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The LEDBeam 3-C Luxeon III is a new product from a new
company. It looks to me as if they got a lot right with
their flagship product. It may still be a little unrefined
in some areas, but output is surprisingly good.
The body of the LEDBeam is similar in form factor to
other 3 cell aluminum lights. It has an silver anodize coating
for corrosion and abrasion resistance, a large head, a side
click switch, and a flat tailcap. The body wall has checkering
for grip which is neither abrasive or slippery.
The head of the light contains a clear polycarbonate lens,
a plastic smooth silvered reflector, and a Luxeon III LED on
a heatsink slug. The bezel can be removed but the head
is permanently attached. With the reflector removed you can clearly
see the Luxeon LED and the wiring leading to it. Because
it uses an LED instead of a conventional bulb, shock resistance
is greatly improved over incandescent flashlights.
 
Despite the use of a smooth reflector, the beam it produces
is spectacular. A nice tight spot in the very center with a
soft spillbeam. None of the typical smooth-reflector artifacts
are to be found here. Just a smooth tight spot of light.
The folks at LEDBeam managed to find the focal point of the
large reflector and place the LED just right to take full
advantage of the tight beam the reflector can produce.
The LED used in this particular sample does have a slight but
distinct purplish tint that is visible in normal use (the camera
white balance removed the tint in the pictures below).
Beam at one meter at target center and at target edge
to show spillbeam.
Runtime Plot: There is no regulation circiutry inside
this light. The LED is direct driven by the batteries. As
a result the output follows a normal alkaline discharge curve.
Runtime
completed with "Rayovac" batteries. More information
on runtime plots is available HERE.
The switch is a simple rubber covered clickie. The rubber
cover has no texture. The switch provides positive audible
and tactile feedback when activated.
O-ring seals protect the light at the various points of
potential water entry. I'd give it a "dunkable" rating. It
is not meant for intentional submersion. If it gets wet inside,
simply disassemlbe as much as posssible without tools and let
it dry before using again.
Ergonomics: For using 3 C cells, it isn't all that heavy.
The narrow diameter of the body tube makes this light fit
well in the hand and the checkering provides ample grip.
Size compared to a common 2AA aluminum light
3 alkaline C cells power the light. Simply unscrew the
tailcap and drop in 3 cells, positive first. Replace the
tailcap and you are ready to go.
What I Liked: Water resistant,
Tough/impact resistant, Good battery life,
Bright, Smooth beam, Easy battery change, Relatively lightweight, Stands up
What I Didn't Like: Not much.
Other Things I Noticed: Exposed wiring
around the LED gives the light a "home made" look.
Conclusions: Very bright and durable
general use/rough use light. Great for around the house,
in the car or truck, or industrial/professional use. Fantastic
spot of bright light for illuminating targets at a distance.
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