EagleTac D25C Clicky (Cree XM-L U2) Review

EagleTac has just released a clicky version of the D25C, practically called the EagleTac D25C which comes in two variations. These are available either with a Cree XM-L or XP-G. The model reviewed here is the XM-L version. Right up the front, the EagleTac D25C has a Ti coated stainless steel bezel, the Ti coating mutes the reflective nature of bare/polished stainless steel. The glass lens used in the EagleTac D25C is made of impact resistant glass with anti-reflective (AR) coatings on both sides. The reflector has a subtle texture and very well finished and polished. The review sample had a slight flaw on the reflector with what looks like a small air bubble (visible in the image to the left, click to enlarge). Thankfully, this slight flaw didn’t noticeably  affect output or beam profile/quality at all.  The XM-L LED sits perfectly centered at the bottom of the reflector cup. Externally, the head has a thin band of textured knurling which helps with grip and is a nice touch since mode changes are done with twists of the head as well. Threads between the head and battery tube are pretty cleanly cut and smooth. There is a rubber o-ring sitting just behind the threads on the head which serves as a moisture seal and also provides some dampening for the twist mechanism when changes modes. The “+” battery contact on the head has a physical reverse polarity protection built in, so no worries about damaging the electronics.

The battery tube has a clean and simple cylindrical design almost totally covered in textured knurling, finished in black Type III anodizing. The knurling is not too rough nor too smooth. It provides a nice grip while not causing abrasion to every other thing when carried in a pocket. The “-” battery contact has a spring which holds the battery in place and prevents rattle effectively. A pocket clip comes pre-installed with the EagleTac D25C allowing the light to be carried head-down. The clip can be removed by unscrewing the two small hex screws securing it in place. The clip had good tension and hold the flashlight firmly clipped, even on thin fabrics. The switch used in the EagleTac D25C is of the reverse push button variety. It has short travel with average tension. When fully engaged, it provides a positive tactile feel and audible click. The rubber switch cap sits flushed within the tail end of the battery tube which allows the light to tail stand without issues. There are a couple of holes machined on the tail lip which allows for lanyard attachments. The EagleTac D25C comes with a nice nylon holster with a snap button closure which has a novel flashlight pretension feature (preventing the light from dropping out accidentally)  and paracord lanyard.

The EagleTac D25C has a total of 5 levels of constant illumination modes (contrary to the 4 stated on the package) and 7 special modes. With the head tightened, half-presses of the switch simply cycles between Turbo and Strobe. With the head loosened, half-presses of the switch cycles output modes in the following order.

The additional Moonlight mode listed in the manual is accessible by switching the light on with the head loosened, then perform a sequence of tightening/loosening of the head 3 times. Additionally, memory mode (which enabled the light to turn on at the last used output level) can be enabled/disabled depending on your preference. This is done by performing switching the light on with the head tightened, then perform a sequence of loosening/tightening of the head 3 times.

Output on the highest Turbo level is only maintained for 5 minutes continuously which then steps down to about 80% output due to heat, this is a safety consideration and intentionally controlled by the electronics. The beam profile provided by the XM-L version of the EagleTac D25C provides a medium sized hot spot. The hot spot is pretty well defined considering  the use of an XM-L LED and the size relatively small size of the reflector. The spill beam is also medium sized, usable for lighting up a walking trail and similar tasks. Since a U2 bin XM-L is in this review model, beam tint is slightly cool when compared to sunlight white. Beam quality is great, free from any noticeable artifacts. Output is maintained well regulated on most output modes, however the EagleTac D25C has a weird wavy curve at the Medium output level.

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