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Nitecore

Nitecore P12 flashlight review

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

The Nitecore P12 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 this Nitecore flashlight is great? Keep reading to find out!

Table of Contents

  • Nitecore P12 specifications
    • Body, materials, weight, colors
    • System, LED, lens, reflector
    • Performance, flux, intensity, throw
    • Software, user interface, modes
    • Features, battery, protections
    • Accessories, package contents
    • Links
  • Conclusion, pros and cons
  • Photos
  • Comparisons

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.

Nitecore P12 / P12

The P12 flashlight is an essential tools for emergency preparedness. This light has 4 modes of lighting. The P12 mode memory eliminates the need to cycle through modes. It provides convenience and saves time. You can use the strobe function as a self-defense tool.

Nitecore P12 specifications

BrandNitecore
NameP12
TypeP12
Rating
Rated 3 / 5 based on 1532 user votes.
Launch2017
Formflashlight

The P12 flashlight enhances safety.

Nitecore P12 / 1

Body, materials, weight, colors

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

The flashlight is lightweight and easy to handle for most people. A smaller flashlight is easier to carry in a pocket, bag, or pouch. The aluminium body of the P12 has excellent thermal conductivity. The body of P12 flashlight treated with a Type III hard-anodized, anti-abrasive finish. The P12 flashlight is available in black.

Nitecore P12 / 2

System, LED, lens, reflector

EmitterCree XM-L2 U2 LED
Color temperature5000 K
ReflectorSMO
Lenstoughtened AR coated glass
Switchelectronic side, mechanical rear

Cree is widely regarded as a reputable LED manufacturer. Warm, white light is generally more comfortable. The SMO's main job is to focus and project light from the source. The AR coating is thin and applied to the lens surface. The P12 flashlight has multiple switch options. The electronic switches may have a higher chance of standby drain. Mechanical switches are usually robust. The rear switch of the P12 is usually operated with the thumb or finger.

Performance, flux, intensity, throw

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

With 1000 lm, the P12 flashlight will offer a brighter and more powerful beam of light. The P12 flashlight has 13500 cd, it can light objects at greater distances. The throw is the distance in meters at which the flashlight produces a light intensity of 0.25 lux. Candela per lumen (cd/lm) measures a flashlight's beam intensity.

Software, user interface, modes

Modes4 modes
Mode memoryyes
Ramping modeno
Strobeyes
SOS/Beaconyes

A flashlight's modes are different output settings or brightness levels. The flashlight has mode memory. It remembers the mode you were using when the light was last turned off. You can use Strobe for signaling purposes. It can also be used for self-defense or to attract attention in emergency situations. The SOS flashes Morse code so you can signal for help when needed.

Features, battery, protections

Battery1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery
Battery indicatoryes
Charger portno
LVPyes
Thermal regulationyes
ProtectionIPx8
AUX LEDsno
Magneticno

The P12 flashlight's power source is 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The battery indicator helps users check the battery status. The P12 cannot charge batteries. You may need an external charger to keep your battery going. This flashlight has built-in low voltage protection (LVP). It prevents damage from over-discharge. The built-in thermal control adjusts brightness output to prevent overheating. The "8" in the IPx8 rating means the highest level of protection.

Accessories, package contents

Package contentsclip
lanyard
nylon holster
spare o-ring
spare rubber cover
tactical ring

The package includes a holster to safely store your flashlight. The clip is very helpful, it lets you quickly access your flashlight while keeping your hands free for other tasks. Securing the flashlight with a lanyard frees up your hands for other tasks. When using spare O-rings, follow the maker's instructions.

Official sitehttps://flashlight.nitecore.com/

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
  • low-voltage protection
  • thermal regulation
  • waterproof
  • protective holster
  • clip

Cons

  • no built-in charger
  • no auxiliary LEDs
  • non-magnetic

Photos

Nitecore P12 / P12 photo 1.
Nitecore P12 / P12 photo 2.
Nitecore P12 / P12 photo 3.
Nitecore P12 / P12

Comparisons

According to our statistics, the Nitecore P12 flashlight was most often compared on our site with the following flashlights.

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Updated: April 23, 2024

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.