Let’s Dive into Streamlight Flashlight Flip Up Lens for TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion and Strion Flashlights
The Streamlight Flashlight Flip Up Lens for TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion and Strion Flashlights offers a simple yet effective solution for adapting your existing flashlight to various low-light situations. Manufactured by Streamlight, a trusted name in professional lighting, these flip-up lenses come in red, blue, and green, providing options for preserving night vision, identifying fluids, or signaling. For anyone already invested in the Streamlight ecosystem, it’s a convenient and affordable way to enhance their flashlight’s versatility.
I’ve always carried a Streamlight on duty, but often found myself needing a colored lens for specific tasks, such as map reading during night operations or checking for hydraulic leaks on equipment without blinding myself. Carrying multiple flashlights was cumbersome. That’s why the flip-up lens system appealed to me.
The initial impression was positive; the lens felt robust, and the flip mechanism seemed durable. It was lightweight and didn’t add noticeable bulk to my Streamlight. The fit was snug, as other users have pointed out, which instilled confidence it wouldn’t fall off during use.
While there are other methods for adding colored light to a flashlight (gels, screw-on filters), the flip-up design felt more convenient for quick transitions between white and colored light. Other options felt less streamlined or less durable. The Streamlight system seemed the most practical for my needs.
I was definitely excited. A quick, reliable way to change the beam color of my flashlight without fumbling with separate filters? That’s a game-changer in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Streamlight Flashlight Flip Up Lens for TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion and Strion Flashlights to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Streamlight Flashlight Flip Up Lens for TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion and Strion Flashlights on a night navigation exercise during a land navigation course I was instructing. I primarily used the red lens to preserve my students’ and my own night vision while checking maps and using compasses.
The lens performed admirably, providing enough light to see the map details without compromising our ability to see in the dark. It was drizzling that night, but the lens fit snugly and didn’t appear to be affected by the moisture.
The flip-up mechanism was easy to use, even with gloves on. There was a slight learning curve in finding the right angle to flip the lens up or down quickly, but it became second nature after a few repetitions. After the first use, I did notice a slight “haze” mentioned by other reviewers, but only when the flip lens was in the “up” position.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of frequent use during various outdoor activities (camping, hunting, and even around the house), the Streamlight Flashlight Flip Up Lens for TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion and Strion Flashlights continues to hold up well. The plastic shows no signs of cracking or discoloration.
There’s been no significant wear and tear, even with regular exposure to dirt, mud, and the occasional accidental drop. The flip mechanism still functions smoothly and securely.
Maintenance is minimal. I occasionally wipe the lens clean with a microfiber cloth to remove dust or fingerprints. Compared to using colored gels and tape, this is a massive improvement in terms of convenience and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Streamlight Flashlight Flip Up Lens for TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion and Strion Flashlights
Specifications
- The Streamlight Flashlight Flip Up Lens for TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion and Strion Flashlights is specifically designed to fit the Streamlight TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion, and Strion series flashlights. This compatibility ensures a secure and reliable fit.
- It is available in three colors: red (85115), blue (85116), and green (85117). Each color serves a different purpose, such as preserving night vision (red), detecting fluids (blue), or enhancing contrast (green).
- The lens is constructed from a durable polymer material. This ensures it can withstand the rigors of field use.
- The flip-up design allows for instant switching between white and colored light. This greatly increases versatility in dynamic situations.
- The approximate weight is negligible. It doesn’t add any noticeable weight to the flashlight.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and convenience of using the Streamlight Flashlight Flip Up Lens for TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion and Strion Flashlights. The secure fit prevents accidental detachment, while the durable construction ensures it can withstand harsh environments. The flip-up design enables quick transitions between light modes, and the negligible weight keeps the flashlight comfortable to carry.
Performance & Functionality
The Streamlight Flashlight Flip Up Lens for TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion and Strion Flashlights performs its intended job very well. It provides a simple and reliable way to add colored light to compatible Streamlight flashlights.
The strength of the lens is the quick and easy transition between white and colored light. The weakness, as noted by other reviewers, is the slight blurring or haze around the edges of the beam when the lens is flipped up and not clicked fully into place, but is generally minimal when properly snapped into place.
It meets and exceeds my expectations for a simple and affordable flashlight accessory. The added versatility is invaluable in many situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Streamlight Flashlight Flip Up Lens for TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion and Strion Flashlights features a simple, functional design. The polymer construction feels robust.
The flip-up mechanism is intuitive and easy to operate with one hand, even with gloves. There’s no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its polymer construction and simple design, the Streamlight Flashlight Flip Up Lens for TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion and Strion Flashlights should last a long time with reasonable care.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning. The lens is easily replaceable if damaged.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Streamlight Flashlight Flip Up Lens for TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion and Strion Flashlights is an accessory itself. There are no included accessories beyond the lens itself.
It’s compatible with any Streamlight TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion, or Strion flashlight. There are no known customization options beyond choosing the lens color (red, blue, or green).
Pros and Cons of Streamlight Flashlight Flip Up Lens for TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion and Strion FlashlightsPros
- Easy to install and remove (though tight fitting).
- Durable construction.
- Convenient flip-up design for quick color transitions.
- Affordable way to add versatility to compatible Streamlight flashlights.
- Available in three useful colors (red, blue, green).
Cons
- Slight blurring/haze around the edges of the beam when the lens is flipped up.
- Very tight fit can make initial installation difficult.
Who Should Buy Streamlight Flashlight Flip Up Lens for TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion and Strion Flashlights?
- Perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, hunters, campers, and anyone who frequently uses a Streamlight TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion, or Strion flashlight in low-light conditions. It’s especially useful for preserving night vision or signaling.
- Anyone who prefers a simple, all-in-one solution over carrying multiple flashlights or using separate filters will find this product appealing.
- This product might not be ideal for those who require perfectly clean, artifact-free colored light beams. The slight haze when flipped up might be distracting in certain applications.
Conclusion on Streamlight Flashlight Flip Up Lens for TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion and Strion Flashlights
Pros
- Easy to install and remove (though tight fitting).
- Durable construction.
- Convenient flip-up design for quick color transitions.
- Affordable way to add versatility to compatible Streamlight flashlights.
- Available in three useful colors (red, blue, green).
Cons
- Slight blurring/haze around the edges of the beam when the lens is flipped up.
- Very tight fit can make initial installation difficult.
The Streamlight Flashlight Flip Up Lens for TL-2, NF-2, Scorpion and Strion Flashlights is a simple, effective, and affordable accessory that significantly enhances the versatility of compatible Streamlight flashlights. The convenience of the flip-up design and the durability of the construction make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who frequently uses their flashlight in various lighting conditions.
The price is definitely justified, considering the added functionality and convenience it provides. It’s a small price to pay for significantly increased utility.
I would absolutely recommend it to anyone who owns a compatible Streamlight flashlight and needs colored light for any reason. Enhance your Streamlight today with this simple, yet effective tool!
