iProtec RM230 Clear 200/40 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum Review

The iProtec RM230 Clear 200/40 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum Made a Bold First Impression

As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless weapon lights come and go. I was looking for an affordable, yet reliable, option to equip a training pistol when I came across the iProtec RM230 Clear 200/40 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum. The promise of a rail-mounted light at this price point, especially one designed for both pistols and long guns, piqued my interest.

My existing weapon light setup was overkill for simple range practice. I wanted something functional and cost-effective for force-on-force drills. The iProtec RM230 Clear 200/40 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum seemed like a potential solution.

Upon unboxing, the light felt surprisingly solid for its price. The black anodized aluminum housing had a decent heft. The adjustable hinge mount, advertised as tool-less, seemed robust enough to withstand repeated mounting and dismounting.

I considered similar options from Streamlight and SureFire, but their entry-level models were significantly pricier. Other budget lights felt flimsy and unreliable. I chose the iProtec RM230 Clear 200/40 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum because it offered a reasonable balance of features and affordability.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The light didn’t scream “high-end,” but it also didn’t feel like a cheap toy. I was eager to see how it would perform at the range.

Real-World Testing: Putting iProtec RM230 Clear 200/40 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the iProtec RM230 Clear 200/40 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum took place at an indoor shooting range. I mounted it on my Glock 19, which has a standard accessory rail. The tool-less mounting system worked as advertised; it was quick and easy to secure the light.

The 200-lumen high setting was adequate for illuminating targets at typical pistol ranges. The light pattern was focused enough to provide good target identification without excessive spill. However, the 40-lumen low setting seemed almost imperceptible in the well-lit indoor environment.

During rapid firing drills, the iProtec RM230 Clear 200/40 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum held its zero. There were no noticeable issues with the mount loosening or the light flickering. The only issue encountered was a slight difficulty in manipulating the on/off switch with gloves on.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the iProtec RM230 Clear 200/40 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum has proven to be surprisingly durable. The anodized finish has held up well to minor bumps and scrapes. I haven’t observed any significant wear and tear.

Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. I did notice a slight build-up of carbon residue around the lens. This was easily removed with a cotton swab.

Compared to more expensive weapon lights I’ve used, the iProtec RM230 Clear 200/40 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum doesn’t offer the same level of refinement or features. It does however meet basic requirements for a weapon mounted light. It performs reliably and at a fraction of the cost.

Breaking Down the Features of iProtec RM230 Clear 200/40 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum

Specifications

• The iProtec RM230 Clear 200/40 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum boasts a maximum output of 230 lumens on its high setting. It offers a secondary low setting of 40 lumens.
• The body is constructed from black anodized aluminum. This provides a decent level of durability.
• It is designed for rail-equipped pistols and long guns, excluding subcompacts. The adjustable hinge mount is intended for tool-less installation.

The lumen output is sufficient for close-quarters engagements and target identification at short to medium ranges. The aluminum construction helps protect against impacts and abrasion. The mount ensures compatibility with a wide range of firearms, increasing its versatility.

Performance & Functionality

The iProtec RM230 Clear 200/40 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum performs its primary function adequately. It provides enough light to illuminate targets in low-light conditions.

The high setting is suitable for most tactical situations. The low setting may be useful for navigation or close-range tasks where excessive brightness is undesirable. The on/off switch is easily accessible.

One potential weakness is the limited beam distance. It might not be ideal for situations requiring long-range illumination.

Design & Ergonomics

The iProtec RM230 Clear 200/40 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum features a simple, functional design. The aluminum construction feels solid and well-made for its price point.

The light is relatively lightweight, minimizing added bulk to the firearm. The adjustable hinge mount allows for easy attachment and removal. However, the switch could be more tactile.

The ergonomics are decent. The light is easy to operate with one hand.

Durability & Maintenance

The anodized aluminum construction suggests a reasonable level of durability. The light appears capable of withstanding normal use and minor impacts.

Maintenance is straightforward; cleaning the lens and body is all that’s required. There are no user-serviceable parts.

The lifespan of the LED bulb should be considerable, reducing the need for frequent replacements. However, only time will reveal its true long term durability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The iProtec RM230 Clear 200/40 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum does not come with any additional accessories beyond what’s needed for mounting. There are no readily available customization options.

The integrated rail mount is the primary means of attachment. It is designed to be compatible with standard Picatinny rails.

Users may explore third-party pressure switches or remote activation systems. It is not officially supported by the Manufacturer.

Pros and Cons of iProtec RM230 Clear 200/40 Lumens Black Anodized Aluminum