Hey folks, if you’re anything like me, you’re always on the hunt for reliable, everyday carry gear.
Recently, I got my hands on the Fenix PD25R flashlight and after using it for a while, I’ve got some thoughts to share.
This little flashlight has some impressive features and might just be a great addition to your everyday carry (EDC) setup.
First Impressions
When I first opened the box, the Fenix PD25R (Sierra Green) immediately caught my eye.
It’s compact, about 3.6 inches long and weighs just 2.75 ounces (without the battery). I love that it’s small enough to fit comfortably in my pocket.
The aluminum body feels solid, and with its IP68 rating, it’s dustproof and waterproof up to 6.6 feet. This makes it perfect for almost any situation, whether you’re outdoors or working in tough conditions.
Brightness and Beam Distance
One thing that stands out about the PD25R is its brightness. It can pump out up to 800 lumens and light up objects as far as 273 yards away.
That’s some serious power for such a small flashlight. Whether you’re navigating a dark parking lot, working in dim light, or exploring the woods, this flashlight has got you covered.
I took it on a late-night hike and was genuinely impressed.
The beam is clear and bright, with a good mix of focused and wide light. The spot beam angle is 8.9°, and the spill beam angle is 77.3°, giving you great visibility.
Real-Life Uses
Let me share a few ways the Fenix PD25R has come in handy for me:
- Checking for Predators on the Farm: I live on 60 acres in the country, and sometimes I need to check for predators at night. The PD25R’s bright beam and long reach are perfect for scanning the fields and tree lines. Plus, its compact size makes it easy to carry around in my pocket while I’m out and about.
- Power Outages: Recently, we had a power outage, and the PD25R was a lifesaver. The different brightness levels helped me conserve battery when needed and ramp up the light when moving through the house. The strobe mode also came in handy for signaling neighbors.
- Camping Trips: On a camping trip, the PD25R was my go-to tool for everything from setting up the tent in the dark to navigating the campsite at night. Its durability and waterproof design meant I didn’t have to worry about it getting damaged.
Battery Life and Charging
This flashlight comes with a 16340 rechargeable Li-ion battery, but you can also use a CR123A Lithium battery if you prefer.
I appreciate the built-in USB Type-C charging port, which is cleverly hidden under the neck of the flashlight.
Charging is straightforward – the indicator lights up red when it’s charging and turns green when it’s fully charged.
It takes about 2 hours to charge from empty to full, which is pretty standard.
User Interface and Modes
The PD25R is easy to use, thanks to its dual switch design.
The tail switch gives you instant power and momentary-on functionality, while the side switch lets you toggle through six different lighting modes, including a strobe mode.
This makes it versatile for a range of situations, from reading a map to signaling for help.
During my use, I found the mode selection intuitive.
You can quickly switch from a low setting for close-up tasks to the turbo mode for maximum brightness.
The strobe function is also useful for emergencies, providing a disorienting flash that could deter potential threats.
Practical Tips for Using the PD25R
Here are some tips to get the most out of your Fenix PD25R flashlight:
- Keep it Accessible: Whether you carry it in your pocket, clip it to your belt, or keep it in your bag, make sure it’s always within reach. The dual-directional pocket clip is a nice touch, offering multiple carry options.
- Use the Battery Indicator: The boot-up battery level indicator is a handy feature that lets you know the battery status at a glance, helping you avoid unexpected outages.
- Practice Switching Modes: Get familiar with the side switch to quickly change between modes. This can be crucial in situations where you need to adjust brightness or activate the strobe mode quickly.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep the flashlight clean and check the battery regularly. A quick wipe-down and battery check can prolong its life and ensure it’s always ready to use.
Comparison with Other Flashlights
To give you an idea of how the Fenix PD25R stacks up, I compared it with a couple of other popular EDC flashlights I’ve used:
- Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA: The ProTac is compact and durable, but it maxes out at 350 lumens, whereas the PD25R goes up to 800 lumens. However, the ProTac’s ability to use both AA and CR123A batteries is a plus.
- Olight S1R Baton II: The Olight S1R Baton II offers a maximum output of 1000 lumens and a similar USB charging feature. However, the PD25R’s tactical tail switch offers a different user experience compared to Olight’s side switch.
Final Thoughts
The Fenix PD25R is a solid addition to any EDC kit. Its combination of power, durability, and compact size makes it a versatile tool for various situations.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a commuter, or someone who likes to be prepared, this flashlight is worth considering.
There are many flashlights out there, but the PD25R stands out with its user-friendly design and reliable performance.
If you’re looking for a new EDC flashlight, give the Fenix PD25R a try. It’s small, powerful, and ready for whatever comes your way.