So despite being happy with what I've got, I was pleased to receive a new model from The Photon Shop that offers some significant upgrades, including four power levels and higher maximum output. The size and shape is nearly identical, as are the accessory filters and tail switch, so it was familiar for me to use. The shop included two mounts, one a rubber and Velcro quick-fit type and the other is an aluminium figure eight type that's secured with six hex screws for a more permanent installation.
When you visit their website www.thephotonshop.co.uk you find lots of useful information, stacks of ''flashlights'' as the Yanks call them, but most interestingly for us, lamping kits that give you everything you need, and because you're buying them as a bundle, you get a discount, too.
The Kit
The kit I received is the Fenix TK15 R5 lamping kit 3 that has the TK15, remote tail switch, a red filter, two rechargeable batteries, their dual-bay charger and the choice of two mounts; as I said, everything you need. This strikes me as excellent value, especially when you consider that the rechargeable batteries will save you lots of money over disposables in the long run. Also, having a spare battery is, in my opinion, vital for any night hunting, There's nothing worse than a dead lamp halfway through a productive night. As the TK15 has four power levels, the smart shooter can adjust the output exactly to suit the moment, which greatly increases run time and is much easier on your eyes. For example, when loading magazines, the lowest power level is plenty and won't dazzle your eyes like high output torches will. Also, close range jobs like ratting can be done on level two or three, saving the maximum 337 lumen output for the longest of long-range rabbit shots. The high power setting is also important when fitting filters as they absorb a great deal of power and can really stifle a lower powered torch.
I set the kit up on a test rifle and managed a few hours around my closest permission which confirmed what I already knew about Fenix products and the quality of their output. I particularly liked the variable power which is a huge improvement over my old model and there's no doubt that the TK15 has conciderably more punch than my old TK11. So even with the red filter fitted, I had no trouble seeing eye reflections right across some big paddocks, allowing me to plan my approach once the rabbits' possitions had been located. There's no question that this is a tough and durable torch. Mine has done loads of work yet looks like new, and for those interested in such things, Fenix have their products independantly tested to meet international and military standards, all of which can be found on the Photon Shop website. You'll also find several other kits based on the TK15 plus others built on other Fenix torches, or alternatively you can select whicher parts suit your needs.
Where to buy
The photon shop has been trading for over four years and is primarily a web-based outfit but they are happy to accept visitors should you live nearby. Having spoken to them, I can tell they really know Fenix products and as airgun hunters themselves, they understand our needs too.
Fenix TK15 R5 kit 3 £116.00
Tel 02921 157162