There are flashlights, and then there is the X21R flashlight from Ledlenser. This hearty specimen is an absolute beast in both construction and illumination output. As with many flashlights that serve one or two purposes, this unit can cover a wide range of situations.

The Ledlenser X21R

Its uses go above and beyond what one might hope for, from emergency blackouts or unexpected natural disasters to lighting up an outdoor trail or self-defense applications. The good people at Ledlenser sent me the X21R to test in the field, and test it, I did. The results were very illuminating, and it was truly this flashlight’s time to shine!

The X21R Out Of the Box

I’ve bought many flashlights in the past, and they come in either blister packaging (a plastic bubble on a cardboard backing) or a small box. When I received the X21R, I was blown away.

The unit arrived in a hard shell case with an in-molded handle and wraparound cardboard sleeve containing a color photo of the product and pertinent information about the flashlight. After seeing this, I knew this wasn’t going to be your typical, everyday flashlight.

My amazement continued when I disengaged the two safety latches and opened the case. The case’s interior featured multiple compartments, each holding essential accessories. The flashlight took up most of the base of the case by itself (yes, it’s that large and visually impressive).

The items within the case included the X21R, charging station, all cordage and plugs, rubber protection caps, and full instructions and information pamphlets. This wasn’t just a tool; it was a serious piece of equipment. But I hadn’t seen anything yet—it was time to fire this goliath of a flashlight up.

Turning Night into Day

I can talk about the carrying case, the size and durability of the flashlight (equally impressive), and the plethora of accessories accompanying the illuminator. However, what really matters is the brilliance, power, and versatility of the light it produces.

This flashlight, like any other, is judged on its ability to shine a light and help you get through the dark safely. I can confidently say the X21R succeeds across the board.

This flashlight is designed with seven Xtreme LED lights that produce a staggering 5,000 lumens at full power. Lighting up my entire backyard was a cinch for the X21R. It even illuminated a rural trail in a park nearby about as far as I could see.

When you don’t need to turn night into day, or when you have other emergency situations, six other lighting functions step up to the plate. While testing the X21R, I toggled through its low-power option for when you don’t need to employ its full force. It excelled for my glare-free, low-light activities.

Its S.O.S. function automatically emitted the universal distress signal in Morse code, which was most ingenious. Additionally, the modes I tested included the blink, boost, strobe, and positioning features. All performed their functions with consistency and sharpness.

The various light modes were controlled by a single multifunctional switch, which I very much enjoyed for its simplicity and effectiveness. Let’s be honest: a flashlight is only as good as its ability to perform one primary function, and with the X21R, it does it extremely well.

Powering Up

Old-fashioned oversized flashlights needed a half-dozen “D” batteries to power up. However, this Ledlenser top seller is modernized with rechargeable, high-performance batteries (1 x LiFePO4 3×32700).

It features a charge indicator that clearly shows the battery’s current charge status. Likewise, a battery indicator shows the current level of the battery. Both are equally important for you to gauge your ongoing needs.

A Negative You Can Live With

I racked my brain to find a “con” to the numerous “pros” that this unit offered. If I were to find any negative to this amazing piece of equipment, it would be its overall size. As mentioned, this is one beefy tool.

Weighing nearly three pounds and over fifteen inches in length, some people might find it cumbersome to carry for an extended period. However, this slight drawback is offset by how incredibly valuable it can be during a true emergency or natural disaster.

In some situations, its power levels, multiple light functions, and long battery life can be valuable to your survival. So, I believe the temporary challenge of hefting it about is minor, and a person could get used to it very quickly.

The Real Deal

Over the years, I have encountered numerous oversized flashlights that boast incredible lumen outputs and solid construction and design. However, more times than not, their claims were far from the truth, bordering on scamming the purchaser. They either failed to deliver any illumination over that of a common flashlight or were built so shoddily that they cracked or broke after just a few uses.

I can honestly say, though, that the X21R is the real deal. It delivers what it states and gives you the feeling of a solid piece of equipment in your hand. Why continue to purchase numerous cheap, inferior versions over the years when you can be one and done with this high performer?

Though the price may initially deter you, trust me, it’s a wise investment for today and many years to come.

For more information, please visit Ledlenser.com.

Ledlenser X21R Specs