Fenix just released the details on a new headlamp, the HM65 Rechargeable Headlamp, that is loaded with interesting tech and features. The most prominent feature is the use of dual emitters with one optimized for throw and one for flood light.
It boasts a 1000 lumen turbo setting along with other, longer running modes including a 130 lumen settings that run for 48 hours+ according to Fenix (actual real world runtimes can vary). See the chart below for full ANSI runtime and output ratings.
The HM65 is rechargeable via USB Type C (cable included). It comes with an 18650 battery but it can also be powered by two CR123A primary cells which is good news for those who might take this headlamp into cold environments.
The body of the HM65 is made from a magnesium alloy. Fenix claims that makes it both durable and lightweight.
The head strap design includes a top strap as is standard for single 18650 powered headlamps. It features a perforated design that I suppose would promote breathability.
The HM65 can be pre-ordered. It is not expected to be available until Tuesday, June 25th.
Remember the old the days of building up the switch on your Surefire X-series weapon light with JB Weld to make it easier and more consistent to access? There is now a better way thanks to the PHLster and the new ARC Enhanced WML Switches.
These polymer switches are drop in replacements for the OEM switches found on Surefire’s X300U (A/B/V), X400U (H, RD, GN), XH30, XH35, and XLV2. Each set comes with 3 different size switches all of which are larger than the original: L, XL, and a blank XL for uses who wish to add their own texture or shaping.
You can read more about installation and pre-order at PHLster.com.
At just 1″ x 2.5″ x .5″, the Nitecore TIP2 may be small but it boasts a ton of features and impressive output. It is small enough to serve as a keychain light but bright enough to do real work.
It can provide up to 720 lumens of light thanks to two Cree XP-G3 S3 emitters mounted behind TIR lenses. It also has 200, 30, and 1 lumen settings. Runtimes range from 15 minutes for the turbo mode all the way to 55 hours for the 1 lumen mode and all that power is provided by a rechargable Li-ion battery.
The TIP2 features a lanyard/key attachment that is held onto 1 piece CNC machined body of the light via strong neodymium magnets allowing it to be quickly removed from the keychain or lanyard for handheld use. This also allows the light to be mounted on any ferrous surface for hands-free use.
I am just scratching the surface of the features and potential applications for this light. You can check it out at Nitecore.com.
I recently posted a review of the Nightstick TCM-550XL weapon light. In the review, I talked about how this compact light has tremendous potential for the EDC market but I lamented a lack of holster support. That is a major hurdle for any new weapon light to overcome.
Fortunately, holster availability is already improving thanks to Black Rhino Concealment. Their TCS-L Holster is now available for the TCM-550XL. The TCS-L is a convertible holster that can be configured for IWB or OWB carry.
The Nightstick TCM-550XL is relatively new to the weapon light market but it is from a maker that has been making first responder lights for a long time. Let’s dive right into the review to see how it stacks up.
Overview
The TCM-550XL is a compact weapon light from Nightstick, a division of Bayco Products. It is about 2.5″ long, just over 1″ wide, and just over 1″ tall – a size that allows it to sit well inside the footprint of a typical double stack handgun like a Glock.
It boasts 550 lumen output and uses a collimating lens to produce a beam with a relatively wide hotspot. The runtime for this single CR123A light is published as 2.5 hours.
The main body of the TCM-550XL is machined from 6061 aluminum with a polymer back plate. It weighs in at 2.5 ounces. Other highlights include a paddle style switch and lock out bezel.
Observations from Use
I typically shy away from direct product comparisons in these reviews but in this case it feels unavoidable. The TCM-550XL is similar in size, shape, and execution of at least two features (the lockout bezel and rail clamp) to the Streamlight TLR-7. However, I feel that the TCM-550XL actually has a major advantage over the TLR-7 in that its paddle style switch is MUCH easier to operate and it is brighter with better tint than my TLR-7.
Speaking of the switch, it offers constant/momentary operation. The user interface should feel familiar as it has become somewhat standard across many tactical lights – quick press for constant, long press for momentary. This is a system that works fairly well with just a bit of practice.
This brings us to my first criticism of this light. It turns on instantly but there is a delay in turning off, almost as if the light is deciding whether it should stay on or turn off based on your input. It is just a moment (not even a second) but it is noticeable when running drills. Apart from that delay, the switch is actually very impressive. This is a very compact light but the well designed switch operates as easily as a full size light.
The lockout bezel works well though the detent that indicates the light is locked out can be a little difficult to feel on my example. It is still a thoughtful feature and there are markings on the bezel to indicate where the lockout exists.
The beam profile is very good. It has a wide hotspot with plenty of spill. The TCM-550XL balances throw and spill very well for a compact light. Those 550 lumens do a good job is filling a room with light or extending the range at which you can ID a target outdoors.
I am very impressed with this light. It has standout ergonomics among compact lights, a compact footprint, and good output for a single CR123A light. It has a lot of potential but it shares the same stumbling block to that potential as any new weapon light – lack of holster support. This light has what it takes to be a great CCW light but as of right now, it will be hard to find a holster for it. Safariland has this light listed in their holster finder but all of the compatible holsters are more suited for duty carry, not CCW.
Wrap Up
The TCM-550XL has the size, weight, output, and ergonomics that I look for in compact weapon light. The switch in particular stands out among a lot of compact weapon lights. It ticks all the boxes but until there is holster support, it will be hard for it to reach its full potential.
