Flashlights

In 1993, the Opolka brothers founded their flashlight company, LED Lenser, in their home garage in Germany after being turned down for a loan by the bank. 2012, the company has over 1000 employees and has offices throughout the world.

With many flashlight companies throughout the world, LED Lenser is definitely a top contender. I currently own 3 Surefire's, a LED Lenser P5R, and an assortment of random other flashlights. My LED Lenser is my absolute go-to flashlight for my emergency needs.

The picture to the left is the LED Lenser P5R standard kit. comes with rechargeable batteries for it, a wall mount for quick access, and a magnetic recharger that attaches to the wall mount, or can be connected to the computer via usb cable. Additionally, there is a belt clip for ease of use in the field.

The LED Lenser P5R will last, on low beam, for a solid 7 hrs before needing to be recharged and 3 hrs on high beam. It only takes 3 and a half hours to recharge, and a single battery will last you quite a long time before needing to be replaced.

The head of the flashlight features a Patented Advanced Focus System, where the head can move to focus the light to your liking. There are three settings for the light. Standard...also known as Holy Crap that is bright... Low Power, which is about as bright as 95% of regular flashlights on the market, and Defense Strobe Mode (flashing like a strobe light).

Much like the Surefire flashlights, the LED Lenser P5R is turned on via a button in the butt end of the light, which is also how you change modes for brightness. In a side by side comparison between the Surefire and the LED Lenser P5R, the P5R is definitely brighter and easier to handle. My Surefire has to be twisted for a steady on, whereas the P5R only needs a button push, which can be held partially in if you need only a seconds worth of light.

LED Lenser has been doing a lot of community outreach with agencies such as the Portland Police Department, Portland Fire and Rescue, American Hikers Association, Boy Scouts of America, Oregon Fire Association, Wounded Warrior Project, Cystic Fibrosis Association, Pacific Crest Trail Association, and McKinley Elementary.

With the backing of parent company Leatherman, LED Lenser is sure to continue to be a winner in the field of flashlights with durability and reliability. The two of these together are a powerhouse that is guaranteed to last. This flashlight is quickly becoming preferred over a lot of Surefire Flashlights among many of the active duty servicemen and women.


**The above image was taken from my cell phone and uploaded to my blog. The information included in this review was found on LED Lenser's website as well as their press releases.***

Pistols

The way that today's economy is, and how jobs are scarce all over the place, crime is becoming more and more of an issue. Self defense is a must, and preparedness is the key. 

The debate will always be around as to what caliber pistol someone should carry, and I am always a fan of classics. A .25 is too small, and often referred to as a "face gun" because of the proximity required for maximum effectiveness. 9mm is a fair standard for a LOT of people, but not me. 32, 38, 357, and 40 are some of the other standards that are available. Nothing beats a .45. In my personal opinion, why fire 15 shots (with a 9), when the 1 from the .45 will do?

The Colt 1911 Defender, is a perfect option for an everyday carry pistol. Say what you want about the price, but nothing beats a 1911.  

With features like:

Action	Single Action
Barrel Length	3"
Overall Length	6.8"
Weight	22.5 ounces
Sights	White Dot Carry Sights
Finish	Stainless Steel
Capacity	7+1
Safety	Extended Manual, Beavertail Grip Safety

With all the other models, manufacturers, and calibers, none of them seem as important, TO ME, as the 1911. 

So, you think self defense, think a 1911.