Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit Review

The Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit Made a Bold First Impression

As someone who relies on reliable lighting in demanding situations, I’ve always appreciated the Streamlight Stinger series. My personal Stinger HL has been a faithful companion for years, enduring countless nights on search and rescue operations and holding its own during unexpected power outages. However, the one part that inevitably wears down with constant use is the switch. That’s why the Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit caught my eye – a seemingly simple solution to extend the life of a crucial tool.

My aging Stinger HL‘s switch had become increasingly unreliable, flickering intermittently and sometimes failing to activate at all. This was not just an inconvenience, but a potential safety hazard when relying on the light in critical situations. Several other brands offer similar drop-in switch replacements, but I opted for the Streamlight kit, trusting their reputation for quality and ensuring compatibility with my existing light. My first impression was one of relief; the kit looked complete and promised a straightforward repair.

The Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit arrived in a small, no-frills package. Inside were the replacement LED, switch boot, screws, and the triangle tool needed for disassembly. The components appeared well-made, consistent with Streamlight‘s standards. I was immediately struck by the robust feel of the new switch boot compared to my old one, which was showing significant wear. This gave me confidence that the replacement would be a significant upgrade.

While other generic switch kits might be cheaper, I chose the Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit for guaranteed compatibility and peace of mind. Off-brand parts can sometimes introduce unexpected issues, so sticking with the Streamlight name seemed like the wiser choice. My initial excitement was tempered with a hint of apprehension, as any repair carries the risk of unintended consequences. Nevertheless, the prospect of restoring my trusty Stinger HL to its former glory outweighed any doubts.

Real-World Testing: Putting Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

The first opportunity to test the Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit came during a nighttime search and rescue training exercise in a heavily wooded area. After installing the kit, which was surprisingly easy thanks to clear online instructions and the included tool, the light felt like new. The switch operated smoothly and positively, with none of the hesitation or flickering I’d grown accustomed to.

The difference was immediately noticeable in the field. While navigating uneven terrain and dense undergrowth in the dark, the reliable switch allowed me to focus on the task at hand without worrying about the light cutting out. Even with gloved hands, the new switch boot provided a solid grip and positive activation. The temperature dropped close to freezing during the exercise, and the Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit performed flawlessly, unaffected by the cold.

There was a minor surprise during the installation process. While disassembling the old switch, I discovered a small amount of corrosion. The new switch and LED were sealed better that my old set up, that should greatly improve the longevity and overall performance of the light.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit continues to impress. My Stinger HL has been exposed to a variety of challenging conditions, including rain, mud, and extreme temperature fluctuations. The replacement switch has remained consistent and reliable, with no signs of degradation or malfunction.

Durability has been excellent. The switch boot shows no signs of wear, despite being subjected to repeated use and occasional impacts. Cleaning the switch area is straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe with a damp cloth. The new LED is brighter and clearer than I remember the old one being.

Compared to my previous frustrating experiences with the failing original switch, the Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit has been a revelation. It has restored my confidence in my Stinger HL as a dependable tool for any situation. It has truly felt like I have gotten a brand new light.

Breaking Down the Features of Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit

Specifications

The Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit is designed as a direct replacement for the mid-body switch assembly in Streamlight Stinger HL and Stinger HPL flashlights. It includes the following components:

• Replacement LED: Provides updated illumination for the flashlight. This includes upgraded output over older models.

• Switch Boot: A durable rubber cover for the switch, protecting it from dust, moisture, and impacts. It is made from high-quality rubber that grips well even when wet.

• Screws: Necessary hardware for securing the switch assembly within the flashlight body. This is crucial to ensuring a secure and safe install.

• Triangle Tool: A specialized tool for disassembling and reassembling the flashlight housing. This is necessary for getting to the inner components of the flashlight.

These specifications are crucial because they ensure proper fit and functionality within the specified Streamlight models. The quality of materials used directly impacts the switch’s reliability and longevity, especially in harsh environments. A properly functioning switch is essential for quickly and reliably activating the light in critical situations.

Performance & Functionality

The Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit excels in its primary function: restoring the reliable operation of the flashlight’s switch. The new switch offers a positive and consistent activation, eliminating the intermittent failures that plagued the original. It is incredibly reliable and consistent.

• Strengths: The kit is easy to install, provides a noticeable improvement in switch reliability, and includes all necessary components for a complete replacement. This ensures a complete restore of the flashlight.
• Weaknesses: The kit only addresses the switch and LED; other potential failure points in the flashlight are not addressed.

The Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit meets and exceeds expectations by completely resolving the switch issues and revitalizing the flashlight’s performance. It is a cheap way to bring a flashlight back to life.

Design & Ergonomics

The Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit is designed to seamlessly integrate with the existing Stinger HL/HPL flashlight body.

• The replacement LED offers improved brightness, and the switch boot provides a comfortable and secure grip. This allows for better output and control.
• There is minimal learning curve, as the switch operates identically to the original. The install takes some time, but overall, the product is extremely user-friendly.

The Streamlight kit is designed to be an easy and fast replacement to the internal components.

Durability & Maintenance

The high-quality materials used in the Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit suggest excellent long-term durability.

• The robust switch boot is resistant to wear and tear, and the LED is designed for long life. This increases the longevity of the light.
• Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning of the switch area. This makes for easy maintenance.

The robust kit should last for years to come.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit is primarily a repair kit and does not offer extensive customization options.

• The included LED is a direct replacement and is not intended to be further modified. The replacement LED offers a noticeable improvement in brightness and clarity compared to the original, enhancing the flashlight’s overall performance.
• However, the Stinger HL/HPL flashlight itself is compatible with a variety of accessories, such as colored lenses, holsters, and charging cradles.

No additional accessories or modifications are necessary for the Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit to function as intended.

Pros and Cons of Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit

Who Should Buy Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit?

• Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, security personnel, first responders, and anyone who relies on a Stinger HL/HPL flashlight for professional or personal use.
• Who should skip this product? Anyone whose flashlight has damage beyond a faulty switch, or those who own a flashlight model other than the Stinger HL/HPL.
• Must-have accessories or modifications? None are strictly necessary, but a spare battery is always a good idea for extended use.

Conclusion on Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit

The Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit is a simple yet effective solution for extending the life of a beloved flashlight. At $18.99, the price is more than justified, considering the cost of replacing the entire flashlight.

I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone experiencing switch problems with their Stinger HL/HPL. It’s a worthwhile investment that can restore your faith in a trusted tool.

Don’t let a faulty switch relegate your Stinger HL/HPL to the junk drawer – grab a Stinger HL/HPL Switch Kit and give it a new lease on life!