Inova’s X5 is a great LED flashlight at an affordable price. The X5 features 5 LEDs that output a maximum of 60 lumens, has a durable aerospace-grade aluminum body, and runs on CR123 lithium batteries.
Like Inova’s other X-series flashlights, the X5 has a knurled twist switch, and machined flats around its body that makes the flashlight very comfortable to grip securely. The X5 also has a rubbery tactical-style momentary push switch at its butt end.
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No, the X5 is not the best flashlight available, but it’s a pretty darned good one and could be considered the best of its class and price range. While I don’t use my X5 all the time, I reach for it in situations where I need a flashlight that’s reliable and built like a tank.
It looks like the US Homeland Security and TSA ( Transportation Security Administration) departments are also fans of the Inova X5, as these flashlights (titanium color, UV LEDs) are used at the security lines at many airports to check IDs. Thus far I’ve seen them used at all 5 of the US airports I’ve visited in recent months.
The Inova X5 is typically priced at $25-40 (average of about $35), and is available online and in stores. If you want to check them out in person, Inova flashlights are carried by most Target stores.
Inova X5 Titanium Color White LED via Amazon
Inova X5 Black Color White LED via Amazon
Product Info via Inova
JD
My Target just had the X5’s on clearance. I was able to snag one at $9.84.
Stuart
This is the second time they’ve been on clearance, with the first time being about two years ago. The flashlights are initially marked down by 25%, then 50%, then 75%. Last time around I was able to pick one up for $18 to give to my father. This time, I noticed about a dozen X5s at 25% off, but a week later they were all gone even before the 50% markdown rolled around.
The X1s don’t seem to be on clearance, but there were empty pegs where other X-series lights were, suggesting that the X5 wasn’t the only model on clearance.
I wonder what prompted the clearance this time – updated circuitry/components, new packaging, or poor sales…?
JML
All of the Inova line except for the military contract lights has been sold to NiteIze. That’s probably why they’re reduced. These lights use up CR123A batteries well, but they’ve been relegated to the dustbin of history by newer, brighter lights.