Review: Streamlight 88850 POLYTAC LED Flashlight

I love flashlights. They are a basic and integral part of any preparedness plan. Ask anyone to make a list of the top 5 things that should be collected in case of any kind of a disaster and surely”flashlight” will be ranked up there. As I continue to build my preps I sought out a high quality, high performance LED flashlight and after a lot of time on Amazon – I ordered the Streamlight 88850 POLYTAC LED.

This light is very compact as you can see in the picture below compared to a box of matches. Great to throw in a pocket, glove box, or tactical vest. It is also very light at around 4 ounces.

Crystal clear lens protects the C4 LED element.  This LED throws out light at a very bright 130 lumens.

The tail cap contains a “clicky” push button on-off switch. Simply push to turn on and then push again to turn off. One feature I really like and have been using on this light is the ability to partially push the button to momentarily turn on – then release it to turn off.

In the picture below you can see the brightness in my kitchen with the lights totally off. The beam is focused well for close-range work. I have been very impressed with the brightness of this light.

Extreme Brightness!!!!!

Alright – I have given you some of my impressions. Now I will give you the manufacturers specifications:

  • C4 LED technology, impervious to shock with a 50,000 hour lifetime
  • Borofloat glass lens, o-ring sealed
  • Tail cap push button provides one handed momentary or constant “on”
  • 3 hours of continuous runtime to the 10-Percent output level
  • Two (2) 3-Volt CR123A lithium batteries with a shelf life of 10-Year

To summarize:

Pro’s –

  • Well made, durable, quality construction
  • Simple operation
  • Very bright
  • Waterproof
  • Includes 2 Lithium CR-123A batteries
  • Nice grip
  • 1 inch diameter allows for use in weapon mount
  • Inexpensive ($38.29 + Free Shipping as of this writing on Amazon)

Con’s –

  • Battery life could be better – 3 hours of life – 2 hours at near full strength
  • Uses CR-123A batteries – which are more expensive and less common (good shelf life though!)

Summary – Great light for the money. Lightweight, bright and durable – I am very pleased with it. I purchased mine in black but it is also available in Coyote Brown. I think I will get another – or twelve!

For more information – see HERE.

Rourke


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2 thoughts on “Review: Streamlight 88850 POLYTAC LED Flashlight”

    • I would say YES from the perspective it is likely a higher quality item. It is not as bright as the Trustfire – but it is excellent flashlight. I have two of them. Of course – you can buy three Trustfires for each PolyTac flashlight.

      Thanks for the question –

      Rourke

      Reply

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