FAQ
TL;DR: For long-range on a tight budget, a Convoy C8‑class thrower delivers about 150 m effective range; “add another PLN 100 for a good charger and links.” [Elektroda, mick1, post #16770177]
Why it matters: If you live rurally and ask “what’s the best budget flashlight for 150 m?”, this FAQ shows proven picks, trade‑offs, and buying tips for PLN 130–200 users.
Quick Facts
- Target beam distance: Approx. 150 m effective with a Convoy C8‑class thrower. [Elektroda, mick1, post #16770177]
- Declared budget: ~PLN 150, with slight flexibility. [Elektroda, Kubeki69, post #16769955]
- Willing to pay ~PLN 200 to buy in Poland. [Elektroda, Kubeki69, post #16770194]
- Community pick at this price: “I would take this C8.” [Elektroda, mick1, post #16772973]
- Plan extra ~PLN 100 for quality charger and cells. [Elektroda, mick1, post #16770177]
What’s the best long‑range flashlight around PLN 150?
The community pick is a Convoy C8‑class thrower. It balances price, beam distance, and practicality for rural yards and fields. One expert put it plainly: “You can not buy anything better for me at this price. I would take this C8.” That aligns with the 150 m effective‑range target discussed in the thread. If you can stretch the budget slightly for batteries and a charger, the overall setup performs far above typical “bundle” kits. [Elektroda, mick1, post #16772973]
Will a Convoy C8 actually reach 150 meters?
Yes—expect about 150 m effective range from a C8‑class thrower. The key is its focused beam and reflector geometry, not just lumen rating. This makes it well‑suited to scanning fields and yard edges without wasting light on near‑field flood. As the expert advice noted, small reflectors limit range; the C8’s profile hits the needed distance while staying affordable. [Elektroda, mick1, post #16770177]
Can I buy the Convoy C8 in Poland, or do I need to import?
A user pursued a Polish seller listing for a Convoy C8 with an XP‑L HI V3 option. That indicates domestic availability can exist, though stock varies. If you buy locally, verify the exact driver, emitter bin, and warranty terms. Importing remains common, but a local purchase simplifies returns and shortens delivery. [Elektroda, Kubeki69, post #16770194]
Do lumens equal range for rural use?
No. Beam distance depends more on reflector size and emitter type than raw lumens. A compact light with high lumens but a small reflector will throw poorly. The guidance here was clear: with a small mirror, forget long range. Choose a thrower‑style head if you need 150 m identification. “Range is about optics first.” [Elektroda, mick1, post #16770177]
Is 420 lumens enough to reach 100 meters?
It can be marginal unless paired with a true thrower optic. A 420‑lumen flooder will light near objects but struggle at 100 m. The thread emphasizes reflector size and beam focus over lumen count for distance work. Prioritize a thrower head; otherwise, apparent brightness won’t translate into reach. [Elektroda, mick1, post #16770177]
How much should I budget for batteries and a charger?
Add about PLN 100 for a quality charger and good cells. Cheap bundles often include weak chargers and questionable cells that limit performance and longevity. A proper charger protects your investment and sustains consistent output on high modes. “Add another PLN 100 for a good charger and links.” [Elektroda, mick1, post #16770177]
What’s the difference between a thrower and a flooder?
A thrower concentrates light into a tight hotspot for distance (ideal for 150 m). A flooder spreads light wide for close‑range tasks. For yards, fields, or hunting‑style scanning, pick a searchlight/thrower beam. The expert framed it as searchlight versus wide light at distance needs. [Elektroda, mick1, post #16770177]
Is a cheap Ultrafire XM‑L2 U2 a good idea?
It’s not ideal for reliable long‑range use. Low‑cost lights often ship with weak drivers and poor heat dissipation, which throttle output. That undermines throw and runtime, especially in turbo. Prioritize proven hosts like the C8 with known drivers and emitters. [Elektroda, mick1, post #16770177]
Are “laser gratis” or gift‑bundle listings trustworthy?
Treat them cautiously. One expert noted the free laser might be worth more than the flashlight itself. Such bundles divert budget from core components like the driver, cell, and thermal design. Focus on reputable hosts and buy cells/chargers separately. [Elektroda, mick1, post #16770177]
What emitter did the buyer here choose?
They ordered a Convoy with an XP‑L V3 diode and turbo‑mode driver. That combination targets tighter throw and higher candela than standard domed emitters. It aligns with the 150 m distance goal for rural tasks. [Elektroda, Kubeki69, post #16774172]
Any brand alternatives mentioned besides Convoy?
Yes. Olight was suggested as an alternative line to check. Availability, cost, and specific models vary, but Olight offers several throw‑capable options that could meet rural needs. Compare beam profiles and carry formats before buying. [Elektroda, Dziarski Hank, post #16772288]
Quick buying guide: how do I choose fast?
- Define range need (150 m) and pick a thrower head, not a small‑mirror flooder.
- Set budget: ~PLN 150 for the light, plus ~PLN 100 for charger/cells.
- Avoid bundle gimmicks; select a proven host and quality power components. [Elektroda, mick1, post #16770177]
Will the C8 let me spot game in an open field?
Expect identification around 150 m with a C8‑class thrower when conditions are clear. The focused hotspot aids eye‑shine detection and terrain scanning. For wider context, pair with a lower mode or a secondary flooder. Keep expectations aligned with reflector size. [Elektroda, mick1, post #16770177]
Did the original buyer report satisfaction after purchase?
A follow‑up asked whether the buyer was happy with the C8 Turbo, but no satisfaction update appears in the thread. If you own this setup, consider adding your field results to help others. [Elektroda, no1muzzy, post #16834304]
A minimum of 150 m and it would not be a shit
