It’s a big EDC market out there, and tons of awesome gear is released all the time. We made The Drop to help you discover the latest and greatest essentials worth a spot in your EDC.
Everyday carry flashlight manufacturers have begun releasing torches featuring Laser Excited Phosphor (LEP) elements in the chase for greater light output and beam projection. Take the new AceBeam Terminator M1 flashlight, a dual-head specialty flashlight made for flashlight enthusiasts who want the best of all worlds. This design uses traditional LEDs and LEP emitters to give you floodlight and spotlight capability in–like its namesake–one seriously imposing package.
If you’re wondering what makes LEP technology so unique, it’s because it works differently LEDs. Those use a light-emitting diode to generate light, while LEP lights use a blue laser beam to hit a phosphor element, generating more concentrated light than a regular LED emitter at very, very high candela (intensity) levels. Needless to say, it’s probably not a great idea to point an LEP of any power directly into anyone’s eyes.
And on the AceBeam Terminator M1, you get dedicated use of both technologies. The LEP module puts a zoomable spotlight beam to a rated 1,600 meters (1,750 yards, or over a mile) at a top end of “just” 700 lumens, but with a substantial 640,000 candela. The traditional LED section features three LED modules in the head. You can choose a triple cool white at 6500K for a maximum 3,500 lumens or a triple array of enthusiast Nichia 519A LEDs at 5000K neutral white at a reduced 2,300 lumens but much higher CRI (color rendering index).
The Terminator is a massive light that may not be pocketable, but you can keep it in your pack or emergency go bag when needed. And the included 5000mAh 21700 battery is both high capacity and conveniently rechargeable via USB-C, so you can keep it topped up easily with your EDC power bank or wall plug.
What we like: The dual LED and LEP nature of the AceBeam Terminator M1 means you can carry both functions without sacrificing anything except your bag space and hard-earned cash.
What to watch out for: Flashlights with LEP elements are lasers, so their use may be more restricted. Check your local regulations, and always exercise safety while using your gear. Pay careful attention not to shine this light in your eyes (or anyone else’s), and you should be good to go. Be sure also to check your needs to determine whether you need the higher output of cool white or a more discerning high CRI beam for the LED half of the light.
Final verdict: While this specialty light isn’t the best for EDC, it’s a good choice for anyone who needs extreme LEP reach and traditional LED flashlight capabilities. The AceBeam Terminator M1 allows you to carry one formidable flashlight instead of two with minimal compromise.
