possibly the best review of any light i have seen! conducting the review in the field under a s&r scenario is perfect and how every light should be reviewed!
I just purchased my TK16 V2 primarily for the Instant Strobe feature. I'm a Wildland Firefighter and we use strobe alot in coordinating our bucket drops with our Heli pilots. Strobe allows them so see us under the tree canopies. This is by far the most excellent review. I have learned alot about flashlights now compare to a moment ago. Thank you!
Wow!!! I've watched A LOT of these "comparison vid.s " and have been torn between these two lights. Your professional approach makes ALL of the difference. Most videos are by guys amateur opinions, not a scenario that involves all the factors that you display and explain. Excellent job sir , and now I can make a confident and educated decision. Thank you!
Thank you. I'm glad you found it helpful. Your comment is what got me started along this path. I found it incredibly difficult to find detailed info on gear for use in Search and Rescue. Decided to take it on myself in the hopes that the experiences would help others.
Hey, i want to buy tk16 v2, or tk20v2 or tk36r pro or tk40 v2. Have you a experience with others fenix flashlight? All are in similar price. It not how about 16 vs 20. Which one you prefer after time experience? Tk20 have mi te brightness bram than16, but isnt at cost a darker spreed bram? I suppose on your video that tk16 have brighter spreed Light or am i wrong? Which one works longer with stable 1000lm ? I preffer more spreed light than focus beam.
@@piotrachut3339 The lower candela light (the TK16 V2) has the wider hotspot - you are correct. You can look at the burndown charts for each light at fenixlighting.com - the TK16 V2 seems to have the more favorable (theoretical) burndown at the 1K LM level than the TK20R V2. I have not yet field tested the TK36R Pro, but it has the flattest/longest theoretical burn-down at that 1K LM level. Good luck!
@@L5-SAR thx for fast feedback. So i keep searching. Now im lookng forward too TK36R PRO.... Like you say, is more stable by 1000 lm. I preffer lighter spredlight than focus beam. When TK36 have similar light too TK16, than will by my favorit flashlight. Thx again mate...
@@piotrachut3339 You are the only person who has to be satisfied with what light you purchase. Keep doing good research and best of luck with whatever direction you go!!
True, but you got to remember that cameras always lie in dark conditions and I'm sure the 20 is plenty of light in close distances if you were to see it live. For me the 20 is the clear winner as it lights further better.
@@deslow7411 I don't have the 16 yet (debating with myself whether I should get one or not), but you are absolutely right on the 20. It is way floodier than I expected when I bought mine, can't see how anyone could see it as too pinpoint spot at all. The issue as I see it with the 20 is the number of similar modes that one needs to cycle through, considering the UI they could very well have cut it down to four at the very most. And I wouldn't have minded if it WAS a bit more pinpoint with higher candela while keeping a good spill. If going for more distance, the TK22 is quite alot better I'd say, but then there's the slightly larger size of course, it is hardly an EDC light.
Definitely a useful summary of both lights, will probably go with 20 based on this review, need a bit more penetration regarding central beam. Thank you!
@@L5-SAR Hello, I need a lamp with enough power in lumens and candela. I hesitate between these 3 models: Fenix tk20r v2.0, olight marauder mini, Fenix PD40R v2.0. Which one can you advise me please? If you think of another one that I haven't mentioned, don't hesitate. Good evening.
@@pierreproductions6552 Well, that's a tall order :). Let's start with use cases and how much lumens and candela? The higher the lumens the more the heat regulation. The higher the candela the narrower the beam at a fixed lumen output. Will your usage be intermittent or do you need to run for minutes (perhaps hours) at a time at a specific output level? Thanks.
@@L5-SAR For wilderness exploration. I want a fairly complete flashlight. I don't need to have an ultra wide angle but I still need to see far enough around 300 meters. Budget 230 euros maximum
It’s easy to move the light a slight bit to the left or right to but it’s impossible to make the light go further if you need to see something out there. 😊 tk20r obvious winner for me! PLUS a battery indicator and a cover for the charge port. Not even close. Love my tk20r 2.0 to death. Best light I’ve found so far all around.
P.S. I'd like to test a pd36tac (with increased lumens), but it is unaviable in Ukraine (war deficite as is), i'd lucky to buy a last one from a small amount of new supply. My purpose is EDC with tactical possibilities, and i suppose that for search and rescue it has to be a flashlight with longer high-lumen-beam step and bigger head, possibly bigger battery format, etc. (i don't making this in usual, but everything is possible now)
Great review, this is exactly what I wanted to know. For closer, my Fenix headlamp does a great job and paired with this 20, I’ll have the best of both worlds using only 1 hand.
@@L5-SAR I just use an older HM61R, for stuff within 30m it is plenty bright on high and can always just be clipped on a chest strap too. I don't do anything like you, just camping... but those times when one of your dogs runs off after an animal at night... the 20 should be great! And for camp, the red light function and low modes are great, and can use widely available 18650s.
@@sloanNYC Sounds like you've got it all well thought out. That's the deal - matching equipment to your anticipated use cases and environment. Well done. Good luck to you!
Great review! Was it possible that there was a less dramatic step down happening within a minute on the TK-16 during that side by side turbo endurance test? The step was dramatic and obvious on the 20, but it seemed like the 16 was getting dimmer as the brief test went on, hard to tell from a video perspective, thanks!
Yes, the burn-down on the 16 is more gradual within that first 30-60 seconds. They both step down, but in a different manner, even though the theoretical burn-down charts look very similar. That's why I like field tests, especially under different temps. Thanks for your question.
I have the 20r the dedomed sft 40 looks to be a cooler color temp compared to the sst40 both are excellent lights! I don't understand why they took the glass breaker points off on the 20r great comparison !!
Excellent review and very hard to disagree with any of the points you made regarding usage along search and rescue lines. For Self Defense purposes however, I think the TK 16 V2.0 is the better choice. At very close hand to hand combat ranges, the increased candela of the TK20 is not palpable, and the wider beam of the 16 gives greater assurance that the beam will hit the attacker in the eyes. Rather like preferring a shotgun over a rifle for close quarters combat. They both seem about equally good as impact weapons. On a side note. I have been able to carry my original TK 16 on commercial flights and gotten through airport security with it in my backpack with no problem. I suspect this is because the length is 6 inches or less. The TK 20 is longer and may trigger a search when the bag is Xrayed.
I like your thinking in regard to self defense. I've had to use a flashlight for defensive purposes twice back during my executive protection days. Thanks for your insights.
@L5-SAR I haven't purchased yet. The 16 with the face in stainless and titanium bumps really appeal to me, but I prefer the functions on the 20. Wish they did the same to the 20.
@L-5 Imaging Product Reviews and SAR Ops I was thinking about the 16, originally, because Fenix is throwing in a "baby" light, in the package, but I'm one of those who likes THROW, more than SPILL. The farther, the better. The part in your video that sold me on the 20, was the night shot of the road, with the vehicle. When you alternated with them in "high" mode, it was VERY CLEAR that the 20 was superior. Again, the 16 had a nice wide spill, but that throw (with its own little spill) of the 20, well, that's what sold me. I was like, WOW!, when you turned off the 16, then turned on the 20. The other thing I appreciated was you talking about the "heat" that some of these flashlights generate. I question whether it's that 5,000 mA battery. 🤔 I'm a Fenix guy, since 2014. I have the OG UC35 and TK35, which are still working fine. But, apparently, lately, I have an addiction, lol. In the last year and a half or so, I've bought, in order, the PD36 Tactical Tac; the UC35 V2.0 (because I wanted an upgrade 🤦♂️); the PD36R Pro, which is enroute (recent purchase). And yet I now find I want one of these two!! It's like a Crack cocaine addiction, but HEALTHIER! 😆😆 But, going back to the heat generation, I find that my PD36 Tac does this. I had never experienced this before, so my assumption is that it's these higher mA batteries. What's your take?? 🤷♂️ Thanks again for your reply. Sorry for the novel. 😁
This reviews are very informative and covers a lot of helpful tests. Just curious, wich headlamp were you using? Also take a look at the Wurkkos TS30S, its a beast of a thrower!
Fantastic video. What’s the headlamp you’re using? And do you think the more focused beam of the 20 would see through dark car tints for law enforcement purposes?
These are both pretty big for rifle lights. Fenix does have the GL19R. I run this on my AR and it's a great light. There is also a review on the channel. Thank you!
Thx for this very comprehensive review! Much appreciated. I have heard somewhere that Turbo mode can't be accessed on both lights the same way. Iirc they said that you can't access Turbo directly on the 20R but you can on the TK16. So isn't the UI exactly the same? Thx for clarifying that.
Which would you recommend for dog walking and night hiking? I am in an area where I need to be on the lookout for snakes and other critters as well as being alert to other people around me. Is there another option you would recommend? Thanks!
Both of these would be overkill unless you're night hiking in serious wilderness and then I'd recommend a headlamp. Consider an EDC or mini EDC form factor for more casual night hiking like groomed trails on a nature preserve. Look at the PowerTac M5 G2 review on the channel as well as the Sofirn SC21 beams shots short and see what you think. If you're dealing with a dog, I'd still recommend a headlamp, though. Thanks!
Michelle Daley, is it very tight and lots of brush and trees, or is it an open area? Very tight areas I vote for the Fenix E28R. Kinda open area, I vote for the Fenix PD36R 😉
Sir🙏 Great review I have Fenix C7 which comes with 3000 Lumens from the Luminus SST 70 Led so I wanna buy a best tactical flashlight from Fenix which will be impressive output, more Candela, good throw with spill, easy to carry and operate. So I checked Fenix Tk 20r V2. O which is 3000 Lumens from the Luminus SFT 70 Led, battery indicator..... Will the Fenix Tk20r V2. O be best in everything to buy? God bless you & your reviews.
I was always impressed with the C7 specs, but Fenix never sent one for evaluation. If you have it, just keep it and use it . You will be a happy camper.
What is the reason you use a tactical flashlight for search and rescue instead of search light like LR35R? It's turbo drops to same levels as these on full power. Is it because you said you do most of our search on high level and they are smaller to carry?
Short answer. Weight vs. performance. I spend most of my time tracking, searching inside tree lines and in spaces in between tree lines. Overwhelming majority of time is with line of sight inside 200 yd. In wider areas, handheld thermal is far better for making fast identifications than any high-power search light. I can pack a lightweight tac light, handheld thermal and a magnified monocular for long-range identifications for about the same weight budget as a lot of higher-end 'search' lights. Those have their place, just not displacing other gear and to be carried around difficult terrain for hours and hours at a time. I also have to be prepared to stay out all night and load accordingly. Thank you. And, the LR35R is a good light. I never got around to testing it. By now, it's kind of lost in that in-between space between a free light and a long-throw light. I already have much better long-throw lights on my left-shoulder and too many other options for an 'in-between' the headlamp and long-throw light.
Thanks for your question. I REALLY wanted to review the C7 when it came out, but Fenix had stock problems and never sent me one. I wanted to test out the Medium and High modes as that's what I use most from a free light in Search and Rescue. I'm going to talk with them at SHOT Show to see if I can get one for review. The spot and spill should be similar to the TK 20R V2 at the high end, so good for targeted tree line searches. For more wide-open terrain (inside 150 yds), I tend to prefer a wider beam. The more you move a tight hotspot, the more your eyes refocus and the less benefit you get from peripheral vision. I used to do an exercise in night hiking classes where I would place something (usually a small jacket) in a field at 100 yards or so distance. I'd let the students search the area with two types of flashlight. The ones with the really tight beam never did well and often passed right over the item - multiple times. I should do a video on this one day. As always, it's a matter of matching use case or cases to a specific tool.
@@L5-SAR i really appreciate your reviews and your reply. This is the only channel i come to to see real world reviews and not just shining beams at white walls. Thanks!
@@Amezaing Thanks. I'm always glad to help whenever I can. I've found that 'real world' field testing is the only way I've been able to make good decisions about what goes in my kit. Sometimes, a tiny difference in just one light can make a significant difference in a search.
You may want to consider a flashlight specifically for hunting that has red/green modes built in along with white light. Fenix does have the HT18 and they announced a new light with red and green modes at SHOT Show. Of these two light in the review, the 20 has the longer range virtue of the higher peak candela, but with the caveat of an aggressive step-down in Turbo. Hope that helps and thank you.
@@twosix_00 Of the two, the 20 will have the longer throw, courtesy of higher peak candela (again, with the caveat of a very aggressive step-down in Turbo). If you consider a similar form factor, say 6" body and no more. than 40mm bezel, you might want to think about the Cyansky K3 V2. Approx 120K peak candela in Turbo, over twice that of the TK 20R V2. It has gun mounts as well. I have a review of that model on the channel. If you can wait, the new HT32 from Fenix seems more compact than traditional hunting flashlights and has two Red/Green modes. I don't have any details on it, though. You can get a brief look at it from the Fenix New Products video from SHOT Show. Hope that helps.
I have not personally run it for that duration and there is a small (linear) step-down. You can see the burn-down chart here. Hope that helps. It would be an interesting test to camp out one night, leave it on and periodically check a Lux meter to verify the step-down. Too many tests ... too little time :). Thanks for your question.
@@samuelencinias2026 Yes, which is why I put a huge emphasis on field testing. I have found that the Fenix burn downs are pretty accurate except for temperature extremes. This is a problem for any light, however. Thanks again.
@@L5-SAR You are busy because you do a very good job in your videos explaining those flashlights. I have both the TK20R V2 and the TK 16 V2. Now I'm thinking getting the TK 22 Tac because the tail cap is different ( i may like that ) and with a very good candela of 74,000. That is good for the size of the light. Just the head is a little bigger than the other two. For me , it's all about blinding in case of attackr etc..... Again, keep up the good work in all what you do.
@@rejeanpoirier6047 Thank you!! Fenix, unfortunately, is very 'particular' about lights they send out for review. Otherwise, I'd already have one up of the TK 22 Tac.
guys, help with the choice, my task is to find a flashlight for hiking in the forest and so on, and I can't decide between these two, please write your opinion about what you chose and why
For general hiking, I think you would use the lower modes most often. I'd probably go with the 20. My use of the 16 is as a left-shoulder mounted light, so I like that it's shorter and it is less regulated in Turbo in the event that my typical 15-20 second burst extends beyond a minute. Check out the full review of the 20 on the channel. Thanks.
I own the TK16V2 so buying the 20R would be fun to have to compare it to the 16. Thanks for the upload Edit:I'm back. I have been doing a lot of looking and shopping around. I am torn between the TK20R, the TK22TAC, or the Fenix C7-an overlooked light. $79, 3K lumens, and USB-C rechargeable. 21700mah battery. They all would fit my Arsenal but I love the candela on the TK22TAC...But, I don't wanna have to remove the battery to charge it in my car if I need to. Too many choices
I love my C7, I traded in my TK20R and the better UI for a longer run time on +1000 lumens for almost 2 hours. The TK runs at around 700 lumens for about 2 hours.
The 20 is very heavily regulated. And, that was on a pretty hot night, which is why I like to do extensive field testing under a variety of temps and circumstances. I personally like the Med/High modes in the 20 and use it only for very brief bursts in Turbo. I've used the 16 as a left-shoulder light for more sustained use in Turbo. Since it's mounted on a backpack strap, I don't really mind the heat. When it's cold, I've seen the 20 hold Turbo for over a minute, but it's still the same, dramatic step-down. You can see it on the burn-down chart online, but there's nothing like seeing it live :). Thanks and good luck with your flashlight selection.
@@JohnnyRebLa I tend to use Turbo for very brief intervals - about 20 seconds max - in order to make identifications. If I can't make an ID in that time, I need to either close the distance, use a magnified optic, or do something else :). Thanks.
possibly the best review of any light i have seen! conducting the review in the field under a s&r scenario is perfect and how every light should be reviewed!
Thanks! Glad you liked it. There are many more coming in the channel.
Also. I love the "Twist to get access to the USB- TYPE C." BRILLIANT!!!
I just purchased my TK16 V2 primarily for the Instant Strobe feature. I'm a Wildland Firefighter and we use strobe alot in coordinating our bucket drops with our Heli pilots. Strobe allows them so see us under the tree canopies.
This is by far the most excellent review. I have learned alot about flashlights now compare to a moment ago. Thank you!
Thanks. Glad you found it helpful and thanks very much for your service as a fire fighter!
Wow!!! I've watched A LOT of these "comparison vid.s " and have been torn between these two lights. Your professional approach makes ALL of the difference. Most videos are by guys amateur opinions, not a scenario that involves all the factors that you display and explain. Excellent job sir , and now I can make a confident and educated decision. Thank you!
Thank you. I'm glad you found it helpful. Your comment is what got me started along this path. I found it incredibly difficult to find detailed info on gear for use in Search and Rescue. Decided to take it on myself in the hopes that the experiences would help others.
Hey, i want to buy tk16 v2, or tk20v2 or tk36r pro or tk40 v2. Have you a experience with others fenix flashlight? All are in similar price. It not how about 16 vs 20. Which one you prefer after time experience? Tk20 have mi te brightness bram than16, but isnt at cost a darker spreed bram? I suppose on your video that tk16 have brighter spreed Light or am i wrong? Which one works longer with stable 1000lm ? I preffer more spreed light than focus beam.
@@piotrachut3339 The lower candela light (the TK16 V2) has the wider hotspot - you are correct. You can look at the burndown charts for each light at fenixlighting.com - the TK16 V2 seems to have the more favorable (theoretical) burndown at the 1K LM level than the TK20R V2. I have not yet field tested the TK36R Pro, but it has the flattest/longest theoretical burn-down at that 1K LM level. Good luck!
@@L5-SAR thx for fast feedback. So i keep searching. Now im lookng forward too TK36R PRO.... Like you say, is more stable by 1000 lm. I preffer lighter spredlight than focus beam. When TK36 have similar light too TK16, than will by my favorit flashlight. Thx again mate...
@@piotrachut3339 You are the only person who has to be satisfied with what light you purchase. Keep doing good research and best of luck with whatever direction you go!!
Now that’s what I call a review! A big round of applause👏 👏👏👍👍👍
Thank you. There will be more :)
Absolutely an excellent demo for the lights. Very much appreciated.
Glad you found it helpful. Thanks!
Great review, thanks. Your closing comments about the bulk of the 20 were particularly helpful for someone trying to decide between these two.
Glad you found it helpful. Good luck!
It seems the 16 is better for close distance with wider view while the 20 is more spotty or narrower
True, but you got to remember that cameras always lie in dark conditions and I'm sure the 20 is plenty of light in close distances if you were to see it live. For me the 20 is the clear winner as it lights further better.
@@deslow7411 I don't have the 16 yet (debating with myself whether I should get one or not), but you are absolutely right on the 20. It is way floodier than I expected when I bought mine, can't see how anyone could see it as too pinpoint spot at all.
The issue as I see it with the 20 is the number of similar modes that one needs to cycle through, considering the UI they could very well have cut it down to four at the very most. And I wouldn't have minded if it WAS a bit more pinpoint with higher candela while keeping a good spill.
If going for more distance, the TK22 is quite alot better I'd say, but then there's the slightly larger size of course, it is hardly an EDC light.
Great review of these 2 lights!!! Much appreciated. I'm sticking with my TK16 v2.0. :)
Man, it's hard to beat that 16, especially if you run it in Turbo a lot. Good purchase!
Definitely a useful summary of both lights, will probably go with 20 based on this review, need a bit more penetration regarding central beam. Thank you!
Yes, with the higher candela, that is the case. Thank you.
I have the tk20r v2.0 and it’s my favorite light out of all of mine. Absolutely awesome light I don’t think you will regret it
@@L5-SAR Hello, I need a lamp with enough power in lumens and candela. I hesitate between these 3 models: Fenix tk20r v2.0, olight marauder mini, Fenix PD40R v2.0. Which one can you advise me please? If you think of another one that I haven't mentioned, don't hesitate. Good evening.
@@pierreproductions6552 Well, that's a tall order :). Let's start with use cases and how much lumens and candela? The higher the lumens the more the heat regulation. The higher the candela the narrower the beam at a fixed lumen output. Will your usage be intermittent or do you need to run for minutes (perhaps hours) at a time at a specific output level? Thanks.
@@L5-SAR For wilderness exploration. I want a fairly complete flashlight. I don't need to have an ultra wide angle but I still need to see far enough around 300 meters. Budget 230 euros maximum
Thanks for this comparison. This helped me a lot in choosing my purchase.
Glad it helped - that's the main reason for the channel :). Enjoy your light!
Bought both of them. The hot spot on the TK20 v2 is more focused and sharper than the TK16 v2.
Yes. Notably higher peak candela on the 20.
It’s easy to move the light a slight bit to the left or right to but it’s impossible to make the light go further if you need to see something out there. 😊 tk20r obvious winner for me! PLUS a battery indicator and a cover for the charge port. Not even close. Love my tk20r 2.0 to death. Best light I’ve found so far all around.
😂la migliore
Tnx for comparison. I've one of them, and see now that my choise (without aviability to compare) was right.
Which one did you purchase?
- I've 20. Had pd36r before. And a few smaller before. Look like i'm "growing", so increasing the size isn't a problem.
P.S. I'd like to test a pd36tac (with increased lumens), but it is unaviable in Ukraine (war deficite as is), i'd lucky to buy a last one from a small amount of new supply. My purpose is EDC with tactical possibilities, and i suppose that for search and rescue it has to be a flashlight with longer high-lumen-beam step and bigger head, possibly bigger battery format, etc. (i don't making this in usual, but everything is possible now)
@@hztn Awesome. Good luck to you.
@@hztn The PD 36 Tac is on my review list - trying to get Fenix to send me one :)
Great review, this is exactly what I wanted to know. For closer, my Fenix headlamp does a great job and paired with this 20, I’ll have the best of both worlds using only 1 hand.
Sound like you've got a great setup. What headlamp do you use?
@@L5-SAR I just use an older HM61R, for stuff within 30m it is plenty bright on high and can always just be clipped on a chest strap too. I don't do anything like you, just camping... but those times when one of your dogs runs off after an animal at night... the 20 should be great! And for camp, the red light function and low modes are great, and can use widely available 18650s.
@@sloanNYC Sounds like you've got it all well thought out. That's the deal - matching equipment to your anticipated use cases and environment. Well done. Good luck to you!
I have both on my duty belt and love them!
Glad to hear. What dept. do you work for? Thanks for your service.
Great review! Was it possible that there was a less dramatic step down happening within a minute on the TK-16 during that side by side turbo endurance test? The step was dramatic and obvious on the 20, but it seemed like the 16 was getting dimmer as the brief test went on, hard to tell from a video perspective, thanks!
Yes, the burn-down on the 16 is more gradual within that first 30-60 seconds. They both step down, but in a different manner, even though the theoretical burn-down charts look very similar. That's why I like field tests, especially under different temps. Thanks for your question.
I have the 20r the dedomed sft 40 looks to be a cooler color temp compared to the sst40 both are excellent lights! I don't understand why they took the glass breaker points off on the 20r great comparison !!
Thanks.
Excellent review and very hard to disagree with any of the points you made regarding usage along search and rescue lines. For Self Defense purposes however, I think the TK 16 V2.0 is the better choice. At very close hand to hand combat ranges, the increased candela of the TK20 is not palpable, and the wider beam of the 16 gives greater assurance that the beam will hit the attacker in the eyes. Rather like preferring a shotgun over a rifle for close quarters combat. They both seem about equally good as impact weapons. On a side note. I have been able to carry my original TK 16 on commercial flights and gotten through airport security with it in my backpack with no problem. I suspect this is because the length is 6 inches or less. The TK 20 is longer and may trigger a search when the bag is Xrayed.
I like your thinking in regard to self defense. I've had to use a flashlight for defensive purposes twice back during my executive protection days. Thanks for your insights.
@L5-SAR I haven't purchased yet. The 16 with the face in stainless and titanium bumps really appeal to me, but I prefer the functions on the 20. Wish they did the same to the 20.
This was an INFORMATIVE, and, well, IMPRESSIVE video!! 👏👏👍👍
Thanks. I'm glad you found the information helpful.
@L-5 Imaging Product Reviews and SAR Ops I was thinking about the 16, originally, because Fenix is throwing in a "baby" light, in the package, but I'm one of those who likes THROW, more than SPILL. The farther, the better.
The part in your video that sold me on the 20, was the night shot of the road, with the vehicle. When you alternated with them in "high" mode, it was VERY CLEAR that the 20 was superior. Again, the 16 had a nice wide spill, but that throw (with its own little spill) of the 20, well, that's what sold me. I was like, WOW!, when you turned off the 16, then turned on the 20.
The other thing I appreciated was you talking about the "heat" that some of these flashlights generate. I question whether it's that 5,000 mA battery. 🤔 I'm a Fenix guy, since 2014. I have the OG UC35 and TK35, which are still working fine. But, apparently, lately, I have an addiction, lol.
In the last year and a half or so, I've bought, in order, the PD36 Tactical Tac; the UC35 V2.0 (because I wanted an upgrade 🤦♂️); the PD36R Pro, which is enroute (recent purchase). And yet I now find I want one of these two!! It's like a Crack cocaine addiction, but HEALTHIER! 😆😆
But, going back to the heat generation, I find that my PD36 Tac does this. I had never experienced this before, so my assumption is that it's these higher mA batteries. What's your take?? 🤷♂️
Thanks again for your reply. Sorry for the novel. 😁
@@johndanielsforJesus If you want throw, the 20 is higher candela, so that's the way to go. Thanks.
Great Review.....thank you
Thank you. Glad you found it helpful.
This reviews are very informative and covers a lot of helpful tests. Just curious, wich headlamp were you using? Also take a look at the Wurkkos TS30S, its a beast of a thrower!
Thanks! Headlamp is the Fenix HP 30R V2. I'll check out the Wurkkos - thanks for the recommendation.
Another useful entertaining review. Thank you
Thanks. - glad you found it helpful .... or at least entertaining :)
Really hoping you’ll do a Nitecore P23i vs TK20
It's on the list, but I'm running about a month and a half behind on reviews with new lights on the way. Thanks.
Fantastic video. What’s the headlamp you’re using?
And do you think the more focused beam of the 20 would see through dark car tints for law enforcement purposes?
Fenix HP 30R V2 ... and yes. I should do a video on this some time. And, compare with LEP lights.
This is an outstanding review! Thank you for posting this!
Thank you. I'm glad you found the comparison helpful. Good luck to you in the future.
Such a usefull video, thanks!
Glad you found it helpful. Thanks!
Which fenix would you recommend for general purpose rifle light ?
These are both pretty big for rifle lights. Fenix does have the GL19R. I run this on my AR and it's a great light. There is also a review on the channel. Thank you!
Thx for this very comprehensive review! Much appreciated. I have heard somewhere that Turbo mode can't be accessed on both lights the same way. Iirc they said that you can't access Turbo directly on the 20R but you can on the TK16. So isn't the UI exactly the same? Thx for clarifying that.
The UI is the same. You can also verify this from the operation instructions for both lights at fenixlighting.com . Hope that helps!
very nice and informative review. thank you
Glad you found it helpful ... despite the fact that the bugs seemed to really have it in for me that night :)
Which would you recommend for dog walking and night hiking? I am in an area where I need to be on the lookout for snakes and other critters as well as being alert to other people around me. Is there another option you would recommend? Thanks!
Both of these would be overkill unless you're night hiking in serious wilderness and then I'd recommend a headlamp. Consider an EDC or mini EDC form factor for more casual night hiking like groomed trails on a nature preserve. Look at the PowerTac M5 G2 review on the channel as well as the Sofirn SC21 beams shots short and see what you think. If you're dealing with a dog, I'd still recommend a headlamp, though. Thanks!
Michelle Daley, is it very tight and lots of brush and trees, or is it an open area? Very tight areas I vote for the Fenix E28R. Kinda open area, I vote for the Fenix PD36R 😉
Definitely go for a PD36R...
Sir🙏
Great review
I have Fenix C7 which comes with 3000 Lumens from the Luminus SST 70 Led so I wanna buy a best tactical flashlight from Fenix which will be impressive output, more Candela, good throw with spill, easy to carry and operate.
So I checked Fenix Tk 20r V2. O which is 3000 Lumens from the Luminus SFT 70 Led, battery indicator.....
Will the Fenix Tk20r V2. O be best in everything to buy?
God bless you & your reviews.
I was always impressed with the C7 specs, but Fenix never sent one for evaluation. If you have it, just keep it and use it . You will be a happy camper.
Thank You for this wonderful Test. It helped me make a decision between this two lights. I choosed the tk16 v2.👍
Best regards from germany 😊
What is the reason you use a tactical flashlight for search and rescue instead of search light like LR35R? It's turbo drops to same levels as these on full power. Is it because you said you do most of our search on high level and they are smaller to carry?
Short answer. Weight vs. performance. I spend most of my time tracking, searching inside tree lines and in spaces in between tree lines. Overwhelming majority of time is with line of sight inside 200 yd. In wider areas, handheld thermal is far better for making fast identifications than any high-power search light. I can pack a lightweight tac light, handheld thermal and a magnified monocular for long-range identifications for about the same weight budget as a lot of higher-end 'search' lights. Those have their place, just not displacing other gear and to be carried around difficult terrain for hours and hours at a time. I also have to be prepared to stay out all night and load accordingly. Thank you. And, the LR35R is a good light. I never got around to testing it. By now, it's kind of lost in that in-between space between a free light and a long-throw light. I already have much better long-throw lights on my left-shoulder and too many other options for an 'in-between' the headlamp and long-throw light.
This is how you compare lights! Great job!!
Thank you. I'm glad you found the review helpful.
How do you think these lights do against the C7, IMO the C7 burns longer at higher lumens. Plus has a great spot on it
Thanks for your question. I REALLY wanted to review the C7 when it came out, but Fenix had stock problems and never sent me one. I wanted to test out the Medium and High modes as that's what I use most from a free light in Search and Rescue. I'm going to talk with them at SHOT Show to see if I can get one for review. The spot and spill should be similar to the TK 20R V2 at the high end, so good for targeted tree line searches. For more wide-open terrain (inside 150 yds), I tend to prefer a wider beam. The more you move a tight hotspot, the more your eyes refocus and the less benefit you get from peripheral vision. I used to do an exercise in night hiking classes where I would place something (usually a small jacket) in a field at 100 yards or so distance. I'd let the students search the area with two types of flashlight. The ones with the really tight beam never did well and often passed right over the item - multiple times. I should do a video on this one day. As always, it's a matter of matching use case or cases to a specific tool.
@@L5-SAR i really appreciate your reviews and your reply. This is the only channel i come to to see real world reviews and not just shining beams at white walls. Thanks!
@@Amezaing Thanks. I'm always glad to help whenever I can. I've found that 'real world' field testing is the only way I've been able to make good decisions about what goes in my kit. Sometimes, a tiny difference in just one light can make a significant difference in a search.
I'm starting to go hunting at night, which of these 2 models do you recommend the most that has a longer range? Or what should I take into account?
You may want to consider a flashlight specifically for hunting that has red/green modes built in along with white light. Fenix does have the HT18 and they announced a new light with red and green modes at SHOT Show. Of these two light in the review, the 20 has the longer range virtue of the higher peak candela, but with the caveat of an aggressive step-down in Turbo. Hope that helps and thank you.
@@L5-SAR I am looking for something more compact, which of these 2 models do you recommend or another of similar size?
@@twosix_00 Of the two, the 20 will have the longer throw, courtesy of higher peak candela (again, with the caveat of a very aggressive step-down in Turbo). If you consider a similar form factor, say 6" body and no more. than 40mm bezel, you might want to think about the Cyansky K3 V2. Approx 120K peak candela in Turbo, over twice that of the TK 20R V2. It has gun mounts as well. I have a review of that model on the channel. If you can wait, the new HT32 from Fenix seems more compact than traditional hunting flashlights and has two Red/Green modes. I don't have any details on it, though. You can get a brief look at it from the Fenix New Products video from SHOT Show. Hope that helps.
Can the TK16 v2 sustain a 1000 lumen (high?) setting without “overheating” and dropping to a lower setting? 2+ hours? Great videos.
I have not personally run it for that duration and there is a small (linear) step-down. You can see the burn-down chart here. Hope that helps. It would be an interesting test to camp out one night, leave it on and periodically check a Lux meter to verify the step-down. Too many tests ... too little time :). Thanks for your question.
www.fenixlighting.com/products/fenix-tk16-v2-tactical-flashlight
Thanks for the information. Manufacture claims and real-world sometimes differ greatly. I appreciate your response. 👍
@@samuelencinias2026 Yes, which is why I put a huge emphasis on field testing. I have found that the Fenix burn downs are pretty accurate except for temperature extremes. This is a problem for any light, however. Thanks again.
Will you be making a review about the new latest Fenix TK 22 Tac ?
If Fenix is willing to send me one, yes. Right now, I'm backed up for over a month with lights sent to me from other vendors. Thanks!!
@@L5-SAR You are busy because you do a very good job in your videos explaining those flashlights. I have both the TK20R V2 and the TK 16 V2. Now I'm thinking getting the TK 22 Tac because the tail cap is different ( i may like that ) and with a very good candela of 74,000. That is good for the size of the light. Just the head is a little bigger than the other two. For me , it's all about blinding in case of attackr etc..... Again, keep up the good work in all what you do.
@@rejeanpoirier6047 Thank you!! Fenix, unfortunately, is very 'particular' about lights they send out for review. Otherwise, I'd already have one up of the TK 22 Tac.
@@L5-SAR Sounds good. I just placed an order. It looks like another pretty good light. I will find out next week once i receive it.
@@rejeanpoirier6047 Great - feel free to post your experiences here.
guys, help with the choice, my task is to find a flashlight for hiking in the forest and so on, and I can't decide between these two, please write your opinion about what you chose and why
For general hiking, I think you would use the lower modes most often. I'd probably go with the 20. My use of the 16 is as a left-shoulder mounted light, so I like that it's shorter and it is less regulated in Turbo in the event that my typical 15-20 second burst extends beyond a minute. Check out the full review of the 20 on the channel. Thanks.
@@L5-SAR thank you very much, good luck)
@@militarist3061 No prob - always glad to help.
Do you think you can still easily break glass with the TK20R even though it doesn't have the spikes like the TK16?
I think it depends on 'easily' and type of glass. I'd much rather have a strike bezel, though. Hope that helps.
The company has removed the spikes because they were indeed not necessary to be effective in breaking glass and stuff
Nic Cage
I own the TK16V2 so buying the 20R would be fun to have to compare it to the 16. Thanks for the upload
Edit:I'm back. I have been doing a lot of looking and shopping around. I am torn between the TK20R, the TK22TAC, or the Fenix C7-an overlooked light. $79, 3K lumens, and USB-C rechargeable. 21700mah battery. They all would fit my Arsenal but I love the candela on the TK22TAC...But, I don't wanna have to remove the battery to charge it in my car if I need to. Too many choices
Thank you
I love my C7, I traded in my TK20R and the better UI for a longer run time on +1000 lumens for almost 2 hours. The TK runs at around 700 lumens for about 2 hours.
I can't believe the 20 dropped that harshly and quickly in turbo, I was sold up until that point.
The 20 is very heavily regulated. And, that was on a pretty hot night, which is why I like to do extensive field testing under a variety of temps and circumstances. I personally like the Med/High modes in the 20 and use it only for very brief bursts in Turbo. I've used the 16 as a left-shoulder light for more sustained use in Turbo. Since it's mounted on a backpack strap, I don't really mind the heat. When it's cold, I've seen the 20 hold Turbo for over a minute, but it's still the same, dramatic step-down. You can see it on the burn-down chart online, but there's nothing like seeing it live :). Thanks and good luck with your flashlight selection.
@@L5-SAR did you try the previous tk20r out? Seems like that's pretty much what the 16 is.
I'm like you I'll probably never need or use turbo except to show off.
@@JohnnyRebLa No. Did not have. chance to use. that one. Thanks.
@@JohnnyRebLa I tend to use Turbo for very brief intervals - about 20 seconds max - in order to make identifications. If I can't make an ID in that time, I need to either close the distance, use a magnified optic, or do something else :). Thanks.