Between clicky switches and electronic switches and twist interfaces and even bolt-action activation, there are plenty of ways to fire up your favorite flashlight. But one thing unfortunately missing from that list is the underrated rotary interface. Usually paired with an infinitely ramping brightness feature, a rotary interface for a flashlight means you can literally dial in the brightness you need for whatever task is at hand. And while there have been rotary lights available off and on over the years, they’ve been an elusive beast—until today. JETBeam reissues their RRT01 flashlight for 2019, bringing with it the versatile rotary interface that’s backed up by equally versatile features. It’s a modern rotary light designed to be infinitely useful for the next generation of EDCers.
Part of the appeal of a rotary interface is its simplicity, which is also true for the JET-RRT01. Its entire operation is centered around its stainless steel magnetic control ring. It starts from off, then twisting it clockwise makes it pass through a series of detents to activate “on” and “High,” with hidden modes like Strobe and SOS accessible via quick twists past these detents. But the main focus of the light is that once you pass that first detent, it’s an infinite number of brightness levels from 1-950 claimed lumens with an RCR123A battery, which means it’s the perfect brightness for your needs at any time, without having to pass through a convoluted interface to get there. Inside the JET-RRT01 is a Cree XP-L HI that’s compatible with both the included (and rechargeable!) 16340 cell that comes with it, as well as 18350 and the aforementioned RCR123A rechargeable batteries. Runtime with an RCR123A is ~25 minutes when on the highest 950-lumen brightness, and 80 hours at 1 lumen.
With an anodized aluminum construction and palm-sized 3.2“ length, the JET-RRT01 is sized right for EDC. A flat tail—with notches for tritium vials, no less—allows tailstanding for candle operation, while a skeletonized clip allows easy pocket or lanyard carry, and doubles as an anti-roll deterrent when the light is on a surface. The recessed battery tube is knurled for grip and purchase during operation, sealing off its battery compartment with an o-ring and secure, square threads that contribute to its IPX8-rated resistance.
If you’ve never tried a rotary interface before on your flashlights, then the JETBeam JET-RRT01 is the perfect place to test the waters. Between its couldn’t-be-simpler operation, power options, and usage versatility, it’s one of the most compelling EDC lights on the market for you to try. Pick one up from the Amazon link below.
* Price accurate at the time of publication and is subject to change.
