60 flashlight body and want to upgrade its performance without buying a new flashlight. Hunters, campers, and emergency responders will appreciate the bright and focused beam and the excellent heat dissipation.
Those who prioritize lightweight gear above all else may want to skip this product, as the brass construction adds some weight compared to aluminum alternatives. Also, users who require more than two brightness levels or specialized features like strobe or SOS modes may find this drop-in too basic.
A must-have accessory for the Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin is a high-quality 18650 battery and charger. Also, consider a durable flashlight body with good grip and waterproofing to maximize the drop-in’s performance and longevity.
Conclusion on Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin
The Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin is a well-designed and high-performing P60 drop-in that delivers on its promises. The brass construction provides excellent heat dissipation, allowing for sustained high output and long-term reliability. The bright and focused beam makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, and the easy installation and use make it a great upgrade for existing P60 flashlight owners.
The price is justified by the quality of the construction, the performance of the LED, and the overall durability of the product. Yes, I would personally recommend it! If you’re looking to breathe new life into your old P60 flashlight or want to build a custom flashlight with a high-quality drop-in, the Sportac Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin is an excellent choice. Upgrade your flashlight today and experience the difference!