Nebo’s Redline (#5557) is a high-output flashlight in a relatively compact and attractive package. It’s pretty affordable as well at under $30, so we figured why not, let’s review one.
I recently read online that Nebo Tools released a 220 lumen flashlight for under $30. At this price-point I was intrigued but cautious since most 200+ lumen flashlights are well out of my price range.
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Light Output & Operating Modes
The light output specs from Nebo’s website were fairly impressive, especially given its low price. The Redline has five operating modes – three brightness settings as well as emergency strobe and SOS modes. Its lumen output is 220 lumens at full power, with stepped reductions down to 110 lumens at 50% power and 22 lumens at 10%. The Redline operates at full power when in SOS and strobe modes.
In SOS mode, the Redline can be hand held or placed on its bezel for stationary use, such as on a roadside or auto’s rooftop. The Redline’s emergency strobe mode can be used for safety lighting, or defensive functions. Nebo mentions that a light beam “above 50 lumens within a 10 yard distance may cause temporary blindness when viewed directly.”
Flashlight Body & Switches
For starters, the Redline specs out at 4-1/2″L x 1-1/2″D and 6.85 ounces. The body is well-machined from anodized aircraft-grade aluminum that Nebo says is weather-proof. The main body features smooth knurling and a machined pattern for secure gripping. The body fits well in my extra large hands, but I found the grips to be somewhat slippery especially in cooler weather with dry hands.
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The front bezel is tipped with an “aggressive self-defense face” and can be rotated to adjust the focus of the light beam. The bezel twists smoothly when transitioning from a wide beam to a to tighter spot. The single LED is recessed and well protected from abuse and accidental damage. Nebo doesn’t state the wattage or type of bulb, but upon closer exam it closely resembles a CREE LED. The removable rear cap features a luminescent weather-proof button and a magnetic base for hands-free lighting.
Illumination Tests
Nebo claims the spot setting can focus on something up to 450 feet away, while its wide flood light setting can illuminate everything within 60 feet. My test, although highly unscientific, involved a stop sign 400 feet from my position and pine trees 40-50 feet away across the street. I was able to light up the stop sign completely. At the corner of my street is a foreclosed home, so I took aim and lit up the windows and porch. The beam was clear and bright with a 2 foot spot at the target. In its wide beam flood light mode the Redline lit up the front yard effectively, and illuminated the tall pines as well. Thus, their claims are substantiated.
Conclusion
The Nebo Redline is well-made and projects a tremendous amount of light. For only $30 MSRP, the NEBO Redline is great bargain. After careful searching I purchased one on eBay for $27 shipped, and the flashlight came with 3 AAA Duracell batteries included.
I have not done battery runtime tests on the Redline, but the following chart is etched into the flashlight itself for reference:
100% = 220 Lumens – 150 yds – 4 hours
50% = 110 Lumens – 65 yds – 8 hours
10% = 22 Lumens – 30 yds – 15 hours
Nebo Redline Flashlight via Amazon
Product Info via Nebo Tools
Jaquandor
Well, this depresses me after I’ve just bought one of those $10 cheap-o flashlight packs in the Stocking Stuffer section at Home Depot. For some reason, my general attitude on tools is to spend a bit more on quality tools and maintain them, but when it comes to flashlights, I default to going “cheap and replace within a year”.
Ray
Im disappointed. As per other review my light after being charged a couple of times loose it’s brightness. Less than half as bright I would say
Stuart
I would much rather have one good quality flashlight over 10 low quality ones, but any flashlight is better than no flashlight.
My current favorite light is the Fenix LD-20. It costs a bit more than this one, but seems to be built rock-solid.
Jeff’s review of the Nebo is pretty convincing – I had to work hard to convince myself not to buy one just yet!
Jeff
Before the Redline, a LED Lenser V6 was my favorite light.
Since owning my Redline I caught my father and brother trying to ‘borrow’ to my light, twice! Guess what they’re getting for the Holidays?
Phil G
I’ve picked up far more than my fair share of different LED flashlights over the years (it’s practically an addiction) from various sources. My main complaint regarding the lights that use three or four AAA cells is the durability of the cell holder. A couple of the cheaper lights I bought on a whim have failed me after being dropped, cracking or breaking the plastic battery holders. In one case the light stopped functioning right off, opening the battery compartment the cels and the holder came out in pieces. Another still worked, but when I was replacing the batteries, the holder was fractured in several places but held together mostly by the metal contacts and conductor bits. My favorite smalll lights are my SureFire P6 and Kobalt lights that use a pair of 123 lithium cells, a pair of Energizer single AA-cell lights with variable output, and my two and three AA LED Mag Lights. I have two different Coast LED “Lenser” lights that have taken a fair amount of abuse and the three-cell holders have not come apart yet. They seem to be more robust in construction than the cheapie lights (one is a Dorcy, the other two a brand I can’t recall offhand).
I prefer lights with variable light output most of all, Since these bright little suckers can be overwhelming in both their light output in close range as well as battery usage, being able to tone down the light is a huge plus.
SteveO
I bought one based on this review (thanks Jeff), but there’s one big flaw, in my opinion. Say I’m on mode 1 – brightest. I turn off the light, then when I turn it back on, it’s now on mode 2 – medium. Off and on again and it’s on mode 3 – dim. Most other lights which have multiple modes will remember where you left it and will turn back on to the same mode. This flaw means this light will spend most of its life in the drawer – unless someone wants to buy it from me 🙂
Eric C.
SteveO, if you do not wait long enough, you are correct on not remembering where it “was”. My completely non-scientific test showed that if you waited to a count of 15 mississippi then it would remember the last setting, not dimming or switching.
Another AWESOME feature is that you don’t have to turn the light off to switch. The mode and brightness can be changed by just slightly pressing the power button. It doesn’t take much at all.
Personally, I think it is an awesome light. Plus, I live in Alaska and it is dark a lot this time of year. I always have this and a headlamp with me. Both use AAA and that is a huge benefit, the other acts as a possible storage of extra batts!
Just my $.02.
SteveO
Thanks EricC. I tried again waiting this time over 15 sec. I appears that it does not switch to the next mode, however it does reset back to mode1 (brightest). I tend to prefer mode3 (low light) most of the time, so having it default to bright isn’t ideal for my use case. Overall, it’s a nice light, but I wish it did as i’d expect.
alejandro cardona macedo
quisiera mas informacion en español , sobre sus linternas y distribuidores en latinoamerica (PERU) gracias.
KBH
I saw this light in Gunnie’s – Orem, UT – I had purchased a $79 Streamlight for my partner and he mentioned his wife was jealous. So, back I went to Gunnie’s. My partner was with me and as we made our way back to the Streamlight display we encountered this little light to $26.99!
Now my partner is jealous. His light is 180 lumens while hers is 220 and side by side the difference is very noticeable.
HOLD ON THERE – there is a value difference. AAA batteries do not last very long when you are shooting 220 lumens out to the “South 40”. Also, the shelf life of AAA’s is perhaps a couple of years 123a’s will sit around for 10 years. Additionally, I can buy 123a’s for about $3.99 in bulk (10 or more). I think 3 AAA’s will cost about the same at Costco.
Finally, I don;t know anything about the bulb. It is larger than most led’s, perhaps it is not one. But – it is really bright!
mstevens73
My NEBO Redline came with two color lenses, red and blue. I do not have the faintest idea how to install them into the flashlight, and hoped to find it in this review, on the Internet(s) or any where in the world! Please revisit the issue of the color lenses for me, thanks.
Mike D.
After researching for several months I almost settled on a Coast for about $65.00 but I just happened to run across this Nebo Redline and bought myself a late Christmas gift. I agree with some of the reviews on other sites that the light is harder to turn on using your thumb. My old Coast LED Lenser turns on in a snap and has been a good friend for the last few years. In the office this Nebo seems to be unbelievably bright and I am looking forward to sunset tonight so I can step out on the deck and see what it can do. Mine did not come with any instructions and had I not read about the functions on Amazon I would not have known about its multiple use. Since I work as an estimator for a demolition company I have a great need for a good light as most of the structures I look at have been shut down and are very dark. I especially like the adjustable beam and the magnetic back is also a plus and will help for checking for non-ferrous scrap. Anyway, for just under $30.00 with shipping included this will hopefully be a great buy and will serve me as well as my Coast has.
Dave Carlson
I’m a flashlight addict too! I’ve owned lots of them starting with a not-so-bright one that I bought about 10 years ago for my abandon-ship kit when I was sailing in New Zealand. (It takes 3 AA’s and still works just fine. Just not very bright) and until I found the Nebo Redline I thought that the coast lensers were the top of the line. Even considered buying a focusable one at Home Depot for almost $60 but I had to reconsider when I came across a display of the Nebo lights at my local hardward store. It’s smaller, brighter, and…this is the best part for me…focusable. It lights up my whole backyard so I can see what critters are skulking around my chicken coop and in the tight beam mode it illuminates car license plates almost two blocks away. It’s an awesome little light.
woodNfish
I have two of these Nebo Redlines. I bought one for $20 at my local hardware store and liked it so much I went back and bought another for my truck.
I have been buying LED flashlights for a few years now and they just keep getting better. The Redline is the brightest I have seen and it is a fraction of the cost of tactical and self-defense lights of less or similar brightness. Many of those are 180 lumens and cost close to $200.
I would like to know how many lumens it really is though.
KBH was wondering if it is a bulb or an LED. It is an LED and much smaller than what you see looking through the lens which magnifies it about 5x.
I read on Amazon that some people don’t think it is very rugged. I don’t know what they are talking about. The aluminum is nice and thick, the flashlight is heavy for its size, and the controls feel solid. I am very pleased to have gotten two of them for $20 each.
Now if my wife will just quit telling me I have a flashlight fetish, all will be perfect.
MANUEL NIQUÉN ORTIZ
P/F enviar con frecuencia información de sus productor soy comprador de Refineria La Pampilla SAA – Lima Perú
Kal
I just bought this light, I’m out a lot at night, no light is perfect it doesn’t matter how much you pay, everyone is different and have different tastes. I have a Streamlight and Coast Sensers, but this light does me fine, it lights up the night. All I need it to do is get me to my truck. It has a lot of useful amenities, I’m going to buy my wife one as well, she seems to always have to leave home early in the morning or late at night to deliver a baby. I feel this light will do her good, plus it comes with a great price.
Q
On the NEBO website, they advertise this as being waterproof, and this review only calls is weather proof. There is a fine line between weather proof and waterproof. Can anyone clear this up for me? Thanks.
Stuart
The product description on Amazon says “weather-proof”, as I believe Nebo’s website did at one point. While it very well may be waterproof and not just weather-proof, that’s not something I would be willing to put to the test when it really matters unless/until Nebo provides an IP rating (Wikipedia explanation) for the Redline.
I will try to find a more concrete resolution.
Stuart
Update: I heard back from Nebo that the Redline is in fact weather-proof and not water-proof. Looking at the product page, the description has been changed from “water-proof” back to “weather-proof.”
They also said that it has o-ring seals and that a unit suffered no ill effects after being left submerged in a sink for over an hour.
I find it mysteriously coincidental that the description was changed from “water-proof” back to “weather-proof” after I asked about recommended submerge depths and IP ratings. Google’s cache for the page and Q’s comment shows that it did say “water-proof” for some time.
WRSONG
After reading Jeff review and convinced by Stuart I decided to by one.
Has anyone made any modification to their flashlight? I have added a body from another flashlight to the Nebo and its now at 7.5 volts. Its brighter and output have a longer range but the only drawback is after having it on for about a minute or so the body gets a little warm. I might try using CR123 cells but my concern is what the maximum input volt allowed.
MN4x4
A light in the night….with apologies to Dr. Seuss
*******************************************
I really want a Redline light
With an LED so bright
That it can vanquish any night
I really want a Redline light!
A body that is anodized
Oh, how my Redline would be prized!
3 brightness modes to choose what’s right
I really want a Redline light!
With aircraft grade aluminum
Detractors would be truly mum
And it would be my pure delight
To own a Nebo Redline light!
With knurling that’s described as ‘smooth’
My irritation it would sooth
And make it fit my hand just right
I really want a Redline light!
In SOS mode it does shine
The life it saves just could be mine
All weatherproof and watertight
I really want a Redline light!
For emergencies it has a strobe
Perhaps not lighting up the globe
But still this light has such a beam
It might just make a monster scream!
A bezel I can simply twist
To change the light that’s in my fist
And should I find I need to fight?
I’d have my trusty Redline light!
To wrap it up I have to say
I hope a Redline comes my way.
I wish I may, I wish I might,
Win a Nebo Redline light!
J
god the uses on a flatbed i could find for one of those things save a tower give me the giveaway the flashlight i promise a reveiw and video in responce
Francisco
Hi guys i brought one of these little ones at Virginia in my last visit to the US (i live in Peru), i went to an army surplus and ask the tenant for the brightest flashlight he had and not over 100 bucks, and he presented me the Redline.
I use mine for airsoft night battles and believe me its bright, its very sturdy, i attach it to my gun and its awesome, really, i havent been able to find any flashlight here to replace it yet, not even tactical flashlights, only few expensive ones (100 bucks or more) outperform this one, im very happy with it, my only problem is that the modes are not accesible directly (i use the 220 lumens and strobe mode), and that it doesnt have a remote pressure swith option (if anyone knows how to adapt one ill be grateful). My advice, BUY ONE, you wont regret it.
Al amigo de Peru: La compre en Virginia, USA, en Lima no la vas a encontrar yo que tu busco en directorios de empresas de alla que exporten estas linternas, realmente valen su precio (y mas), es super buena y brillante y muy barata, no he encontrado ninguna asi en Lima.
Pax
I had the opportunity to test this particular Nebo Flashlight last night and wanted to pipe in with some thoughts. I think that different flashlights serve different purposes. I do outside night security work where a range of about 150 feet is needed for most areas. A light source that’s strong enough to throw out a tight beam and gives you back true colors is important.
The Nebo failed in this area. Its’ beam, even at its’ tightest setting, sends out concentric circles. That is… it has a brighter inner circle and a wider outer circle. The outer circle, from personal experience, works against the holder of the flashlight because it tends to blind you momentarily. When you’re in the dark and suddenly turn on the flashlight, you don’t want any of the light coming back at you because it’ll force your pupils to close and have to readjust. The outer red ring at the near tip of this flashlight that’s always on, adds to the problem. You really need to hold this flashlight at arm’s length.
The light source itself is bluish. This diminishes the colors you get back. So if you need to identify the color of a car, you won’t be clearly able to distinguish between dark gray and navy blue, for example.
Now, I’m not saying that the Nebo is a bad flashlight when used as intended. I’m specifically writing about the needs of a person working outside night security where a range of about 150 feet and more are needed.
At close-up range, where you have a lot of white reflective surfaces around you (in a closed room, for example)… the Nebo does well. It’s softer bluish tint doesn’t feedback on you and completely blind you.
I’ve worked with a number of different flashlights and my favorite right now is the Maglite 2D LED. I was able to compare both last night and the difference was literally like night and day. The Maglite 2D LED throws out a very tight beam that’s the whitest I’ve worked with. The intensity/brightness was much, much stronger than the Nebo without it being overwhelming. The Maglite uses two D batteries but I use two Double-A batteries (rechargeable) with use of D-Adapters. The intensity of the beam does not suffer and also makes the flashlight (and small baton section) very light.
For comparison, I also worked with the Streamlight 45117 Litebox Standard. A very heavy flashlight (mostly used by Firemen) and about as bright as you’ll find in a flashlight before ‘diving’ in and getting deep-sea flashlights. It was also a fail and overkill. Plus the yellow-ish beam (colors harder to ID) and the reflection off objects (because it was so bright) worked against the type of work I do. It was also too heavy. In order to reduce shadows (and distorted movements when walking and shining the flashlight), it’s important to be able to hold the flashlight at eye level and above.
So… if you need a top-notch, low-cost outside flashlight that turns night into day – opt for the Maglite 2D LED which runs for about $20-$25 bucks.
John Rissler
I recently purchased one of these flashlights. It was brilliantly bright when I first got it, but now after about 2 weeks it has become much dimmer.
Have you (or others) had this problem, also?
Bill Russell
There have been comments about the “browning” of the LED; probably when using the highest light output. “Browning” could simply be caused by overheating of the LED. This is not a surprise. The issue of not adequately removing heat from a high output LED is a common problem. Only use the high light output power levels when needed; battery life will be extended and overheating of the LED will be avoided.
Jerry
Yes, I’ve had the same problem. I was blown away at how bright it was for the first few weeks.then it slowly gets dimmer. Even changing the batteries doesn’t help. And another thing: that little red ring? I’ve broke 4 of them so far. Oh yeah sure, they replace them but what a hassle. I’ll never buy another one of these piece of shit flashlights.
Mark
Thank you !!! I was wondering when someone else was gonna mention this, reading these reviews, i’m thinkin…there’s no way that I’m the only one that has replaced that chensy-ass plastic piece 4 times, it doesn’t even need to be on the flashlight ! seriously “SOS EMERGENCY” ??? gimmie a break. This last time it broke, 2 weeks ago, it was magnetized to a metal guard, I bumped it with a wrench and it fell 3 FEET and broke at the dumb red plastic piece. I love everything else about this light though.
Jennet Preston
Mine dimmed after a few months of very light use, and now it does not work at all. Do I need to replace the bulb? It’s supposed to be good for 10,000 hours, and I doubt mine lasted 50, so no. In other words, my Redline is in gadget purgatory, otherwise known as the drawer of devices I’ll probably never use again but paid too much for to just throw away.
But it was bright while it lasted, I’ll give it that.
Stuart
John, I haven’t had this problem, nor have I heard about it yet. Have you tried using fresh batteries? If the issue persists, perhaps return it or contact the manufacturer/importer.
I have experienced something similar with other flashlights when using alkaline batteries. Moving to rechargeable batteries improved the flashlights’ performance in those cases. But the Nebo Redline does perform decently well with regular alkaline batteries, so it is possible yours may be defective.
John Rissler
Stuart, thanks for your thoughts. I have tried both rechargeables and fresh alkaline batteries. No impact. The flashlight still seems to be dimming. I showed it to my dad, (he had seen it when I first bought it) and he was astounded how much it had dimmed. It doesn’t even seem 1/4 as bright as it was when I purchased it a few weeks ago.
Stuart
In that case, I would definitely suggest contacting the vendor about a possible return/exchange, or the manufacturer/importer for a warranty exchange. There’s also the option of doing a repurchase/return, and although effective, that isn’t the most ethical route.
John Rissler
Thanks for the tips, Stuart
However, it looks like I get to eat this defective Nebo Redline. (I did not want the sharp edges on the front cutting through my pockets, so I rounded them off with a sander. So the flashlight’s may not be returnable.)
I turned the Nebo on again last night while at work, and it is now so dim as to be almost completely useless. I plan to give it too my children as a toy.
I suppose I got bitten by the old “you only get what you pay for” thing.
I am back in the market for a flashlight again, and this time I intend to shell out some more money, and hopefully find one with better quality control.
Thanks again for your input, Staurt!
Stuart
You’re welcome, and I’m sorry it turned out this way. Good luck!
If you’re looking for another high-powered LED flashlight in the same $28-35 pricepoint, have you considered the HexBright Prime?
Ricky
So I picked up one of these flashlights off of Amazon a couple weeks ago. It’s a good deal for the price I think. I’m in the military and I currently work night shift in Afghanistan so a durable flashlight is a big part of my life. It’s a lot cheaper and brighter than a lot of military lights that are well over $100. I only have one problem with it. The plastic “redline” on the end of it broke shortly after getting it. I was putting it back in the holster thats on my belt and while I was pushing it in, it pushed the lens straight out of the red plastic. No big deal, I used apoxy to fix it. A few days later, the side that threads onto the body broke. I tried to apoxy this as well but it hasn’t held up that well. I don’t think they should have put plastic on a light they said was “durable.” I tried looking for a replacement piece made out of the same metal but had no luck. I even tried looking for the same plastic piece that was on there to give that another shot but also had no luck. But I guess you get what you pay for.
motoford
I found this review while researching the dimming of my Nebo Redline. My dad gave me one this past Christmas, along with an identical one for my brother. We both had the same dimming issue just weeks after receiving them.
New batteries do not help.
wkcb5251
We were given a NEBO flashlight that has the 5 different light plus a laser. it also has a compass on the handle end. The problem we are having is that we cannot figure out how to change the batteries. Only the top lens part comes undoen but we cannot find any other outlet where to change the batteries. Can anyone give us a hand?
mike
Remove the top lens. Twist the body until you can grip the silver lens component. Then unscrew it and open the flashlight. Took me a while to find it.
Stuart
While I cannot speak about your particular model, the Redline’s flashlights are loaded from the rear. It may take a bit of effort, but the rear cap unscrews to reveal the battery compartment.
dorpmuller
Too wackerific and AAA’s make it a loser. Won’t even look at AAA’s.
KLB1
I’ve been impressed with the Nebo Redline, since I have chickens I have an occasional raccoon or fox issue, once the 220 lumens gets them in the eyes there frozen then dead.
Bill
Having been an engineer, a professional photographer and military officer, flashlights have ‘been my life’. I’ve probably owned 3 dozen, each more useful than the last — until I found the Nebo redline.
It happened by chance when I parked next to a highway patrol car at my hardware store. Guess who was at the counter looking at Nebo’s? As he grabbed up six of them, I asked him if they were any good.
He said his guys had flashlights that cost $60 to $3oo and none of them was as useful as the ‘Redline’. He was about to take the last one from the display, when he asked, “unless you want it?”
I snapped it up… and he was right! Since then I’ve recommended them to maybe 20 friends, tradesmen and others. Many have taken the time to thank me. The rest probably don’t need something this handy.
mac
I have had mine for almost a year now and it has been a great flashlight. The only thing wrong that I can find is that they made a fatal error in putting a plastic red ring in a critical part of the body of the light. One drop on the wrong side of this thing and …. busted plastic threads. Now I have a bright lantern that only shines one directions. I miss the lense. I did get this at a steal at a Napa store for $17. I thought it was a fare price for it, and now I see it was a great price for it and wished I had bought the case. Unfortunatley the flaw is making me not want to spend more then the $17, so I don’t think I’ll be investing in this one again. Check out the awsomely priced high intensity LED lights at this site if you want what looks like a really good quality light for a little more $$ but they are amazing looking. https://shop.hidcountry.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=200%20Zoom%20LED1%20FL1
stevo
I have one that’s now 8 months old. It’s gone dim and is nowhere near as bright as it was. I compared it to a Home Depot “Husky” light and it used to be so much brighter. Now the Husky is brighter.
Botton line – this light dies after you’ve used it a while.
Oh, and I did put in fresh batteries.
Stuart
Thank you for sharing your personal experiences with these flashlights with us! Although I have not seen the same dimming effect some of you have observed, there are enough reports that there may be a trend. If so, my first thought would be that prolonged use may be leading to heat damage. But if the flashlights are dimming even if not used, I’m stumped about what could be causing it.
John Rissler
The dimming effect is hit or miss, I suppose. In my case, within several days I was trying to convince myself, “It’s my imagination, it’s not dimming.”
I have given the Nebo to my 9 year old son, but it is so dim now, that even he doesn’t like it anymore!
Surely the company is aware that some of these flashlights are TOTAL lemons — but to acknowledge this on their part is probably not considered to be good for sales strategy! 🙂
John Rissler
To add to my comments, I can’t recall keeping the flashlight on for an extended period of time that would have caused it ” heat damage”. But even if that is the case, does anyone want a flashlight with such a restriction? That it can only be used for intermittent bursts for fear they will ruin it? How practical is that? I’m not a techie, but my guess is it is not an overheating issue — rather some are simply defective.
In fairness to Nebo, it may only be a very small percentage of these that are defective. If you read the reviews on Amazon of electronic products, it seems there is always an irate customer with a lemon on his hands, somewhere. And they tend to be the most vocal ones!
Stuart
My thoughts about potential head damage stem from the thermal energy high-lumen LED light sources can output. In many cases, you can feel these flashlights getting warmer with use, and there may even be a caution symbol if the light head is made of metal. I know that the Redline outputs a great deal of light, so my first thought was that any time-dependent defect was based on thermal degradation of the source or a similar effect.
I’ll see if I can find out more about this issue.
QSH
It’s entirely possible that the LED is being driven past it’s voltage limits. Most 3xAAA lights are directly driven with no regulation circuit. As such, fresh sets of batteries could spike the LED up over it’s voltage limits and dim it slightly. Do it over and over again, and you get a dimbulb. Each individual LED has slightly different tolerances, so that might be why some never get dim, and others are noticeable right off the bat.
Stuart
Hmm, that is definitely possible, but would imply that Nebo improperly designed the flashlights. I imagine that there would (should?) be a safety cushion to help compensate for varied tolerances, though.
Your possible explanation does make sense, though. The more you use the flashlight, the more often you use fresh batteries, the more you overvolt the circuit until the voltage drops to 1.5V or lower. But although possible, is all this likely?
Paul
John,
You got a bad light. You didn’t return it why?
I bought a few of these lights without a single problem in any. It’s a low cost flashlight for the output you get. Will pick up a few more and give em out to some people I work with.
Elrod
Mine lost its brightness also.
The LED actually turned brown.
Took it back to Batteries-Plus and they gave me another one.
Hope the new one will last longer.
Now, wish I could get it to save the last mode.
J.Austin
I have a question for anyone on here who may own one of these….
On the specs for the flashlight, it says that the Diameter is 1.5″.. is that at the head of the flashlight where it is thicker? or is the body of the flashlight where it is thinner 1.5″ ??? I’m just wondering because I’d really like to use one of these babys as a flashlight on a firearm.. but the body of the flashlight would need to be 1″ in diameter… I still ordered one lol, but I’m just wondering if I can use it for that purpose.. if not – it has plenty of other uses…
Thanks,
J.Austin
Stuart
J.Austin, the bezel is the part that is nearly 1.5″ wide. The body of the flashlight is slightly over 1″ wide.
People have been complaining about dimming issues with this flashlight. I would NOT recommend that it be used as a weapons light. For use with a firearm, you should consider a more reliable brand/model.
John Rissler
Paul, I did not return the Nebo because, as pointed out in an earlier post, I modified it. A risk I chose to take (making it non-returnable). Staurt helpfully pointed out that I might still be able to return it by swapping parts with a new one (great idea), but I decided it wasn’t worth the time and hassle. (It was ordered through Amazon)
My comments on this flashlight have probably been too harsh. When one purchases a cheap product like this, one is in effect agreeing to take the risk associated with its (presumed) lower quality. It is people (like me) that encourage companies to make lower cost, lower quality products — we love the low price, so we buy it. But then we complain when these same products fail! 🙂
ed
I was really impressed with this light until I noticed the dies in the emitter yellowing. Upon inspection…they’re burning out. The emitter must be overdriven. I have pictures to back it up:
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h28/chelboed/IMAG0326.jpg
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h28/chelboed/IMAG0325.jpg
I’ve contacted Nebo about it, but my Dad has had an X2000 from dealextreme that’s been working fine for a few years now. The kicker is that it’s only $9 from dealextreme. It’s a different brand, but it’s the same emitter with similar focusable beam that actually focuses better than the Nebo. You can buy it in 3xAAA, 1x RCR123a, or 1x 18650 battery config’s.
I think the Nebo is a bust.
Stuart
Wow, that definitely does look like it’s burning up! Definitely not good. Maybe that’s also why so many people are experiencing dimming.
Dan Bates
I bought one because the 220 lumens was brighter than the 120 lumens of the TAC light I still am using.
The features that aren’t really needed I think is the magnetic base and the SOS function.
While usable w/fixes I feel as a TAC light this has the following problems
1) No momentary contact – allowing you to illuminate and move.
2) the red plastic – this says shoot me, if you don’t immediately illuminate and temporarily blind intruders/assailants. – I fixed this with black electrical tape.
3) No carrying strap. This is how I draw my current TAC light from the breast pocket of my concealed carry vest. pocket is unsnapped with the carry strap hanging out. Appropriate finger of the left hand (picked by strap length), pull out and flip around my hand and is ready to use. – I fixed this with a cable tie and an old strap from a camera.
4) the strobe function should be function 2 not function 5.
good points:
1) 220 lumens
2) batteries more readily available than the CR123’s
3) the 110 and 22 lumen settings.
4) Strike bezel.
They almost got it right. If they take care of the 4 points in a new model I very probably will by it
bryce
I love this flashlight but.. the thing i hate about it is….. it kills the batteries even when the flashlight isn’t turned on.. it has happened two times to me now, I left my flashlight on my desk and a week later i go to turn it on and its dead, I replaced the batteries and now i turn it back on about a month later and the batteries are dead again.. keep in mind i didn’t turn it on once within that month span..
Jim C hurchill
Flashlite it’s self is very good but bulb burned out and can’t find replacment bulbs need soom help.looks to me like it is soldered to a chip.Help please
Jacki Tholkes
. Jim I am experiencing the same thing with the bulb & I thought that these were not supposed to burn out or if dropped snap the bulb!! It doesn’t make sense to talk about it as if it were life time & it’s not! So I have the same question is there a replacement bulb for this or what?
QSH
From the myriad of responses, I think it’s safe to say the Redline has some serious design flaws. If the LED isn’t being pushed too hard by the driver, Nebo has either badly designed the flashlight’s heat dissipation, or they’re using “seconds” for the emitter.
No matter the case, this isn’t looking like a go-to light, especially if you actually need to depend on it. Fenix and Maglite have very workable flashlights in this price range that should be considerably more reliable. If you’re really using something like this as a tactical light…reconsider how much your life is worth and go with a better brand like Surefire, Streamlight, or Foursevens. You’ll pay more, but you’re paying for better design and materials.
bert
I would not recommend this flashlight. At first it was bright. That lasted a couple of weeks. Now, there’s no batteries that make it bright. Not even close to the original 220 lumens it was supposed to have. It’s useless if you need a reliable flashlight on a regular basis.
Consumer
When I purchased this 220 lumen Redline flashlight it was the best one I have ever owned. Unfortunatly good this review ends here. While the quality remains in good standing the out put is lacking. Since the batteries have been changed this light has never been above about 50 lumens. I have put duracell, energizer, raovack, and even went as far as to order 3.7 v AAA specialty batteries to get the 220 lumes back. To my dismay it did not work.
Alexandra Rojas Villegas
Necesito comprar 8 linternas Nebo Se Redline 5615
por favor saber si las puedo comprar, eñ precio y donde para
ir a recogerlas.
975055598
Cel 953101757
Gracias
Alexandra Rojas Villegas
Quiero comprar linternas NEBO SE REDLINE 5615
donde las puedo conseguir, en lima peru.
Cel. 975055598
Cel. 953101757
Por favor lo mas pronto posible
Gracias
RonHK
I have been in love with this flashlight, bought three just 2 years ago but recently one of them failed to turn on in a difficult late night situation in deep woods of northern Michigan. It turned on for a test before embarking, but would not turn on when I needed it later. I learned by accident that rapping it will bring it back but that the switch will fail again later. There are numerous on-line reports of similar switch failures. Am worried about my other 2 failing and think other users and potential buyers should be forewarned.
Jerry Murray
I’ve been reading some of the comments here, hoping to find someone that has replaced their clear lens on the Redline 220. I just rec’d one free of charge from Nebo, when I asked about my scratched lens.
My light is over 3 years old and I’ve not noticed much of the dimming effect that others are stating. It was used constantly when I was an OTR driver, and now around the home. I’ve not had any problems with this light, and have given two as gifts to friends. I will be taking my light to a dealer here next week to do a comparative test of a new one vs my 3-4 year old model.
I only wish it had a lanyard attachment at the rear.
David Preece
Horrible products that stop working after 2 months and this is all customer service dose about it.
Good Morning!
For this light, since it is a new product, we currently do not have parts for. Therefore, you will need to send it in for repair/replacement.
Please send your item to the address below for repair/replacement:
Attn: Warranty
NEBO Tools
3025 N. Great Southwest Parkway
Grand Prairie, TX 75050
Please include a note in your package with the following information:
Your name
Your return address
Your contact number
A brief explanation of the issue you are experiencing
Thank you,
Warranty Department
victor
I am unhappy with my redline…it suddenly stopped working…I changed the batteries …still not working…..what could be the problem…help please….
Stuart
Have you contacted Nebo? They might be able to give you troubleshooting advice at the least, a warranty repair or exchange at best.
Lee Bevins
I have purchased several of the Nebro flash lights only to find out if dropped at any distance, even less tha foot onto grass, the red plastic ring breaks. Flashlight is shot! Tried numerous attempts to contact Nebo for replacement parts but they never returned any of my messages and service never answers. My best friend experienced the exact same issues and poor service. We will never purchase another Nebo product again!!!
Benjamin Hughes
Trying to find out how to return for replacement redline flashlight lends has broken.
Marshall
I bought 2 and have tried one. I am not happy with its performance in cold weather15F and below. I tried cleaning the threads with alcohol and will see how it performs. The larger Nebos work fine in cold weather, but so far I cannot trust this one, even as a backup.
Avery Hart
I love my nebo se redline 5615. I have had it over 5 years but now a major problem. It has a unique AAA battery case and I need a new one. if anyone knows a site or has a link I can use to buy a new one, please email me at [REDACTED] THANKS!
John
I’ve loved my Redline flashlight, but just replaced the original NEBO AAA batteries with new AAA Duracell batteries, and the light doesn’t work! What’s up with that? The new batteries test good.
Is there something special about the shape of the NEBO batteries? The negative terminal of the NEBO batteries seems to protrude farther out than the negative terminal on the Duracells. But hard to believe that would keep the Duracells from working. Anybody else have this problem? Or a solution?
Thanks!