Let’s Dive into New Sightmark Triple Duty SS280 Tactical
The New Sightmark Triple Duty SS280 Tactical flashlight promises versatility and reliability at an affordable price point. Marketed by Sightmark as a multi-functional tool, it aims to be more than just a flashlight with its variable brightness, strobe function, and colored filters. I decided to get my hands on one to see if it lives up to the tactical claims.
I needed a compact, weapon-mountable light that could serve multiple purposes during nighttime hog hunts. My previous light was bulky and lacked colored filters, making it difficult to avoid spooking game. This flashlight seemed to offer a more versatile and compact solution at a reasonable cost.
Upon unboxing, the flashlight felt surprisingly solid for its price. The Type II mil-spec anodizing gave it a rugged, no-nonsense appearance. It felt well-balanced in my hand and the push-button switch operated smoothly.
I considered other options like the Streamlight ProTac HL-X and the SureFire G2X Tactical. However, those were significantly more expensive and lacked the colored filter options of the New Sightmark Triple Duty SS280 Tactical. The Sightmark’s price point and multi-functional design ultimately swayed my decision.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The flashlight felt robust and the colored filters seemed like a valuable addition. However, I was slightly skeptical about the 280-lumen output, wondering if it would be bright enough for my needs.
Real-World Testing: Putting New Sightmark Triple Duty SS280 Tactical to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test for the New Sightmark Triple Duty SS280 Tactical was on a nighttime hog hunt in central Texas. The landscape varied from open fields to dense brush, offering a range of lighting challenges. I mounted it on my AR-15 using an aftermarket weapon mount.
The flashlight performed surprisingly well in the open fields. The 280 lumens provided adequate illumination for target identification out to about 75 yards. The red filter proved especially useful for preserving my night vision and minimizing spooking the hogs.
The push-button switch was easy to operate, even with gloved hands. Switching between brightness levels and the strobe function was intuitive. However, the light struggled in the denser brush, where the limited output was insufficient to penetrate the foliage.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the New Sightmark Triple Duty SS280 Tactical has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it in various conditions, from rain to dusty environments, without any significant issues. The waterproof design has proven effective.
The anodized finish shows minimal signs of wear, even after being mounted on a rifle that endures rough handling. The threads for the filter attachment remain smooth and undamaged. However, I did notice that the battery life is shorter than I initially anticipated, especially when using the higher brightness settings.
Cleaning is straightforward, usually just requiring a quick wipe down with a damp cloth. I periodically check the threads and apply a small amount of lubricant to maintain smooth operation. Compared to my previous lights, the New Sightmark Triple Duty SS280 Tactical has proven to be more versatile, although it doesn’t quite match the raw power of higher-lumen options.
Breaking Down the Features of New Sightmark Triple Duty SS280 Tactical
Specifications
- 280 Lumen Cree LED: Provides a decent amount of light for close to mid-range illumination. This is sufficient for many tactical and outdoor applications but may be limiting in situations requiring long-distance visibility.
- Push Button Switch: Offers simple and intuitive operation. This allows for easy switching between different modes, even with gloves.
- Type II Mil-Spec Anodizing: Enhances the durability and corrosion resistance of the flashlight. This ensures the flashlight can withstand harsh environmental conditions.
- Waterproof: Protects the flashlight from water damage during wet conditions. This is essential for outdoor and tactical use where exposure to rain or moisture is likely.
- Selector Switch w/ Variable Brightness and Strobe: Provides versatility in different lighting conditions and tactical situations. The strobe function can be used for signaling or disorienting threats.
- Red, Blue, and Green Filters: Allows for adapting the light to different environments and tasks. Red preserves night vision, blue can be used for tracking, and green is often used for hunting without spooking game.
- Weapons-Mountable with Additional Flashlight Accessory: Expands the flashlight’s utility for tactical applications. This requires purchasing a separate mount compatible with the flashlight’s body.
Performance & Functionality
The New Sightmark Triple Duty SS280 Tactical performs its core function as a flashlight adequately. The various brightness settings allow for conserving battery life when maximum output isn’t necessary. The colored filters are a significant advantage, especially for hunting and preserving night vision.
The main weakness is the relatively low lumen output compared to other tactical lights on the market. This limits its effectiveness in very dark or densely vegetated areas. However, for close-to-mid-range tasks, it performs reliably.
It meets my expectations for a budget-friendly, multi-functional light but doesn’t exceed them in terms of raw power.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is commendable for the price point. The aluminum body feels solid and well-constructed. The flashlight weighs a comfortable amount, neither too heavy nor too light.
The push-button switch is ergonomically placed and easy to access. The filter attachment is also straightforward to use, requiring minimal effort to swap between colors. There’s virtually no learning curve involved with this flashlight.
Durability & Maintenance
With its Type II mil-spec anodizing and waterproof design, the New Sightmark Triple Duty SS280 Tactical should last for several years with proper care. The robust construction minimizes the risk of damage from impacts and drops.
Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving cleaning the lens and occasionally lubricating the threads. Replacing the batteries is a simple process.
Accessories and Customization Options
The New Sightmark Triple Duty SS280 Tactical comes with the included red, blue, and green filters. The primary customization option is the ability to mount it on a weapon using a separate flashlight mount.
It is compatible with most standard Picatinny rail mounts designed for flashlights with a one-inch body diameter. There are no specific grip or bezel customization options available for this model.
Pros and Cons of New Sightmark Triple Duty SS280 Tactical
Pros
- Affordable Price: Offers a good balance of features and performance for the cost.
- Versatile Colored Filters: The red, blue, and green filters enhance its utility for various applications.
- Durable Construction: The Type II mil-spec anodizing provides good resistance to wear and tear.
- Waterproof Design: Ensures reliable performance in wet conditions.
- Easy to Use: The push-button switch and intuitive design make it simple to operate.
Cons
- Limited Lumen Output: The 280 lumens may be insufficient for demanding tasks requiring long-distance visibility.
- Shorter Battery Life: High brightness settings drain the battery relatively quickly.
Who Should Buy New Sightmark Triple Duty SS280 Tactical?
The New Sightmark Triple Duty SS280 Tactical is perfect for budget-conscious hunters, casual campers, and homeowners looking for a versatile and reliable flashlight. It is also suitable for airsoft or paintball enthusiasts needing a weapon-mountable light.
This product may not be ideal for professional security personnel, law enforcement officers, or anyone requiring maximum lumen output in extremely dark environments.
A must-have accessory is a quality weapon mount if intending to use it on a rifle or shotgun. Extra batteries are also recommended due to the shorter battery life at higher brightness levels.
Conclusion on New Sightmark Triple Duty SS280 Tactical
The New Sightmark Triple Duty SS280 Tactical is a solid, multi-functional flashlight that delivers good value for its price. Its versatility, thanks to the colored filters and weapon-mountable design, makes it a worthwhile addition to any outdoor or tactical gear collection.
The price is definitely justified given its feature set and build quality. While it may not compete with higher-end, high-lumen options, it offers a compelling package for those on a budget.
I would recommend the New Sightmark Triple Duty SS280 Tactical to anyone seeking an affordable and versatile flashlight for general use, hunting, or recreational activities. It’s a reliable tool that won’t break the bank. Grab yours today and see the difference a well-rounded flashlight can make!