Fenix released a new tactical flashlight earlier this year – the Fenix TK22 V2.0. If you’re a fan of Fenix lights, you’ll love the features on this new tactical flashlight. Powerful output, easy user interface, and durable to boot.
So in this review, I’m going to go over the features of this flashlight and talk about some likes, dislikes, and my general thoughts of it. Hopefully it’ll give you a good idea of what this Fenix tactical flashlight is going to be. So let’s get started!
Summary of Contents
1600 Lumen Fenix Flashlight
The Fenix TK22 V2.0 has a maximum output of 1600 lumens which is a great amount of power for tactical flashlight. It features a Luminus SST40 LED and the flashlight has a soft and clear beam pattern. With the smooth reflector we can expect a more focused beam on this flashlight. The maximum beam distance for the TK22 V2.0 is 405 meters. So that beam is definitely going to shoot far into the distance.
This tactical flashlight is compact at a little less than 6 inches in length. It’s a handheld flashlight that will be pretty easy to carry with you especially given that it does come with a pocket clip and holster. Because it’s so easy to carry, the TK22 V2.0 is excellent for law enforcement, security, or tactical use in general.
Tactical Flashlight User Interface
I reviewed a lot of the best tactical flashlights that come with a variety of user interfaces. With any tactical flashlight, it’s imperative to have an intuitive user interface and the TK22 V2.0 has it. With this Fenix flashlight, you have a tail switch that has a momentary on and turns the flashlight on and off. You also have a side switch that allows you to select the outputs and access the strobe mode. Like most other Fenix flashlights, the light needs to be on to access the strobe mode which is something you want to consider when purchasing a tactical flashlight.
This user interface has been popular for a long time and for a really good reason. There’s no learning curve to it, there’s no thought to it, you just pick the flashlight up and turn it on. For anyone looking for a tactical flashlight that has a straightforward user interface, I highly recommend you look at the Fenix TK22 V2.0. I really enjoy the user interface on many Fenix tactical flashlights.
Fenix Flashlight with Multiple Outputs
What’s a tactical flashlight without multiple outputs? Multiple outputs allow for more versatility and can help conserve the battery. The Fenix TK22 V2.0 has four brightness levels and a strobe mode. Looking at the brightness levels, I’m not too ecstatic about the spacing between the turbo and high. You have low at 30 lumens, medium at 150 lumens, high at 500 lumens, and turbo at 1600 lumens. That space between the high and the turbo is pretty extreme and I would’ve liked to see another output there, maybe around 1000 lumens.
There doesn’t seem to be an eco brightness level or moonlight mode of five lumens or less, but you could argue it’s not necessary in a tactical flashlight. I would definitely prefer a moonlight mode in an outdoor flashlight, but 30 lumens is quite low and I think it works well in a tactical flashlight.
Looking at the runtimes, I’m extremely impressed especially with the turbo mode. On the low mode, the maximum run time is 80 hours which is pretty good and will definitely last you a long time. On the turbo mode, the maximum run time is 2 hours and 10 minutes! Normally we only see about an hour or so on turbo modes, so I am psyched to see a 2 hour or more run time on the TK22 V2.0. Keep in mind that this does include the flashlight reducing levels due to the temperature protection system. Nonetheless, the runtime for that turbo mode is very impressive.
Fenix TK22 V2.0 Battery Compatibility
An extremely exciting feature that I want to talk about is the battery compatibility with the TK22 V2.0. Now normally, we see tactical flashlights that run on 18650 batteries, CR123A batteries, or even 16340 batteries. The TK22 V2.0 runs on a 21700 battery but comes with a battery holder that allows you to use an 18650 battery. Typically with 21700 flashlights, the only battery you can use with them are 21700’s. I’m excited to see that the TK22 V2.0 is able to use both a 21700 and 18650 battery. If you want that powerful output and those amazing runtimes, then use a 21700 battery. If you prefer to stick to 18650 batteries, you can use them in the TK22 V2.0.
Durable Fenix Tactical Flashlight
If you own a Fenix flashlight, you know how durable and long lasting they are. I expect the TK22 V2.0 will be just as durable as other Fenix flashlights I’ve owned. The body is made from aluminum which is lightweight, durable, and heat-resistant. It has an anti-abrasive finish that gives it a beautiful sleek look that you want to in a tactical flashlight. It has a toughened ultra clear glass lens so you don’t need to worry about the lens shattering. This Fenix flashlight is impact resistant up to 1 meter and waterproof up to IP68 standards. So it’s one tough flashlight.
I also want to take a moment to talk about the design of this flashlight. So it does have the standard tactical flashlight design with a slim body and a larger head. The grooved texture on the body will prevent any slippage from happening and I do really like the texture that the Fenix TK22 V2.0 has. It does come with a crenelated bezel along the head which can be used for self-defense and will also add a little more protection for the LED and lens.
Final Thoughts on the Fenix TK22 V2.0
Pros: I’m really liking the 1600 lumens and that 405 meter beam distance. For such a compact flashlight, that beam throw is really quite impressive. I’m also a big fan of the straightforward user interface. It has what you need in a tactical flashlight which is that momentary on and a quick strobe mode.
I love that this Fenix flashlight can use either a 21700 battery or an 18650 battery. That makes this flashlight extremely flexible when it comes to which batteries you can use. I’m also a big fan of the runtimes. You definitely get a lot of power for a long time with the TK22 V2.0.
Cons: I think that the jump from the high brightness level of 500 lumens to the turbo brightness of 1600 lumens is too much. I would’ve liked to see another brightness level in between those two. It’s also not a rechargeable flashlight which is a downside considering that it does take a 21700 battery.
Conclusion: This Fenix flashlight has so much to offer and would really be an asset to your tactical tools. If you’re wanting an awesome upgraded tactical flashlight, check out the Fenix TK22 V2.0.