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Nitecore P16TAC flashlight review

Cree XM-L2 U3 LED
1000 lm output
22000 cd intensity
1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery

The Nitecore P16TAC flashlight was released in 2017. It uses Cree XM-L2 U3 LED, SMO reflector and 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The powerful emitter in this flashlight provides up to 1000 lm output, 22000 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 297 m.

Curious to see if this flashlight impresses? Read on!

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 P16TAC, then tell us.

Nitecore P16TAC / P16TAC

The P16TAC is a powerful and reliable flashlight. It has impressive illumination and durable construction. It is an exceptional lighting tool, it works in many situations and environments. This light has 4 modes of lighting. The memory function is a nice feature, the light will remember the last used mode. It has a strobe function, which is one of the most effective self defense tools available.

Nitecore P16TAC specifications

BrandNitecore
NameP16TAC
TypeP16TAC
Rating
Rated 3 / 5 based on 1409 user votes.
Launch2017
Formflashlight

This flashlight can fit in pockets, backpacks, or glove compartments. You can carry it wherever you go.

Nitecore P16TAC / 1

Body, materials, weight, colors

Weight141 g
Length151 mm
Body diameter25.4 mm
Head diameter40 mm
Materialaluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish
Colorsblack

This 141 g flashlight is slightly heavier than most handheld flashlights. But, it is still at a reasonable weight. A balanced flashlight has even weight. It can be more comfortable to hold for longer and reduce hand fatigue. The aluminium body of the P16TAC has a reputation for being durable and strong. It offers excellent resistance to impacts, scratches, and corrosion. The body of P16TAC flashlight treated with a Type III hard-anodized, anti-abrasive finish. The P16TAC flashlight is available in black.

Nitecore P16TAC / 2

System, LED, lens, reflector

EmitterCree XM-L2 U3 LED
Color temperature5000 K
ReflectorSMO
Lenstoughtened AR coated glass
Switchelectronic side, mechanical rear

Cree is a US-based LED manufacturer. It is well-regarded for its high-quality products and innovation in lighting. Color temperature is a characteristic of light. It is used to quantify the color appearance of light sources. The P16TAC has a smooth reflector. The right reflector focuses light well. It gives you a better hotspot, and it throws better. The coating is thin and applied to the lens surface. It cuts reflections and boosts light transmission.

The P16TAC flashlight has multiple switch options. They can be useful, adding versatility and convenience to using the flashlight. The flashlight has electronic switches. They have many benefits and extra features compared to mechanical switches. Mechanical switches are usually robust. They resist wear and tear and work in many environments. The rear switch of the P16TAC is usually operated with the thumb or finger. This makes it easy to reach and use.

Nitecore P16TAC / 3

Performance, flux, intensity, throw

Flux1000 lm
Intensity22000 cd
Throw297 m
CD/LM factor22

With 1000 lm, the P16TAC flashlight will offer a brighter and more powerful beam of light. The P16TAC flashlight has 22000 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. The cd/lm factor is the candela-to-lumen ratio. It shows how concentrated a light source's output is.

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. The P16TAC flashlight has a strobe function. It produces a rapid, repetitive flashing of light. The SOS signal is commonly used in outdoor adventures or survival scenarios.

Features, battery, protections

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

The Nitecore P16TAC flashlight is powered by 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The P16TAC 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, so it doesn't need protected cells. This light does not have temperature control feature. The "8" in the IPx8 rating means the highest level of protection. It is against water ingress.

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 useful to keep the light secured in your pocket. When gripping the flashlight with the lanyard around your wrist, it gives a more secure hold. It also gives a more stable hold. Replacing worn or damaged O-rings helps a lot. It keeps up the flashlight's durability and performance.

According to the ANSI/NEMA FL1 Standard, we measure the performance of the P16TAC 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
  • super bright
  • multiple modes
  • mode memory
  • tactical strobe
  • SOS/beacon function
  • low-voltage protection
  • waterproof
  • protective holster
  • clip

Cons

  • no battery indicator
  • no built-in charger
  • no thermal regulation
  • no auxiliary LEDs
  • non-magnetic

Photos

Nitecore P16TAC / P16TAC photo 1.
Nitecore P16TAC / P16TAC photo 2.
Nitecore P16TAC / P16TAC photo 3.
Nitecore P16TAC / P16TAC photo 4.
Nitecore P16TAC / P16TAC

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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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