Let’s Talk About Sportac P60 Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin
The Sportac P60 Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin is designed to breathe new life into older flashlights, specifically those accepting the P60 format. Sportac is aiming to provide a simple upgrade path for users seeking more modern performance without replacing their entire light. This drop-in promises a brighter, more efficient light source.
My journey to finding this drop-in started with a box of old Surefire 6P flashlights. I wasn’t ready to let these durable hosts become paperweights, but their incandescent bulbs were woefully outdated. I needed a cost-effective, efficient LED upgrade and the Sportac P60 Dropin seemed like a perfect solution.
Upon unboxing, the Sportac P60 Dropin presents a no-frills, functional appearance. The drop-in is lightweight, exhibiting a clean, hard anodized finish. The build quality appears solid, promising reliable performance within a compatible host body.
Compared to other options like Malkoff Devices’ P60 drop-ins, the Sportac stands out as a budget-friendly alternative. While Malkoff offers higher performance and a premium price, the Sportac P60 Dropin targets users who want a noticeable improvement without breaking the bank. I chose the Sportac for its balance of affordability and claimed performance.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It didn’t scream “high-end,” but the simplicity and apparent build quality suggested it could be a worthwhile upgrade. The proof, of course, would be in its performance within my old Surefire hosts.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sportac P60 Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was my backyard during a late-night equipment check before a weekend camping trip. I swapped the original incandescent bulb in my Surefire 6P with the Sportac P60 Dropin, loaded an 18650 battery, and clicked it on. The difference was immediately apparent.
The beam was significantly brighter and cleaner than the old incandescent. The two-level functionality provided a useful low mode for close-up tasks and a high mode for scanning the yard. Under a light drizzle, the Sportac P60 Dropin continued to perform without issue.
Using the light with the new drop-in was intuitive. The simple click-on, click-off operation, combined with the two-level output, required no learning curve. I did notice that the switch in my older Surefire 6P was a bit stiff, highlighting the age of the host rather than a flaw of the drop-in itself.
The only initial surprise was the beam profile. It was more of a flood than a throw, which suited my immediate needs but raised a question about long-range performance. I needed to test it further.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including the aforementioned camping trip and regular nightly dog walks, the Sportac P60 Dropin has proven to be a reliable upgrade. It has endured accidental drops onto hard surfaces and exposure to varying temperatures without any noticeable degradation in performance. The hard anodized finish shows no signs of wear.
Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe with a damp cloth after muddy outings is all it takes to keep it clean. Compared to my previous experiences with incandescent bulbs that frequently burned out, the Sportac P60 Dropin has delivered exceptional longevity. This alone is a significant improvement.
Compared to a more expensive, higher-output drop-in I used previously, the Sportac doesn’t quite reach the same level of brightness or throw. However, it offers a far better runtime on the same 18650 battery and has proven more robust in everyday use.
Breaking Down the Features of Sportac P60 Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Sportac. Sportac is known for producing affordable and reliable lighting solutions.
- Finish: Hard Anodized. The hard anodized finish provides excellent scratch resistance and corrosion protection.
- Battery Type: 18650. Utilizing 18650 batteries offers a significant advantage in terms of runtime and power compared to CR123A batteries often used in older lights.
- High-Low Modes. The two-level output provides versatility for different lighting needs.
- 18650 Adapter Ring. The inclusion of an adapter ring allows it to fit properly in P60 hosts designed for smaller batteries.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the performance, durability, and usability of the drop-in. The 18650 battery compatibility dramatically increases runtime and reduces the cost of operation. The hard anodized finish ensures longevity, and the two output levels offer flexibility in various situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Sportac P60 Dropin performs its primary job admirably: it significantly upgrades the light output and efficiency of P60-compatible flashlights. The two levels function as expected, providing a usable low mode and a brighter high mode.
Its strengths lie in its ease of use, reliable performance, and improved runtime. The weakness is that it doesn’t have the extreme brightness or throw of higher-end drop-ins.
It definitely meets expectations, given its price point. It is a noticeable upgrade over incandescent bulbs and provides a substantial improvement in battery life.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, with a clean, no-frills design. The materials used appear durable, and the light weight doesn’t add noticeable bulk to the host flashlight.
It is extremely user-friendly. Installation is straightforward, requiring no special tools or expertise.
Durability & Maintenance
The hard anodized finish and robust construction suggest it will last for years with proper care. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication of the host flashlight are all that’s needed.
The simplicity of the design makes repairs unlikely to be necessary. There are no complex electronics or moving parts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sportac P60 Dropin comes with the 18650 adapter ring. There are no other included accessories.
Customization is limited to the host flashlight itself. Users can experiment with different reflectors or lenses in their P60 host to modify the beam profile. The Sportac P60 Dropin is generally compatible with standard P60 accessories.
Pros and Cons of Sportac P60 Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin
Pros
- Significantly brighter than incandescent bulbs.
- Dramatically improved battery life using 18650 batteries.
- Simple installation – a true drop-in replacement.
- Affordable upgrade for older flashlights.
- Reliable performance in various conditions.
Cons
- Beam profile is more of a flood than a throw.
- Only two output levels.
- Doesn’t offer the extreme brightness of higher-end drop-ins.
Who Should Buy Sportac P60 Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin?
Perfect for: Those seeking an affordable and reliable LED upgrade for their existing P60-compatible flashlights. This is ideal for users who want improved brightness and significantly longer battery life without investing in a completely new flashlight. It’s also good for casual campers or homeowners wanting a brighter light.
Who should skip this product? Individuals requiring maximum brightness and long-range throw should consider higher-end drop-ins from manufacturers like Malkoff Devices. Those who need multiple output modes or more advanced features should also look elsewhere.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality 18650 battery and charger are essential to take full advantage of the Sportac P60 Dropin’s capabilities. Consider upgrading the switch in older flashlights for smoother operation.
Conclusion on Sportac P60 Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin
The Sportac P60 Dropin 2 Levels SF/18650 Dropin is a solid, budget-friendly upgrade for those wanting to revitalize their older P60-compatible flashlights. It delivers a noticeable improvement in brightness and a substantial increase in battery life compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.
At $39.90, the price is certainly justified. It provides excellent value for the performance it offers.
I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable way to upgrade their existing flashlight. It’s a simple, effective solution that breathes new life into old technology.
If you’re tired of dim incandescent bulbs and short battery life, give the Sportac P60 Dropin a try. You might be surprised at how much better your old flashlight can perform.