man i didnt think i would like this light as much as i do. i had pipes burst during this bad weather and the rrt-01 was the glock 19 of flashlights on my side extended to an 18650 length and proper cell. my pipes burst sunday and i didnt get plumbers until thursday but the rrt-01 was there. i could have used other lights but the dimming and push button were just the math. i would not mind it as my only light or carry light. id buy multiple myself
Sold! This is for sure my next light. I've never owned a JetBeam but always thought they were compelling. With the size of this one, amount of light available, and the ability to do super moonlight mode...Seems like a Gem to me!
Back in 2012, US flashlight company Surefire took legal action on JetBeam and a number of other Chinese manufacturers for infringing on their flashlight magnetic ring continuosly infinite control, hence JetBeam went out of production for a while. I'm not sure how they settled the patents; maybe JetBeam must pay some royalties. That continuously infinite magnetic control rings are more efficient? They are not. Magnetic control rings require electrical power to operate, hence JetBeam's very own pushbutton Everyday E20R has 990 Lumens & 30 minutes run time, as opposed to the magnetic ring Rapid Response Tactical RRT-01 V2's only 950 Lumens and only 25 minutes run time. Meanwhile, the smaller surface area of the RRT-01 V2's Cree XP-L emitter & smooth SMO reflector gives slightly more intensity in lux [non-metric Candela], hence slightly more longitudinal throw of 220 meters, compared to the E20R's Luminus SST-40 N4 BC emitter & its cleaner but diffuse orange peel OP reflector's 195 meters of throw. The RRT-01 V2 is actually a bigger, heavier and more expensive light which can also accept a slightly larger 18350 battery, whereas the E20R can officially only use the standard 16340 battery size, but the E20R has built-in micro USB port in the body of the flashlight, such that the E20R is not as water resistant, but the battery itself doesn't have any capacity compromizing micro USB port. However, the bigger 18350 will fit into the E20R too, despite not being advertised as such. The RRT-01 V2 magnetic control ring is a better indoor light, while the E20R push button is a better outdoor light. Magnetic control rings are good for small flashlights with narrow diameter control rings which can be easily operated one-handed, while the continuously stepless brightness levels are good for use indoors. Large flashlights with large diameter magnetic control rings can be cumbersome to use one-handed because it requires both thumb and forefinger to rotate. While many would consider extra power and run time more important in a big outdoor light, while continuously infinite stepless brightness levels are not so important in a big outdoor light. I have both RRT-01 V1 and E20R, and the only real benefit of E20R is it is certainly very short and light. The E20R's 990 Lumens initially looks the same as old RRT-01 V1's 600 Lumens; on close inspection, the E20R's spill is wider, and maybe its hotspot is slightly brighter and wider? Theoretically, E20R's hotspot is brighter for greater throw. The E20R certainly has a very useful magnetic tail. However, the E20R really lacks the magnetic continuous control ring of the RRT-01, making the E20R much harder to use. Of lesser importance, the E20R also lacks the classy looking SS bezel of RRT-01, hence looks cheaper in the hand. If I had to do it again, I would skip the E20R altogether, and get RRT-01 V2.
😉👍 Well, they've since fixed 2 of your concerns with this light: 1). the high price 2). the "lack of 18650 compatibility". I recently bought an RRT-01 that I paid $63 for, including 2 separate adapter tubes that allow me to use either the stock 18350, or an 18650, OR an 18500. Granted, it doesn't "look" quite as cool with the 2 adapter tubes screwed on for 18650 compatibility, but I guess aesthetics aren't the most important aspect here..... Mine has the XP-G3 with a true neutral white tint, ie. not a sickeningly yellow tint like with my "allegedly neutral white" Thrunite T1(XHP-50). That light was more disappointing than impressive, all because of the LED. It would've been MUCH better with an XP-L HI.
Hello from France ! I have the rotary RRT-01 (500 lumens with SOS) and RRT-0 Raptor model (650 lumens with strobe), which also have a thump switch and accepts AA batteries but only with the supplied adapter. The RRT-01 V2 is more compact. Very good flashlight!
I tried to unscrew the vessel in order to get into the battery but I can't because the rotary part hits something and don't let me get into the battery, silver part is designed to stop at some point so I can't get to rotate all the way out like you did in the video
Why rotary controlled lights are not commonly available at popular prices: You can look at many industries and notice a pattern where the competors seem to be co-operating to maximize profits at the expense of consumers. In the car industry, the two most desirable leather interior colors are nearly always premium priced. The two colors are saddle tan and red. If any one manufacturer made these colors available at standard prices, they would steal market share until the competition reacted. Then no one would be gaining a profit advantage. So, over the years, competors learn to restrain their competition for the benefit of all concerned (except the consumer). The competitors don't meet annually to hammer out a bunch of anti-competitive agreements to exploit consumers. There are laws to prevent that. So, competors signal by their actions, how they would like to manage their competition. Toyota and Honda are the top two import competitors, in many respects, in the US market. Toyota is the strongest competitor, so it made a grab for the richest slice of the US market...the midsize SUV. Toyota styled, and designed their Highlander to Target the US market. But, they left the lower priced RAV-4 with less desirable international styling and features. They were signaling to Honda to not take the Highlander head on and diminish profits for both. Honda clearly took their meaning and invested in dominating the COMPACT segment with their CR-V. To seal the understanding, Honda made sure not to compete too strongly with their midsize "Pilot". (Their competitor to the Toyota Highlander.). Head to head competition destroys profits for all. So, through unspoken diplomacy Toyota and Honda worked out a deal to cede sections of the market to each other for their mutual benefit.
I have the former model of the rrt01 that you showed. Great little light. You have to “unscrew” it a bit turning the light off, if you don’t want the battery to drain. Would have been nice if the rotary had an off point. Maybe the new model is different in that respect?
Nick, you should take a look at the BioLite Mini. It's a very different sort of light but very functional and the company does some good work that makes their products even more compelling. I'm not so much suggesting a review, just that you might find the concept personally interesting.
Nick, they came out with the Version 3, and it’s the best version with better tint. And my biggest gripe with this model still the same. The extension tube/s are not included.
@@readyme true, but there is a an advantage to something like a flashlight with built in usb charging since it uses the same charger as my phone. Which I'm both more likely to have around anyway (for instance I have a phone charger in my car) or to remember to take along (ie on a trip).
I was wondering if you know how/where to get Tritium tubes to be put in a triangle on the back? What is the exact name of the battery you said you liked more? Does it also recharge? Does it last longer? Can you suggest a better LED emitter? Where can you get better clips?
Nick Shabazz , there is a new model 2020 Jetbeam RRT 01 with the rotary ring and tail switch.....and Nichia 219 C led. If you has the opportunity to review this flashlight ......Please. There is also a RRT 03 raptor with R/B/G /W light
Would be interested in everyone's thoughts on the Nitecore MT22C as it compares to this Jetbeam. On paper they seem to offer a similar package at a similar price. Anyone have feedback on the wheel adjust compared to rotary?
I dont see how it compares at all, its a whole size up from the Jetbeam, it uses a 18650 rarther then a 18350. I would never carry anything this large.
@@Olumin37 shrug* similar output & continuously variable brightness control at a similar price. For my use cases these are absolutely competitive lights. If your use case is highly focused on size; that's fine … but it doesn't invalidate my interest in them as alternatives to each other.
Actual strobe, ie the nauseating tactical variety? Not me personally, but a slow flash has plenty of practical, real world uses. I have used them before on my bike in conditions where I don't need light to be seen, but I don't think I stand out enough, like in foggy conditions or around sunrise and sunset.
Sorry, but rotary lights lack in efficiency, there's just too much overhead in the electronics versus a more "traditional" UI or a ramping UI like the Neutron. That pretty much negates the "save battery life by using the exact level you need" argument.
HDS make great tactical overhand grip lights, with tail end switch combined with ergonomic tail end 24-step rotary dials! Unfortunately, the high overhand shoulder high tactical grip is tiring for everyday use, while the tail end rotary dial is stiff to use. Worst, HDS haven't kept up with the latest emitters and brightness levels, meanwhile the prices are >3x higher.
The turning controller is always going to cost way more than a button. Other than that, there's no reason the big flashlight players aren't jumping on this great improvement to the ergonomics of a flashlight. If it had USB C charging, I'd buy it now if it cost less than a hundred, even though I don't need another EDC light.
I have no doubt this light is great. Be warned that JETBeam warranty service is non existent. Had a flashlight tailcap disintegrate after ~3 months. No way to get it fixed. No replies from JETBeam. No way to get parts. It's now a paper weight. My Sunwayman rotary has been working well for years. This light appears to have a better control ring, but I don't trust JETBeam enought to get one.
Hey Nick, you may like the ZeroHour Relic XR2. It has USB-C charging and ability to charge other devices via USB-C. It has the rotary adjustment with tail switch. I'm also a big fan of rotary interfaces since I bought my first one, the Surefire T1A, many years ago. If you want to know more about the XR2 you can check out my (much less professional) review here: ua-cam.com/video/S0ZthikT6zg/v-deo.html
man i didnt think i would like this light as much as i do. i had pipes burst during this bad weather and the rrt-01 was the glock 19 of flashlights on my side extended to an 18650 length and proper cell.
my pipes burst sunday and i didnt get plumbers until thursday but the rrt-01 was there.
i could have used other lights but the dimming and push button were just the math.
i would not mind it as my only light or carry light. id buy multiple myself
Sold! This is for sure my next light. I've never owned a JetBeam but always thought they were compelling. With the size of this one, amount of light available, and the ability to do super moonlight mode...Seems like a Gem to me!
Looks like a really nice light
I have a Jetbeam TH20 and it is superb!
"Everything is better with rotary"
Modern phones would like a word with you Nick...lol.
Rotary phones were awesome
Great sound and feeling :)
The point still stands.
I still use every day my rotary phone that was manufactured in 1954. It works and sounds like it's still brand new.
Back in 2012, US flashlight company Surefire took legal action on JetBeam and a number of other Chinese manufacturers for infringing on their flashlight magnetic ring continuosly infinite control, hence JetBeam went out of production for a while.
I'm not sure how they settled the patents; maybe JetBeam must pay some royalties.
That continuously infinite magnetic control rings are more efficient?
They are not.
Magnetic control rings require electrical power to operate, hence JetBeam's very own pushbutton Everyday E20R has 990 Lumens & 30 minutes run time, as opposed to the magnetic ring Rapid Response Tactical RRT-01 V2's only 950 Lumens and only 25 minutes run time.
Meanwhile, the smaller surface area of the RRT-01 V2's Cree XP-L emitter & smooth SMO reflector gives slightly more intensity in lux [non-metric Candela], hence slightly more longitudinal throw of 220 meters, compared to the E20R's Luminus SST-40 N4 BC emitter & its cleaner but diffuse orange peel OP reflector's 195 meters of throw.
The RRT-01 V2 is actually a bigger, heavier and more expensive light which can also accept a slightly larger 18350 battery, whereas the E20R can officially only use the standard 16340 battery size, but the E20R has built-in micro USB port in the body of the flashlight, such that the E20R is not as water resistant, but the battery itself doesn't have any capacity compromizing micro USB port.
However, the bigger 18350 will fit into the E20R too, despite not being advertised as such.
The RRT-01 V2 magnetic control ring is a better indoor light, while the E20R push button is a better outdoor light.
Magnetic control rings are good for small flashlights with narrow diameter control rings which can be easily operated one-handed, while the continuously stepless brightness levels are good for use indoors.
Large flashlights with large diameter magnetic control rings can be cumbersome to use one-handed because it requires both thumb and forefinger to rotate. While many would consider extra power and run time more important in a big outdoor light, while continuously infinite stepless brightness levels are not so important in a big outdoor light.
I have both RRT-01 V1 and E20R, and the only real benefit of E20R is it is certainly very short and light.
The E20R's 990 Lumens initially looks the same as old RRT-01 V1's 600 Lumens; on close inspection, the E20R's spill is wider, and maybe its hotspot is slightly brighter and wider? Theoretically, E20R's hotspot is brighter for greater throw.
The E20R certainly has a very useful magnetic tail.
However, the E20R really lacks the magnetic continuous control ring of the RRT-01, making the E20R much harder to use.
Of lesser importance, the E20R also lacks the classy looking SS bezel of RRT-01, hence looks cheaper in the hand.
If I had to do it again, I would skip the E20R altogether, and get RRT-01 V2.
😉👍 Well, they've since fixed 2 of your concerns with this light:
1). the high price
2). the "lack of 18650 compatibility".
I recently bought an RRT-01 that I paid $63 for, including 2 separate adapter tubes that allow me to use either the stock 18350, or an 18650, OR an 18500. Granted, it doesn't "look" quite as cool with the 2 adapter tubes screwed on for 18650 compatibility, but I guess aesthetics aren't the most important aspect here..... Mine has the XP-G3 with a true neutral white tint, ie. not a sickeningly yellow tint like with my "allegedly neutral white" Thrunite T1(XHP-50). That light was more disappointing than impressive, all because of the LED. It would've been MUCH better with an XP-L HI.
Just curious, is this the new model with a tail switch?
Hello from France ! I have the rotary RRT-01 (500 lumens with SOS) and RRT-0 Raptor model (650 lumens with strobe), which also have a thump switch and accepts AA batteries but only with the supplied adapter. The RRT-01 V2 is more compact. Very good flashlight!
I hear you about the rotary lights ..... I really like it on my Nitecore SRT7gt !
I tried to unscrew the vessel in order to get into the battery but I can't because the rotary part hits something and don't let me get into the battery, silver part is designed to stop at some point so I can't get to rotate all the way out like you did in the video
Why rotary controlled lights are not commonly available at popular prices:
You can look at many industries and notice a pattern where the competors seem to be co-operating to maximize profits at the expense of consumers.
In the car industry, the two most desirable leather interior colors are nearly always premium priced. The two colors are saddle tan and red. If any one manufacturer made these colors available at standard prices, they would steal market share until the competition reacted. Then no one would be gaining a profit advantage. So, over the years, competors learn to restrain their competition for the benefit of all concerned (except the consumer). The competitors don't meet annually to hammer out a bunch of anti-competitive agreements to exploit consumers. There are laws to prevent that. So, competors signal by their actions, how they would like to manage their competition.
Toyota and Honda are the top two import competitors, in many respects, in the US market. Toyota is the strongest competitor, so it made a grab for the richest slice of the US market...the midsize SUV. Toyota styled, and designed their Highlander to Target the US market. But, they left the lower priced RAV-4 with less desirable international styling and features. They were signaling to Honda to not take the Highlander head on and diminish profits for both. Honda clearly took their meaning and invested in dominating the COMPACT segment with their CR-V. To seal the understanding, Honda made sure not to compete too strongly with their midsize "Pilot". (Their competitor to the Toyota Highlander.). Head to head competition destroys profits for all. So, through unspoken diplomacy Toyota and Honda worked out a deal to cede sections of the market to each other for their mutual benefit.
Cool
I agree: rotary is best.
Light is too high of a price. C’mon Jet Beam!
Original light was the RRT-0. RRT-01 was the second. For rotary lights, I prefer the Nitecore SRT series. Though I do still like my old RRT-0.
I have the former model of the rrt01 that you showed. Great little light. You have to “unscrew” it a bit turning the light off, if you don’t want the battery to drain. Would have been nice if the rotary had an off point. Maybe the new model is different in that respect?
Nick, you should take a look at the BioLite Mini. It's a very different sort of light but very functional and the company does some good work that makes their products even more compelling. I'm not so much suggesting a review, just that you might find the concept personally interesting.
Nick, they came out with the Version 3, and it’s the best version with better tint. And my biggest gripe with this model still the same. The extension tube/s are not included.
Wow what a great review. I can see that a lot of effort went into this. Thank you
The Olight universal magnetic USB charger is the answer to your battery charging issues. Super small and convenient.
That is a neat piece of kit, but still an extra thing to carry around; and more importantly, remember to grab in the first place.
@@Psittacus_erithacus I agree... but you need a cable to charge anything.
@@readyme true, but there is a an advantage to something like a flashlight with built in usb charging since it uses the same charger as my phone. Which I'm both more likely to have around anyway (for instance I have a phone charger in my car) or to remember to take along (ie on a trip).
@@Psittacus_erithacus Good point. Not something I considered since I use an iPhone and never carry a micro USB.
"Fight me bro" .......well said!
I was wondering if you know how/where to get Tritium tubes to be put in a triangle on the back?
What is the exact name of the battery you said you liked more? Does it also recharge? Does it last longer?
Can you suggest a better LED emitter?
Where can you get better clips?
I got vials for my RRT01 here: www.mixglo.com/store/c1/Featured_Products.html
If they put the clip on the barrel, it could be reversible too, being able to clip the light onto a cap.
Nick Shabazz , there is a new model 2020 Jetbeam RRT 01 with the rotary ring and tail switch.....and Nichia 219 C led.
If you has the opportunity to review this flashlight ......Please.
There is also a RRT 03 raptor with R/B/G /W light
which one is better between the old rrt01 and the new rrt01, sir?
The real question: can you use the Neutron 2C barrel on this?
first time i seen a rotarey light ,great review.
hi Nick, do you still have this light?
If the clip was deep carry it might fall on the barrel. You could try bending it to deep carry (if you owned this one and wasn’t a loan)
I just ordered one on Ebay $69.95!
Would be interested in everyone's thoughts on the Nitecore MT22C as it compares to this Jetbeam. On paper they seem to offer a similar package at a similar price. Anyone have feedback on the wheel adjust compared to rotary?
I dont see how it compares at all, its a whole size up from the Jetbeam, it uses a 18650 rarther then a 18350. I would never carry anything this large.
@@Olumin37 shrug* similar output & continuously variable brightness control at a similar price. For my use cases these are absolutely competitive lights. If your use case is highly focused on size; that's fine … but it doesn't invalidate my interest in them as alternatives to each other.
In almost 60 years of using flashlights I have never had a use for strobe modes.
Do others use them?
Self defense is the plausible argument
Actual strobe, ie the nauseating tactical variety? Not me personally, but a slow flash has plenty of practical, real world uses. I have used them before on my bike in conditions where I don't need light to be seen, but I don't think I stand out enough, like in foggy conditions or around sunrise and sunset.
Sorry, but rotary lights lack in efficiency, there's just too much overhead in the electronics versus a more "traditional" UI or a ramping UI like the Neutron. That pretty much negates the "save battery life by using the exact level you need" argument.
Hey could you do a review of the civivi elementum, than a comparison of the elementum to the steel will cutjack
Could you do a comparison between this one and a hds system rotary? I am thinking about which one to get.
This wins for me, right now. Not in durability, but in brightness and usability.
HDS make great tactical overhand grip lights, with tail end switch combined with ergonomic tail end 24-step rotary dials!
Unfortunately, the high overhand shoulder high tactical grip is tiring for everyday use, while the tail end rotary dial is stiff to use.
Worst, HDS haven't kept up with the latest emitters and brightness levels, meanwhile the prices are >3x higher.
The turning controller is always going to cost way more than a button. Other than that, there's no reason the big flashlight players aren't jumping on this great improvement to the ergonomics of a flashlight. If it had USB C charging, I'd buy it now if it cost less than a hundred, even though I don't need another EDC light.
Hi Nick, when are you getting the 2020 version? ;-)
Wow really amazing edc flashlight review video ever 10out10!!! :D
You got build in nightvison??
OH NICK, U went in cave. Holly crap. Bugs, bats, mossie things, monsters!
I love caves, actually. Not like exploration, but I’ve never met a cave or mine tour I didn’t like
Damnit Nick you sold me again 🔦
I wouldn't want to go back to a rotary telephone...
A bakalite phone with a metal dial? Awesome :)
Dude that’s so sick and the hds you reviewed I’ve never seen a rotary flashlight wth I bought 5 Elzettas now I see these whyyyyyyy hahaha
I have no doubt this light is great. Be warned that JETBeam warranty service is non existent. Had a flashlight tailcap disintegrate after ~3 months. No way to get it fixed. No replies from JETBeam. No way to get parts. It's now a paper weight. My Sunwayman rotary has been working well for years. This light appears to have a better control ring, but I don't trust JETBeam enought to get one.
Hey Nick, you may like the ZeroHour Relic XR2. It has USB-C charging and ability to charge other devices via USB-C. It has the rotary adjustment with tail switch. I'm also a big fan of rotary interfaces since I bought my first one, the Surefire T1A, many years ago. If you want to know more about the XR2 you can check out my (much less professional) review here: ua-cam.com/video/S0ZthikT6zg/v-deo.html
#1
I just wish it would use a phone charger someone in the us actually used
If only the battery had built in USB-C charging.