Sofirn C8F XPL 3500lm flashlight review: Pros and Cons
The Sofirn C8F XPL flashlight released in 2018. It uses 3 x Cree XP-L HI LEDs, SMO reflector and 1 x 21700 Li-Ion battery. The powerful emitter in this flashlight provides up to 3500 lm output, 22400 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 299 m.
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The C8F XPL flashlight is an essential tools for emergency preparedness. In disasters or blackouts, when electricity is unavailable, a flashlight is crucial. It helps you navigate dark areas. With mode memory, when you turn off the C8F XPL 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.
Sofirn C8F XPL specifications
Brand | Sofirn |
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Name | C8F XPL |
Type | C8FXPL |
Rating | |
Launch | 2018 |
Form | flashlight |
This Sofirn flashlight is compact and handheld. It is easy to carry and maneuver.
Body, materials, weight, colors
Weight | 200 g |
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Length | 149 mm |
Head diameter | 44.6 mm |
Material | aluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish |
Colors | black |
The flashlight weighs 200 g. It is generally comfortable to hold for a long time, and it is also easy to carry in pockets or bags. The best flashlight size depends on personal preference. It also depends on intended use and the specific features you want. The aluminum bodies can be anodized. This adds a protective layer and a wide range of color options for flashlight bodies. The HAIII process makes a hard and wear-resistant surface on the aluminum. This makes it more resistant to scratches, abrasions, and impacts. This flashlight features a captivating black color.
System, LED, lens, reflector
Emitter | 3 x Cree XP-L HI LEDs |
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Color temperature | 5000 K |
Reflector | SMO |
Lens | toughtened AR coated glass |
Switch | electronic side, mechanical rear |
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 C8F XPL uses a smooth reflector. A smooth reflector is different from an orange peel reflector. It has a polished, mirror-like surface. The AR coating on the lens maximizes light transmission. This makes the flashlight more effective in darker environments.
The C8F XPL uses multiple switches. The switches' placement and design determine this. They allow for one-handed operation. Some flashlights with electronic switches have programmable features. They allow users to customize the behavior of the flashlight. Mechanical switches often offer tactile feedback. Users can feel a distinct click or resistance when they press the switch. The rear switch allows for quick and easy momentary or constant-on activation. It enables rapid response and tactical moves.
Performance, flux, intensity, throw
Flux | 3500 lm |
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Intensity | 22400 cd |
Throw | 299 m |
CD/LM factor | 6.4 |
The C8F XPL flashlight has 3500 lm. It will provide an exceptionally bright and powerful beam of light. The C8F XPL flashlight has 22400 cd. It can light objects at greater distances. 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
Mode memory | yes |
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Ramping mode | yes |
Strobe | yes |
SOS/Beacon | yes |
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 light doesn't have predefined brightness levels or fixed modes. Instead, the ramping mode lets you adjust the light smoothly within a specific range. Designers created the strobe function to produce a disorienting or attention-grabbing effect. The SOS code starts three short signals. Then, three long signals follow. Finally, there are three short signals again.
Features, battery, protections
Battery | 1 x 21700 Li-Ion battery |
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Battery indicator | yes |
Charger port | no |
LVP | yes |
Thermal regulation | yes |
Protection | IPx8 |
AUX LEDs | no |
Magnetic | no |
The C8F XPL flashlight utilizes 1 x 21700 Li-Ion battery as its power source. The battery indicator prevents surprise power failures. It ensures the flashlight is ready when needed. The C8F XPL doesn't have charger port. The Low Voltage Protection helps save the battery's capacity. It stops it from reaching a critically low voltage. The C8F XPL has thermal protection feature. These mechanisms track and regulate the flashlight's temperature as it operates. The flashlight has an IPx8 rating. It can withstand being submerged in water beyond 1 meter for a prolonged period. The manufacturer specifies this.
Accessories, package contents
Package contents | 2 x spare o-rings |
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Instead of searching for matching O-rings, having spare O-rings allows quick fixes.
According to the ANSI/NEMA FL1 Standard, we measure the performance of the C8F XPL 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 Sofirn 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
- strong flux
- super bright
- mode memory
- ramping mode
- tactical strobe
- SOS/beacon function
- battery indicator
- low-voltage protection
- thermal regulation
- waterproof
Cons
- no built-in charger
- no auxiliary LEDs
- non-magnetic
Photos
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