The NiteCore MH12 is a versatile flashlight part of NiteCore’s MH series: Multi-Task hybrid. It features a tactical tail switch and side switch - catering to tactical users and general outdoor enthusiasts.
The MH12 NiteCore flashlight is perfect for activities like:
- Gear
- Hunting
- Law Enforcement and/or Policing
- Military
- Outdoor/Camping/Hiking
- Search and Rescue
Specifications
The MH12 flashlight has a total of 7 modes: 4 output-level and 3 special modes: strobe, location beacon and SOS.
Output and Runtime
- High:
- Output: 1000 lumens
- Runtime: 1 hour and 15 minutes (1x18650) or 1 hour (2xCR123)
- Mid:
- Output: 240 lumens
- Runtime: 6 hours (1x18650) or 5 hours and 15 minutes (2xCR123)
- Low:
- Output: 70 lumens
- Runtime: 28 hours (1x18650) or 20 hours (2xCR123)
- Lower:
- Output: 1 lumen
- Runtime: 520 hours (1x18650) or 300 hours (2xCR123)
The NiteCore MH12 also features 3 special modes for emergency situations:
- Strobe: Self-defense or Tactical
- SOS: Distress Signal
- Location Beacon: Signify locations
Like other NiteCore models and tactical flashlight competitors, runtimes are generally longer with one 18650 battery than two CR123 ones.
The MH12 uses a high quality CREE XM-L2 U2 LED bulb and a reflector using NiteCore’s own precision digital optics technology. It basically means you get a nice, consistent and uniform beam. Reflectors are often overlooked when shopping for a flashlight so it’s good to keep mind which type of reflector the light uses. It’s best to get one with a reflector that has a good balance of spherical and parabolic shapes.
The reflector also influences how much flood and spill the flashlight emits.
What is the throw (beam distance)?
The throw distance of the NiteCore MH12 is 232 meters (m).
What is the maximum peak beam intensity?
The MH12 Niteecore’s peak beam intensity is 13,500 candela per lumen (cd/lm).
Additional Features
The MH12 NiteCore includes an indicator light to display the flashlight’s battery capacity and voltage. It blinks once every two seconds when below 50 - and rapidly when the power level is low.
Durability and Design
Material & Durability
The MH12 is very light weight and compact. It weighs 3.1oz (88 grams) and is 5.47 inches long (139 mm) - perfect dimensions for an every-day-carry light (EDC).
Dimensions:
- Head: 1 inch or 25.4 mm
- Length: 5.47 inches or 139 mm
- Weight: 3.1 oz or 88 grams
Impact Resistance
With its aero grade aluminum alloy casing and toughened mineral glass to protect the lens, the NiteCore MH12 is impact resistant to 1.5 meters.
Waterproof / Water resistance
The MH12 can be submersed up to two meters and has an IPX-8 waterproof rating.
Switches and Functionality
This NiteCore flashlight features two types of switches: tail and side. The tail switch offers momentary illumination while the side switch allows access to the different brightness levels and functions (strobe, SOS, etc.).
Battery
The MH12 is compatible with either one 18650 battery or two CR123 batteries. In Amazon’s bundle, both types of batteries are included. The 18650 is NiteCore branded while the two CR123A lithium batteries are from EdisonBright.
It has a maximum runtime of 520 hours if kept on low (1 lumen) and a 18650 battery is used.
The batteries are USB rechargeable.
Accessories
The MH12 package includes:
- NiteCore 18650 battery
- Charging Cable
- Nylon holster
- Removable clip
- Tactical Ring
- Lanyard
- Spare switch cover, o-ring and USB port cover
The Amazon bundle includes the additional:
- GM02 1” rail mount
- RSW1 pressure switch
- Two CR123A batteries (EdisonBright)
Conclusion: Our NiteCore MH12 Review
The NiteCore MH12 is a great flashlight that is perfect for both a carry-on and a firearm-mounted light. Unfortunately, it does have some issues with the charging port but can easily be solved with an external Nitecore charger.