OUTDATED: While this flashlight served me well, I have a better recommendation, from Olight, coming soon.
I’m definitely a flashlight nerd. A number of years ago I bought a decent flashlight and decided to try carrying it every day. I’ve been continually amazed by how handy having a light on you can be. Dropped something? Can’t see behind the desk, or your computer? Talking the dogs on a walk or out at night?
My favorite manufacturer is a great company called Four Sevens. They make a great little light called the Quark Pro. They have different versions that use different batteries, but my favorite uses a CR123 battery, which is a lithium battery. The upside to a CR123 battery is they have a 10 year shelf life. The flashlight has about a 1 hour runtime on high or about 360 hours on the lowest setting, which they call moonlight and is great in a dark restaurant when you’re looking for something in your purse or can’t read the menu. It’s also great when you’re sneaking in late at night and don’t want to disturb your spouse, parents or tentmates. On high, you get 200 lumens, which is bright.
http://www.foursevens.com/products/QPL-AE
My preferred batteries are made by Surefire.
Amazon.com $22.50