For those who know me, you know I drank the Fenix Koolaid and have been a fan for many years.

My addiction to Fenix began right here at SIGforum, when a member sold me a used PD1, which I believe offered less than 100 lumens, maybe even 40 or 60 lumens. hey, at the time, LED was game changing technology.

For years I carried a PD1 CE, which I still consider a great light, even to this day. I gave this light and extra batteries to someone experiencing a power outage, and no longer have it. The twist activation was the only thing I would have changed about this light.

I have purchased over 30 Fenix lights over the years.

When the PD36R was announced, I was excited.

I carried a PD32 and a PD35 (first gen) for years, when I was on-call. I did buy a RC11 and like it for its size and convenience of charging. I do EDC a RC09, primarily for its size, brightness and charging ability. I don't believe the RC11 or RC09 are part of the Fenix lineup any longer.

Oh well, enough about some of the older Fenix lights.

I received the PD36R on Wednesday. I removed the white disc from the battery compartment and plugged in the USB. It took less than 4 hours to fully charge the light.

I have not burned through a full charge yet, so these are some initial thoughts.

What do I like:
It is bright, 1,600 lumens. The size, it is still small enough to carry in a front pocket if you like. The USB charging is very convenient. The red and green light for battery level is nice. The push button tail cap is a preference of mine. The side button for changing light levels is well thought out in my opinion. The two way pocket clip is a nice feature. I used a code and saved 20% and with free shipping, I spent $80.00

What don't I like:
Not a huge negative, but I feel worth mentioning, I now have another battery size in my bag o' lights and chargers. I have purchased another battery, so I will have two. Again, not a huge negative.

I will post any updates I feel may be beneficial.

In my opinion, if you have a PD32 or PD35, or any version of either, you do not need a PD36R, you will continue to be well served by the light you own.

If on the other hand, you have an addiction, I think you will be pleased if you purchase a Fenix PD36R.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: P-220,

Thanks for the review. I feel like I need a new Fenix. Smaller in size. My LD10's have served me very well.

I will say that Fenix is not the bargain it once was. Their prices have shot up a long ways with their popularity.

Maybe the PD25 might be a good option. I do run CR123 In my SF 6P.
If I can find a 20% coupon I could get one for about $45

Wonder what happened to 4Seven's. I have one of their single CR123 lights that is one of my favorites and has never missed a beat.


A Usb re charger wpuld be kind of handy but like a single double A as a rule. I will look it over. Would prefer to spend about half of that price though. Again thanks Steve for taking the time to give us a good review.

When you turn it back on, does it come on at the same level it was on when it was turned off?

quote:

Originally posted by SpinZone:
When you turn it back on, does it come on at the same level it was on when it was turned off?

Yes!

quote:

Wonder what happened to 4Seven's. I have one of their single CR123 lights that is one of my favorites and has never missed a beat.

Foursevens was acquired by Prometheus Lights last year. They're still introducing new lights under the Foursevens name.

I remember buying the Fenix TK40 back in 2010 or 2011.

I thought this was going to be the last light I would never need.

It operated off of 8 AA batteries and put out a blinding 630 lumens. I mean, how much better could it get?

The PD36R will be replaced with something brighter and smaller.

So, Fenix does an excellent job of marketing, as I am sure I am not the only addict out there.

Fenix has gotten more expensive for sure, but at the same time, the lights offer more features.

I have had Streamlights, Maglights, O-lights Surefire and Nitecore lights. They have all been good lights.

I would never tell someone Fenix is the only or best brand for everyone.

However, just like the P-220 platform, the Fenix lights work very well for me.

quote:

Originally posted by P-220:

quote:

Originally posted by SpinZone:
When you turn it back on, does it come on at the same level it was on when it was turned off?

Yes!

Actually it doesn't. It goes to the lowest level and you have to hit the button to go to a higher level. It's not a big deal to me but others have complained about it.

Jim

Thanks 556F, good to know.

Anyone own the PD25?

quote:

Originally posted by old rugged cross:
Anyone own the PD25?

I have one. It has been my nightly use light for barn chores for at least the past couple of years. I also got one of the first E30R's to come out, but so far I still like the PD25 more for its purpose. The smaller size just works better for me. The E30R mostly stays in the nightstand.


I would highly recommend the PD25 if you don't need the latest and greatest. The 550 lumen option with the rechargeable battery is generally more than enough. I usually use the 2nd setting so it doesn't come on too bright anyway. The rechargeable battery lasts just about forever without losing much charge the way I use mine.

Thank you AH74

“I have purchased over 30 Fenix lights over the years.”

I love my Fenix flashlights too, but you may eventually need a 12 step program.

quote:

Originally posted by P-220:

quote:

Originally posted by Jimbo54:

quote:

Originally posted by P-220:

quote:

Originally posted by SpinZone:
When you turn it back on, does it come on at the same level it was on when it was turned off?

Yes!

Actually mine retains the last level and when you activate the tail switch, it comes back on at the level it was at when you turned it off. I have tried and it does so t each and every level.

Actually it doesn't. It goes to the lowest level and you have to hit the button to go to a higher level. It's not a big deal to me but others have complained about it.

Jim

Sorry, I got the 36R confused with the E30R. I've got too many Fenix lights (11) and it's easy to confuse this old guy.

Jim

Thanks for the review. I have the older TK35.

Looks like the smaller size would be great for carrying in my vest.

I think my wallet may be getting lighter.

Their website is like the cereal aisle at Kroger...so many choices. Just got through reassuring my TK22 that she’s still my favorite.

Here is a pic that will give you some idea of size. IMO, the PD36R really pushes the limit of front pocket carry.

Did I mention it is bright?



I maintain, if you own a PD32 or PD35, you have a light that will serve you well and do not necessarily need a PD36R.

As you can see, although I drank the Fenix Koolaid, you will notice a couple of other brands there.

I will try to get a more complete family photo i the future. I jsut have to remember where I placed all of them.

Love it...nice collection. I have a pd20 and 2 pd35's.

There used to be some surefire vs Fenix debates in those days. I always thought the Fenix offered a great value for the performace. They would always say my warranty is better and I would say I can buy three for the price of your one

What was the only thing (marginal, but I mentioned it) I did not like?

Yes, another battery size.

Well, Fenix addresses that with the new LD30.

https://www.fenix-store.com/fe...shlight-1600-lumens/

I really do not need it, but I have a feeling I may end up with one.

While the throw and run times are greater on the PD36R, you do get 1600 Lumens in a package that is more than an inch shorter, approx. 1 oz. lighter, and the flexibility of the 123's or 18650.

Is anyone on the list for one of these?

Sorry for the necro-posting, but I have a question about the PD36R.

For those that have one of these flashlights, did you have to buy a USB AC adapter that can supply 3amps to charge it? It looks like it comes with just a USB A to USB C cord but nothing else. I have a USB power adapter but I’m pretty sure it isn’t capable of supplying 3A. Just wondering if I need to buy one or not.