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Nebo Tools Redline

rated 3.5 of 5 stars
photo: Nebo Tools Redline flashlight

Really bright, well-made, durable. Great for a weekend outing or a tent-camping family. I wouldn't recommend it for a lightweight junky, but it definitely gets the job done.

Pros

  • Metal construction.... no plastic
  • Bright.. really bright
  • Easy battery swaps

Cons

  • Really bright = lots of battery drain
  • A little on the heavy side
  • Screw-downs come loose quite a bit

This is a great looking flashlight. Stainless steel construction is hefty in the hand, not like the cheapo plastic lights that I also have. The beam can be focused from a spot to a broad wash of light, perfect for those really, really dark nights. And it has an SOS and a strobe setting—hopefully you never need those!!

It takes three AAA's, and you better take some extras. At full-power (310 lumens), the claim is 2 hrs of run-time, but after 30-45 minutes, you can see the light starting to fade. At 50% power, claimed run is 5 hrs, 10% gets you 12 hrs.  

Operating is easy—just push the "clicker" built into the butt of the light, then use the dial at the back end to select your setting.

This unit is called the Redline because there is a red translucent ring around the bulb. When it's exposed, a red glow emits around the head of the light. Can't think of any reason for this other than it looks cool. You can twist the ring a little and the glow is eliminated.

So far, it's proven durable, but I have had a couple of problems. The on-off clicker kinda gets a mind of its own sometimes.... I have to unscrew then reseat it. And the screw-down lens cover and battery cover are prone to loosen. Not a huge deal, but if you're out in the woods, rain, snow... yeah, so it's a big deal.

Would I buy it again? Probably. There are better and less expensive lights on the market now, but I still like the feel of real metal in my hand.

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $59

The flashlights are well made and have many features. However—the long term quality for everyday use is very poor. I have had 4+ units and all have had the same problem of the switch failing. NEBO was good about warranty (sent in 4 for repairs and I received 3 back).
In the long haul—these are OK for occasional use—not for work or real use, but more for novelty.

Pros

  • Magnetic end to support the light
  • Bright light, ultra-violet and green lights
  • Nice design—easy to use

Cons

  • The switches do not last in everyday use
  • The model number is glued on—it falls off after a few days use—so I do not have a model. Their other flashlights have the same sticker.

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: about 35-40 dollars

200 lumens for under 70 dollars is fine in my book! various modes, rugged design, and compact size make it worth its weight in gold! too bad no lanyard! 

Price Paid: $20 NAPA Auto parts

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Specs

Price Historic Range: $34.95-$34.99
Reviewers Paid: $20.00-$59.00
Product Details from Nebo Tools »

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