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Fenix is a leader in the illumination technology space (their term, not mine), and the Fenix TK05R Tactical EDC Flashlight is another shining example (pun intended) of that leadership.
Back in the day, brands like Maglite dominated the portable illumination landscape, but that’s been changing in recent years. Fenix brings extensive testing, reliable output ratings, extended run and recharge times, and solid build quality to a product line that’s worth checking out for your next torch.
The TK05R is as the name states a product geared toward the EDC (everyday carry) and tactical crowd, but it can pull double duty as a solid outdoor adventure carry. Leader in the illumination technology space confirmed!
Size, Form Factor, and Ergonomics of the Fenix TK05R Tactical EDC Flashlight
(9.5 out of 10)
Fenix designed the TK05R to be small and lightweight so it would slot in nicely to the EDC category and it does just that. At just 4.5” long and weighing a bit over 4 ounces (including battery), the Fenix TK05R Tactical EDC Flashlight is definitely on the svelte side, which makes it perfect for EDC purposes, as well as a lightweight space-saving packing to take on backcountry adventures.
Ergonomically, the Fenix TK05R Tactical EDC Flashlight just works. Size, shape, and button placement on the back all hit the hand just right and make it very intuitive to use whether you’re finding your way in the dark around camp or engaged in tactical training. The buttons themselves have a satisfying tactile feel to them and the click is purposeful.
Overall, it’s a great size and shape with minimal weight.
Light Performance
(9 out of 10)
Low Illumination
Medium Illumination
High Illumination
The Fenix TK05R Tactical EDC Flashlight puts out an impressive 1,000 lumens at max intensity – considering its small size that’s quite a feat. And that 1,000 lumens is usable to nearly 500 yards. So, if you want to shine the Bat Signal over Gotham, this little guy can make that happen.
The beam is so powerful on its highest setting that it can even penetrate optical barriers such as deeply tinted glass. This comes in handy in law enforcement and other emergency responder roles.
Along with the standard Low, Medium, and High output modes, the Fenix TK05R Tactical EDC Flashlight also has a 1,000-lumen strobe mode for when the sh!t hits the fan. It’ll dazzle even the most distant eyes, which is exactly the point when you’re in a situation that you don’t want to be…whether that be in a backcountry emergency predicament or engaging a less-than-desirable in a dark space (think blind mode activated!)
Low Spread
Medium Spread
High Spread
Speaking of the standard Low, Medium, and High modes…I mentioned above that High puts out 1,000 lumens and can go for approximately 50 minutes. Medium will blast the world in approximately 350 lumens and can go for roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes. And in Low, the Fenix TK05R Tactical EDC Flashlight puts out 30 lumens for the better part of 14 hours and 30 minutes. These lumen figures taper off over that period (see graph).
The only thing that holds the TK05R back from a 10 rating is the lack of an adjustable beam, but for a light with this minimal form factor, it’s really not surprising.
Additional Features
(9 out of 10)
Although the main focus of the Fenix TK05R Tactical EDC Flashlight is being a powerhouse of a torch in a minuscule form factor, it still comes with a few other expected features:
- Withstands drops from up to 1 meter
- IP68 rated – dustproof/waterproof underwater to 2 meters
- Rechargeable ARB-L18-1100 battery via USB-C charging cable (included)
- 1.5 hour full recharge time
- Osram CSLPM1.TG LED bulb with a lifespan of 50,000 hours
- Overheating protection
- Comes with a charging cable, lanyard, holster, and spare O-ring
- Works with accessories from Fenix including firearm mounts, helmet mounts, traffic wands, and additional batteries
Summary: (9.5 out of 10)
A lightweight, small form factor, durable, extremely bright tactical and EDC flashlight that can be used in professional emergency responder roles as well as outdoor adventuring.
The Fenix TK05R Tactical EDC Flashlight packs a serious punch for such a small piece of kit. I can see this thing being a staple in the EDC and backpacking load-outs.
Specs/MSRP:
Available for an MSRP of $106, but can be found on sale often. See it at: fenixlighting.com