Links to the Imalent BL50
Get the Imalent BL50 here 👇
https://www.imalentstore.com/products/dual-light-sources-edc-flashlight-imalent-bl50?ref=DYEO (affiliate link)
Amazon 👇
https://amzn.to/4acFpR5 (affiliate link)
I review the Imalent BL50, a tactical-style 2-in-1 flashlight with 365nm UV functionality. This is one unique looking flashlight that’s also practical. The OLED display is also a unique addition.
Imalent BL50 Review
General thoughts after a week of usage/size comparison/practicality/interesting things:
• This is one sleek-looking light. It also looks like something that fell off the back of an alien spaceship! Imalent is known to push its lights to the absolute max in terms of lumen output. The BL50 is no exception, especially if you consider its size.
• What’s in the box?
• Comparison to LD70, MS03
Overall Construction, LED, lens, bezel and reflector
• The BL50 has an unusual design. On one side, it’s rounded off, and the other it has a square edge. It almost looks like it could be mounted to a rifle. There are interesting details machined into the light which adds to the futuristic look – it’d leave many people puzzled as to what it is if they found it laying by the side of a road. No sharp edges or imperfections. I like the design as it feels refreshing compared to the usual tube-style lights. The anodizing is matt black, though still somewhat slippery. No rough spots, evenly applied.
• Two switches (one tactical-style), USB-C charging, O-LED display. Takes an 18650 battery. There are two screws on the tailcap – I unscrewed them but the head is glued down. I think it’d be possible to pry it open and replace the battery. But it will void the warranty.
• XHP50.3HI with SMO reflector for maximum throw. This is a great alternative to the SFT70. 365nm UV LED is also included directly above. Great they’ve included this, more effective than 395nm. AR glass lens over both LEDs, recessed bezels.
UI – modes
• The side button activates moonlight mode (single press) and UV (double press)
• Lock/unlock can be activated with the side or back button (3 clicks)
• The back button activates memory mode. Click and hold to cycle brightness. Double press for turbo, again for strobe.
Performance – total output, beam profile, longevity, practicality
• Ceiling bounce test, CRI, CCT
• Surprisingly large and intense spot beam. Lots of flood too.
Considerations
• No clip!
• No momentary mode and there is a slight delay in turning on when pressing the e-switch. One step shortcut to turbo would make this more of a tactical light.
Verdict
The BL50 is a blend of unique looks with practicality. It looks and feels like it’s from a sci-fi movie. The 18650 cell makes this a realistic option for sustained output, especially for lower modes. Impressive throw and the UV light would come in handy when traveling, checking for stains, and documents if you’re working in law enforcement/security.
