UKE Underwater Kinetics

UKE 2AAA Penlight & 2AAA Mini Pocket Light

Made in the USA, these are very small and lightweight flashlights, both using AAA batteries. One model is the Mini Pocket Light, which uses two batteries side by side, while the other is a straight penlight design. Both models use the same bulb assembly, estimated to produce around 10 lumens, possibly slightly brighter than the Maglite 2 AAA.

The lamp assembly in both flashlights are replaceable, and while the bulb assembly colors and designs appear different, they were likely produced in different periods, with brightness levels not varying significantly. Official information states that using alkaline batteries provides about 2-3 hours of runtime. The heads of the two models look similar but are not interchangeable. 

Personally, I find these flashlights sufficient for everyday carry; they are very light and provide enough light indoors and can illuminate a path outdoors, making them particularly suitable for close-range use.

UKE 4AA

This model uses the same bulb and head as the UKE 2L, offering the same brightness. It operates on 4 AA batteries, making it much heavier than the 2L. However, it can use rechargeable batteries, significantly lowering the operating costs. 

UKE SL4 Sun Light

This flashlight uses 4 C batteries, and the bulb is also integrated, making both the flashlight and bulb very difficult to find now, especially the bulb. The light output is very bright, with a wide flood range and excellent throw distance. Its brightness is roughly comparable to the Surefire 6P, but it has a significantly longer range, capable of illuminating targets over 100 meters away. It is more than sufficient for outdoor use.

Most UKE models are dive flashlights, ensuring complete waterproofing. I use it for hiking, and aside from being a bit heavier due to the 4 x C-cell batteries, I don't see any other drawbacks. I use Amazon-branded rechargeable C batteries, which means almost no operating costs. The bulb has a lifespan of around 50 hours, which is relatively long, especially considering its brightness. However, after about 20 hours, the bulb noticeably dims (as is common with all Xenon bulbs).

UKE 2L

This is a small waterproof flashlight made in the USA. It uses two CR123A batteries and has a power output of 2.1W, producing about 20-30 lumens. Its brightness is roughly equivalent to a 3-cell Maglite or about half as bright as a Surefire P60, but it has a longer runtime, officially rated at 4-5 hours, making it quite energy-efficient. The bulb has a lifespan of around 20 hours.

The flashlight is very compact, shorter than the Surefire flashlight that uses two CR123A batteries, and it is much lighter, making it easy to collect and carry. It features waterproof capabilities, officially rated to a depth of 500 feet, with a sturdy exterior.

The flashlight uses an integrated lamp assembly which is hard to find now. The bulb model is 14801, which is shared with 2 CR123A and 4AA flashlights. The lamp assembly is smaller than the P60, so they are not interchangeable. The reflector is made of plastic, offering a smooth surface that focuses the beam well. In terms of brightness, I find it sufficient for everyday use.

I bought these in 2017, coming with two batteries that expired in 2015, indicating it was likely produced in 2005. The manual is dated 2000, so it has been sitting around for over a decade. I’ve previously purchased other waterproof flashlights using AA batteries, which felt mediocre, but this one with CR123A offers longer usage time and adequate brightness. It’s a compact, durable piece, proudly labeled "Made in USA"!

UKE C4

This is a diving flashlight that uses 4 C batteries. The light accommodates two bulbs, allowing for either two identical bulbs or one brighter and one dimmer.

In terms of traditional flashlights, the head is quite large, providing a wide flood range and a moderate throw distance. Thanks to the textured reflector, the light produced is softer and very comfortable to look at. This flashlight uses a 4.8V Xenon bulb with a G4 base. In theory, G4 halogen bulbs could also be used, but finding a 4.8V G4 bulb is extremely difficult, as they are nearly extinct.