Maglite

[hand]

Whether a LED conversion of an old Maglite is worth it, really depends on your intended use.
There are many small / light (weight) / bright / feature filled options in the $50-$100 range (or less) that will likely better meet your daily use needs than a conversion.


On the other hand, I've been really pleased with my $5 Dorcy drop-in LED replacements I used for two 2C Maglites. 30 lumen output isn't even in the ballpark of modern options (but still brighter than the original), and no multiple modes or fancy features, however the cost is right, and lower light output should be offset by longer runtime - A great solution for multi-day power outages around the home.

 

[ovrrdrive]

I was given a 3C LED Maglight when they first started selling them with the LED in it. I think it was 10-15 years ago and I love it. It's not the brightest light I have in the house by any means but it always works and the batteries last for years in it. It's our general purpose around the house light. Lately I've been using it as a welding light to help me weld at night and it's blackening the lens a little but it still works great. I guess I should pick up a few extra lenses for it the way you guys talk about mags future... lol

 

[chris_1001]

Keep it as is and spend the money on a real LED light.

While I have a few Maglights, I would not bother "upgrading" them.

I was a big flashlight dealer for a long time. I could not give maglights away.

 

[jeffmoss26]

I put the Niteize LED kits and pushbutton switch in a few of my 2 AA mini-mags.

 

[MrGiggles]

I got a 6d Maglite at an auction a couple weeks ago for pocket change.

It had a battery stuck in it, which I was able to yank out, but the bulb is junk. I ordered a Terralux LED replacement from Ebay, we'll see how it works.

I will carry it in my car, to double as a beating stick and flashlight. It's a lot more incognito than a baseball bat, but can inflict similar damage.

 

[Wakefield]

I believe the D cell Maglites made earlier,say before 15 years ago,had slightly larger outer diameter and thicker walls than the more recent ones. I don't think the tail caps are interchangeable.
The problem to solve for making a really bright LED work is getting the heat out efficiently by having a good contact and heat conduction path from the LED to the heavy metal flashlight tube which is a good heatsink. I think the newest LED Mag rechargeable does have heat sink capabilities.

 

[cajunfirehawk]

Fwiw; there are actual forums that discuss nothing but flashlights and more specifically maglites too, check out candlepower forums for more scoop on hoping up your maglites.


Regards,
Todd
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