NPL20 Nitecore

27 October 2020 Author : 

Compact, lightweight and powerful: the NPL20 is Nitecore's new weapon light.

Almost three years after the release of the NPL10, the Chinese Nitecore presents a new model of pistol flashlight with a renewed design and a simple and intuitive functioning system.

The aeronautical aluminum (black anodized Type III) full body and the small size, are among the strong points of this flashlight which is adaptable to both full size and compact pistol models.
With a length of 6.4 cm and a height of 3.3 cm including sled, the NPL20 features a horizontally developed design, obtained by juxtaposing the battery housing to the head of the flashlight. This solution significantly reduces the overall dimensions and makes it easier to grip the gun with the weak hand.
The Picatinny rails adapter, also made in aluminum, is adjusted through a passing screw; there is also a removable pin which ensures further retention to the rail. By removing this pin it is possible to use the flashlight also on weaver rails, where there are no grooves. Equipped with a CREE XP-G3 S3 LED, with a lifespan of 50,000 hours, the NPL20 has an output of 460 lumens and a beam of light with a maximum range of 76 meters.

The flashlight is switched on by means of two finely knurled switches that are placed on the two sides of the trigger guard; both switches can perform the same functions, making the activation of the flashlight totally ambidextrous. The lighting type selection takes place through the different pressure that will be exerted on the switches: by holding down one of the two switches for a long time you will access the momentary on lighting; a shorter pressure will activate the constant light and finally three consecutive presses will allow the Strobo mode.

Built-in ATR (Advanced Temperature Regulation) technology regulates the NPL20's output based on working conditions and surrounding environment to maintain optimum performance.

The package includes a spare o-ring and a CR123A battery with an autonomy of 50 minutes. The flashlight has a standard IP67 waterproof rating and it is impact resistant to 1 meter.

We tested the NPL20 at the shooting range located in Busto Arsizio (Italy), by engaging targets placed at distances of 4 and 12 meters and using two different semiautomatics pistols: one full size (Glock 17) and one compact (Sig Sauer 320 compact). The flashlight guaranteed constant performance, given the small diameter. The light cone is open, providing diffused lighting, such as to guarantee good visibility to the surrounding environment and on the target. The weight of 89.6 grams, including the battery, does not affect the shooting exercise, but it is necessary to fix the flashlight at the correct distance, as the switches are small and consequently you have to be sure that you can reach them without compromising the grip on the weapon.

The NPL20 Nitecore convinces for its size and power, even if the real strong point, given the type of use, remains its extreme simplicity of use.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Manufacturer: Nitecore
Led: 1x Cree XP-G3 S3 - with a life cycle of 50,000 hours
Operating Modes: Ambidextrous buttons for easy access to 3 light functions - Momentary-On, Constant-On, Strobe-On
Powers and Durations: 460 lumens (0.3h) Strobo 300 lumes
Power peak: 1440 cd
Maximum illumination distance: 76m.
Power-on: double switch, ambidextrous, placed on flashlight sides
Light variation method: double switch, ambidextrous
Body: aeronautical aluminum
Finish: anodized, Type III
Lens: ultra-clear hardened glass with anti-reflective treatment
Batteries: CR123A (included)
Measurements: 6.4cm (Length) - 3.6cm (Width) - 3.3cm (thickness, adapter included)
Weight: 89.6g. with battery
Accessories: o-rings
Water resistance: IP67 standard
Impact resistance to 1 meter

Notes: Universal quick adapter, compatible with Picatinny and Weaver rails

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