I am really impressed with these little torches! Not only are they very powerful for their size, they fit into small spaces and can work for a long period without requiring charging. We use the torches for conservation projects, and use these mainly for fieldwork and camping. Esther Matthew, Montagu

My heart sank into my shoes when I turned on the SP31 Pro Detective – it was worse than the 350 lumen torch I had before, so I was deeply disappointed and just left it sitting on a counter when I went to bed, thinking what can you expect from such a tiny thing?! But before I called you to complain about this supposed 2000 lumen torch I decided to RTFM* and, OMG*, I found out that a double click gives you turbo, and also how to increase and decrease the intensity. FMG* does this little torch have light?! The reviews were right – it's a pretty awesome pocket torch, the best I've ever had!! Anton Ungerer, Kyalami, Jhb [*translations available on request.]

We live next to a nature reserve and in the past we've had unwanted entry onto our property. Some years ago I bought myself a state-of-the-art torch to shine into the reserve at random times during the night to create awareness that someone is watching. Recently my son gave me a Sofirn SC31 Pro Detective as a present. It's about one tenth the size of my previous torch, but when I used it to light up the nature reserve I could not believe the difference! The Detective’s highest setting is very bright indeed, showing up a lot more detail – I can believe their claim that it produces 2,000 lumens. But the most astonishing fact is that all this light is produced by a tool so compact you can carry it in your pocket everywhere you go – just unbelievable! The battery life seems good – I used the torch over a long weekend away and there was no indication it was running low – and the recharge time is very quick. It's very comforting to know the software protects the torch through energy- and heat-management, so it's virtually fool-proof. The casing is very robust and I see no reason why it should not last a long time. I can recommend the SC31 Pro to anybody looking for a compact, well-built, bright light that should give years of service. Gert Coffee, Cape Town

The Detective arrived at 9am. Beautifully engineered instrument with many functions that will take me a while to get the hang of (like the fancy cell phones these days). My last torch was a ***** ***** which lasted nearly 10 years until the weird batteries packed up and were not available anymore. When I got to trying out this little torch on turbo during load shedding, crikey, it's brighter than a car's headlights on main beam! I am impressed! Many thanks for the fantastic service, attention to detail and continual feedback. Nice to have reprinted instructions, what with the old eyesight struggling with tiny instruction booklets without a magnifying glass 😕 Will be sure to recommend you. Rory Freeman, Plumstead, Cape Town

So we waited with bated breath for nightfall on Friday to test the Detective, and all I can say is WOW!!! The normal setting on this little torch is already good, but what I was not expecting was that our backyard would be flooded with daylight on the brightest setting. We were also super impressed with the range of settings, especially the one that tells you the battery voltage. This torch has become a pocket must-have when leaving the house, and I’m told it has already come in handy when entering a dark storeroom. Retha Bouwer, Gqeberha/PE

For its size the SC31 Pro Detective is absolutely amazing. I wanted a bright torch to keep in the small key-drawer at my front door for whatever crops up – to look down the pathway (we have a lot of porcupines that cause false alarms) or take the fur-kids for a quick walkabout. For further versatility I ordered the optional diffuser and magnetic tailcap as well as a holster, even though it has a clip to easily conceal it in your pocket. The magnetic tailcap and diffuser are great for load shedding and to keep in the glovebox of the car for road-trips. A feature I really like is that a single click of the switch takes the light to the last setting (I keep mine on "high") but, for those times you don't want to blow away the darkness, holding down the switch starts the torch at the lowest setting and slowly steps up to the level you want. Definitely my favourite torch-in-the-porch. Diether Etzel, Scarborough

I bought the SC31 Pro Detective for a specific marine-engineering project and, oh man... this torch has taken my awareness to a whole new level! A highlight was hearing our lead Quality Engineer saying "wow, this torch is really helping!" In engine rooms, hull bilges and the underbelly of a 50ft moulding tool, seconds count. Do you mess around with a cellphone light for the next 30 minutes, or do you get your answer within five minutes at 2,000 lumens? Honestly it's been a revelation. I've always liked torches but this clearly is different and oh-so-perfect for the job! As for using the Detective in my personal time, I just like going:

"Hey dude, you see that tree over there?"

"What tree?"

"THAT tree!"

Adriaan Buys, Stellenbosch

The SC31 Pro Detective is an everyday carry torch, so it's supposed to tackle most lighting tasks while always being within reach... and it does this brilliantly. It's incredible that Sofirn have managed to cram so many features into a package that can (and does!) get lost in my pocket. Sure, you will find torches that deliver more lumens or shine further, but for pure convenience the Detective takes a lot of beating (literally!) KC, Parkhurst

What a fantastic torch! The Andúril UI is awesome – so many features hidden away – and the fat neutral white beam (I got the 5,000k version) delivers a decent throw for its size. The smooth ramping mode is great and the torch tail-stands well so it's ideal for loadshedding (especially with the optional diffuser). On the brighter settings you'll be glad it has the advanced temperature regulation as it definitely gets hot, but to the naked eye you cannot see it step down in brightness. Definitely buy the magnetic tail cap which is super strong – if I had to nit pick I wish it had a lanyard hole, and a deeper carry 2-way pocket clip would be better and less abrasive on the pants pocket. Definitely my new favourite for EDC, and for keeping under the pillow to check out night time noises! Thank you Mark for your great advice, service, speedy delivery and for suggesting the SP31 Pro! Graeme Ho You, Wendywood, Jhb

My impressions of the SC31 Pro Detective are all very positive – and I am a serious torch freak. The USB-C connector is a big improvement on a micro-USB port, as is the illuminated switch. To my mind, the optional magnetic tailcap is a must, greatly improving the versatility. The diffuser accessory will be useful in the situation our country is currently in. I doubt whether I will want to reconfigure settings but am pleased the temperature calibration was done pre-delivery. The beam pattern is excellent with a good hotspot and useful spill. All in all, an excellent little torch that I am looking forward to using. Thanks for your help and advice. Neville Passmore, Swellendam

Absolutely amazing little torch. Exactly what I needed. Small but powerful, way beyond my expectations, and I love the 5000k beam colour. A real winner! Johann Rautenbach, Gqeberha/PE

My experience with the Detective is that it's the best and most functional torch I have ever owned!!! I can show you at least 15 old torches in my house, apart from the ones I've dumped over the years, but the Detective is better than them all. It's compact, durable, has long battery life and delivers exceptional brightness which can be adjusted right down to the softest light… and the illuminated switch is a winner! I could go on – it's so practical that I go nowhere without it. Fanie Potgieter, Mooketsi.

At first I could only test my SC31 Pro Detective torch around the garden, where I was extremely happy with its performance, but more recently I had an opportunity to use it during a bush holiday and I was really impressed with how useful it is in that environment! Although it has quite a floody beam it's very useful on night drives for spotting the eyes of animals and looking for owls in trees. One of the lodges insisted that a guide with a torch accompany guests back to their rooms, but after the first night the guides all asked if I could just light the way with my torch instead. We managed to find a chameleon after sunset and I needed just a bit more light for a photo – I just ramped the brightness down to the desired level, placed the torch at the best angle, and got the shot I was after without using a flash and blinding everyone. The balance this torch achieves between size, performance and versatility is perfect, and it keeps finding ways to make me chuffed about owning it. Lloyd Zacharias, Sandton

Well you were right – when people see the Detective they want one! My father saw mine and, well, you guessed it – it was repurposed :-) So can I please have a quote from you for another Detective... Bryan McAllister, Plumstead, CT

The Sofirn SC31 Pro Detective in one word... WOW! First off, Mark’s service is above and beyond any I have received in SA or overseas. Mark you are a true gentleman, thank you. I also bought a SP40 Hammer from Mark for my wife’s birthday in a couple of days – this is important to the story. I followed the usual instructions and put the Detective on charge in secret so wifey did not get wind of it, lest she smell a rat with her birthday coming up. So last night she went into the bathroom to do girl stuff, the SC31 was charged and ready to play, and I seized my opportunity. The room lights were on – six LED globes so it's nice and bright. Click and the Detective is on, nice beam. Press and hold and the beam ramps up. WOW, that is bright! Quickly turn off before the wife notices. But then... I had to do it, like a diabetic kid in a candy store, I had to double click to see turbo mode... Holy ****!! It was like there was a lightning bolt in the room. It dwarfed the room lighting and I knew the game was up. And then I forgot how to switch the SC31 off – I just started pressing the button. It exited turbo and reverted to "ceiling", then another click and she was off… Silence. Then the wife from behind a closed door, “What's on TV? That was a very bright picture”. Ouch! I managed to bluff my way out of that one, but I am left in disbelief of how apocalyptically bright this little torch is. Mark, you told me how good it was, but you were wrong. It is better! Gareth Owen, Bruma, Jhb.

This Sofirm SC31 Pro Detective is one of the most impressive gadgets I own. I bought it to replace a small AA torch and, although I was expecting the Detective to be a step up, I couldn't believe the jump! It has even replaced the 4 D-cell LED torch I kept next to my bed for doing sweeps of the garden when the alarm goes off, or the dogs start barking – an impressive feat for a torch about a fifth of the size! The beam profile is perfect for checking out large areas – it completely lights up my whole garden with a nice flood and decent hotspot. The ramp-down feature is probably what makes this torch so versatile – you can easily step it down to light up a working area – and you'll need to, because this thing is serious! The diffuser is a must with this torch and really completes the package, creating a powerful lantern for load-shedding, camping, etc. Facing the light straight up at a white ceiling works incredibly well and gives my entire open-plan area a workable light – Detective-lit dinners are common these days. I'm not even going to bother with other emergency lights anymore. My wife normally rolls her eyes when I get excited about my gadgets but even she thinks this one (and the T70 Hunter I bought with it) is cool. Now when the lights go off she asks for my torch, so I'll probably need to get myself another Detective when mine gets expropriated for good. Lastly, the service from TorchGuy is top class, super responsive and helpful, and my goodies arrived within about 25 hours! Lloyd Zacharias, Rivonia

Being an early bird of note, I am usually the first to arrive at work. After opening the security door and deactivating the alarm one has to go to the kitchen right at the back of the store to switch the lights on. Well, the place is pitch black as one leaves the front of store, so I always have the Detective hooked to my waist band, which I use to avoid bumping into anything. It's such a wonderful torch that, even when I reach the kitchen, I delay turning on the lights while I play around with my Detective for a bit! Sally Klem, Gqeberha

I'm really pleased you talked me into the SC31 Pro Detective (well, I was an easy sell...) I'm enjoying experimenting with the customisable aspects – I didn't think I’d fiddle with it much, but there are some really great and practical features as well as the more fun ones (candle mode??) It’s robust, intuitive and beautifully designed – a perfect do-anything torch and just the right size for everyday carry. I often tail-stand my torches during loadshedding but they can be harsh on the eye if one inadvertently looks at the lens, but since I've added the optional diffuser it gives a wonderful, slightly more muted and diffused light. It really becomes a mini bedside light with not so mini performance! Justin Neff, Claremont, CT

I have had a chance to test the SC31 Pro Detective. It's great improvement on the SP31ii and I specifically like the one-button switch controlling all functions. The built-in charging function is fantastic and will certainly make it a lot easier to keep the battery topped up. I now have over 15 torches of different makes and the SC31 is my favorite by some margin. It's more than sufficiently bright and the smooth transition between brightness levels is an excellent feature. Thanks for your operating guidelines which I found a lot easier to read and follow than the manual provided by the manufacturer. Although no one in SA enjoys loadshedding I know that when we have the next one I will silently celebrate as I demonstrate the wonders of my new torch to my family. Thanks for your regular newsletter and support. Stu Waymark, Claremont, CT

My lovely SC31 Pro Detective was delivered this morning – I have already played with it and I am very chuffed, thank you! Thanks for the “Torchguy” Operating Guideline – it's clear, precise and concise, just what I like… great stuff. This is certainly another wonderful product of quality and great performance! I love it, like all of your previous torches that are still working great! Regis Lacomme, Still Bay

I ordered the Detective from the Torchguy and received it in Port Elizabeth 28 hours later – very impressed with the service from Mark, as usual. I simply love this little gem. It has a cool white floodlight to which I'm very partial. In spite of its small size there's nothing small about its performance. Size, weight, ease of operation and of course the cherry on the top – the magnet in the tail cap* – make this a must-have torch. I wish I could give one to everyone I know! Thank you Mark for your superb service and torches. Sally Klem, Port Elizabeth [*optional extra].

Just tried it. It’s extremely impressive for such a small torch. With its easily pocketable size, plus its power and breadth of beam, I think it will make a great torch for around camp, or for security purposes. Nick Pickard, Constantia

What's not to like? The Detective is a great pocket torch that's well built and fits perfectly into my hand. It's a pleasure to charge without removing the battery and the potency of the light is spectacular for its size. I can't even comprehend all the functions of this torch. I am so very happy with this purchase and I often recommend it to any and everyone! Dr Karl von Buddenbrock, Nelspruit

The SC31 Pro is one of the most comprehensively customizable torches I've had the pleasure of owning and the most compact for its output. Its new place of residence is in a go-bag for CPF and emergency fence repairs. One of my favorite features is just how tough it's built and of course its size – an excellent choice for any situation. Kyle McLaren, Pretoria

I gave the detective a good workout over the weekend, and I reckon it's as close to a "one torch for all uses" device as can be. The little green lights in the switch are invaluable in the dark, especially in a strange place. It is a winner. André Wessels, Bryanston

This one is special. I have a drawer full of similar 18650-battery lights to compare the Detective with, but it stands out from the crowd for a couple reasons. For the last couple of years I found myself always going for my favourite flashlight which means that most never get used – you have a favourite you always want with you no matter what. This new Detective is now my favorite in the 18650 format. It is small and easy to carry in a pocket, affordable so you won't worry to much about taking it outside, very bright for when you want to warm your hands in winter and it has lots of unnecessary settings to keep me busy! Jaco van Wyk, Mooinooi

My Sofin SC31 Pro Detective is a replacement for a ***** **** that has been relegated to a box in the garage – and I'm very glad I made this purchase. The Detective is superior in output, weight/size and cost of ownership, and because of these factors I use it so much more. Firstly it's physically much smaller, which makes it far more convenient to carry (and it fits in my car door). Another major factor is the lithium ion battery – I'm no longer hesitant to use the device due to the looming cost of battery replacement, as with my older torch, and keeping the charge topped up is quick and convenient with the supplied USB-C cable. Once I got my head around the smart features, the Detective works really well and the output is truly impressive considering its size. Service from the Torchguy was superb, professional and quick! The addition of his own operating manual (along with the Chinese English factory manual) makes understanding the various torch modes so much easier. I highly recommend this product and the Torchguy!!! Mark Dold, Centurion