First Thoughts on the Surefire Everyday Carry 2 Dual-Output 5/1200 Lumens LED Aluminum Black CR123A Lithium
The Surefire Everyday Carry 2 Dual-Output 5/1200 Lumens LED Aluminum Black CR123A Lithium is more than just a flashlight; it’s a statement. It’s a declaration that you prioritize performance, reliability, and having the right tool at your fingertips, no matter the situation. Surefire has built a reputation on providing top-tier illumination solutions to professionals, and the EDC2 aims to bring that pedigree to the everyday user, offering a blend of compact size and potent light output.
My need for a new EDC light stemmed from years of frustration with underpowered, unreliable alternatives. I wanted something small enough to carry comfortably but powerful enough to handle anything from navigating a dark parking lot to assisting in a roadside emergency. The Surefire EDC2 promised to bridge that gap, delivering both a low-lumen mode for close-up tasks and a high-lumen blast for maximum visibility.
Unboxing the EDC2 revealed a flashlight that felt substantial and well-made. The aerospace aluminum body had a reassuring heft, and the knurled texture provided a secure grip. The Mil-Spec hard anodized finish gave it a rugged, tactical look, hinting at its durability.
I considered lights from Streamlight and Fenix, both reputable brands in the tactical lighting space. However, Surefire’s reputation for unwavering reliability and superior beam quality ultimately swayed my decision. This felt like an investment, not just another gadget.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism. Could this compact flashlight really live up to the hype and justify the price tag? The initial build quality was promising, but the real test would come in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Surefire Everyday Carry 2 Dual-Output 5/1200 Lumens LED Aluminum Black CR123A Lithium to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Surefire Everyday Carry 2 Dual-Output 5/1200 Lumens LED Aluminum Black CR123A Lithium was a weekend camping trip in the Adirondack Mountains. I needed a reliable light source for setting up camp after dark, navigating trails, and general camp tasks. The weather was damp, with persistent drizzle throughout the weekend.
The EDC2 performed admirably in the challenging conditions. The low 5-lumen mode was perfect for close-up tasks like reading a map or preparing food inside the tent. The high 1200-lumen mode cut through the darkness and fog, providing excellent visibility on the trails.
Using the light was intuitive; the fully press tailcap switch made it easy to switch between modes, even with gloved hands. After using cheaper lights that would flicker or fail in the wet, the Surefire performed with unwavering reliability. There were no malfunctions, and the beam remained consistent.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of regular use, the Surefire Everyday Carry 2 Dual-Output 5/1200 Lumens LED Aluminum Black CR123A Lithium has proven to be a durable and reliable companion. It has seen action on hiking trips, range days, and countless everyday tasks around the house and yard. The Mil-Spec hard anodized finish shows minimal signs of wear, even after being subjected to bumps and scrapes.
The light has been dropped on concrete, exposed to rain, and even briefly submerged in a puddle, all without any adverse effects. I’ve only needed to wipe it down occasionally with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. Compared to previous EDC lights that required frequent cleaning and maintenance, the Surefire has been remarkably low-maintenance.
My previous experience with budget flashlights often involved dimming output and unreliable switches within a few months. The Surefire’s performance remains consistent, and the switch feels as solid as the day I bought it. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and long-term reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Surefire Everyday Carry 2 Dual-Output 5/1200 Lumens LED Aluminum Black CR123A Lithium
Specifications
The Surefire Everyday Carry 2 Dual-Output 5/1200 Lumens LED Aluminum Black CR123A Lithium boasts impressive specifications for its size. It features a high-output LED, capable of producing 1200 lumens on the high setting and 5 lumens on the low setting. It is powered by two CR123A lithium batteries.
The body is constructed from high-strength aerospace aluminum with a Mil-Spec hard anodized finish. A Total Internal Reflection (TIR) lens shapes the light into a versatile beam. The light also features a fully press tailcap switch, a knurled body and tailcap, and a two-way clip. These specifications translate to a durable, powerful, and user-friendly flashlight.
The 1200-lumen output provides ample illumination for most situations, while the 5-lumen low mode preserves battery life and prevents blinding at close range. The aluminum construction and hard anodized finish ensure the light can withstand the rigors of daily use.
Performance & Functionality
The Surefire Everyday Carry 2 Dual-Output 5/1200 Lumens LED Aluminum Black CR123A Lithium performs its job exceptionally well. The light provides a clean, consistent beam with excellent throw and peripheral illumination. Switching between the high and low modes is simple and intuitive.
The light’s strengths include its powerful output, durable construction, and user-friendly design. A potential area for improvement would be a slightly longer run time on the high setting. Overall, the Surefire meets and exceeds my expectations.
The TIR lens creates a balanced beam pattern, making it suitable for a wide range of tasks. The two-way clip is also a useful feature, allowing for convenient carry in a pocket or on a belt.
Design & Ergonomics
The Surefire Everyday Carry 2 Dual-Output 5/1200 Lumens LED Aluminum Black CR123A Lithium is well-designed and comfortable to hold. The knurled texture provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions. The light’s weight is substantial but not excessive, giving it a feeling of quality.
There is virtually no learning curve; the tailcap switch is simple to operate. The intuitive design makes it easy to access the desired light mode quickly.
The light’s compact size makes it easy to carry in a pocket or bag. The placement of the two-way clip allows for a variety of carry options.
Durability & Maintenance
The Surefire Everyday Carry 2 Dual-Output 5/1200 Lumens LED Aluminum Black CR123A Lithium is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure its longevity. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
The Mil-Spec hard anodized finish protects the aluminum body from scratches and corrosion. The light’s sealed construction provides resistance to water and dust.
The simple design makes it easy to disassemble for cleaning and battery replacement. The Surefire is a light that you can rely on for years to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Surefire Everyday Carry 2 Dual-Output 5/1200 Lumens LED Aluminum Black CR123A Lithium comes with two high-energy 123A batteries. While it doesn’t have extensive customization options like weapon lights, its compatibility with Surefire accessories ensures versatility.
Users can purchase optional lanyards, holsters, and replacement lens covers. The light is compatible with various aftermarket CR123A batteries.
The lack of extensive customization options is a minor drawback, but the light’s inherent quality and performance negate this. Its compatibility with Surefire accessories provides sufficient versatility.
Pros and Cons of Surefire Everyday Carry 2 Dual-Output 5/1200 Lumens LED Aluminum Black CR123A Lithium
Pros
- Incredibly bright 1200-lumen output: Delivers powerful illumination for various tasks.
- Durable aerospace aluminum construction with Mil-Spec hard anodized finish: Ensures long-lasting performance in demanding conditions.
- Reliable and easy-to-use tailcap switch: Allows for quick and intuitive mode selection.
- Versatile TIR lens provides a balanced beam pattern: Offers both throw and peripheral illumination.
- Compact and lightweight design for comfortable everyday carry: Makes it a convenient companion for any adventure.
Cons
- Run time on high is relatively short.
- Price point may be prohibitive for some users.
Who Should Buy Surefire Everyday Carry 2 Dual-Output 5/1200 Lumens LED Aluminum Black CR123A Lithium?
The Surefire Everyday Carry 2 Dual-Output 5/1200 Lumens LED Aluminum Black CR123A Lithium is perfect for anyone who needs a reliable and powerful light source for everyday carry or tactical applications. It’s ideally suited for law enforcement, security professionals, outdoor enthusiasts, and homeowners who prioritize quality and performance.
Those on a tight budget or who only need a flashlight for occasional use may find this product overkill. Someone who needs an integrated rechargeable battery might also consider alternatives.
A high-quality holster and spare batteries are must-have accessories for the Surefire EDC2. A lanyard can also be useful for added security.
Conclusion on Surefire Everyday Carry 2 Dual-Output 5/1200 Lumens LED Aluminum Black CR123A Lithium
The Surefire Everyday Carry 2 Dual-Output 5/1200 Lumens LED Aluminum Black CR123A Lithium is a top-tier flashlight that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and reliability. While the price may be higher than some alternatives, the quality and performance justify the investment.
The Surefire EDC2 isn’t just a flashlight; it’s peace of mind. It’s knowing you have a reliable source of light whenever and wherever you need it.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Surefire Everyday Carry 2 Dual-Output 5/1200 Lumens LED Aluminum Black CR123A Lithium to anyone seeking a high-quality EDC light. Invest in confidence and never be left in the dark.