Fenix PD35 V3.0 Tactical Flashlight Review – Everything You Need to Know

Fenix is a well-known and reliable brand in the flashlight industry. When looking for a professional EDC flashlight, Fenix is a great choice. 

The Fenix PD35 was initially introduced in 2013 and has evolved to a more robust and efficient version, the Fenix PD 35 v3.0. Fenix is always trying to improve its products to ensure customer satisfaction. 

In this Fenix PD35 review, we will see if the newest version of this flashlight meets expectations as a professional-grade flashlight for everyday carry.

Fenix PD35 Specifications

The Fenix PD35 has a maximum output of 1,700 lumens at 1,171 feet. While this tactical flashlight is compact, it more than exceeds expectations. This 1,700 lumen flashlight is suitable for police, military use, emergency lighting, exploring outdoors, EDC use, and anything else you may need a reliable and bright flashlight for. It features five brightness levels in addition to an instant strobe:

• Eco
• Low
• Medium
• High
• Turbo

The specifications of the Fenix PD35 include the following:

• Battery level indicator
• Small caliber reflector
• P68 water rating
• Toothed strike bezel
• A6061-T6 aluminum body
• 50 percent more beam distance than the previous model
• Waterproof
• Impact resistant
• Clear glass lens with anti-reflective coating

Package Quality

The quality of the Fenix PD35 package is appropriate and attractive. The box is friendly for retail, as it has a tag to hang it. On the front of the package, it lists some of the features and specs of the flashlight in orange and black. On the back of the package is a table that lists the output and specs for every mode, which is typical for most flashlight packages. 

Inside the box, the flashlight is tucked inside a plastic carrier, with the accessories stored neatly underneath. 

The carrier’s design is nice because the flap is hinged, which covers up the accessories, so they do not spill out of the box when you open it. Most Fenix flashlights, such as the Fenix HT30R, come with these standard gadgets along with the product:

• Battery
• Spare switch boot
• User manual
• Holster
• Micro USB charging cable
• Lanyard
• Two spare O-rings
• Promotional card
• Carrying case

Fenix usually provides you with everything needed for your flashlight, like the battery and charger. You get enough high-quality accessories with the product.

 

What You Get

The Fenix PD35 v3.0 is the third version of the Fenix PD35 series, and so far, this model meets my expectations. This flashlight is easy to hold and is small enough to carry and fit in a coat pocket or a small bag. 

It is bright, as it can shine 1,700 lumens at 1,171 feet, which is more than the Fenix PD36R. One 18650 rechargeable battery is enough to power this EDC flashlight, but you can also use two disposable CR123A batteries. 

A charging USB port is built into the rechargeable battery, making it easy to recharge using the micro USB charging cable. When you use the eco mode, it can run for up to 230 hours. The carrying case, included in the package, can attach to your belt to make the flashlight easy to access. You can also use the built-in pocket clip to carry the flashlight on your clothing or a pocket.

To turn on your LED flashlight, use the back end button. Once the light turns on, you can read the status of your battery on the front-end side switch. When it is lit green, it means your battery is between 85 and 100 percent charged. 

Your battery is between 50 and 80 percent charged if the green light flashes. When the red light flashes, your battery is charged between 1 and 25 percent. You can access instant strobe mode by pressing and holding the rear-end tail switch for a half-second.

There are technically five output levels, but there are six if you include the instant strobe feature. While it is not capable of producing as many lumens as the Fenix e35 v3, it is still bright enough for professional use. This is how long your flashlight will last, depending on which lighting modes you choose:

• Eco mode – five lumens for 250 hours
• Low-voltage mode – 50 lumens for more than 25 hours
• Medium mode – 150 lumens for more than 8 hours
• High mode – 600 lumens for over 2 hours
• Turbo mode – 1,700 lumens for over 1 hour
• Instant strobe mode – 1,700 lumens

Dimensions and Size

• The length of the Fenix PD35 v.30 is 5.28 inches
• The body diameter is .90 inches
• The head diameter is 1 inch

Weight

• The weight of the Fenix PD35 is 2.93 ounces without cells
• With cells, the weight is 4.65 ounces

Price Range

The Fenix PD35 v3.0 costs around $80 in the United States, which can seem expensive compared to other flashlights. However, Fenix makes professional use of high-quality flashlights. 

This flashlight will be priced on the higher end because it is a quality brand and a step above other brands. If the price of this flashlight discourages you from purchasing it, remember that you will receive a high-performing, high-quality, durable, reliable, and long-lasting flashlight.

Batteries and Charging

The Fenix PD35 flashlight takes one rechargeable 18650 li-ion battery (like the Fenix ARB-L18), which is included in the packaging. You can also use two CR123A lithium batteries if you prefer. Once the battery is close to dead, your Fenix tac light can be recharged using your micro USB charging cable. 

It typically takes around 3.5 hours to charge your flashlight fully. Recharge can take less time if the battery is not close to dying. When using CR123A batteries, you will get one hour of runtime if you are in turbo mode. You will get more battery life by using the rechargeable batteries.

Warranty

Fenix has a limited lifetime guarantee from Fenix Lighting USA. This warranty covers any defects in the product or the craft. 

The warranty does not include damage to the flashlight’s exterior, reasonable wear and tear, or damage caused by unreasonable use. If there is a manufacturer’s defect, Fenix will cover it under warranty and either will repair or replace the flashlight at no charge.

Pros

• Lightweight and compact
• Excellent throw
• Includes various accessories
• Rechargeable battery included
• Consistent output
• Great build and durability
• Warranty included
• Easy to carry

Cons

• Pricey compared to other EDC flashlights
• Warranty only covers defects in the product or the craft

Final Thoughts

The Fenix PD35 v3.0 did not disappoint. There are multiple things I love about this flashlight, such as it’s lightweight, there are various accessories that come with the product,  it is durable, it has a high performance, and it’s easy to carry. 

While this flashlight may seem expensive, most flashlight enthusiasts looking for a quality EDC flashlight are willing to pay the price for assurance that the product is all it’s said to be. 

It is an excellent tactical flashlight and a great flashlight for everyday use, law enforcement, military use, electricians, security guards, plumbers, or anyone who needs a bright and professional light. Hopefully, this Fenix PD35 flashlight review can help you ease your worries about the PD35 flashlight. Purchase the Fenix PD35 v3.0 rechargeable flashlight today.