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Note: This is an update to the review
of the previous version of the Photon Freedom, found
HERE.
The Photon Freedom is the latest innovation from LRI,
who makes the Photon series of lights. This new version
includes a microprocessor and single operating switch
that allows you to select from a variety of operational
modes. The white LED model was reviewed, but it comes
in a variety of LED colors.
The Photon Freedom, like most of the rest of the
Photon lights, is made of glass filled Polyurethane.
The battery cover is on the back and is easily removed
for battery changes without tools. It is also sealed
with an o-ring for water resistance. It is powered by
2 x 2016 lithium coin cells which will run the single
5mm LED for an advertised 12 hours on maximum brightness
(I would recommend a battery change after 3-4 hours of
constant use at maximum brightness.) The switch is just
a single click switch behind the textured front of the
case. Pressing the switch using various methods allows
you to access the different modes. The settings are:
High, Variable brightness selection, Fast blink, Medium
blink, Slow blink, SOS, and Momentary use. A lobster-claw
clip is included for attaching the unit to your keychain
and a hat clip/mount is included as well. Batteries are
also included.
Body: The body of the Photon Freedom is made
of black opaque glass filled polyurethane making it
darn near impervious to just about everything except
a steam roller. The top of the body, where the on-off
button is, is textured for grip. The entire body also
has a slight texture. On the side opposite the switch
you will find the battery compartment door. On one end
is the lanyard attachment hole, and on the other is
the single 5mm LED used for light.
Bezel/Head: Since the LED is exposed through
the front of the case, there is the potential that it
could be damaged by impact. The material that LEDs are
made of is pretty tough so it probably won't suffer much
more than some scratches over the years.
Shown inserted into clip adapter.
Output: Although it's hard to see in the picture,
the LED surprisingly puts out much less of the
typical "blue tint" that you normally see in a 5mm LED.
Photon has recently have upgraded their LEDs to the latest
high output 5mm LEDs from Nichia which produce about twice as
much light as the previous models.
Beam at one meter at target center and at target edge
to show spillbeam.
Runtime Plot: A runtime plot will not be completed
unless there is a compelling reason to do so. Expect that
you will get a great deal of use out of the light before you
need to replace the batteries.
Switch: The switch is one button on the top
that you press in various ways to get to the different
modes. When you first get the light it will be in
"demonstration" mode. Press and hold the switch until
the light turns off (about 20 seconds). After that you
can access all of the modes. Here's how they work:
Off -> Press and release: on high -> Press and hold:
variable dimming starting high, release when it gets to
the level you want -> Press and release: Off
Off -> Press and hold: variable dimming starting low,
release when it gets to the level you want -> Press and
release: Off
Either of the above: Press and hold until the light
starts blinking for Low, Medium, High strobes and SOS in
that order, repeating. Release when it gets to the mode
you want. Press and release to turn off.
Off -> Press and release rapidly several times ->
Momentary only mode, only works when pressing the switch
- for 3 sec. use or less at a time. Press and hold until
light turns off to take it out of this mode.
Seals / Water Resistance: Water resistance is good due to the tight fit of all of the parts and the lack of any obvious openings. Shake it off if you drop it in a puddle. Not intended for diving or intentional submersion.
If it gets wet inside, just disassemble as much a possible
without tools and let it dry before using again.
Ergonomics: Small but easy to use. Nothing special
to mention.
Size compared to a common 2AA aluminum light
Batteries: On the back is the battery cover.
Just pop it off to change out the two 2016 lithium coin
cell batteries.
Accessories: Included is a lobster claw clip
for attaching the Photon Freedom to your gear and a
mounting clip for turning the Photon Freedom, Photon III
or Photon II into a clipable light for your hat, clothes,
clipboard, etc. On the back of the clip jaws are three
little magnets which allow you to stick the clip
to any metal surface. Also included in a neck lanyard.
Placing the Photon with the switch out allows for easy
operation, placing it with the switch inward allows the
lanyard holder to protect the switch and prevent accidental
activation.
What I Liked: Water resistant,
Tough, Good battery life, Bright, Easy battery change,
Lightweight, Nice new keyring clip, hat clip, and
neck lanyard assembly.
What I Didn't Like: Nothing
Picky Little Things: Could turn on
accidentally in pocket if not forced into momentary-only
mode after each use.
Conclusions: A great little pocket
light - put it on your keychain and you'll always have a
light with you when you need it. The infinitely variable
output lets you select the brightness level you need and
being able to start at the dimmest level is perfect for
covert use or use in conditions where night vision
preservation is important.
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