As the name might suggest this light is related to P2X Fury. Think of this as larger version. This is the unique point about this light - using three CR123A batteries, P3X Fury allows easy maintenance as well as use.
For the review, a P3X Fury Tactical was used. This is a single output light with momentary switch. P3X Fury has 2 stages(clickable tail cap, momentary) and 2 output levels(15 lumens, 1,000 lumens)
When you get one it comes in efficient packaging like other Surefire handheld lights. Some of the specifications are listed such as 7.2oz weight, length of 6.6 inches, 1000 lumens and 1.5 hour running time.
Here's a warning sign buyers would have noticed. Caution should not be ignored
Body is of a simple design. Six grooves for fingers on body as well as cuts in head part
This photo was taken around 4pm. Light from the P3X is visible with a bit of shade. The light seems to have a slight green hue.
Indoor performance
Here's a comparison with Surefire X300 Ultra. X300-U emits 500 lumens and is no slouch.
But when compared to 1000 lumens there is no way to sugar coat it. Left is X300-U and right is P3X.
To outdoors
It would be a crime if P3X was not let loose on wild outdoors. The furthest distance available at the time was around 250 yards and P3X had no problem throwing lights to the hill. In complete darkness it probably won't have problem reaching beyond that.
Here's how it will function in more urbanized setting.
The car is approximately 60 yards away.
Both X300-U and P3X do a good job of lighting up the car.
X300-U
P3X
Would there be more pronounced difference in closer distance? This time it was about 25 yards.
With X300-U front of the car is well visible.
But P3X threw enough lights to the point where head rests of front seats were visible. Photograph was taken with a simple point-and-shoot camera, so it was difficult, but looking at original resolution there was a difference.
This time both were tested at an orange grove.
X300-U did a good job of lighting trees.
P3X did even better job with plenty of peripheral lights as well as intense bright center.
However there has been some drawbacks too.
First drawback is the strength of P3X itself. More is better in most cases, but sometimes it may not be for all occasions. During the review P3X's 1000 lumen reflections from white walls was strong enough to light hallways and rooms as if light switch was turned on. This probably could cause a bit of problem as well as being an advantage.
Incorrect use of cover and concealment may result in shooter adversely affected by this exceptionally bright light.
Second, heating is unavoidable. Compared to other lights 1000 lumens is far more brighter and results in more heat. It took about one minute of constant on for the head to be warm. It wasn't painful, but just enough warmth user could feel. During various outdoor testing it got a bit warm even though it was not on constant on.
Depending on environment's temperature this may happen earlier or later. It won't grill a steak but it is something to pay attention.
Who is this for?
This is question that inevitably comes up and there are several possible applications.
For LEOs this would be an excellent tool. 1000 lumen is nothing to laugh at, and in case an officer needs more light, this would be an excellent choice. P3X (2 settings) has 15 lumen mode which would work well for regular use while in a split second it can be jumped up to 1000 lumens in case of emergency.
For outdoorsmen this could be the most compact light that will have a great reach. With just 3 CR123A batteries to use it is easy to maintain and use. It may not be the best for continuous use but for quick identification and survey this is great.
This also would be a good option for those who want to add another tool for self-defense. 1000 lumens at night will mess someone's vision(albeit temporarily) and aluminum is strong enough to survive impacts.
The best price I was able to find was from TNVC, $175
http://tnvc.com/shop/surefire-p3x-fury-tactical/
http://tnvc.com/shop/surefire-p3x-fury/
In a few weeks this light will be used in a low-light shooting class. Impression from that session may be updated.
