Voodoo Tactical Ambush II 800 Lumen Flashlight Review

Let’s Talk About Voodoo Tactical Ambush II 800 Lumen Flashlight

The Voodoo Tactical Ambush II 800 Lumen Flashlight is a compact and rugged illumination tool designed for tactical applications and general outdoor use. Voodoo Tactical aims to provide dependable gear for law enforcement and tactical field units, and this flashlight attempts to deliver on that promise with its durable construction and bright output. I was initially drawn to this flashlight due to its seemingly solid build quality and advertised 800-lumen output, promising a balance between brightness and portability.

I needed a reliable flashlight for my search and rescue volunteer work, something brighter than my existing EDC light but still compact enough to carry on my gear. The published specifications of aircraft-grade aluminum construction and IPX-7 water resistance made it sound like a viable option. Unboxing the Voodoo Tactical Ambush II 800 Lumen Flashlight, my first impression was generally positive; the flashlight felt sturdy in my hand, and the anodized finish appeared well-applied.

Compared to my Streamlight Microstream and a generic 500-lumen Amazon flashlight, the Ambush II felt noticeably heavier and more substantial. I considered the Streamlight HL-X and the Olight Warrior Mini 2, but the Voodoo Tactical offering won out because of its simpler interface and purported ruggedness for the price. Initially, I was excited about the potential brightness and durability, hoping it would live up to Voodoo Tactical’s claims.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Voodoo Tactical Ambush II 800 Lumen Flashlight to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Voodoo Tactical Ambush II 800 Lumen Flashlight during a nighttime navigation exercise in a local state park. The exercise involved traversing a 3-mile course with varying terrain, including wooded areas and open fields. The flashlight performed adequately in illuminating the trail ahead, allowing me to identify obstacles and maintain situational awareness.

The ambient temperature was around 40°F with light rain, and the flashlight’s water resistance seemed to hold up well; however, the beam distance didn’t appear to reach the advertised 500 feet. It was easy to use right out of the box, requiring no complicated setup or instructions. After about an hour of continuous use, I noticed a slight dimming of the light, suggesting that the battery life might not be as long as advertised.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including multiple search and rescue training sessions and camping trips, the Voodoo Tactical Ambush II 800 Lumen Flashlight has shown some wear and tear. The anodized finish has started to scratch in a few spots, especially around the head and tailcap, from being bumped against rocks and other gear. Cleaning is relatively simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime.

Compared to my previous EDC flashlight, the Ambush II offers significantly better brightness and throw, but the battery life is noticeably shorter. While it’s been a solid performer, I’m not convinced it could handle the more demanding use cases, that premium flashlights are suitable for. So far, it has not disappointed me with any major failures.

Breaking Down the Features of Voodoo Tactical Ambush II 800 Lumen Flashlight

Specifications

The Voodoo Tactical Ambush II 800 Lumen Flashlight boasts several notable specifications. It features a claimed 800-lumen light output, providing a substantial amount of illumination for its size. It is constructed from aircraft aluminum, which promises a durable and lightweight design.

The flashlight has a beam distance of 500 feet, allowing for decent range in outdoor scenarios. The IPX-7 water resistance level indicates that it can withstand submersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. These specs seem promising on paper, but real-world performance reveals some discrepancies in the light output and beam distance.

Performance & Functionality

The Voodoo Tactical Ambush II 800 Lumen Flashlight performs adequately in most tasks, offering sufficient brightness for general use. The flashlight’s functionality is straightforward, with a simple on/off switch and potentially multiple modes, though the specific modes aren’t detailed in the initial product information. However, the 800-lumen output seems exaggerated; in comparison to other flashlights I own, it appears closer to 600-700 lumens.

Its strengths include its robust construction and relatively compact size, but weaknesses lie in the possibly overstated lumen output and potentially shorter battery life. Considering its price point, the flashlight meets basic expectations, but it doesn’t significantly exceed them. Voodoo Tactical has built this flashlight to be utilitarian, not revolutionary.

Design & Ergonomics

The Voodoo Tactical Ambush II 800 Lumen Flashlight features a simple design, with a straightforward cylindrical body and a tactical-style crenelated bezel. The aircraft aluminum construction provides a good balance between weight and durability, making it comfortable to hold and carry. The flashlight’s ergonomics are decent; the grip is adequate, and the switch is easily accessible, even with gloves.

There’s no significant learning curve; it operates like any standard tactical flashlight. This design leans towards functionality over aesthetic appeal, prioritizing usability in demanding situations.

Durability & Maintenance

The Voodoo Tactical Ambush II 800 Lumen Flashlight appears reasonably durable, thanks to its aircraft aluminum body and anodized finish. The IPX-7 water resistance provides additional protection against the elements. With reasonable care, this flashlight should last for several years of regular use, but heavy abuse may shorten its lifespan.

Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving occasional cleaning and battery replacement. Voodoo Tactical’s design focuses on ease of maintenance, adding to its practicality in the field.

Accessories and Customization Options

The product details state “Included Accessories: Standard”, which is vague and unhelpful. It’s safe to assume it includes basic packaging and perhaps a lanyard, but little else. There are no apparent customization options directly from Voodoo Tactical.

Compatibility with aftermarket accessories is limited due to the flashlight’s standard size and design, but it may fit common flashlight mounts and holsters. It’s unlikely to accept specialized lenses or filters without modification. The lack of included accessories is a drawback, as it would be beneficial to have options like a belt clip or spare batteries included.

Pros and Cons of Voodoo Tactical Ambush II 800 Lumen Flashlight

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Who Should Buy Voodoo Tactical Ambush II 800 Lumen Flashlight?

The Voodoo Tactical Ambush II 800 Lumen Flashlight is perfect for budget-conscious users who need a reliable and durable flashlight for general use. It’s also suitable for campers, hikers, and homeowners who want a decent light source for emergencies and outdoor activities. It would do well for security guards or neighborhood watch patrols, where extremely high output and extended runtime isn’t a concern.

This product should be skipped by professionals who require guaranteed high lumen output, extended battery life, or advanced features like strobe mode. Individuals needing a flashlight for specialized tasks like cave exploration or professional search and rescue should also consider higher-end alternatives. A must-have accessory would be high-quality CR123A batteries to ensure reliable performance and longer runtimes.

Conclusion on Voodoo Tactical Ambush II 800 Lumen Flashlight

The Voodoo Tactical Ambush II 800 Lumen Flashlight offers a decent balance of durability, brightness, and affordability. While the advertised lumen output may be slightly exaggerated, it still provides adequate illumination for various tasks. The value proposition is reasonable, considering its robust construction and water-resistant design.

I would recommend this flashlight to individuals looking for a budget-friendly and reliable light source for general use and outdoor activities. For around $43, it’s a solid entry-level option, but don’t expect it to outperform higher-end tactical flashlights. Check it out, and see if it meets your needs for a dependable, no-frills flashlight.