Updated 1/17/2020
It's hard to stress how helpful a magnetic tail cap can be until you find yourself struggling to balance a flashlight in one hand and do repairs with the other. It's awkward and frustrating and even dangerous. The good news is, it's also completely avoidable with the right tool.
Nowadays many flashlights include a magnetic tail cap so you can stick your light to any metal surface available. Today we're focusing on NITECORE flashlights that include magnetic tail caps and show you why these versatile and powerful flashlights deserve a spot in your everyday carry.
Who Needs a Magnetic Flashlight?
It's hard to think of a situation where a magnetic flashlight wouldn't be helpful. It's one of those features that often gets forgotten about until you need it, and then it becomes clear as day why it's important. That said, there are definitely some situations where a magnetic flashlight really shows off its benefits:
- Home repair
- Auto repair
Best Magnetic Flashlights
NITECORE MT21C
1000 Lumens | CREE XP-L HD V6 LED | 201 Yards
One of the newest flashlights from NITECORE, the MT21C hits several high points for anyone looking for a versatile flashlight they can carry everyday. A flexible head and magnetic base allow you to turn a normal everyday carry torch into a poseable, directed work light in mere seconds. There's also a hanging loop you can use when a metal surface isn't available.
Whether you need a lot of light just a little, the MT21C has 5 brightness levels and 3 special modes (Strobe, SOS and Beacon) for emergency needs.
NITECORE TIP2
720 Lumens | CREE XP-G3 S3 LED | 101 Yards
When NITECORE upgraded the TIP keychain flashlight, they added one of the most useful features possible: a magnetic tail cap. This added protection for the USB charging port, but more importantly, gave another way for you to position your flashlight hands-free.
Don't let the word "keychain" mislead you here. The NITECORE TIP2 at 720 lumens on Turbo can easily outshine other flashlights of its size. The dual-LED configuration and reflector size also make for a floody beam that doesn't cause a lot of glare -- something that comes in very helpful for reading and other up close uses.
NITECORE HC35
2700 Lumens | 4x CREE XP-G3 S3 LEDs | 146 Yards
You might wonder why a headlamp would need a magnetic base. After all, you're already hands-free thanks to the headband! Unlike traditional headlamp units, the L-shape tube design of the HC35 lets you take this ultra bright flashlight out of the bracket and use it as a handheld torch. With a magnetic base that means you can stick and position it to any metal surface making this one of the most versatile options around.
The HC35 also includes another feature you'll love: built-in charging via a micro-USB port on the head of the light so you can easily recharge the included 21700-size li-ion battery wherever you go.
NITECORE HC33
1800 Lumens | CREE XHP35 HD LED | 204 Yards
Similar to the HC35, the NITECORE HC33 is another right-angle headlamp that includes a magnetic base for extra options. Still incredibly bright at 1800 lumens on Turbo, the HC33 uses an 18650 battery making this a slimmer and more lightweight option.
NITECORE LR12
1000 Lumens | CREE XP-L HD V6 LED | 182 Yards
Based on the award-winning LA10, the LR12 is really a flashlight and lantern in one. A quick twist on the compact, lipstick tube body extends an open-top diffusor to turn the light from a handheld torch to 360° lantern with ease.
At 1000 lumens max output, the LR12 is the brightest lantern NITECORE offers. Its size and functionality make it ideal for camping, emergency backup and exploring.
NITECORE EC30
1800 Lumens | CREE XHP35 HD E2 LED | 240 Yards
It's quite possibly one of the sleekest looking flashlights around, but the NITECORE EC30 isn't just for show. This 1800 lumen, single 18650 everyday carry flashlight has a magnetic tail cap to provide a healthy blend of form and function.
The EC30's minimalist body measures only 4.38" inches in length and weighs just over 3 ounces (without battery) so you can comfortably carry it with you everyday using the stainless steel pocket clip or included holster.