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Skilhunt DS16 500lm flashlight review: Pros and Cons

Cree XP-L HD LED
500 lm output
3969 cd intensity
1 x 14500 Li-Ion or 1 x AA NiMH battery

The Skilhunt DS16 flashlight released in 2016. It uses Cree XP-L HD LED, OP reflector and 1 x 14500 Li-Ion or 1 x AA NiMH battery. The powerful emitter in this flashlight provides up to 500 lm output, 3969 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 126 m.

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 Skilhunt DS16, then tell us.

Skilhunt DS16 / DS16

The DS16 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. With mode memory, when you turn off the DS16 and then turn it back on, it will activate the last used mode. The strobe function produces a high-frequency flashing light pattern. It disorients or distracts potential threats or aggressors.

Skilhunt DS16 specifications

BrandSkilhunt
NameDS16
TypeDS16
Rating
Rated 4 / 5 based on 1408 user votes.
Launch2016
Formflashlight

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

Body, materials, weight, colors

Weight51 g
Length92 mm
Body diameter22 mm
Head diameter24 mm
Materialaluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish
Colorsblack

An extremely lightweight handheld flashlight weighs 51 g. Consider the length of the flashlight. It should fit comfortably in your chosen way to carry it. Aluminium is a lightweight material, which is beneficial for DS16 flashlight. The body of DS16 flashlight treated with a Type III hard-anodized, anti-abrasive finish. This flashlight comes in a sleek black color option.

System, LED, lens, reflector

EmitterCree XP-L HD LED
Color temperature6500 K
ReflectorOP
Lenstoughtened AR coated glass
Switchelectronic side

Lighting professionals trust Cree LEDs. Cree LEDs have gained a strong reputation for quality and performance. The color temperature choice depends on the light's use and personal taste. The OP reflector is a specific type of reflector, it is commonly used in flashlights. The AR coating of the lens helps to reduce these reflections. It does this by changing the lens surface's refractive index. Some flashlights with electronic switches have programmable features. They allow users to customize the behavior of the flashlight.

Performance, flux, intensity, throw

Flux500 lm
Intensity3969 cd
Throw126 m
CD/LM factor7.94

You mainly need a flashlight for basic tasks like finding keys or navigating in dimly lit areas. 500 lm can be enough. It can also be enough for occasional use around the house. The DS16 flashlight has 3969 cd. It provides a much brighter and more intense beam. The throw distance is the farthest distance the flashlight can light an object. The candela per lumen (cd/lm) ratio can be used to determine if a flashlight has a spot or flood type beam.

Software, user interface, modes

Modes4 modes
Mode memoryyes
Ramping modeno
Strobeyes
SOS/Beaconno

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. Strobe mode on DS16 flashlight produces a rapid, repeated flashing of light.

Features, battery, protections

Battery1 x 14500 Li-Ion or 1 x AA NiMH battery
Battery indicatorno
Charger portno
LVPyes
Thermal regulationno
ProtectionIPx8
AUX LEDsno
Magneticno

The DS16 flashlight utilizes 1 x 14500 Li-Ion or 1 x AA NiMH battery as its power source. The DS16 doesn't have charger port. LVP (Low Voltage Protection) is designed to protect the battery. It stops over-discharging, which can reduce battery life or cause permanent damage. This flashlight doesn't have built-in temperature control. The flashlight has an IPx8 rating. It can withstand being submerged in water beyond 1 meter for a prolonged period. The manufacturer specifies this.

According to the ANSI/NEMA FL1 Standard, we measure the performance of the DS16 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 Skilhunt 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
  • OP reflector
  • AR coated lens
  • side switch
  • multiple modes
  • mode memory
  • tactical strobe
  • low-voltage protection
  • waterproof

Cons

  • cool light
  • moderated performance
  • low intensity
  • no battery indicator
  • no built-in charger
  • no thermal regulation
  • no auxiliary LEDs
  • non-magnetic

Photos

Skilhunt DS16 / DS16 photo 1.
Skilhunt DS16 / DS16

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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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