Lb Marketing 97713 Zephyr-R Gray 450/1,500 Lumens White LED Review

What Makes Lb Marketing 97713 Zephyr-R Gray 450/1,500 Lumens White LED Stand Out?

The Lb Marketing 97713 Zephyr-R Gray 450/1,500 Lumens White LED tactical flashlight, manufactured by Police Security Flashlights, enters a crowded market. With a claimed 1500 lumens on high and a rechargeable battery, it promises serious performance at a reasonable price. Is it just another flashlight, or does it offer something unique for tactical users and outdoor enthusiasts?

My aging flashlight finally gave out during a recent power outage, leaving me fumbling in the dark. This prompted a search for a robust, reliable, and rechargeable light for both emergency preparedness and outdoor use. I needed something brighter than my old light, with decent battery life, and tough enough to handle the rigors of camping and occasional tactical training.

Upon unboxing the Zephyr-R, I was immediately struck by its solid feel and the aggressive knurling on the body. The gray finish gives it a professional, understated look, and the rubberized head hints at the durability claims. It felt heavier than expected, which initially gave me confidence in the build quality.

I considered the Streamlight ProTac HL-X and the Fenix PD36R, both excellent lights with strong reputations. Ultimately, the Zephyr-R won out due to its combination of high lumen output and lower price point, making it an intriguing option to test. I was hoping for a performance that could rival those more expensive lights.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; the light felt well-made, and the advertised features seemed promising. However, only real-world testing would reveal whether the Lb Marketing 97713 Zephyr-R Gray 450/1,500 Lumens White LED could live up to its potential or would fall short under pressure.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Lb Marketing 97713 Zephyr-R Gray 450/1,500 Lumens White LED to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Zephyr-R during a nighttime hike in the local state park. The trail was familiar, but the lack of moonlight made it a perfect proving ground for a new flashlight. Switching between the high and low modes was easy with the tail cap switch, and the twist focus allowed for a good balance of throw and flood.

The light performed admirably in the damp forest environment. The IPX7 waterproof rating gave me peace of mind when crossing a shallow stream, and the bright beam cut through the mist. I did notice the high mode drained the battery noticeably faster than expected, requiring me to switch to low more often to conserve power.

I found the silent switch lived up to its name. There were no loud clicks to alert wildlife. The light’s weight, while initially reassuring, became slightly noticeable after an hour of continuous use, making me wish for a lighter option.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including a weekend camping trip and regular dog walks, the Zephyr-R has proven to be a generally reliable tool. There are no obvious signs of wear on the body, and the rubber head has held up well to minor bumps and scrapes. The charging port cover is still intact, which is often a failure point in cheaper lights.

The flashlight has endured being dropped on hard-packed dirt and briefly submerged in a puddle with no ill effects. Cleaning the lens and body is easy with a damp cloth. Battery life remains a concern on the high setting, requiring frequent recharging, but the included USB-C cable makes this convenient.

Compared to my previous budget flashlight, the Zephyr-R is a significant upgrade in terms of brightness and durability. However, it doesn’t quite match the beam clarity or run-time efficiency of more premium lights I’ve used in the past. It lands in a solid middle ground for performance and value.

Breaking Down the Features of Lb Marketing 97713 Zephyr-R Gray 450/1,500 Lumens White LED

Specifications

• The Lb Marketing 97713 Zephyr-R Gray 450/1,500 Lumens White LED, made by Police Security Flashlights, boasts a maximum output of 1500 lumens. This is important for providing ample light in dark environments.
• It offers two modes: a high setting at 1500 lumens and a low setting at a claimed 450 lumens. These modes give flexibility for different lighting needs and help conserve battery life.
• The light utilizes a single 18650 rechargeable battery. This provides sufficient power for extended use and offers a cost-effective alternative to disposable batteries.
• It features a twist focus, allowing the user to adjust the beam from a wide flood to a concentrated spot. This versatility is useful for various tasks, from close-up work to long-distance visibility.
• The Zephyr-R has an IPX7 waterproof rating. This offers protection against immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, making it suitable for outdoor use in wet conditions.
• It includes a silent tail cap switch for discreet operation. This is essential in tactical situations where noise needs to be kept to a minimum.
• A heavy-duty rubber head protects the lens from impacts. This durability enhances the flashlight’s lifespan.
• The flashlight features a roll stop design to prevent it from rolling away on uneven surfaces. This seemingly simple feature greatly improves user convenience.
• The built-in USB-C charging port allows for convenient recharging. This is critical in today’s world for versatility in charging options.

Performance & Functionality

The Lb Marketing 97713 Zephyr-R Gray 450/1,500 Lumens White LED performs its primary function—providing light—reasonably well. The 1500-lumen output is impressive at close range, but the throw distance isn’t as far as some competitors with similar ratings.

The high mode is ideal for illuminating large areas, while the low mode is sufficient for general tasks and extending battery life. The beam is generally even, with minimal artifacts or dark spots. However, the 1500-lumen spec may be slightly optimistic based on my testing.

The silent switch works reliably, and the twist focus mechanism is smooth and easy to operate with one hand. The flashlight feels well-balanced in hand, but the weight can become fatiguing over extended periods. One improvement I can suggest is a medium mode.

Design & Ergonomics

The Zephyr-R features a simple, functional design. The gray anodized aluminum body provides a solid grip, and the rubberized head adds a layer of protection. It is comfortable to hold, but the aggressive knurling can be abrasive on bare skin.

The tail cap switch is easy to locate and operate, even with gloves. However, some users might find the lack of a side switch less convenient. There is no learning curve to operate this light.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lb Marketing 97713 Zephyr-R Gray 450/1,500 Lumens White LED feels reasonably durable, thanks to its aluminum construction and rubber head. It should withstand normal wear and tear, but I wouldn’t subject it to extreme abuse.

Cleaning the flashlight is straightforward; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The USB-C charging port cover should be inspected regularly to ensure it’s properly sealed. No special tools are required for disassembly.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Zephyr-R comes with a single 18650 rechargeable battery and a USB-C charging cable. There are no other included accessories.

Customization options are limited, as the Zephyr-R is a relatively simple flashlight. It may be compatible with some universal flashlight mounts or clips, but there are no official accessories available from Police Security Flashlights.

Pros and Cons of Lb Marketing 97713 Zephyr-R Gray 450/1,500 Lumens White LED