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Skilhunt DS21 HI 800lm flashlight review: Pros and Cons

Cree XP-L HI LED
800 lm output
12000 cd intensity
1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery

The Skilhunt DS21 HI flashlight released in 2016. It uses Cree XP-L HI LED, SMO reflector and 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The powerful emitter in this flashlight provides up to 800 lm output, 12000 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 219 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 DS21 HI, then tell us.

Skilhunt DS21 HI / DS21HI

The DS21 HI is an impressive flashlight that offers both power and reliability. Its robust build and outstanding illumination make it a versatile lighting instrument. This light has 4 modes of lighting. The DS21 HI mode memory eliminates the need to cycle through modes. You don't have to do this each time you turn on the flashlight. It provides convenience and saves time. You can use the strobe function as a self-defense tool. It provides a non-lethal way to deter or disorient attackers.

Skilhunt DS21 HI specifications

BrandSkilhunt
NameDS21 HI
TypeDS21HI
Rating
Rated 3 / 5 based on 1408 user votes.
Launch2016
Formflashlight

Flashlights are unlike ambient or overhead lights. They let you aim the light where you need it.

Body, materials, weight, colors

Weight52 g
Length110 mm
Body diameter22.5 mm
Head diameter24 mm
Materialaluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish
Colorsblack

The DS21 HI is small, compact, and designed for ultra-portability. The length of a flashlight can affect how it feels in your hand and how you can grip and maneuver it. The aluminium body of the DS21 HI has excellent thermal conductivity. This means it can effectively dissipate heat generated by the flashlight's components. HAIII is a specific anodizing process. It creates a thicker and harder oxide layer than regular anodizing. The DS21 HI flashlight comes in a stylish black color.

Skilhunt DS21 HI / 1

System, LED, lens, reflector

EmitterCree XP-L HI LED
Color temperature6500 K
ReflectorSMO
Lenstoughtened AR coated glass
Switchelectronic side

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. The SMO's main job is to focus and project light from the source. It does this into a defined beam pattern. The AR coating reduces the loss of light due to reflections, allowing more light to pass through the lens. The electronic switches may have a higher chance of standby drain.

Performance, flux, intensity, throw

Flux800 lm
Intensity12000 cd
Throw219 m
CD/LM factor15

With 800 lm, the DS21 HI flashlight will offer a brighter and more powerful beam of light. The DS21 HI flashlight has 12000 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. It compares this to its total luminous flux or output.

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. You can use Strobe for signaling purposes. It can also be used for self-defense or to attract attention in emergency situations.

Features, battery, protections

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

The DS21 HI 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 DS21 HI cannot charge batteries. You may need an external charger to keep your battery going. The flashlight detects when the battery's voltage has dropped to a certain level. Then, it reduces or cuts off the power.

Flashlights without thermal protection may rely on other design elements to dissipate heat. These elements include heat sinks, fins, or body materials with good thermal conductivity. The "8" in the IPx8 rating means the highest level of protection. It is against water ingress. The DS21 HI flashlight has a magnetic feature. It lets it securely attach to metal surfaces.

Accessories, package contents

Package contents2 x spare o-rings
clip
lanyard

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. 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 DS21 HI 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
  • AR coated lens
  • side switch
  • multiple modes
  • mode memory
  • tactical strobe
  • battery indicator
  • low-voltage protection
  • waterproof
  • magnetic
  • clip

Cons

  • cool light
  • moderated performance
  • no built-in charger
  • no thermal regulation
  • no auxiliary LEDs

Photos

Skilhunt DS21 HI / DS21HI photo 1.
Skilhunt DS21 HI / DS21HI photo 2.
Skilhunt DS21 HI / DS21HI

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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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