First Thoughts on the Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black
The Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black is a compact, versatile lighting solution from Streamlight, a name I’ve trusted for years. This isn’t just a penlight; it’s a convertible tool designed for hands-free convenience with its 360-degree lantern feature, promising utility in tight spots and emergency situations. The sleek design and pocket-friendly size immediately sparked my interest.
As a tactical gear specialist, I constantly encounter situations where a reliable, easily accessible light source is crucial. I was looking for a compact, everyday carry (EDC) light that could transition from a focused beam to area lighting. This combo light appeared to solve the challenge of needing both in a single, streamlined package.
Unboxing the Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black, I was immediately impressed by its solid feel despite its lightweight construction. The black finish is clean and professional, and the metal clip feels sturdy. It felt like a well-engineered piece of equipment, ready to tackle demanding tasks.
Compared to other penlights I’ve used, like the Olight i3T EOS or the ThruNite Ti3, the Stylus Pro 360 stood out due to its lantern function. While those lights offered excellent focused beams, they lacked the area lighting versatility. I chose the Stylus Pro 360 because of its dual functionality and Streamlight’s reputation for reliability.
My initial excitement was high. The promise of a penlight and lantern in one, backed by a reputable brand, suggested a practical and valuable addition to my EDC. I couldn’t wait to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black during a nighttime search and rescue training exercise. The exercise took place in a dense wooded area. I used the penlight for navigating the narrow trails and then switched to the lantern function when setting up a command post.
The light performed admirably in the damp conditions. The penlight beam was sufficient for illuminating the path ahead, and the lantern provided ample ambient light within the immediate area. Switching between the penlight and lantern modes was intuitive and easy to do with one hand.
I did find the 65 lumens to be slightly less intense than I initially hoped for the penlight beam. But it was adequate for close-range tasks. The real advantage was the ease of switching to the lantern function, which made setting up gear in the dark much easier than with a standard flashlight.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black has become a staple in my everyday carry. It’s been through everything from routine gear checks to assisting with vehicle repairs in low-light conditions. The light has been consistently reliable.
The light has shown minimal signs of wear and tear. The anodized aluminum body has held up well to scratches and impacts. The clip remains secure, and the switch still functions smoothly.
Maintaining the light is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it needs. I’ve only had to replace the AAA batteries a couple of times, which is reasonable for the amount of use it gets.
Compared to other EDC lights I’ve owned, the Stylus Pro 360 excels in its versatility. It might not be the brightest penlight, but the added lantern function sets it apart. It consistently outperforms single-function lights in situations where both focused and area lighting are needed.
Breaking Down the Features of Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black
Specifications
65 Lumens Output: Provides ample light for close-range tasks and general illumination. This is suitable for EDC and tasks where extreme brightness isn’t required.
AAA Batteries (2): Powered by readily available AAA batteries, offering convenience and cost-effectiveness. This allows for easy replacement in most situations.
Penlight and Lantern Combo: Features both a focused penlight beam and a 360-degree area light. This provides versatile lighting options in a single device.
Black Anodized Aluminum Construction: Durable and lightweight, ensuring long-lasting performance. The anodized finish adds corrosion resistance.
Pocket Clip: Provides secure and convenient carry, keeping the light readily accessible. This is crucial for EDC and tactical applications.
These specifications translate to a highly practical and user-friendly tool. The lumen output is adequate for most everyday tasks, while the AAA batteries offer convenience and affordability. The penlight/lantern combo makes it a versatile lighting solution, and the durable construction ensures it can withstand daily wear and tear.
Performance & Functionality
The Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black performs its job effectively, providing both focused and area lighting in a compact form factor. The penlight beam is sufficient for tasks like reading maps or inspecting equipment, while the lantern function excels at illuminating small areas for hands-free operation. Its reliability is a major strength.
The switch mechanism is smooth and responsive, allowing for quick transitions between the penlight and lantern modes. The light distribution in lantern mode is even, providing consistent illumination in all directions. The 65 lumens output is a slight weakness for those needing long-distance visibility, but adequate for most tasks.
Overall, the Stylus Pro 360 meets expectations as a versatile and reliable EDC light. It might not be the brightest or most powerful light on the market, but its combination of features and ease of use make it a valuable tool.
Design & Ergonomics
The Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black features a sleek and minimalist design. The anodized aluminum body is both durable and lightweight, making it comfortable to carry in a pocket or attached to a belt.
The knurled grip provides a secure hold, even in wet conditions. The pocket clip is sturdy and keeps the light readily accessible. The learning curve is minimal; the switch mechanism is intuitive and easy to operate.
Durability & Maintenance
The anodized aluminum construction suggests good durability. The light has withstood drops and impacts without any significant damage. The Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black should last for years with proper care.
Maintenance is minimal. Replacing the batteries is straightforward, and a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean. The durable construction and simple design contribute to its long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black comes with a removable pocket clip and a nylon belt holster. While there are limited customization options for the light itself, the AAA battery compatibility allows users to choose between alkaline or rechargeable batteries based on their needs.
The light is compatible with standard AAA battery brands. This provides flexibility in terms of power source.
Pros and Cons of Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black
Pros
- Versatile Penlight/Lantern Combo: Offers both focused and area lighting in a single, compact device.
- Durable Aluminum Construction: Ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Convenient AAA Battery Power: Provides easy and cost-effective battery replacement.
- Pocket Clip and Belt Holster: Allows for secure and accessible carry options.
- Easy to Use: Simple switch mechanism and intuitive operation.
Cons
- Limited Lumen Output: 65 lumens may not be sufficient for all applications.
- No Adjustable Beam: The penlight beam is fixed and cannot be adjusted for focus.
Who Should Buy Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black?
The Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black is perfect for anyone who needs a versatile and reliable EDC light. It’s ideal for technicians, mechanics, first responders, and anyone who frequently works in low-light conditions and requires both focused and area lighting. It would also be suitable for campers who need a small light for navigating a tent.
Those who require a high-intensity, long-range spotlight should skip this product. This light is designed for close-range tasks.
A must-have accessory would be a set of rechargeable AAA batteries. This will save money and reduce waste in the long run.
Conclusion on Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black
The Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black is a well-designed and versatile EDC light that delivers on its promises. Its combination of focused penlight and 360-degree lantern functionality makes it a valuable tool for a wide range of applications. While the lumen output might not be the highest, the overall performance and reliability justify the price of $25.99.
I would personally recommend this light to anyone looking for a compact and versatile EDC solution. It’s a practical and dependable tool that you’ll find yourself reaching for time and time again. Add the Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 to your EDC today and experience the convenience of versatile lighting in a pocket-sized package!