Olight Arkfeld Ultra EDC Flashlight Review: Dual-Beam Innovation Meets Tactical Excellence
In the ever-evolving world of EDC flashlights, the Olight Arkfeld Ultra stands out as a groundbreaking addition to any tactical or everyday carry setup. Having had some experience with the Olight brand over the last several years, I jumped at the chance to test this light in real world situations and I especially wanted the opportunity to test it in a hunting environment. We picked up the flashlight about 3 months ago and it has been front and center in my right hand pocket day in and day out alongside of my Benchmade knife and sometimes my keys.
I work hard to carry as little as possible on a day to day basis and having one quality light is essential for me, having three is outstanding and the Arkfeld Ultra really delivers. The reason that I have chosen the Arkfeld Ultra is all about the build quality as well as the triple beam technology. Now having a good white LED light and a laser is great but this light also has a UV light and for blood tracking deer at night there is nothing better than having a quality bright UV light at your disposal. The build quality on this light is outstanding, it is soled and easy to operate and easy to charge. I would really like to see Olight create some USB-C chargers that work with their magnetic charging cable.
Key Specifications
- Maximum Output: 1,040 lumens (LED) / 500 lumens (laser)
- Beam Distance: 200 meters
- Triple-beam Technology: LED flood light, UV Light and green laser
- Battery: Built-in 1000mAh rechargeable lithium polymer
- Weight: 2.89 oz (82g)
- Dimensions: 4.06 x 1.06 x 0.51 inches
Design and Build Quality
The Arkfeld Ultra showcases Olight’s commitment to premium construction with its aerospace-grade aluminum body. The ultra-thin profile (just 0.51 inches) makes it exceptionally pocket-friendly while maintaining impressive durability. The IPX8 water resistance rating ensures reliability no matter what weather conditions you face.
Triple-Beam Functionality
What truly sets the Arkfeld Ultra apart is its innovative dual-beam system. The primary LED offers five brightness levels, while the secondary green laser provides precise targeting capability and then you have the UV light. This versatility proves invaluable for hunters needing area illumination, a laser to help guide folks to specific points and the UV light is exceptional for tracking.
Performance Analysis
LED Performance
The main LED beam delivers an impressive 1,400 lumens at maximum output, providing excellent flood lighting for area awareness. The stepped brightness levels offer practical options for various scenarios, from close-range task lighting to extended runtime operations.
Laser Functionality
The green laser component offers superior visibility in daylight conditions compared to traditional red lasers, making it an excellent tool for hunting applications and tactical situations.
Ultra-Violet Functionality
The UV component offers superior visibility in night time conditions allowing you to track blood and see things that are often hidden. We don’t recommend using this in a hotel room, some things you just don’t want to know about.
User Interface and Controls
The side-mounted control switch and mode selector are intuitively positioned for one-handed operation. The sliding mechanism to switch between LED and laser modes is smooth and positive, allowing for quick transitions without fumbling.
Battery Life and Charging
The built-in 1000mAh battery provides reasonable runtime considering the compact size. The magnetic charging system is convenient and reliable, though some users might prefer replaceable batteries for extended field use but I am more than comfortable and I always have a backup like the Olight Oclip as a backup in my kit.
Pros and Cons
Advantages:
- Innovative triple-beam design
- Ultra-thin profile perfect for EDC
- Premium build quality
- Versatile brightness options
- Excellent water resistance
Disadvantages:
- Non-replaceable battery
- Premium price point
- May be too slim for some users’ preferences
Real-World Applications
The Arkfeld Ultra excels in various scenarios:
- Hunting: Perfect for tracking and target identification
- EDC: Slim profile makes it ideal for daily carry
- Tactical: Triple-beam system offers versatile options
- Emergency: Reliable illumination when needed most
Value Proposition
While the Arkfeld Ultra commands a premium price point, its innovative features, build quality, and versatility justify the investment for serious hunters. The dual-beam functionality essentially provides two tools in one, making it a valuable addition to any EDC or hunting kit.
Final Verdict
The Olight Arkfeld Ultra represents a significant evolution in EDC flashlight design. Its combination of innovative triple-beam technology, premium construction, and practical functionality earns it a solid 4.7/5 rating. While the non-replaceable battery and premium price point might deter some users, the overall package offers exceptional value for those seeking a versatile, high-quality illumination tool.
For hunters, tactical users, and EDC enthusiasts who demand the best, the Arkfeld Ultra stands as a compelling option that successfully bridges the gap between traditional flashlight and tactical tool.
