I’m a welder by trade, and I often use flashlights to inspect my work. I’ve used a bunch of Maglite solitaires for a while, but I’m getting a little tired of how fast they gunk up or burn out. Turns out, welding work is ROUGH on flashlights, especially if you keep using them through grinding and polishing. What I’m looking for is a small, very durable flashlight. Preferably under 1" in diameter, between 3 and 5 inches long, and very durable with regards to heat and abrasive, conductive dust. Ideally, I’d like something usb-c rechargeable, but without some kind of dust flap for the port I don’t see how that’s possible. The other problem I tend to have with the maglites is that I end up melting the plastic cover over the bulb. That let’s in dust, burning out the element. The front cover would probably need to be something other than plastic. Replacing the solitaires isn’t the worst thing in the world, but it’s a pain in my ass to forget to buy more and end up burning out the last one when I need it. I don’t need anything particularly bright, just indestructible.
I’m using an Olight Arkfeld with UV option, magnetic charging with no flap or socket to get clogged. Have been using for about 3 months in a marine setting and has held up well.
Magnetic charging sounds like almost exactly what I’m looking for. Have it on my watch and phone but didn’t think about the flashlight for it. That’s great.
Skilhunt is another brand with magnetic charging models, such as the M150 with a very nice LED (519A version) https://www.skilhunt.com/product/m150-usb-magnetic-rechargeable-flashlight/
I don’t recommend magnetic charging for very dirty environments, especially when metal dust or shavings may be present. Removing the battery to charge results in more durable lights; it becomes reasonably convenient if you have at least two batteries.
I am using this one too. Love it as an EDC, but the custom charger sucks if you lose it. Olight does not sell a replacement either, so off to the Bay of E if it happens.