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.
- PLEASE DON’T HESITATE TO CONTACT US IF ANY FURTHER PROBLEMS WITH OUR PRODUCTS
- Tum ON/OFF: Press the tail cap halfway to momentarily ACTIVATE the light.Fully click the tail switch to turn the light on and off. Change Modes: When the light is on, single press the side switch to rotate among Firefly Low Medium High modesLong press the side switch to get Strobe and then single press to end it.
- Compact and Lightweight – Coming at 6 inches long and less than an inch wide, this small flashlight is scaled down so as to easily fit in any size of hand, 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 change the mode when using it, very reliable when it works.
- Bright and Versatile Use – With an output of 500 high lumens(Not Rechargeable), and a beam for 93 meters away, powerful enough for everyday use, like dog walking, home security, emergency, camping, hiking, etc.(2*AA batteries are not included)
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:
- 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐔𝐥𝐭𝐫𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐄𝐃𝐂 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭: This professional-grade flashlight packs a massive 659 lumens, reaching up to 141 meters for maximum visibility. Its versatile AA battery option delivers 235 lumens and 90 meters, ensuring you are never left in the dark. The advanced PMMA TIR optic lens produces a wide and balanced beam perfect for everyday tasks and outdoor adventures.
- 𝐃𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐔𝐒𝐁-𝐂 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠: Enjoy ultimate power flexibility. Use a single, widely available AA battery for convenience, or achieve maximum output with the included ThruNite Battery. The integrated USB-C port offers fast and modern recharging, making it easy to power up anywhere without the hassle of searching for special batteries.
- 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐃𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐏𝐗-𝟖 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐟: Built to last a lifetime with an aerospace-grade aluminum body and a Military Grade Type III hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish. It is certified IPX-8 waterproof, meaning it can be submerged up to 2 meters, guaranteeing reliable performance in heavy rain, snow, or any unexpected wet conditions.
- 𝐅𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢 𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐩: Weighing only 1.97 ounces 56 grams and measuring just 3.8 inches, it slides effortlessly into your pocket. The robust dual-direction pocket clip allows for secure attachment to your hat, belt, or gear strap, offering incredibly versatile and hands-free carrying options.
- 𝐓𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐚𝐢𝐥 𝐒𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐜𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐕𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬: Features an intuitive tactical tail switch for easy one-handed operation, including instant momentary-on and quick mode cycling. An essential tool for a wide range of uses including everyday carry EDC, law enforcement, security, camping, hiking, and emergency situations.
- Upgraded Version of Archer 2A V3: Due to the rechargeable battery it comes with, not only has the maximum output increased from 500 lumens to 1018 lumens, a 100% improvement, but the beam range has also been extended by 79%, reaching 167 meters. The maximum light intensity reaches 7000 candela.
- Enhanced Versatility in Power: This EDC flashlight is exceptionally versatile, supporting both standard AA batteries (not included), widely available anytime, and rechargeable batteries. This dual compatibility ensures flexible and convenient power options for your needs.
- Bright Enough Using AA Battery – When it uses 2 AA batteries(not included), it can deliver a max output of 500 high lumens, and a beam for 93 meters away, small but powerful enough for everyday use, like dog walking. (2*AA batteries are not included)
- Premium Durability: Crafted with an aerospace-grade aluminum body featuring a military-grade Type III hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish, Archer 2A C boasts a 1-meter impact resistance, an IPX8 waterproof rating, and a dustproof design. Feel confident using it in adverse conditions or even if accidentally dropped.
- Compact and Lightweight – Coming at 6 inches long and less than an inch wide, this small flashlight is scaled down to easily fit in any size of a hand, which is extremely portable, you could fit the archer in your purse, backpack, or pocket and probably not even notice it.
- PLEASE DON’T HESITATE TO CONTACT US IF ANY FURTHER PROBLEMS WITH OUR PRODUCTS
- Tum ON/OFF: Press the tail cap halfway to momentarily ACTIVATE the light.Fully click the tail switch to turn the light on and off. Change Modes: When the light is on, single press the side switch to rotate among Firefly Low Medium High modesLong press the side switch to get Strobe and then single press to end it.
- Compact and Lightweight – Coming at 6 inches long and less than an inch wide, this small flashlight is scaled down so as to easily fit in any size of hand, 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 change the mode when using it, very reliable when it works.
- Bright and Versatile Use – With an output of 500 high lumens(Not Rechargeable), and a beam for 93 meters away, powerful enough for everyday use, like dog walking, home security, emergency, camping, hiking, etc.(2*AA batteries are not included)
- Precision Green Beam: The built-in green beam provides clear and focused visibility with a maximum output of 5mW, meeting Class 3R safety standards.
- High Performance: Equipped with a high-performance LED, the Defender delivers up to 1600 lumens with a maximum beam distance of 139 meters, ensuring exceptional brightness for various situations.
- Triple Light Sources: The Defender 3-in-1 EDC Flat Light is a versatile and powerful flashlight designed for everyday carry. Features white light for illumination, a powerful 365nm UV light to reveal invisible stains, and a bright green guidance beam for enhanced visibility.
- User-Friendly Operation: Easily switch between modes with the selector switch. Rapid double-click for Turbo mode, triple-click for Strobe mode, and press-and-hold for Firefly mode. The lock mode ensures the flashlight remains off during transport, preventing accidental activation.
- Rechargeable Convenience: Charging is straightforward with the built-in 1500mAh rechargeable battery. Green indicators flash during charging and turn solid upon full charge, keeping you informed of the battery status.
- Lock/Unlock Feature: Easily lock and unlock the flashlight. Under lockout mode, press and hold the side switch for 0.5 seconds to unlock to Firefly mode. In Firefly mode, press and hold the side switch for 0.5 seconds to re-engage the lockout mode, preventing accidental activation.
- Turbo Mode & Brightness: Experience extreme brightness with Turbo Mode delivering 1920 lumens, automatically reducing to 590 lumens to extend runtime to 160 minutes. Perfect for high-intensity tasks.
- Extended Beam Distance: Illuminate distant objects with a beam reaching up to 196 meters and a peak intensity of 9600 cd.
- Versatile Lighting Modes: Utilize stepless dimming for precise control over brightness, infinity high/low modes for flexible use, and an astonishing 61-day runtime in Firefly mode at 0.44 lumens.
- Waterproof & Impact Resistant: With an IPX-8 waterproof rating, this flashlight can be submerged up to 2 meters, and it’s built to withstand drops from up to 1.5 meters.
- 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.
- Ultra-Bright Keychain Light – Equipped with a high-performance LED, the Ti delivers up to 650 lumens and a 105-meter max beam distance—powerful illumination in a compact size, ideal for EDC, camping, and emergencies.
- USB-C Rechargeable – Built-in 350mAh battery with USB-C charging port; includes a USB-C cable. Red/green indicator shows charging and battery status clearly.
- Magnetic Tailcap & Keyring Design – Attach it to metal surfaces for hands-free use or clip it to your keychain or pocket using the included keyring and clip—perfect EDC companion.
- 5 Versatile Lighting Modes – Choose from Firefly (0.2 lm), Low (30 lm), Medium (200 lm), High (650 lm), and Strobe. Simple one-click or triple-click controls adapt to your needs.
- Slim, Compact & EDC-Ready – Just 60.8mm long and only 26.5g, this ultra-portable light fits easily in your pocket or hand—perfect for everyday carry without the bulk.
- IMPORTANT PRE-USE NOTICE: Please fully charge the flashlight before initial use. Ensure both the light head and tail cap are securely tightened before charging.
- ULTRA-BRIGHT FLASHLIGHT: Featuring the advanced SST70 LED, the V6 delivers a powerful 2,836 lumens, providing ultra-bright lighting for outdoor adventures, camping, hiking, or search and rescue operations.
- LONG-RANGE BEAM: Equipped with a smooth reflector, this high-performance tactical flashlight reaches up to 692 meters, making it ideal for long-distance visibility in any environment.
- USB-C RECHARGEABLE WITH LONG BATTERY LIFE: Including a high-capacity rechargeable battery, the V6 charges quickly via a 2A USB-C port, ensuring extended runtime for prolonged use during outdoor adventures, tactical missions, or emergency situations.
- COMPACT & LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN: With a compact size of 138mm x 58mm x 33.5mm and a weight of 203g (battery excluded), this portable flashlight is easy to carry and perfect for everyday carry (EDC) or as a backup light in your car or backpack.
- T1S V2 is just different in the look from T1S.
- 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.
- Usage Instructions: Before Use: Ensure the flashlight is charged by connecting it to a power source. Prior to charging, tightly screw down both the light head and tail cap for optimal performance.
- Powerful Illumination: The TC15 V3, powered by a XHP 35.2 LED, produces an Extreme Output of up to 2403 high lumens, making it one of the brightest rechargeable flashlights of ThruNite. It reaches a beam distance of 731 ft (223 m).
- Convenient Recharging: Utilizing a rechargeable IMR battery cell, the TC15 V3 boasts a built-in USB Type C charging port and a battery level indicator. It’s an efficient and versatile mini flashlight.
- Versatile Modes: With Firefly, Low, Medium, High, Turbo, and Strobe modes, the TC15 is a multifunctional rechargeable flashlight perfect for various situations, making it an ideal companion for outdoor activities, camping, security, and emergencies.
- User-Friendly Design and Intuitive Interface: Access Turbo mode instantly with a double-click, ensuring quick response in critical situations.
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 client’s websites for his other passion, Search Engine Optimization. His wife Jennifer and he live in coastal South Carolina.