Whats up guys this is my first post in this particular area of the forums and I have not seen anyone review a Fenix pd30. I selected the PD30 after a lot of searching for a small bright flashlight that would not break the bank. I spent nearly 2 days looking over at candlepowerforums, which has some fantastic information. After purchasing the PD30 I kept looking and I think I should have dropped some extra money and went with the TK11 R2 at 240 Lumens as a true weapon light. There are plenty of reviews as to the flashlight (Tk11 R2 and the PD30) over there....however, I am a GUN GUY...therefore I'm just gonna hit on the features and show some cell phone pics-----eventually I'll review it for functionality mounted on the AR.

I already had a Surefire G2L - 80 lumens, that is a fantastic light which I have seen around as low as 60.00 (may be lower somewhere else). But I wanted something brighter....Arrive the PD30. The PD30 was bought for 56.75 shipped to the door, so it is already a good match at price to the SF G2L. The PD30 is loaded with features: 225 Lumen Turbo mode, also functions as a strobe mode, then you turn the bezel into normal mode and you have 117 - 70 - and 9 lumens available each time you tape the rear switch, and a SOS feature at this mode.

Both lights also use cr123a batteries (Two of these). Initial impressions of the Fenix----> It is a very nice lightweight pocket sized light. Very bright and easy to use. It def blows the G2 away in brightness at the Turbo and high modes as seen from the pics. The Pd30 also comes close at 70 Lumen level to the G2L's 80 Lumens. For nearly the same price its def worth it. The Fenix also comes with a 2 spare o-rings and one tail cap cover. the Fenix is also nearly an inch shorter and more compact, IMHO a better option for weapon mounting. The Fenix is also noticeably lighter another benefit as a weapon mounted light. The diameter is less than 1" however, but CAA makes a 5 position adjustable weapon light mount that should fit its slimmer diameter just fine. One feature that I like in the G2L that the Fenix does NOT have is momentary on. The Fenix PD30 also does not have a pressure switch option (Fenix's TK11 R2 does, however).

The surefire does seem noticeably more rugged, however. The G2L has also been proven time and time again to function GREAT!!! Overall, if you are looking for a bright light, consider the Fenix.

Now the pics:

Lets start with the package


Contents:


Now the lighting:

First, the PD30 at 70 Lumens


Second, Surefire G2L - 80 Lumens


Now, the PD30 at 117 Lumens


Finally the 225 Lumen Turbo mode of the fenix---It's a huge difference



These were taken at about 12 yards (I'll get some outside ones later) with my iPhone so the quality isn't great.

This post has been edited by M&P_Leo: June 13th 2009 5:38 PM

Good review, thanks. I've liked the strobe mode on the Fenix.

Thank you, this was technically my first true review. I'll update it when I actually find the time in the next few weeks to mount it on the M&P.

Also some additional beneficial information has been added to the review... I hope this helps guys.

This post has been edited by M&P_Leo: June 13th 2009 5:40 PM

I carry these lights in my class. i am working on making an online store. These are awesome. Onloy thing missing is quality kydex holsters for them.

I recently picked up a Fenix TA21 and I love the thing. Its super bright, and the strobe will make you dizzy if you have your adapted night vision. With 12 different modes and a max output of 225 lumens its a very good deal at $95. I wish it threw a little farther though. But I have a Streamlight Super Tac on the way for that.