Elzetta G-EDC-RCR | Expert Review by Koen van der Jagt
For the first time testing a light from the American brand Elzetta, it sounded like fun! In this review I will tell you all about what I think of the Elzetta EDC RCR!
Contents
My first impressions:
A cool-looking, anthracite-coloured mini light. The G-EDC-RCR has an unmistakable American look and feel and will fit nicely with your other gear. A great choice for enthusiasts who don't only look at how a light functions. Striking details are the large carrier clip, the lens with the matt silver-coloured ring and the tripod connection in the back. Because the light uses a 16340 / RCR battery, it is a little bulkier than, for instance, a single AA light. The G-EDC-RCR feels robust and can handle its own. It is protected from water and dust according to the IP68 rating. As such it is not a problem if you accidentally drop it in water. Both on the inside and outside it looks great and nicely finished. In short: a top-quality light that looks amazing.
When and how:
Even though it is not keychain-sized you will always have room for this small Elzetta. It fits in almost any pocket, and you can also easily hang it from your clothing or gear. Lights like the G-EDC-RCR are great to keep close: you can use it for reading, when walking through a dark house, and with the higher modes you have enough power to find your way outside. Even though, as an enthusiast, I prefer carrying a second (larger) light, I can't help but notice how often I use the Elzetta! The power is more than enough (for both inside and outside) and taking the light with you is easy.
How is the G-EDC-RCR in terms of controls and comfort:
The light feels great in hand and thanks to the structure on the head of the light you have enough grip. The clip properly secures the light, but can only be attached in one way: you cannot attach it to your cap. To charge it you need to take the battery from the light, but the Elzetta can also handle a CR123A or a spare 16340 battery. Something I recommend because you cannot check the actual battery status. For average use the battery will last a long time, especially with the lower light modes.
The twist control is plain, but effective: tighten the head to turn it on and loosen it to turn it off. You can switch between light modes by loosening and tightening the head within three seconds. The G-EDC-RCR remembers the mode last used, granted the light is turned off for longer than five seconds. You can also easily control the light with one hand (in between thumb and index finger). The advantage of this system: it is almost impossible to accidentally turn the light on in your pocket. (Small) disadvantage: switching between light modes is not as fast as when you use a switch.
The light modes deserve to be mentioned: 0.5 and 5 lumens are perfect for an EDC light! Followed by two quite bright modes that are perfect for outdoor use. The beam surprised me with the large hotspot, modest corona and the substantial spill. You can light up quite a lot with this small light, and also reach quite far!
This is what I love about the G-EDC-RCR:
It is easy to use and the surprisingly broad and bright beam is great. I also love the two extra-low modes: you need these more often than you might think. The tripod connection is unique for a flashlight this size and also enables you to attach the light on your handlebars, for instance.
This could be better:
An indication for the battery status is missing: this means you could accidentally end up with an empty battery. If you want to make sure you don't you should always bring an additional battery or always charge the battery before use. It would also be practical if you could attach the pocket clip the other way around: the cut-out for it (underneath the head of the light) is missing.
Value for money?
I don't think the light is incredibly affordable, but you do receive a piece of American decency and it is also a real eye-catcher. Also, because the light comes with a battery, charging cable and carrier cord I think the price is fair.
My conclusion
Austere, cool and decent light for those who also care about design. Very useable light modes for both inside and outside, with a surprising light image. Great choice for those who are looking for a decent product without too many frills, for whom the missing battery status indicator is not an issue.
Also:
The Elzetta G-EDC-AA is the less powerful but cheaper brother with comparable features and a rechargeable AA battery. A great option if you are looking for a slimmer option.
Last, but not least: the beamshots:
Because the ultra-low mode is so low I chose an indoor location (warehouse/storage). Even the lowest mode is hardly detectable here; this mode is meant for up close! From the middle mode onwards the Elzetta proves itself to be a small light miracle.
Another couple images while holding the light, first inside and then outside. Outside you also reach quite far with the G-EDC-RCR. Pay close attention to the massive hotspot and the total width of the beam. I was pleasantly surprised!
Koen van der Jagt
Ever since he could walk Koen has been interested in lights, wires and batteries. As a child he was always working with dyno torches, bike lights and electrical boxes. The krypton and halogen lights were replaced by LED lights. A couple of years ago he discovered the ‘professional’ stuff. His first brands were Led Lenser and Fenix. Photography is also one of his hobbies. In addition to nature and meteorology Koen loves to show others what a light can do and what its beam looks like at night. Koen’s reviews can often be found on forums such as candlepowerforums.com and taschenlampen-forum.de. Throughout the years Koen has collected lights in practically any category: from small and compact to enormous powerhouses.
