Fenix TK11 R5, TK12 R5, and S&W M&P 15T

[ArizonaScot]

Like most, I started out using SureFire products a long time ago. While they are extremely well-made and are fine products, ever since I discovered Fenix, it is very hard to justify the price to performance ratio of SureFire over Fenix.

Anyway, I recently got a pair (2 each) of the new TK11 R5 and TK12 R5 and gave my nephew the old TK11 R2 models.

The TK11/TK12 R5 gained improvements in lumens over the old R2, up to 285/280, respectively. The main difference between the TK11 and TK12 is in their operating modes. The TK11 can run at either 285 lumens (2.7 hours) or 60 lumens (14 hours). The TK12 has three modes (called "hidden modes") each with two lumens settings; one mode contains a very fast strobe feature, intend to disorient. Physically, they are roughly the same size and there are very subtle differences between the TK11 and the TK12, as you can see from the photos below. Both can accommodate 2 CR123A batteries or 1 18650 rechargeable lithium-ion battery -- and let me tell you, once you start using the 18650's, you probably won't go back to CR123A's (maybe for backups). I bought 8 18650's and four are always on standby charge. I will probably buy more in the near future. You can get much more info in the links below. . . ..

TK11 R5:
http://www.fenixlight.com/viewproduct.asp?id=119

TK12 R5:
http://www.fenixlight.com/viewproduct.asp?id=120





The carrying case/holster is functional but nothing spectacular, and is the exact same one for either the TK11 or TK12. It has a back Velcro belt loop as well as a plastic loop at the top for tactical vests/pants:



I mated one of the TK11's to my S&W M&P 15T with a VIKING TACTICS LIGHT MOUNT VTAC-MK4 (the light mount is inexpensive but works extremely well so this is another great product that won't break your bank). The pressure switch is also Fenix's http://www.fenixlight.com/viewproduct.asp?id=93. It is well-made, feels great, and is easy to operate/control. The pressure switch also slides nicely into the Tango VFG without requiring double-sided tape, glue, or anything messy or complicated. I can get a very firm grip on the Tango VFG and yet, still has control of whether I want the light ON or OFF. The switch also has a side-mounted button that I can use my index finger to turn the light ON or OFF. Ergonomically, the combination feels solid and intuitive.





I'm going to put the other TK11 on my Mossberg 930 SPX (now that the canted front sight issue has been taken care of). As for the TK12's, one TK12 will be on the night stand along with the TA21. The other TK12 will be in the truck.

I highly recommend the Fenix TK11 and TK12, as well as the TA21. They are high-quality products at a fraction of the cost of the other higher-priced brands.

[liberty057]

Hell yeah. I'm getting a TK12 R5 for my carbine... I've heard nothing but good things...

[NOLACOPUSMC]

I am actually running a PD20 on one of my carbines. I like it a lot. i just wish Fenix would come out with a momentary switch for the entire PD and LD line to make them more tactically applicable as EDC lights. great value though.

[Kitty]

The light sounds good to go, but that pressure switch cord is going to give me nightmares. Snag snag snag on everything. It looks downright dangerous...

[ArizonaScot]

You are correct! I have not taken the time to perform "cable management" yet since I was more excited to get this post out and I did not have the correct size tie wraps available.

Also, Fenix offers two different remote switches depending on the model. They're finely printed so it's easy for someone to overlook and order the wrong one. Just thought I point that out.

[Syntax360]

I've been using Fenix Tk10s on my M&P15T, Mossberg 590 and 930SPX, and MSAR STG556 for some time now... Great lights at a great price; like the the OP said, it would be very hard to buy Surefire after being spoiled by Fenix.

Is it considered bad form to post pictures in another person's review thread? We could stack this one with Fenix porn in no time I think...

[Policetacteam]

The main and obvious differences between the Fenix TK11 and TK12 is that the TK12 is utilizing the latest in LED technology by switching to the Cree XPG emitter. The XPG will give more lumens OTF (out the front) without using more juice from your batteries! Essentially more bang for your buck!

As for using 18650 rechargeable lithium batteries...HELL YES!!! They are all I use anymore! I'm still using the same two AW 18650 batteries for over 1.5 years. AMAZING! I have turned most of the guys on my department onto both Fenix and EagleTac lights and 18650 batteries. For those of us that work nights and usually burn through numerous 123 lithium batteries the rechargeables offer extemely long run times and have proven very durable for the long haul.