Let’s Talk About SureFire 1979, Cardinal, S, SST-79-CL-S – 1 out of 5 models
The SureFire 1979, Cardinal, S, SST-79-CL-S – 1 out of 5 models is a bit of an enigma, isn’t it? At $33.99, one expects a basic piece of kit, but with the SureFire name attached, expectations are immediately elevated. Is it a keychain light? A simple multi-tool? I went into this review with a healthy dose of skepticism and a sliver of hope that maybe this unassuming item holds a secret weapon of functionality.
My search for a compact, reliable backup light for my everyday carry (EDC) bag is what brought me to this product. I wanted something smaller and lighter than my usual SureFire EDC light, but with the same level of dependability I’ve come to expect from the brand. The promise of a “Cardinal” model within the SureFire 1979 line intrigued me.
The initial impression upon unboxing was… minimal. The packaging was basic, reflecting the price point. Holding it for the first time, the SureFire 1979, Cardinal, S, SST-79-CL-S – 1 out of 5 models felt incredibly lightweight, almost too lightweight. The materials didn’t immediately scream “premium,” but the SureFire name kept my judgment at bay.
Compared to my SureFire Stiletto Pro or even a Streamlight Microstream, the Cardinal feels less robust. I was hoping for a more substantial feel, closer to a scaled-down version of my favorite SureFire tactical lights. The sleek, almost minimalist, design is appealing, but I questioned whether it was prioritizing aesthetics over practicality.
My first impression was a mix of curiosity and mild disappointment. It’s hard to shake the feeling that at this price, something had to be sacrificed. The SureFire legacy demands excellence; let’s see if this lives up to the name in real-world applications.
Real-World Testing: Putting SureFire 1979, Cardinal, S, SST-79-CL-S – 1 out of 5 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I decided to initially test the SureFire 1979, Cardinal, S, SST-79-CL-S – 1 out of 5 models during my nightly dog walk. The suburban environment provides adequate ambient light, but navigating uneven sidewalks and identifying potential hazards still necessitates a reliable light source. The weather was mild, with a light drizzle, providing a mild test of water resistance.
The ease of use was immediately apparent. It’s a simple on/off operation, no complicated modes or switches. The beam was surprisingly bright for its size, sufficient for illuminating the path ahead and spotting potential trip hazards. However, the beam profile was noticeably narrow, lacking the wider flood of my primary EDC light.
After the first walk, I noticed a slight wobble in the head of the light. It wasn’t significant, but it did raise concerns about long-term durability. The light continued to function normally, but the small wobble was a nagging reminder of the less-than-premium build quality.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use, the SureFire 1979, Cardinal, S, SST-79-CL-S – 1 out of 5 models held up surprisingly well. The wobble in the head never worsened, and the light continued to function reliably. It survived being dropped on concrete a couple of times with only minor cosmetic scratches.
The finish showed some signs of wear and tear, particularly around the edges and clip. The aluminum body seemed relatively soft, and prone to scratching compared to the hard-anodized finish on my more expensive SureFire lights. Cleaning was simple, requiring only a quick wipe with a damp cloth.
Compared to my previous EDC backup light, a generic no-name brand, the Cardinal certainly outperformed it in terms of light output and reliability. However, it fell short of the performance and durability I’ve come to expect from other SureFire products. While functional, it didn’t instill the same confidence.
Breaking Down the Features of SureFire 1979, Cardinal, S, SST-79-CL-S – 1 out of 5 models
Specifications
Unfortunately, concrete specifications for the SureFire 1979, Cardinal, S, SST-79-CL-S – 1 out of 5 models are scarce. The SureFire website lacks detailed information, and third-party retailers often provide conflicting specs. Based on my observations and limited available information, here’s what I could gather:
- Light Source: Likely an SST-79 LED (though unconfirmed), providing a focused beam.
- Material: Aluminum body, likely a lower grade alloy than SureFire’s premium models.
- Size: “S” model, suggesting a compact and easily portable size.
- Output: No official lumen rating is provided. Subjectively, it appears to be in the 100-200 lumen range.
- Power Source: Likely uses a single AAA or similar small battery (unconfirmed).
- Water Resistance: Likely has some degree of water resistance, but not submersible.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the light’s performance, durability, and usability. The lack of official specifications is frustrating, making it difficult to accurately assess the product’s capabilities. Without precise figures, consumers are left to rely on subjective impressions.
Performance & Functionality
The SureFire 1979, Cardinal, S, SST-79-CL-S – 1 out of 5 models performs adequately for its intended purpose as a basic backup light. The light output is sufficient for close-range tasks and navigating dimly lit environments. The simple on/off operation makes it easy to use, even in stressful situations.
However, there are some notable weaknesses. The narrow beam profile limits its effectiveness in larger areas. The lack of multiple brightness modes restricts its versatility. A wider flood beam and adjustable brightness would significantly improve its usability.
It meets the basic expectations for a budget-friendly light, but doesn’t exceed them in any meaningful way. It’s a functional tool, but not a standout performer.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the SureFire 1979, Cardinal, S, SST-79-CL-S – 1 out of 5 models is minimalist and streamlined. The lightweight aluminum body feels comfortable in hand, although the lack of aggressive texturing makes it slightly slippery when wet. The pocket clip is functional but not particularly robust.
The user experience is straightforward. The single button operation is intuitive and easy to master. However, the button itself feels somewhat cheap and lacks the tactile feedback of higher-end SureFire lights. There’s virtually no learning curve, making it immediately accessible to anyone.
Durability & Maintenance
The long-term durability of the SureFire 1979, Cardinal, S, SST-79-CL-S – 1 out of 5 models is questionable. The lightweight aluminum body is prone to scratching and denting. The slight wobble in the head raises concerns about the overall build quality.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning. However, the lack of readily available replacement parts suggests that any major damage will likely render the light unusable. While cleaning is easy, the materials used are not as robust as other SureFire products, raising concerns about its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
There are virtually no accessories or customization options available for the SureFire 1979, Cardinal, S, SST-79-CL-S – 1 out of 5 models. Its simple design and budget-friendly price point don’t lend themselves to aftermarket modifications. The proprietary battery type (likely) further limits customization possibilities. The lack of accessory compatibility is a significant drawback for users who value versatility.
Pros and Cons of SureFire 1979, Cardinal, S, SST-79-CL-S – 1 out of 5 models
Pros
- Inexpensive and affordable.
- Lightweight and compact design.
- Sufficient light output for close-range tasks.
- Simple and intuitive operation.
- Reputable SureFire branding (though entry-level).
Cons
- Lack of official specifications and details.
- Questionable long-term durability.
- Narrow beam profile with no adjustable focus.
- No multiple brightness modes.
- Limited water resistance and lower-grade materials.
Who Should Buy SureFire 1979, Cardinal, S, SST-79-CL-S – 1 out of 5 models?
The SureFire 1979, Cardinal, S, SST-79-CL-S – 1 out of 5 models is perfect for individuals seeking an inexpensive and lightweight backup light for general use. It’s suitable for casual campers, hikers, or anyone who wants a basic light for everyday tasks. It could be a good option as an emergency light in a vehicle or home.
Those who should skip this product include users demanding professional-grade reliability and performance. Anyone needing a durable, feature-rich light for tactical or demanding outdoor applications should look elsewhere. Anyone expecting the same level of quality and performance as other SureFire products will likely be disappointed.
A must-have modification would be upgrading the battery to a higher-capacity or rechargeable option (if compatible). Replacing the pocket clip with a sturdier aftermarket version could also improve its durability. If the emitter could be swapped for a higher output one, that would further increase usability.
Conclusion on SureFire 1979, Cardinal, S, SST-79-CL-S – 1 out of 5 models
The SureFire 1979, Cardinal, S, SST-79-CL-S – 1 out of 5 models is a budget-friendly entry point into the SureFire brand. It provides adequate performance for basic tasks, but falls short of the quality and features expected from higher-end SureFire lights. The lack of official specifications and questionable long-term durability are significant drawbacks.
The price is justified for a basic, functional light from a reputable brand. However, buyers should be aware of its limitations and potential compromises. I would recommend it as a backup light for casual use, but not as a primary light for demanding applications.
Overall, it’s a decent value for the price, but don’t expect the same level of performance and durability as other SureFire products. If you’re looking for an inexpensive and lightweight backup light, the Cardinal might be worth considering. But, if you’re serious about quality and performance, invest in a higher-end model.