ThruNite Archer 2A V3 Flashlight Review
“I love getting to play with a new flashlight, and today we’re testing out the ThruNite Archer 2A V3.”
In an increasingly crowded marketplace—seriously, there are so many tactical and EDC flashlights out there—it’s not easy to stand out. But the Archer has some features that allow it to hold its own among its many, many competitors.
And some of those competitors are significantly more expensive than the ThruNite. While the Archer isn’t quite cheap enough to truly be called a budget flashlight, it’s also far from expensive.
The New York Times recently gave the ThruNite Archer 2A V3 on its roundup of the best flashlights of 2023, so let’s find out if it lives up to the hype.
ThruNite Archer 2A V3: First Impressions
The Archer has a long, slender barrel and has what feels like very solid construction, along with some nice diamond knurling for grip. How it feels in your hands will depend on what you’re used to. I typically carry some very small pocket-size flashlights as part of my EDC, and the ThruNite Archer feels quite long in my hands by comparison. But if your go-to is a larger tactical flashlight, this might feel downright dainty.
The flashlight comes snugly packed in its box. Along with the instruction manual, the light comes with a few extras in their own little zip bag: a lanyard, two spare o-rings, and replacement buttons for the tail cap and side switch. The flashlight runs on two AA batteries, which are not included.
Measurements & Specs
The ThruNite Archer 2A V3 is just a hair over 6 inches long, and has a diameter of 0.8” at the head (the true diameter varies quite a bit across the full length of the flashlight). It weighs 1.7 ounces, which does not include the batteries. An average AA weighs about 0.8 oz, so two of them will come pretty close to doubling the weight of the flashlight. Still, it’s not heavy by any means.
The body of the flashlight is made of aerospace-grade aluminum with black military-grade Type III hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish. It has a reversible pocket clip that can be attached at multiple points along the barrel, and the lanyard is easy to attach to the tail cap.
Light Output & Operation
Utilizing a Cree XP-L V6 LED emitter, the ThriNite Archer casts a smooth, clean beam without much noticeable tint shift. It also has an Orange Peel reflector, which effectively blends the beam to the point that I can really only detect a shift toward a cooler tint at the outer portion of the beam. It might be worth mentioning that the Archer is available with a Cool White or Neutral White LED, of which I have the latter.
The ThruNite Archer is somewhat different from most EDC flashlights in that it has two switches. The tail cap switch turns the flashlight on and off, and the side switch, located about an inch behind the lens, is used for mode selection. Whether or not you like this system might depend on what you’re used to, but I find it to be fairly intuitive, and the tail switch reduces the likelihood of the flashlight getting accidentally turned on in one’s pocket or pack.
The flashlight has five light modes: High (500 lumens), Medium (70 lumens), Low (17 lumens), Firefly (0.2 lumens) and Strobe (400 lumens). After turning the flashlight on via the tail switch, the user can cycle through each of the first four light modes with a click of the side switch. Holding down the side switch will activate the strobe function.
Mode memory allows the flashlight to return to the most recently-used light mode after being turned off. Both switches are responsive and easy to use, and the saddle-style tail switch allows quick thumb access. A half-push of the tail switch will activate the light on “momentary on” mode.
Batteries & Runtime
A pair of AA batteries is all you need to run the ThruNite Archer, and while I certainly like rechargeable flashlights, I also have a soft spot for lights like this that take good, old-fashioned alkaline batteries.
Runtime is a bit of a mixed bag. On High, the flashlight will drain its batteries in 120 minutes, which is not the best. Having said that, the High mode is very bright, and it’s hard to imagine needing it for that length of time. The flashlight will run for 11 hours on Medium, or 51 hours on Low, and both of those settings are adequate for finding one’s way in the dark. For what it’s worth, the instructions also recommend not running the flashlight on High for more than 10 continuous minutes to avoid damaging the battery, driver circuit or LED.
I generally like the light modes of the Archer, but Firefly mode feels rather pointless. At 0.2 lumens, it’s barely enough light to register, even in a dark space. In fact, Firefly is so dim that it’s easy to mistakenly think the flashlight is off.
This happened to me more than once as I was still getting used to using separate switches for on/off and mode selection. One could very easily put the flashlight back in their pocket or backpack without realizing it’s still on Firefly mode, thus slowly draining the battery. Of course, this is also easy to avoid, but it’s something to be aware of.
Build & Durability
Despite being quite lightweight, the ThruNite Archer feels solidly built. The aluminum is sturdy, and I like the black satin finish, which is neither shiny nor completely matte. It has 1-meter impact resistance, which isn’t the most impressive rating I’ve seen on a flashlight this size, but it’s okay.
The Archer also has an IPX-8 waterproof rating, which means that it can be submerged up to two meters. The tail cap is removable (for battery replacement) and has an o-ring to make the seal watertight. I appreciate that the folks at ThruNite had the foresight to include a couple of spare o-rings.
Physically, it’s a smartly designed flashlight. The head and tail cap of the Archer are both designed so that the light can be stood up on either end. It also has flattened edges at the widest part of the flashlight behind the head, which prevents it from rolling away when laid down on its side.
Comfort & Carry
The ThruNite Archer is very comfortable in my hands, and the knurling does a great job keeping it locked in place. It’s also a comfortable pocket flashlight despite being a little bigger than what I typically have for everyday carry. I personally find it’s easier to carry and use without the lanyard, which mostly just gets in the way.
The pocket clip is not only reversible, but can be affixed to the barrel of the flashlight at various spots, so you can carry the flashlight head-up or head-down with varying amounts of the barrel accessible outside your pocket.
The factory standard position is head-down with close to half of the flashlight sticking out of one’s pocket, which I kind of don’t mind, but it might not be for everyone. Again, it’s easy to change. And of course, the reversible clip means you can attach it to a baseball cap brim like a headlamp, though this flashlight might be a little big for that.
- Compact and Lightweight – Coming at 6 inches long and less than an inch wide, it is scaled down so as to easily fit in any size of hands, which is extremely portable, you could fit the archer in your purse, backpack, or pocket and probably not even notice it.
- Well Placed Dual Button – Easily to turn the light on/off, but will never accidentally shut it off or changed the mode when using it, very reliable when it works.
- Bright and Versatile Use – With an output of 500 lumens, and beam for 93 meters away, perfect for everyday use, like dog walking, home security and emergency, camping and hiking, etc.(2*AA batteries are not included)
- Reliable and Durable – Powered by 2*AA batteries(not included), you could buy the battery everywhere. Made out of aluminum alloy, 1-meter impact-resistant, and a waterproof rating of IPX8, and dustproof, no need to worry about dropping it or using it in extremely bad weather.
- High-Performance LED – Uses a CREE XP-L2 LED and has 5 modes: Firefly, Low, Medium, High, and Strobe. Trustable with the convenience of AA batteries that can be found at almost any store.
Final Thoughts on the ThruNite Archer 2A V3
There isn’t a firm dividing line between what is considered a “tactical flashlight” vs. an “EDC flashlight.” Regardless of where you draw that line, the ThruMite Archer 2A V3 feels like it’s a flashlight that could fall on either side. It’s small enough that one can easily carry it in a pocket, but big enough that it won’t get lost in a backpack.
I think this is an excellent flashlight. It’s lightweight but sturdy, and a great option if you want something with a wide range of light modes. The price ranges from around $29 to $39, and if you can catch it at the lower end of that range, I’d say buy it in a heartbeat. Even at the upper end, the Archer holds its ground against many flashlights that cost more.
Other Thrunite EDC Flashlights Available:
- Lock/Unlock Mode Prevent Accident Activate – Under the lockout mode, press and hold the tail switch to unlock the flashlight to enter low mode. Under low mode, press and hold the tail switch to access the lockout mode. Click the tail switch, the light will flash to indicate that it is locked.
- Small Yet Mighty – With a highly recommended SST20 LED and TIR LENS, the Archer Mini delivers an incredible 405 lumens and a beam distance up to 87 meters / 285 feet. Due to its length only 3.26 inches and weight only 34g, the Archer Mini takes up barely any space in the pocket.
- Integrated Tail Switch – You could get the light momentarily on and change between three brightness modes through the anti-slip tail switch.
- Long-lasting Rechargeable Battery Lifespan – With build-in battery that integrates a Type-C charging interface and the coming with the usb c charging cable, makes the charging of archer mini easy to go.
- Well Made Pocket Clip – Coming with an upgraded dual-direction pocket clip, making it easy to be attached to a hat brim, thicker pants, or backpack strap, carried in a pocket, more than just hands-free convenience.
- Please CHARGE the flashlight before use, and pls SCREW DOWN the light head and tail cap first before charging.
- ULTRA BRIGHT AND LONG THROW – Max 1212 lumens flashlight with SST40 LED bulb producing an intense beam of bright light up to 603 ft / 184 m with PMMA TIR reflector, beam distance increased by 80% compared to the previous ThruNite T1.
- MAGNETIC TAILCAP HANDS-FREE USE: Can steadily stand upright or conveniently attached firmly to any metal surface using the magnetic tail cap, meaning that you could attacth it on the card while fixing your card, perfect for any hands free mechanic work.
- VERSATILE MODES AND MULTI USE – Firefly / Turbo / Strobe / High / Medium / Low modes.Long press side switch to activate and choose your desired brightness freely. With dual-direction pocket clip, it can be attached to belts, pockets, and backpacks for easy carrying, or clipped the brim of a hat as a headlamp, great for reading, hiking, camping, auto repairs, and more.
- USB C RECHARGEABLE – Powered by an included rechargeable Battery and a built-in USB C charging port and cable, meadning that no extra new battery will be needed and you could charge it anywhere or anytime. It will remind you to charge when battery voltage is low with the battery indicator located in the switch.
- Compact and Lightweight – Coming at 6 inches long and less than an inch wide, it is scaled down so as to easily fit in any size of hands, which is extremely portable, you could fit the archer in your purse, backpack, or pocket and probably not even notice it.
- Well Placed Dual Button – Easily to turn the light on/off, but will never accidentally shut it off or changed the mode when using it, very reliable when it works.
- Bright and Versatile Use – With an output of 500 lumens, and beam for 93 meters away, perfect for everyday use, like dog walking, home security and emergency, camping and hiking, etc.(2*AA batteries are not included)
- Reliable and Durable – Powered by 2*AA batteries(not included), you could buy the battery everywhere. Made out of aluminum alloy, 1-meter impact-resistant, and a waterproof rating of IPX8, and dustproof, no need to worry about dropping it or using it in extremely bad weather.
- High-Performance LED – Uses a CREE XP-L2 LED and has 5 modes: Firefly, Low, Medium, High, and Strobe. Trustable with the convenience of AA batteries that can be found at almost any store.
- Please CHARGE the flashlight before use, and pls SCREW DOWN the light head and tail cap first before charging.
- EXTREME OUTPUT: Powered by a CREE XHP 35.2 LED the TC15 V3 produces up to 2403 lumens with a beam distance of 731 ft / 223 m. Please Screw Down The Light head tightly Before Using
- USB-C FAST RECHARGEABLE: Powered by a rechargeable IMR battery cell, the TC15 V3 features Built-In USB type C charging port and a battery level indicator, so you can know when it’s time to top up. ( Battery and charging cable included )
- MODES FOR EVERY SITUATION: Firefly/ Low / Medium/ High / Turbo /Strobe light modes, makes the TC15 perfect for any situation, perfect gear for outdoor activities and adventures.
- USER-FRIENDLY UI AND RUGGED DESIGN: Quick access Turbo from any mode with a double-click, keeping you safe when in a dangerous situation. Grippy and non-slip knurling design makes the TC15 V3 glove-friendly.
- Lock/Unlock Mode Prevent Accident Activate – Under the lockout mode, press and hold the tail switch to unlock the flashlight to enter Firefly mode. Under firefly mode, press and hold the tail switch to access the lockout mode. Click the tail switch, the light will flash to indicate that it is locked.
- Mini but Mighty – the Archer Pro V2 lights up an incredible 950 lumens and a beam distance of up to 187 meters due to its highly recommended high-performance LED and PMMA TIR Lens.
- Rechargeable Battery – Recharging battery that integrates a Type-C charging interface. (Type-C charging interface for flashlight instead of battery)
- Compact and Lightweight – With only 2.29 oz in weight and 98 mm in length, it takes up little space in your pocket or in your bag.
- Easy to Operate – One-button easy operation from inside out: a built-in spring inside, all for an anti-slip smooth pressing experience, making changing modes easy to go.
- ULTRA BRIGHT: True 2250(max) high lumens output and 987ft/301m beam distance with SST40 LED.
- TYPE-C FAST CHARGING: Built-in TYPE-C charging port with more compatibility and faster charging. Power indicator: Blue (>21%), Red (11-20%), Flashing Red (<10%).
- LONG-LASTING: Powered by a rechargeable Battery (Included), with up to 133 days of runtime in firefly mode.
- VERSATILE MODES: Features 5 adaptable settings: High / Low / Turbo / Strobe / Firefly, 99.9% of regular everyday situations can be covered. With lockout function prevent accidental activation in bag or pocket.
- COMPACT AND PORTABLE: Pocket-friendly design, Weight: 2.72 oz / 77 grams(excluding battery), Dimensions: 115.5mm*27.5mm*26mm. Dual direction clip is perfect for a backpack or belt.
- Pocket-size shape, which is suitable for tool use and handheld, anti-slip knurling on the flashlight body.
- Dual Switch – Tailcap switch provides fast access to important outputs(TURBO MODE) for applications, or Triple click the side switch quickly to get strobe, good as a law enforcement feature. Use either the side switch or tail switch for activation.
- High Power Brightness: Max 2676 Lumens flashlight CREE SST70 LED Bulb provides bright light, easily light up to 255 meters/ 836 foot.
- 6 Lighting Modes: THRUNITE BSS V5 flashlight supports Firefly/ Low / Medium / High / Turbo /Strobe light modes, tail and side dual switch which make this flashlight is suitable for all indoor and outdoor activities or others unexpected situations.
- USB-C FAST RECHARGEABLE: Powered by a rechargeable IMR battery cell, the BSS V5 features Built-In USB type C charging port and a battery level indicator, so you can know when it’s time to top up. ( Battery and charging cable included )
- Please CHARGE the flashlight before use, and pls SCREW DOWN the light head and tail cap first before charging.
- The ThruNite TT20 has a max 2526 lumens and 258 meters beam distance, and capable of powering round-the-clock duty, on a hunt, in self-protect situations, or other extreme environments.
- DUAL-SWITCH – Long press the side switch to activate the stepless dimming. This allows you to adjust the light to the exact level you need. Single click the tail switch to access to turbo mode directly to keeps you safe when in a dangerous situation.
- HIGH-CAPACITY BATTERY – The TT20 is powered by a High Capacity Battery (Included). Being that it’s slightly larger in size will also provide more energy/power and runtime than normal battery.
- USB-C FAST CHARGING – Built-in TYPE-C charging port and USB-C cable offers more compatibility and faster charging. Power indicator: Blue (>21%), Red (11-20%), Flashing Red (<10%).
- HIGH LUMEN OUTPUT: With the help of the rechargeable battery and the SFT40 LED, the TN12 Pro Light delivers a huge output of 1900 lumens.
- USB-C Fast Charging: Built-in TYPE-C charging port and USB-C cable, no need to remove the battery for charging, while offering more compatibility and faster charging than Micro USB. With power indicator in the center of the side switch, giving real-time reminders with a glance.
- Dual Switch: Tailcap switch provides fast access to important outputs (Turbo Mode) for applications, or Triple click the side switch quickly to get strobe, good as a law enforcement feature. Use either the side switch or tail switch for activation.
- Ideal for Multi Use: From 0.5 lumens in Moonlight mode to 1900 lumens in Turbo mode, the first choice to everyday carry whether you’re at work, on duty, or enjoying a weekend off, a versatile and powerful illumination tool for all applications.
- Durable and Waterproof: made from aluminum alloy construction treated with a scratch-resistant anodized finish, and machined an aggressive texture into it for a solid and secure grip, even in cold and wet conditions.
- High Performance: This mini flashlight delivers up to 659 lumens output, 141 meters (max.) when powered by ThruNite Battery, while a max of 235 lumens, 90 meters (max.) powered by a single widely available AA battery(Not included). Equipped with a PMMA TIR optic lens producing a soft and balanced beam.
- Ultra-compact design: Weighs only 1.97 oz, fits well in the palm of the hand, and with the dual direction pocket clip, this slim flashlight is even more convenient for carrying in a pocket or attaching to a hat or strap, lightweight, and easy to carry around.
- Rechargeable and AA-battery-powered: Compatible with 1*AA alkaline battery(Not included), 1*AA rechargeable NiMH battery(Not included). You can carry extra inexpensive and widely available AA batteries with ease, ensuring a continuous power supply for the flashlight during outdoor activities or emergencies.
- Versatile Applications: everyday carry(EDC), law enforcement, security, emergency, medical services, camping, duty light, etc.
- Smooth Operation: Tail switch operation for momentary/constant on and quick mode changing.
Blair Witkowski is an avid watch nut, loves pocket knives and flashlights and when he is not trying to be a good dad to his nine kids, you will find him running or posting pics on Instagram. Besides writing articles for Tech Writer EDC he is also the founder of Lowcountry Style & Living. In addition to writing, he is focused on improving his clients websites for his other passion, Search Engine Optimization. His wife Jennifer and he live in coastal South Carolina.
