We’re kicking off the year with a fresh flashlight from AceBeam, proving that the AA platform has come a long way in terms of performance and features. The Rider RX manages to pack performance, convenience, versatility, and even a touch of fidget friendliness in a sleek and pocketable form factor, making it a solid choice for your first flashlight pickup of the year. It’s also now available in a solid set of stainless steel color options, so you can pick out the perfect one to match the rest of your gear.
On paper the Rider RX comes with plenty to like on both the practical and enthusiast side. The 3.77“, 2.89 oz light comes in a dual construction of an aluminum core and stainless steel outer shell, is rated for IP68 water resistance, and comes with a convenient two-way clip and included rechargeable 14500 li-ion battery. The tail switch interface offers quick and simple access to its 5 modes, which range from 0.5 lumens up to 650 lumens depending on the battery used.
It gets very interesting on the enthusiast end starting with the light’s business end, powered by a new Nichia 219F LED which comes with a >90 CRI and 5000K neutral white beam. Its use and inclusion of a 14500 li-ion with built-in USB-C charging is a rare and welcome addition to an AA-sized light, with the added convenience of NiMH and alkaline compatibility in case of emergency use.
The Rider RX’s unique feature, however, is a mechanical slide which lets you use the light as a fidget toy. By sliding the inner aluminum core via the clip, you’re able to keep your hands busy while also exposing a unique blue accent for the head when the core is fully extended. I’ve you’re a fan of bolt-action pens, this may be an unexpectedly fun feature to play around with.
Slide into 2022 with AceBeam’s sleek new light packed with features and perfect for EDC. Pick it up in all its new colors from AceBeam’s site at the link below.
