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In this video, I share my thoughts on the Nitecore MH12SE, a premium tactical flashlight that has quickly become one of my favorites. With its shiny black anodization, knurling for grip, and military-style design, this light looks and feels like a professional tool. It also boasts impressive features such as onboard charging, a 21700 cell that doesn’t compromise on size, and a smooth, deep reflector that produces an intense hotspot with smooth spill.
I compare this light to others on the market and demonstrate its UI modes, performance, and considerations to help you make an informed decision. Whether you need a tactical EDC flashlight or a law enforcement tool, the Nitecore MH12SE is definitely worth considering.
This flashlight was provided as a sample from Nealsgadgets for review. I was not paid to make this review video. All opinions are my own.
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Nitecore MH12SE Video Transcript:
General thoughts after a week of usage/size comparison/practicality/interesting things:
• I’ve used this light for over a week now and it’s got to be in my top 3 pocket-friendly tactical flashlights out there. I was looking for a premium light that could outmatch the Wurkkos FC12 and I’ve found it! Although it’s a 21700 cell light, it’s still almost as small as the FC12 and has superior throw and additional features.
Overall Construction, LED, lens, bezel, and reflector
• Shiny black anodization, it’s the same stuff used on the P23i. There’s lots of knurling and various places you can attach the friction ring. I’ve attached mine near the top so that it will sit further down in my pocket, though technically there’s no dedicated cutout there. The knurling is grippy which is important due to the anodization. The overall styling feels very military and professional, like a professional tool. IP68 rating and 1m impact resistance. You can only take the tail cap off. Everything else is sealed.
• SFT40 LED housed in a smooth, deep reflector. There is a black retaining square around the LED that helps create a cleaner beam profile. AR glass lens.
• The light comes with a few accessories including a holster designed for law enforcement and a battery cartridge – this allows you to use a 18650 cell or 2x CR123/RCR123 – important if you run out of juice and have some primaries handy.
• Onboard charging.
• Comparison with other lights.
UI – modes
• Demonstration
• Daily mode vs tactical mode
• One-step turbo/strobe programmable
Performance – total output, beam profile, longevity, practicality
• Rated at 1800 lumens, the smooth reflector produces an intense hotspot with smooth spill. Surprised there are no artifacts.
• CCT, CRI, ceiling bounce test
Considerations
• A second button on the tail switch would have been nice to access both one-step strobe and turbo. It’s becoming standard on many tactical flashlights these days.
• Step down happens almost immediately.
• High candela
• Doesn’t tail stand
Verdict
• This is my go-to tactical EDC flashlight these days, it’s the one I carry around most often just due to the balance of convenience and performance. The beam is very nice and throws a lot further than you’d expect. The fact that it’s so small for a 21700 cell light is a big selling point for me as you have the reassurance of that extra battery capacity.
