| Weltool W3 Plus | |
|---|---|
| LEP type / class | shine through |
| Max. beam intensity (candelas) | 810,000 cd |
| Max. beam distance (meters) | 1,800 meters |
| Max. output (lumens) | 940 lm |
| Modes | 2 |
| Avg. Price | $310 |
Weltool W3 Plus
We’re looking at the Weltool W3 Plus, which I believe is not so much a successor to the W3 Pro Tac as it is an additional model in the W3 lineup. This LEP flashlight is designed for long-distance use, making it suitable for activities like hunting, hiking, and camping. Its wider beam, compared to normal LEP flashlights, may also lend itself to tactical applications. The build quality is impressive, featuring knurling on the tailcap and a matte anodization finish that matches its siblings.
The W3 Plus utilizes a shine-through LEP module, which allows for a higher output of 940 lumens, making it one of the most powerful LEP flashlights available. The flashlight has a larger head than its predecessors, which should enhance its throw distance. However, the beam does exhibit a white hotspot with a greenish halo, indicating that LEP technology still has room for improvement in achieving a more uniform beam. Despite this, Weltool remains a leader in the LEP flashlight market, integrating the latest technology into their products.
The user interface of the W3 Plus is straightforward but includes hidden modes that may complicate switching between high and low settings. It comes with a high-capacity 21700 battery that features a USB-C charging port, and it can accommodate various types of 21700 batteries. While the wider beam may not be ideal for everyone, the W3 Plus stands out for its performance and versatility, making it a solid choice for those seeking a powerful LEP flashlight.
Performance
Lumen
The measurements were taken manually at turn on and 30 seconds. The 10-minute numbers are taken from the runtime graph.
| Mode | Specified output | Turn on | 30 sec. | 10min. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low | 320 lm | 310 lm | 300 lm | 281lm |
| High | 940 lm | 942 lm | 864 lm | 523lm |
I supposed that the W3 Plus and W3 Pro Tac had the same LEP module, but interestingly enough, the W3 Plus measured quite a bit lower. I don’t really know what is going on there, but I used the same setup for testing.
Runtime
| Mode | Specified runtime | Runtime (ANSI FL1) | Time till shut off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low | 3h 55min | 3h 43min | 3h 43min |
| High | 1h 40min | 2h 28min | 2h 40min |
High mode ran quite a bit longer than advertised, as was also the case with the Weltool W3 Pro Tac. It ran about 1 hour longer.
Throw measurements
| Mode | Specified runtime | Runtime (ANSI FL1) | Time till shut off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low | 3h 55min | 3h 43min | 3h 43min |
| High | 1h 40min | 2h 28min | 2h 40min |
High mode ran quite a bit longer than advertised, as was also the case with the Weltool W3 Pro Tac. It ran about 1 hour longer.
