What is a Long Throw Flashlight, or Thrower?

If you are looking for a long range Flashlight there are two terms that are always used to describe the beam pattern that a flashlight gives off, they are flood and throw. Our focus here is to find the best Throw Flashlight for sale, specifically those that only use reflectors, but first we need to learn about what flood and throw are. There is a constant fight of Flood vs. Throw. We will cover flood and throw here but, for more information on the basics of flashlights check out our flashlight buyers guide.

Not Much Time? Here Is The Bullet List

Best AAA/AA Battery Throw Flashlights on the Market:

• Best Throw Flashlight (AAA): LED Lenser P3 AFX P
• Best Throw Flashlight (2 X AAA): Nitecore MT06
• Best Throw Flashlight (AA): Manker T01 II
• Best Throw Flashlight (2 x AA): Fenix E25UE
• Best Throw Flashlight (2 x AA Budget): Zanflare F2S
• Best Throw Flashlight (4 x AA): Thrunite TN4A HI

Best CR123A Throw Flashlight on the Market:

• Best CR123A Throw Flashlight (CR123): FourSevens Mini Turbo MK II

Best Single 18650 Throw Flashlights on the Market:

• Best Single 18650 Throw Flashlight (Budget): Convoy C8 XPL-HI
• Best Single 18650 Throw Flashlight (Integrated Charging): Acebeam L16
• Best Single 18650 Throw Flashlight (Compact/EDC): Zebralight SC600W MK III HI
• Best Single 18650 Throw Flashlight (High CRI): Eagletac SX30C2
• Best Single 18650 Throw Flashlight (Compact EDC Budget): Emisar D1
• Best Single 18650 Throw Flashlight (Compact EDC Integrated Charging): Nitecore MH20 GT
• Best Single 18650 Throw Flashlight (Overall): Olight M2XUT
• Best Single 18650 Throw Flashlight (Budget High CRI): Jaxman M8
• Best Single 18650 Throw Flashlight (Adjustable Focus “Zoomie”): Klarus FH10

Best Multiple 18650 Throw Flashlights on the Market:

• Best Multiple 18650 Throw Flashlight (2X18650): Olight M3XS UT Javelot
• Best Multiple 18650 Throw Flashlight (2X18650 Budget): Maxtoch Shooter 2X
• Best Multiple 18650 Throw Flashlight (3X18650): Klarus G35
• Best Multiple 18650 Throw Flashlight (4X18650): Thrunite TN42
• Best Multiple 18650 Throw Flashlight (Modded): Acebeam K70VN

Best 26650 Throw Flashlights on the Market:

• Best 26650 Throw Flashlight (Budget 26650): Convoy L2
• Best 26650 Throw Flashlight (Single 26650): Manker U21

**Below are our more detailed reviews. Click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.

A flood flashlight or some say that it is floody is a flashlight that does not focus the beam but lights up the area around the flashlight. Many times floody flashlights have more Lumens than thrower flashlights, if you are looking for the brightest overall flashlights check out our article here. The extreme example of a floody light would be a standard lightbulb in a home, its goal is to light up the entire room with a little bit of light and not shine light in a specific direction.

A Thrower is a flashlight that can shoot a beam a long distance but does not necessarily light up all of the area close to the flashlight, an extreme example would be a spotlight. These flashlights are created by using a few different methods but the goal is to get as many rays of light traveling parallel to the flashlight as possible. The most common way to make a long throw flashlight is by using a parabolic reflector, if the LED is at the perfect spot (called the focus) all of the light that hits the parabola will reflect off and travel parallel to or in the same direction that you are pointing the flashlight, check out the graphic. Other methods to increase the throw of a flashlight involve aspheric lenses and TIR optics but our focus her will be reflector based long distance flashlights.

How to determine the longest throw flashlight?

The most common way that people determine the throw of flashlights is by going outside and pointing the flashlight at something they know the distance of. Typically it is a tree or a building so many feet or meters away. Then they compare the spotlight to other flashlights that they have, this is a very simple and easy way to figure out the flashlight with the longest throw out of your collection.

The industry standard is called beam distance, the number that many companies report on their packaging in a ANSI FL1 chart. This measurement tells the distance when the beam intensity reaches 0.25 lux or about the same amount of light a full moon on a clear night. The small problem with this measurement is that if something was a kilometer away you would not be able to see it even under a full moon. Using these test we will try to figure out what the best throw flashlight is, but remember the longest throw flashlight is not necessarily the best long throw flashlight.

When looking for the best led thrower we will also be looking at build quality, brand reputation, and other features. In the comparison chart we only have the main competitors for the best throw flashlight overall. But, we will review and give some suggestions further down below for the top long distance flashlight by different battery types.

Best Thrower Flashlight By Battery

Best AAA/AA Battery Throw Flashlights on the Market

The benefits of a flashlight that runs on AAA batteries is that you will be able to find the batteries anywhere and they are super small. There are not many manufacturers that recommend the use of 10440 batteries in their AAA flashlights since the voltage is so much higher. A standard AAA battery is 1.5 Volts where a 10440 li-ion battery is 3.6 Volts. This bump in power if the flashlight can handle it will make the Lumen output considerably higher but it will also get very hot quickly. Before you chose to put a 10440 battery in your AAA flashlight do a little research on what other have experienced so you do not blow out your circuitry and LED, I would check candlepowerforums.

If you are also looking to buy some batteries you need to decide if you want to go with rechargeable AAA or primary (not rechargeable) AAA batteries. If you want to get rechargeable we highly recommend theEneloop AAA Ni-MH. If you are going to get good rechargeable batteries you also need a good charger. Our favorite for Ni-MH batteries is the La Crosse BC-700 because it is very high quality, easy to use, can charge both AA and AAA, and at a decent price point. If you want something that is a little bit more budget friendly just make sure that the charger charges each battery independently and not in pairs. If you want to go the primary cell route or maybe you just want to have have some backups we like the Energizer L92 Lithium batteries. Remember that lithium primary cells and Li-ion rechargeable cells are two completely different types of batteries. The Energizer L92 batteries are better than alkaline batteries in every way except cost. They have a higher power output while still in a safe range, they last longer, and they have a longer shelf life.

Best Throw Flashlight (AAA):

LED Lenser P3 AFX P

The LED Lenser P3 AFX P is a single cell AAA battery that utilizes a CREE XP-C LED. The LED is capable of emitting up to 75 lumens with a published beam distance of 120m. The LED Lenser P3 AFX P comes with a key ring, but also comes with a pocket clip, nylon holster, and a lanyard providing users with several carrying options. The compact light offers an adjustable bezel with a plastic optic located in the head of the light. A raised forward click switch is covered with a textured black rubber for ease of use. A great keychain light thrower.

Traditional lights use either a lens or a reflector for the beam. The LED Lenser P3 AFX uses an advanced focus system that uses a combination of a reflector and lens to create light. The lens and reflector work together to provide a very focused beam for long distance lighting, but also allows for a spill type beam for up close work. The beam is adjusted via the bezel’s spot to flood adjustment.

Pros:

• Clean focus
• Compact size

Cons:

• No bezel lock

Specs:

• Weight: 31.48 oz. without battery
• Dimensions: 3.66 inches long and 0.7-inch diameter
• Output and runtime: 75 lumens for 1 hour
• Cost per Meter (MSRP): $0.33

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Best Throw Flashlight (2 X AAA):

Nitecore MT06

The Nitecore MT06 offers a low-profile pen design for a reasonable price. The CREE XQ-E R2 LED is powered by 2 AAA batteries. The Nitecore MT06 can emit up to 165 lumens for 45 minutes with a published beam distance of 92m, this is  a pretty powerful AAA torch. The LED used in the MT06 is better than in previous Nitecore models because it provides a more focused beam than other reflectors of the same size. It is a quarter of the size of the CREE XP-G.

The Nitecore MT06 offers users two brightness modes making it one of the easiest flashlights to use and understand. Both modes are accessed via the tail cap switch, which allows users to use the light one-handed. Constant current circuitry maintains brightness, no light fluctuations to worry about. The MT06 also comes equipped with a pocket clip making the light portable. The HAIII military hard-anodized light is impact resistant up to 1.5 meters and comes with an IPX-8 rating.

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Compact size
• Tail stand capable

Cons:

• Button needs to be rubbed
• No lockout mode

Specs:

• Weight: 0.78 oz without batteries
• Dimensions: 5.04 inches long a0.5-inch diameter
• Lowest Setting: 32 lumens for 5 hours and 15 minutes
• Highest Setting: 165 lumens for 45 minutes
• Cost per Meter (MSRP): $0.35

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Best Throw Flashlight (AA):

Just like with the AAA size flashlights there is a Li-ion option that will fit inside of the flashlight. These 14500 batteries run on a much higher voltage and can easily burn out a driver or an LED if the flashlight can not handle it. Before you decide to run 14500 batteries in your flashlight you should do extensive research about your particular flashlight and the results that others have had. As far as AA batteries our recommendations here are pretty much the same as they where with the AAA flashlights. We really like the Eneloop AA Ni-MH batteries paired with the La Crosse BC-700 charger. And if you want to go the primary battery (non-rechargeable) route, maybe just to have some spares lying around, we really like the Energizer L91 AA Lithium Batteries as they are better than alkaline batteries in every way.

Manker T01 II

The Manker T01 II uses a CREE XP-L HI LED to emit a maximum of 500 lumens. The manufacturer claims the Manker T01 II has a maximum beam distance of 282 meters, but based on individual reviews of the light where the beam distance was tested users can expect a beam distance of 268m. The Manker T01 II can be powered by a single disposable AA battery or a single 14500 battery. Output will vary based on the battery being used.

Made from an aerospace grade solid aluminum bar with a HA III MIL-standard hard-anodized finish the Manker T01 II offers an IPX-8 rating and can withstand impacts up to 2m. Controlled by a side switch the Manker T01 II offers two operating modes: general and pro. Each mode offers the choice of four brightness levels and 3 special modes. The Manker T01 II has the ability to tail stand.

Pros:

• Two modes
• Two battery options
• Compact

Cons:

• No lockout mode

Specs:

• Weight: 1.94 oz. without battery
• Dimensions: 3.34 inches long and 1.14-inch diameter
• Lowest Setting: 2 lumens for 150 hours
• Highest Setting: 500 lumens for 1 hour
• Cost per Meter (MSRP): $0.18

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Best Throw Flashlight (2 x AA):

Fenix E25UE

The Fenix E25UE is Fenix’s first ultra bright light that is powered by 2AA batteries. The Fenix E25UE uses a CREE XP-L LED to emit a maximum of 1000 lumens with a published maximum beam distance of 200m. Users can opt for two rechargeable 14500 Li-Ion batteries or two Ni-MH or Alkaline AA batteries. Output and runtimes will vary based on the batteries being used to power the light. The Fenix E25UE features an intelligent drive circuit that will detect what batteries are being used and alter the output levels accordingly.

The Fenix E25UE uses a dual side switch for all operations. The side switch allows users to cycle through up to 5 brightness modes and two special modes. A digitally regulated output ensures constant brightness in all settings. To protect the light from overheating the light will automatically downshift from Turbo to High after a limited time of operation. Made from durable aircraft-grade aluminum with a type III hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish the Fenix E25UE features an ultra-clear glass lens with an anti-reflective coating.

Pros:

• Lockout mode
• Overheat protection
• Portable

Cons:

• Button is flush with tube

Specs:

• Weight: 3.06 oz. without batteries
• Dimensions: 6.33 inches long and 1.0-inch diameter
• Lowest Setting: 5 lumens for 100 hours
• Highest Setting: 1000 lumens for 50 minutes
• Cost per Meter (MSRP): $0.25

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Best Throw Flashlight (2 x AA Budget):

Zanflare F2S

The Zanflare F2S uses a high-quality CREE LED bulb to emit a maximum of 200 lumens of cool white light. The manufacturer has not published any data on beam distance and no independent reviews have conducted tests on beam distance. Even without this data, we feel that the Zanflare F2S was the right choice because of its price, emitter and reflector size. To ensure high reflector performance the Zanflare F2S combines precision digital optics with Crystal Coating Technology with an ultra-transparent mineral glass lens with an anti-reflective coating.

The Zanflare F2S is powered by 2 AA disposable batteries but is compatible with 14500 Li-ion batteries. The Zanflare F2S offers a low battery warning in the form of an indicator light. The battery indicator light will start alerting users to low battery levels once power levels are below 30%. The tail switch button powers the light on and off and allows users to switch between 3 brightness levels and strobe. The memory function allows users to turn the Zanflare F2S on in the last setting used.

Pros:

• Battery indicator
• Memory function
• Affordable

Cons:

• Gets hot to the touch

Specs:

• Weight: 2.6 oz. without battery
• Dimensions: 6.1 inches long and 1.1-inch diameter
• Lowest Setting: 50 lumens for 28 hours
• Highest Setting: 200 lumens for 50 minutes
• Cost per Meter (MSRP): Unknown

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Best Throw Flashlight (4 x AA):

Thrunite TN4A HI

The Thrunite TN4A HI is a powerful thrower flashlight that uses a CREE XP-L HI LED to emit a maximum of 1050 lumens. Independent tests measure the maximum beam distance of the Thrunite TN4A HI at 346m. The compact thrower achieves the high-quality beam with a smooth peel reflector paired with an ultra clear tempered glass lens with an anti-reflective coating.  Powered by 4xAA batteries the Thrunite TN4A uses an advanced electronic switch for silent operation.

With the Thrunite TN4A users have the choice of four brightness levels, plus strobe and firefly modes. Firefly mode can be accessed instantly when the light is off. To prevent the light from overheating Thrunite uses an intelligent temperature control technology to automatically lower the current when the temperature reaches 176 degrees Fahrenheit. A battery indicator light will change from blue to red to alert users when the batteries need replacing. Memory function allows the light to be turned on in the last setting used with the exception of Firefly, Turbo, and Strobe.

Pros:

• Battery indicator
• Memory function
• Overheat protection

Cons:

• No lockout feature

Specs:

• Weight: 7.71 oz. without batteries
• Dimensions: 4.3 inches long a1.79-inches diameter
• Lowest Setting: 0.2 lumens for 80 days
• Highest Setting: 1050 lumens for 56 minutes
• Cost per Meter (MSRP): $0.14

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Best CR123A Throw Flashlight on the Market

These flashlights are made to run at a higher voltage so the lithium and Li-ion compatibility is not as much as a problem. The CR123A batteries are lithium batteries while the RCR123A (16340) battery is Li-ion. If you have a flashlight that will take both it will be able to produce a higher output with the Li-ion batteries since they work on a higher voltage. Make sure your light can take both before trying since if it is not designed to work with a Li-ion battery it might get burned out. When we a looking at CR123A batteries we try and stay away from any of the brands that end in “fire” and we find that the U.S.A. manufacturers are usually slightly better overall. We usually go for the Streamlight CR123A batteries as they are both made in the U.S. and they are from a flashlight manufacturer with a great reputation. For RCR123A batteries make sure that the light that you have does not require a custom battery like the one that ourtop throw selection this your does. In this case you most likely have to buy that specific battery. Our favorite RCR123A batteries are these from Olight. To recharge these we like the Xtar VP2 Li-ion battery charger. The Xtar VP2 is a great charger at a great price, it even has a USB connection so you can use it as a battery pack to charge other devices.

Best CR123A Throw Flashlight (CR123):

FourSevens Mini Turbo MK II

The FourSevens Mini Turbo MK II is an improved version of the original Mini MK II. The difference between the two lights is the deep reflector that gives the Mini Turbo MK II a more concentrated beam with a further throw. There is no data on maximum beam distance published on the manufacturer’s website, but we chose this light because of its deep reflector and its output ability. The light is controlled by tightening or loosening the bezel. Changing modes is done by quickly twisting the light on and off. Probably considering size to power the top thrower of EDC flashlights.

The CREE XM-L2 LED can be powered by a standard CR123A battery or a custom designed Li-Ion RCR123A battery. Output is related to battery choice. For optimal performance, you want to use the custom-designed RCR123A battery. 1020 lumens can only be achieved with the custom designed battery otherwise maximum output is 550 lumens. The FourSevens Mini Turbo MK II offers 6 configurations modes and can be reconfigured as many times as users would like. The light defaults to Configuration 6. Probabl

Pros:

• Compact
• Rechargeable
• Reconfigurable

Cons:

• No clicky type switch

Specs:

• Weight: 1.02 oz. without battery
• Dimensions: 2.38 inches long and 0.96-inch diameter
• Lowest Setting: 0.75 lumens for 168 hours
• Highest Setting: 1020 lumens for 15 seconds/ 300 lumens for 48 minutes
• Cost per Meter (MSRP): Unknown

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Best Single 18650 Throw Flashlights on the Market

For 18650 Li-ion batteries we have found that as long at the battery is built around the Panasonic NCR18650B 3400 mAh industrial core it is of pretty high quality. You could just buy the Panasonic NCR18650B unprotected batteries and save a little money but we prefer those that use this as its core but add a protective ci