When it comes to flashlight designs, there are few as recognizable as the military style flashlight with the right angle head. This particular type of flashlight has been in use since World War II and today it is still an important part of military equipment in armies around the world.
What is A Military Anglehead Flashlight?
This is a flashlight noted for the 90-degree right angle of the light as compared to the base or battery casing. The design was first produced during World War II at the request of military personnel who saw the limitations of the standard no-angle flashlights used in navigation or illumination situations.
The TL-122 was the first to be developed and since then the basic design has remained the same.
Today, many right angle flashlights used by the military include different colored lenses in order not to interfere with night vision equipment and to lessen the chance of being spotted from greater distances.
Advantages of Military Right Angle Flashlight:
Today, this type of flashlight is being used by the military and by millions of civilians thanks to its numerous benefits.
Ergonomic: Because of the right angle, the flashlight can be held without having to twist your wrist or arm into unusual positions. The flashlight is more comfortable to use when navigating through darkened areas and easier on the wrist and muscles which means less strain.
Hands-Free Use: Because the light sits at a right angle, you can set the flashlight on its base to illuminate the area. This means that your hands are free as you can work on what is being illuminated. This is primarily why the right angle flashlight military forces use is so prevalent.
Durable Design: The military version of the flashlight is crafted from durable materials and features rubber o-rings for waterproofing. The crookneck design also comes with extra lenses and bulbs just in case the worst should happen.
The Military Angle Flashlight Today:
Although the design is over 70 years old, it is surprising to see just how little has changed when it comes to this flashlight. The majority of the differences today are found in the materials and technology used in creating the flashlight.
Arguably the most significant advancement is the use of LED or light emitting diode over the old incandescent bulb. The LED is far more durable as it can withstand impacts that would easily shatter the old incandescent bulb. Plus, it emits the same amount of light with far less energy, so it lasts far longer.
Another difference is in the materials used in the construction of the casing. Originally, metal was the most prominent material which gave the flashlight the ability to be used as a weapon if needed, but also corroded if care was not taken.
Today, the flashlights are either constructed out of high-impact plastics which make them light and easy to use or aluminum which provides ample strength. In both cases, the flashlights substantially resist corrosion.
In the end, the angled flashlight used by the military offers different applications in an ergonomic design that appeal to civilians as well.
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