Short Description:

The Lightwave 2100 is made by Lightwave. The Lightwave 2100 is a standard-looking flashlight which utilizes 4 white LEDs for its light source. This is a step up over the Lightwave 2000, essentially giving the 2000 the same form factor as the Lightwave 3000 and 4000.

The body of the 2100 is rubber covered plastic. The rubber outer covering is textured and is easy to grip. The rubber also serves as a protective armor around the light, increasing its durability. The bezel of the light has 4 recessed white LEDs at the front with no lens. The head of the light contains a click switch for on-off and is sealed with an O-ring for water resistance.

The four LEDs produce a smooth directional flood of light. Being recessed, they are protected from drops and impacts.

As with the 2000, the 2100 takes 3 AA batteries for power. They are not included. Simply unscrew the head and drop in 3 batteries, + up.

The device includes a nylon lanyard and lanyard attachment hole molded into the end of the light.

Reviewer's Impressions:

The Lightwave 2100 is a definite improvement over the 2000. The rubber coating improves impact resistance and the switch is more convenient than the twist-bezel switching mechanism of the 2000.

Fit and finish are excellent. Very well assembled. Cleanly designed.

Quality / Durability / Construction are all very good. No real problems to be found.

Output is slightly better than the 2000, and is better than any other 4 LED alkaline powered light I have reviewed.

Beam quality is exactly what you would expect from a 4 LED light. A smooth directional flood of light.

Water Resistance is very good, with the case sealed with an O ring at the bezel and the rubber switch cover sealing against the inside of the head.

Battery life is not really stated. The packaging states that after 14 days the Lightwave folks could still read a newspaper in the dark. Based on a graph included in the packaging, battery 1/2 life is about 20 hours (20 hours to 1/2 initial light output), continuing to diminish thereafter.

Note that the switch is a little small and may take a little getting used-to. If you just squash the whole thing with the pad of your thumb it will click on and off.

+ + + Pluses: Water resistant, Tough/impact resistant, Long battery life, Bright, Easy battery change

- - - Minuses: Cannot stand on end, Switch feels funny at first

Quick Facts Table: