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Nitecore MH12W flashlight review

Cree XM-L2 U2 LED
1000 lm output
13500 cd intensity
1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery

The Nitecore MH12W flashlight was released in 2017. It uses Cree XM-L2 U2 LED, SMO reflector and 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The powerful emitter in this flashlight provides up to 1000 lm output, 13500 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 232 m.

Curious if the MH12W shines bright? You'll find out soon!

Table of Contents

The content of this article reflects our own experiences and viewpoints. We aim to offer insights on a topic, and we hope others find it helpful and motivating. Additionally, we make every effort to provide accurate and comprehensive coverage. If you found an error or something lacking in the specifications for the Nitecore MH12W, then tell us.

Nitecore MH12W / MH12W

The MH12W flashlight is a key tool in many situations. It's used for everyday tasks, outdoor adventures, emergencies, and professional work. This light has 4 modes of lighting. The MH12W flashlight recalls the last used mode. So, you don't need to access higher brightness levels unless you need to. You can use the strobe function as a self-defense tool. It provides a non-lethal way to deter or disorient attackers. The flashlight uses rechargeable batteries. You can recharge them with a USB cable connected to a power source.

Nitecore MH12W specifications

BrandNitecore
NameMH12W
TypeMH12W
Rating
Rated 4 / 5 based on 1411 user votes.
Launch2017
Formflashlight

This Nitecore flashlight offers portability, versatility, and reliability in providing illumination.

Body, materials, weight, colors

Weight88 g
Length139 mm
Body diameter25.4 mm
Head diameter25.4 mm
Materialaluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish
Colorsblack

An extremely lightweight handheld flashlight weighs 88 g. The length of a flashlight can affect how it feels in your hand and how you can grip and maneuver it. Aluminium is a lightweight material, which is beneficial for MH12W flashlight. Flashlight makers widely use HAIII coating. It is durable, resists corrosion, and improves grip. It also looks good. This flashlight comes in a sleek black color option.

System, LED, lens, reflector

EmitterCree XM-L2 U2 LED
Color temperature4500 K
ReflectorSMO
LensAR coated glass
Switchelectronic side, mechanical rear

Cree is widely regarded as a reputable LED manufacturer. Warm, white light is generally more comfortable. It's also less harsh on the eyes than cool, white light. If you need long-range light, get a flashlight with a smooth reflector. It will have more throw distance. The AR coating of the lens helps to reduce these reflections. It does this by changing the lens surface's refractive index. The MH12W uses multiple switches. The switches' placement and design determine this. They allow for one-handed operation.

The electronic switches may have a higher chance of standby drain. Mechanical switches often offer tactile feedback. Users can feel a distinct click or resistance when they press the switch. The rear switch of the MH12W is rugged and durable. It can withstand harsh conditions and repeated use.

Performance, flux, intensity, throw

Flux1000 lm
Intensity13500 cd
Throw232 m
CD/LM factor13.5

The 1000 lm output of MH12W provides great flexibility. You can adjust the brightness to fit different needs. The MH12W flashlight has 13500 cd. It can light objects at greater distances. The throw distance is the farthest distance the flashlight can light an object. Candela per lumen (cd/lm) measures a flashlight's beam intensity. It compares this to its total luminous flux or output.

Software, user interface, modes

Modes4 modes
Mode memoryyes
Ramping modeno
Strobeyes
SOS/Beaconyes

A flashlight's modes are different output settings or brightness levels. They can be chosen to meet different needs and preferences. The flashlight has mode memory. It remembers the mode you were using when the light was last turned off. It stays in that mode when you turn it on again. You can use Strobe for signaling purposes. It can also be used for self-defense or to attract attention in emergency situations. The MH12W's SOS mode produces a specific sequence of long and short flashes. It signals distress or emergency.

Features, battery, protections

Battery1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery
Battery indicatoryes
Charger portmicroUSB
LVPyes
Thermal regulationyes
ProtectionIP68
AUX LEDsno
Magneticno

The MH12W flashlight's power source is 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. It provides reliable, long-lasting energy for top performance. The battery indicator helps users check the battery status. It also estimates how much runtime they have left before recharging the battery. The built-in charger allows for convenient and versatile charging. You can use various USB power sources to recharge the battery. LVP (Low Voltage Protection) is designed to protect the battery. It stops over-discharging, which can reduce battery life or cause permanent damage.

The thermal protection feature helps prevent overheating. Overheating can harm the flashlight's performance, battery, and safety. The "6" in the IP68 rating shows the level of protection. It's against solid objects, like dust and foreign particles. The flashlight has an IP68 rating. It can withstand being submerged in water beyond 1 meter for a prolonged period. The manufacturer specifies this.

Accessories, package contents

Package contents18650 battery
clip
lanyard
microUSB cable
nylon holster
spare USB plug
spare o-ring
spare rubber cover
tactical ring

The included battery is picked to match the power needs of the MH12W flashlight. This ensures reliable and efficient operation. The package includes a holster. It is designed to protectively store your flashlight. When you clip the flashlight to a good spot, you can angle or position it. This will give you hands-free light. Securing the flashlight with a lanyard frees up your hands for other tasks. It keeps the flashlight within reach. When using spare O-rings, follow the maker's instructions. Use their guidelines for proper installation.

According to the ANSI/NEMA FL1 Standard, we measure the performance of the MH12W flashlight 30 seconds after switching on the light. The ANSI/NEMA FL1 2009 Standard is a set of flashlight performance guidelines.

Conclusion, pros and cons

This Nitecore flashlight, like any other, has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's take a close look at both sides to understand this flashlight better. I share my thoughts on its standout features and the parts that might need improvement. Keep in mind, these are just my opinions, and you might have a different perspective.

Pros

  • lightweight
  • aluminium body
  • warm light
  • AR coated lens
  • side switch
  • tactical switch
  • adequate performance
  • multiple modes
  • mode memory
  • tactical strobe
  • SOS/beacon function
  • battery indicator
  • USB charger
  • low-voltage protection
  • thermal regulation
  • dust protected
  • waterproof
  • battery included
  • protective holster
  • clip

Cons

  • no auxiliary LEDs
  • non-magnetic

Photos

Nitecore MH12W / MH12W photo 1.
Nitecore MH12W / MH12W

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David Hagon
I love bushcraft and flashlights. I find joy in mastering wilderness survival skills and exploring the realm of illuminating gadgets. Bushcraft isn't just fun, it's a learning journey. I form a strong bond with nature. It's more than a hobby, it enriches me in practical and spiritual ways.
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