The Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1 L 350 Lumens 3V CR123A Lithium Black Made a Bold First Impression
For years, I’ve relied on a variety of flashlights, from bulky Maglites to keychain LEDs, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. But I was on the hunt for something more: a compact, powerful, and reliable everyday carry (EDC) flashlight. That’s when I discovered the Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1 L 350 Lumens 3V CR123A Lithium Black.
I needed a flashlight that could easily slip into my pocket without weighing me down, yet still pack a serious punch in terms of brightness and runtime. My old flashlight was simply too large for comfortable daily carry, and the light output was frankly pathetic compared to modern LEDs. The Streamlight ProTac 1L seemed like the perfect solution on paper.
The unboxing experience was straightforward. The flashlight came neatly packaged with a Streamlight branded nylon holster, a removable pocket clip, and a single CR123A lithium battery. The initial feel was impressive; the aircraft aluminum construction felt solid and durable in hand. The anodized finish gives it a sleek, professional look.
Compared to my old incandescent flashlight, which was about the same size, the Streamlight ProTac 1L felt significantly lighter and more robust. I also considered the SureFire G2X Pro and the Olight S2R Baton II. The SureFire was appealing due to its reputation for toughness, but its price was considerably higher. The Olight offered rechargeable convenience, but I preferred the simplicity and longer shelf life of CR123A batteries for EDC.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The size and weight were perfect for EDC, and the build quality seemed excellent. I was eager to see how it performed in real-world conditions, but the initial feeling was excitement and anticipation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1 L 350 Lumens 3V CR123A Lithium Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1 L came during a late-night camping trip. I used it primarily for navigating around the campsite, setting up my tent in the dark, and scanning the perimeter for wildlife. The 350 lumens were more than adequate for illuminating my immediate surroundings.
The ProTac 1L performed admirably even in the damp, cold conditions. The textured grip provided a secure hold even with wet hands. The easy-to-use tail switch allowed for quick and intuitive operation, toggling between high, low, and strobe modes with ease.
I had no issues during the first use. The light was bright and reliable, and the battery seemed to hold its charge well despite extended use. I immediately appreciated the simplicity of the interface.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of near-daily use, the Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1 L has proven to be a reliable and indispensable tool. It’s accompanied me on countless hikes, fishing trips, and even routine tasks around the house and yard. The flashlight has consistently delivered the same level of performance as it did on day one.
Despite being tossed around in my backpack, subjected to rain and mud, and even accidentally dropped a few times, the ProTac 1L shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The anodized finish has held up exceptionally well, with only minor scratches and scuffs. I’ve replaced the battery once in six months under relatively frequent usage.
Maintenance is incredibly simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep it clean. This Streamlight surpasses my previous EDC flashlights in terms of durability and reliability. The brightness and consistent performance inspires confidence in its ability to perform in any situation.
Breaking Down the Features of Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1 L 350 Lumens 3V CR123A Lithium Black
Specifications
The Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1 L 350 Lumens 3V CR123A Lithium Black boasts several key specifications that contribute to its excellent performance. Its C4 LED delivers a maximum output of 350 lumens. This light is powered by a single 3V CR123A lithium battery.
The body is constructed from durable aircraft aluminum with an anodized finish for enhanced corrosion resistance. The flashlight also features a removable pocket clip and comes with a nylon holster for convenient carry. These features directly impact the light’s usability, durability, and overall value.
Performance & Functionality
The Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1 L excels at its primary function: providing reliable and bright illumination. The 350-lumen output is sufficient for most EDC tasks, from navigating dark environments to performing detailed work in low-light conditions. The three lighting modes (high, low, and strobe) offer versatility for different situations.
One strength is the intuitive tail switch operation, which allows for easy one-handed use. A minor weakness is that the low mode could be lower for extended runtime. The Streamlight ProTac 1 L meets and exceeds my expectations for an EDC flashlight.
Design & Ergonomics
The Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1 L features a sleek and functional design. The aluminum construction provides a solid and substantial feel without being overly heavy. The textured grip ensures a secure and comfortable hold, even with gloves.
The flashlight is incredibly user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive interface. There is virtually no learning curve; anyone can pick it up and use it effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
The Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1 L is built to last. The aircraft aluminum construction and anodized finish provide excellent resistance to wear and tear. It is rated to withstand drops and impacts.
Maintenance is minimal. The sealed construction protects the internal components from dust and moisture. Replacing the battery is a simple and straightforward process.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1 L comes with a removable pocket clip and a durable nylon holster. While there aren’t many direct customization options, its standard size and CR123A battery compatibility mean it works well with many aftermarket accessories. This makes it an incredibly versatile option.
Pros and Cons of Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1 L 350 Lumens 3V CR123A Lithium Black
Pros
- Excellent balance of size, weight, and brightness. This makes it perfect for EDC.
- Durable aircraft aluminum construction. This ensures longevity and reliability.
- Easy-to-use tail switch with multiple lighting modes. This provides versatility in various situations.
- Reliable performance and long battery life. This makes it dependable in critical moments.
- Affordable price point compared to similar high-quality flashlights. This offers excellent value.
Cons
- Low mode could be lower for extended runtime and less light pollution.
- No rechargeable battery option; reliant on CR123A batteries (though this can also be a pro for some).
Who Should Buy Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1 L 350 Lumens 3V CR123A Lithium Black?
The Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1 L is perfect for: law enforcement officers, security personnel, outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and anyone looking for a reliable and powerful EDC flashlight. It is also ideal for homeowners who want a dependable light source for emergencies.
Those who prioritize extremely high lumen output or prefer rechargeable batteries might want to consider other options. People who need a very low moonlight mode for reading in complete darkness might not find the “low” setting low enough.
A must-have accessory is a supply of extra CR123A batteries to ensure continuous operation. Consider a high-quality battery carrier to keep them organized and protected.
Conclusion on Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1 L 350 Lumens 3V CR123A Lithium Black
The Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1 L 350 Lumens 3V CR123A Lithium Black is an outstanding EDC flashlight that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and value. At a price of $41.49, it is a great balance of affordability and high quality.
I would highly recommend this flashlight to anyone in need of a reliable and powerful light source for everyday carry or emergency preparedness. It has become an indispensable part of my gear, and I am confident that it will serve you well too. Don’t get caught in the dark – grab a Streamlight ProTac 1L today!