Stinger 2020 Review

The Stinger 2020 Made a Bold First Impression

Flashlights have always been essential tools in my line of work, from navigating dark trails on search and rescue missions to meticulously inspecting gear under low-light conditions. The Stinger 2020 from Streamlight immediately caught my attention with its promise of a high-lumen output, a compact design, and a reputation for ruggedness. The initial specs hinted at a light that could handle anything I threw its way, and I was eager to test that claim.

I’ve been searching for a reliable, high-output flashlight that is also compact and rechargeable. My older lights were either too bulky or lacked the brightness needed for certain tasks. The Stinger 2020 seemed to offer the perfect balance.

Unboxing the Stinger 2020 was a pleasant experience. The light felt substantial in my hand, a clear indicator of quality materials. Its weight was reassuring, not cumbersome. The machining was precise, and the overall fit and finish gave the impression of a tool built to last.

I considered other options, including lights from SureFire and Fenix. While both offer excellent products, the Stinger 2020‘s combination of price, features, and reputation for durability swayed me. The Streamlight name carries weight in the tactical community, and I trusted their commitment to quality.

My first impression was one of excitement tempered with cautious optimism. The Stinger 2020 looked the part, but the real test would come in its performance under pressure. The promise of 2,000 lumens in such a compact package was certainly intriguing.

Real-World Testing: Putting Stinger 2020 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Stinger 2020 was during a night navigation exercise in the nearby national forest. The terrain was challenging, with steep slopes, dense undergrowth, and a complete absence of ambient light. The Stinger 2020 was essential for identifying landmarks and navigating the trails.

The weather was typical for that time of year: damp and chilly. The Stinger 2020‘s performance was unaffected by the moisture. It maintained a steady beam even when exposed to light rain. I immediately appreciated the intuitive operation.

The light’s simple interface allowed me to quickly switch between the high, medium, and low output modes. There was no fumbling or confusion, even with gloved hands.

After the first use, I noticed that the 2-hour runtime on high was accurate. This required careful battery management.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Stinger 2020 continues to impress. It’s become a constant companion on hiking trips, camping excursions, and even everyday tasks around the house. The anodized aluminum body has proven to be remarkably durable, resisting scratches and dents despite being subjected to frequent impacts and abrasions.

There are only minor signs of wear and tear, primarily some slight discoloration of the finish on the edges. The lens remains clear and scratch-free.

Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep the Stinger 2020 in top condition. The battery charges quickly and efficiently.

Compared to my previous experiences with other flashlights, the Stinger 2020 significantly outperforms them in terms of brightness, durability, and overall reliability. Its compact size and powerful output make it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications.

Breaking Down the Features of Stinger 2020

Specifications

The Stinger 2020 boasts the following specifications:

• High Lumen Output: 2,000 lumens. This provides a powerful beam for maximum visibility in dark conditions.
• Beam Distance: 315 meters. This allows for effective target identification at long distances.
• Runtime (High): 2 hours. Balancing brightness and battery life for demanding tasks.
• Runtime (Medium): 4 hours. Providing a good balance of brightness and extended use.
• Runtime (Low): 24 hours. Maximizing runtime for situations where high brightness is not essential.
• Low Lumen Output: 100 Lumens. Suitable for tasks in close quarters or for reading in low light.
• Medium Lumen Output: 850 Lumens. Good balance of brightness and run time.
• Beam Distance (Medium): 200 meters. Provides good range for general purpose lighting.
• Beam Distance (Low): 70 meters. Sufficient for close range tasks and conservation of battery life.

These specifications are important because they dictate the light’s performance in various scenarios. The high lumen output is critical for search and rescue operations, while the long runtime on low is ideal for extended camping trips. The beam distance is essential for identifying potential hazards from a distance.

Performance & Functionality

The Stinger 2020 excels at its primary task: providing reliable and powerful illumination. The beam is bright, focused, and throws light a significant distance. The ability to switch between high, medium, and low output modes makes it versatile enough to handle a wide range of lighting needs.

The light’s strengths lie in its brightness, durability, and ease of use. One potential improvement is adding a strobe mode for signaling or self-defense purposes.

The Stinger 2020 more than meets expectations. It delivers on its promises and has become an indispensable tool in my gear kit.

Design & Ergonomics

The Stinger 2020 is constructed from high-quality anodized aluminum. This provides excellent durability and a comfortable grip. The light is well-balanced in the hand and easy to operate, even with gloves.

The light is very user-friendly. The single button interface is intuitive and easy to learn. The compact design makes it easy to carry and store.

Durability & Maintenance

The Stinger 2020 is built to last. The robust construction and durable materials ensure that it can withstand the rigors of regular use. With proper care and maintenance, this light should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal. Keeping the lens clean and occasionally lubricating the threads is all that’s typically required. The rechargeable battery is designed for long life and can be easily replaced when necessary.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Stinger 2020 comes with a charging cradle and both AC and DC power adapters. It does not offer extensive customization options.

However, the standard charging cradle can be easily mounted in a vehicle or used with a variety of charging solutions.

Pros and Cons of Stinger 2020

Who Should Buy Stinger 2020?

The Stinger 2020 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, search and rescue teams, and anyone who needs a reliable, high-performance flashlight for demanding tasks. It’s also a great choice for homeowners, campers, and hikers who want a powerful and durable light for everyday use.

Those who need a light with a longer runtime on high or extensive customization options might want to consider other products.

A must-have accessory is a spare battery to extend runtime in the field.

Conclusion on Stinger 2020

The Stinger 2020 is an excellent flashlight that delivers on its promises. Its combination of high lumen output, durable construction, and ease of use makes it a top contender in its class. The $139.99 price tag is justified given the light’s performance and build quality.

I would highly recommend the Stinger 2020 to anyone in need of a reliable and powerful flashlight. It’s a tool that I trust and rely on, and I’m confident that it will serve you well. Add the Stinger 2020 to your gear today and experience the difference a quality flashlight can make.