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EDC

Maglite MagLite 3-D Cell Flashlight

Ironclad
Ironclad
Typical: $25-40Confidence: medium

Why It Lasts

Machined from aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum with an anodized finish that resists corrosion and impact scratching — the same aluminum spec used in Maglite's law enforcement models since 1979. The design is a sealed unit with a single O-ring waterproofed lens assembly and a tail-cap O-ring, giving IPX4 water resistance (splash-proof). Every internal component — lamp module, reflector, switch — is individually available from Maglite for DIY repair or replacement. Made in Ontario, California. The 3-D Cell battery configuration provides an 8-12 hour burn time on standard alkaline batteries; LED conversion kits are available to upgrade older incandescent models.

Known Weaknesses

Standard D-cell alkaline batteries suffer from battery leakage over time — the damage from leaked batteries inside a stored flashlight is the most common failure mode, not the flashlight itself. The size (15 inches, 26 oz loaded) is too large for pocket carry — this is a vehicle or home emergency flashlight, not EDC. The LED models have been updated but Maglite's LED technology lags behind dedicated LED light manufacturers like Fenix and Streamlight in lumens-per-watt efficiency. The rubber O-rings can dry out and lose their seal after a decade of storage.

Durability Breakdown

Warranty
7.0
materials
6.8
communitySentiment
6.4
brandReputation
5.8
Repairability
7.2

Data Source

View community discussion →

Quick Stats

Overall Score68.0/10
TierIronclad
BrandMaglite
CategoryEDC
Price Range$25-40
Confidencemedium
Data Points/5

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