4Sevens Maelstrom: "Surefire Killer" by Nutnfancy

The Maelstrom G5 is versatile and tough. But how does it function in the all-important weapon light POU? Bottom line: It's bigger than the 4Sevens Quark 123 Turbo and it provides about a 20% throw improvement. The 4Sevens Maelstrom G5 still will "wash out" at 100 yards and beyond and I found making detailed target designation with it through medium quality scopes difficult. Out to 50 to 75 yards/meters, performance improves and the beam is tighter. But that's in demanding, real-world (and frigid 10ºF) weapon testing in pitch black deserts against dark targets. I have not seen a CR123-powered torch that can really get the job done at 100 yards; I think the world awaits upgraded power cells of this size before the LED chipsets can achieve that (or we used alternate laser technologies which are making headway fast). But that's not to say the G5 Maelstrom is not a smokin' light, IT IS. At 375 Lumens (OTF) it provides amazing brightness for its size and weight and puts it all in a really tough, seemingly durable form factor...all at a very reasonable price point. It passed all TNP dirt, shock, and water testing easily. Like most other 4Sevens lights, it features some outstanding construction features: square threads, double o-rings on end cap, hardened glass lens with anti-reflective coating, 6061 alum. body, excellent knurling, double spring-loaded battery shock isolation, multiple bezels, pocket clip, lanyard, spare parts, and a welcome 1 inch tube size. The G5 easily adapts to regular scope rings for mounting. Two mode sets are included from which Moonlight, Medium, High, Maximum, SOS, and Beacon levels can be accessed. I found switching between the "Regular" and "Special" mode sets while weapon mounted (requiring 4 rapid twists of bezel) to be more difficult than some other UIs. Beam is clean, symmetric with an excellent spill beam but with the smooth reflector a noticeable donut pattern is a by-product. A textured reflector is easily swapped in and will eliminate that aritifact and provide more even and dispersed area lighting. Light is compatible with 18650 Lith-Ion cells and performs well with them. Not discussed is the light holster (good but back Velcro attachment is not stiff or MOLLE compatible) or the pure digital remote switches offered (straight and coil cord). Overall the light is excellent and will excel at DUTY LIGHT, home flashlight, car light, and compact search and rescue roles. Various LED versions have been made and will probably change over time but the XP-G R5 version at 350 Lumens and the S2 at 375 Lumens will function nicely in the discussed POUs. Value is high for these capabilities and even with its throw limitations makes it a more attractive choice to me than the some SureFire options. ////////////////// Nutnfancy Likeability Scale: 8 out of 10