First Look: SureFire E2D Defender Tactical

The E2D Defender Tactical, a single-output, 1000-lumen LED flashlight from SureFire, is designed to offer consumers an excellent illumination option for any bedside nightstand or EDC kit. Utilizing a Total Internal Reflection (TIR) lens, and an incredibly durable LED, the E2D Defender Tactical is actuated via a push button on the tailcap. A single press or click bathes the area in front of the light in a high-intensity beam, projecting 1000 lumens of white light, and can continue doing so for about 1.5 hours. Thanks to the aforementioned TIR lens, the beam is tight with a significant reach, yet still retains enough surrounding light to enhance peripheral vision.

As far as exterior features are concerned, the SureFire E2D Defender Tactical boasts an aggressively scalloped edge running all the way around the lens. Termed a Crenulated Strike Bezel, this rim is intended to be used as a blunt-force multiplier, should the need arise. In such a circumstance, it is a lucky thing that the flashlight’s body is machined aerospace aluminum, with a Type III mil-spec hard-anodized coating for durability and corrosion resistance. Finally, the dual-function, stainless-steel pocket clip features a nifty, twice-folded design, to allow the light to be clipped into a pocket or onto a shirt either bezel down or bezel up, without any modification.

Despite this laundry list of features, the E2D Defender Tactical still manages to come in a relatively small package. Its 5.6-inch length and 1.125-inch width (at its widest point) mean it will easily fit into just about any hand, while its 4.2-ounce weight will be virtually imperceptible when carried. That is the weight with batteries included by the way, not some empty metric. Finally, the flashlight ships with high-energy 123A batteries, with a 10-year shelf life.