Maglite's ML300L 2D Cell LED Torch: 487 lumens in a 232 millimetre body
This is the shorter of the two D cell models, and choosing between them comes down to handling rather than specification. Two cells instead of three take 66 millimetres off the length and 176 grams off the weight, which changes what the torch is comfortable being asked to do.
Where the shorter body wins
At 232 millimetres and 566 grams it fits a door pocket, a glovebox, a toolbox tray and most bags without everything else being arranged around it. It is also considerably easier to hold out at arm's length for any period, which matters more than it sounds when you are checking something above head height or working one handed with the torch in the other.
The longer model reaches further and runs longer. Where neither of those is the constraint, this is the more pleasant torch to actually use, and it tends to be the one people settle on once both have been in the hand.
ML300L 2D Cell output
Luminous flux is 487 lumens with a beam range of 291 metres, and eco mode runs up to 260 hours on a pair of D cells. Focus works the same way as on the larger version: a quarter turn of the head takes the beam from flood to spot. Five modes are available, High, Low, Eco, Momentary and Strobe, across four selectable function sets.
Two D cells
The cells are not supplied, which is standard for the format, and replacements are on sale everywhere. Alkaline D cells hold charge for years in storage, so a torch left in a vehicle through a winter still works when it is next picked up. There is no cradle to install and nothing to plug in.
Two hundred and sixty hours
Eco mode runs up to 260 hours, close to eleven days of continuous light. For a torch kept against power cuts or emergencies that figure matters far more than the maximum output does, because the situation it gets bought for is a long one rather than a bright one.
Construction
Precision machined high strength aircraft aluminium alloy, anodised, with weather resistant seals and IPX4 water resistance. Impact resistance is rated at 1 metre. Contacts are plated against oxidation, the switch is a side mounted push button, and the barrel is 39 millimetres with a 57 millimetre head, matching the three cell version.
Features
- Multi-mode electronic switch
- 5 lighting modes
- 4 function sets
- Adjustable beam, flood to spot with ¼ turn of the head
- High strength aircraft aluminium alloy case
- Weather resistant seals
Specifications
- Type: Handheld LED torch
- Operating Modes: High / Low / Eco / Momentary / Strobe
- Luminous Flux: 487 lumens
- LED: LED Chip
- Focus: Twist action; spot to flood
- Beam Range: 291m
- Batteries Required: 2 x D-Cell alkaline (not included)
- Run Time: Up to 260 hours (on eco setting)
- Length: 232 mm
- Barrel Diameter: 39 mm
- Head Diameter: 57 mm
- Weight: 566 grams (with batteries)
- Colours Available: Black
- Body Material: Precision machined high strength aircraft aluminium alloy case
- Body Finish: Anodised
- Electrical Contacts: Plated contacts to enhance conductivity and reduce oxidation
- Switch Type: Side mounted ‘push’ button
- Impact Resistance: 1 m
- Environmental: Water resistant to IPX4 standards