Tactical flashlights come in many shapes and sizes. However, one thing must be noted. Their performance is not always directly proportionate to their oversized frame. This statement was never truer than when I field-tested the JetBeam E26 KUNAI EDC Flashlight.
The JetBeam E26 Kunai Flashlight
This palm-sized illuminator boasted some incredible specs. They included an 1800 lumen output, multiple light modes, four brightness settings, and a rapid-charging battery. All these amenities were stuffed full within a durable shell just a bit over five-by-one-inches in size. Did the E26 Kunai Flashlight deliver the goods during my testing? The illuminating results are below.
First Thoughts
Honestly speaking, my first thought was that this palm-sized flashlight was nothing more than a novelty that had a few nifty features. To me, it was just too small in its overall dimensions to produce the output that it stated. In the end, I was so wrong with my initial feelings, but more on this later.
Upon a brief inspection, I could feel that the outer metal casing was durable and its construction was tight, with no noticeable seam misalignments or offset mechanics. What my initial look over did do well, though, is make me intrigued to dig in deeper to this pocket-sized flashlight.
Examining Its Features
Between what I personally noted on the unit and the included specs that illustrated all its functions, the following was revealed. The JetBeam E26 Kunai Flashlight offered one-button control of its tactical light with a thick square button at the base of the unit. One heavy press is used to turn the light on, and a second, lighter press puts the flashlight into strobe mode. This mode produces dizzying effects for the unlucky recipient.
Speaking of lighting, one prominent side-positioned button toggles between five lighting modes. These include ultra-low, low, medium, high, and highest. On the opposite end of the unit are two bulbs, sunk into the frame, with four zirconia ceramic beads protruding slightly from the metal casing. These, I learned through the manual, will break glass fast and efficiently for emergency situations involving a vehicle.
Charging Properties
On the side of the JetBeam E26 Kunai Flashlight is a USB-C charging port that accommodates any compatible charger. Positioned to its right side is a power indicator light that offers three color indicators. Green indicates a charge between 35 and 100 percent. Orange will indicate a charger between 15 and 35 percent. Finally, a red light will indicate the battery has less than 15 percent charge left in the unit.
The flashlight offers a built-in 1700mAh Li-ion battery with a 39-hour maximum runtime. The manual states that the flashlight will have a “300 days’ ready experience”, which will keep an ultra-low standby current for use when needed.
Finally, aside from the standard white light output, the unit offers green “pointer-light.” I charged the unit, which took a shorter time than expected (just a few hours), and I was now ready to activate this curious illuminator.
Powering Up the E26 Kunai
As the saying goes, the proof is in the performance, and let me tell you, this little powerhouse performed. Upon clicking the on-off button, my dark room lit up immensely. The beam was both focused and sharp. It was difficult to believe that so much power could be generated from such a small source.
From the initial ultra-bright mode, I dialed the power down and toggled through all the settings. The variation of light output was distinctive. I soft-clicked the main power button and experienced the strobe effect. The fluttering light was disorientating as I focused on it, even from my position as an operator. I’m certain any recipient of this dizzying light would either retreat or give you the time to flee the scene.
Finally, I activated the green light beam. It delivered a “pointer” green dot against the wall from across the room.
Multitude of Uses
One thing I determined upon testing out the JetBeam E26 Kunai Flashlight was that it was ultra-versatile. I would use it in both rural and urban environments. It would work well lighting up your trail back to your tent in the dark woods, as well as brightening stairways in a downtown parking garage.
I know it would make a great addition to your bugout bag or your vehicle emergency kit. It can also be your go-to flashlight when an unexpected power outage hits. It’s compact enough to fit into a woman’s purse, a teenager’s school bag, or an office briefcase with ease.
Final Grade
I have to say, I went from skeptic to believer in this flashlight as soon as I clicked the power button to “on.” The light, which is the meat and potatoes of any flashlight, scored big with both its power and beam intensity levels. If I had any constructive criticism for the E26, it would be that I would personally prefer a red distress light addition over the included green pointer version.
A red light typically indicates the need for rescue and might come in handy for emergency situations. The green pointer light felt out of place among its other, more emergency-centric functions. However, that is by no means a deal breaker, not even remotely close. This flashlight needs to be in your possession today. Great things do come in small packages, and the JetBeam E26 Kunai Flashlight is excellent proof of that.
