Fenix TK20R Rechargeable Flashlight

This is a positive and negative review for this light. I bought it after considerable discussion with a helpful rep from Fenix directly. My concern was that, as I was going to use it for sailing, that the seal that covered the USB port in the back of the unit was indeed watertight. I am a blue water sailor, and hard use and resistance to salt water is imperative. I was assured that it was indeed fit my criteria. Also, I was concerned that the original 950 lumens (50 lower than the PD35) would be noticeable. I was assured that in “real life” it would not be evident. I notice that the new ads for this unit say that it is 1000 lumens rated. Not sure whether there was a change in the bulb or design, but at least the “original” unit certainly seems “daylight” to me. All positives! Now for the negative. I sailed from Hawaii to Anacortes recently, and had some blowy days and nights sailing. My light failed after a day or so – it would not go on in any mode – I did find out that by unscrewing the base section, it would go on in one mode, but that opened it up to additional damage. What caused the failure? The rubber flap that seals the USB port came out and salt water spray got in – and as those that deal with salt water know, salt water and electronics do not agree. The seal is just NOT a good design. Pulling it out and pushing it in the storm pockets in my foul weather gear at night must have been the action/s that caused the failure. Astonishing bad design, in fact. It slightly protrudes over the edge of the barrel and so can get pushed out of its sealed position easily. I believe that is what happened in my case. Secondly, the base of the rubber piece that goes into the aluminum base is not robust. It has one rib in the rubber – the rubber insert part should have at least three so that the ribs can be forced down into the cavity and really have to be pulled to get it out. So: 1) tab used to pull open rubber protective flap bad design; 2) and ribs on seal itself inadequate.
When I saw the light, I thought that this might be a problem, but hoped for the best – I had no time to return it, so took a chance. Fortunately I had a dive light on the boat and so used that.
While I was out of warranty, the gentleman who answered the call did replace the unit with a TK15 unit that hopefully will do a better job. Not quite what I wanted, but OK. Good for customer service to step up though.
So… I’m not sure if Fenix will publish this review, as it is negative and points out a failure with their design (for rugged and/or water use). We will see.

Love my TK20R. It is my first tactical light and so far I’ve had it for six months and I have exactly 0 complaints.
I carry it in the included nylon holster on the side of my backpack and I use it almost everyday.
Great battery life and design.
Very durable constuction.
Great ergonomics.

Got this to replace my TK22 after it was lost. I love this light every bit as much. Despite the smaller head diameter I was still very impressed with the beam width. Walking down the street or in a hallway, it provides an amazing periphery to see. The central beam has even better throw than my TK22, I can see clearly much further. Both are amazing flashlights but I really like the USB charging, though rarely used since I have a battery charger for 18650’s but in a pinch or traveling it’s a huge help.

After buying my first Fenix light, I’ve been so impressed I’ve continued to come back. My TK20 has shown to be no different.