my concerns they were happy to send me a PL70R flashlight, a
Rescue Knife, and a Tactical Tomahawk to test; my brief was to try
and trash them if I could!
The new PL70R is supplied with an ICR 18650 lithium-ion
rechargeable battery but is otherwise the same in design as the
older one; there was nothing wrong with the design of the older
model but the battery life was nowhere as good as the new one.
The flashlight is made of anti-reflex aircraft aluminium and
has a high-quality aluminium reflector and scratch-proof lens.
It has a clever Temperature Protection System (TPS) and Multi
Battery System (MBS) with a charging indicator.
The Walther Pro Rescue Knife was really the one that I had most
reservations about given my prior experience with the old blade
so I approached testing this with some vigour! This folder is
designed for professional rescue personnel, and it shows. The
rectangular button at the base of the blade and the recesses at
the top of the blade allow it to be opened even with a wet or
gloved hand. A flipper provides opening assistance and protects
the index finger when the blade is extended and the liner lock
engaged.
The 90mm long titanium grey coated drop-point blade is
made of 12C27 Sandvik steel and has a short serration for sawing.
A glass breaker is integrated into the rear of the handle, and non-
slip rubber grips are screwed onto each side of the rugged housing
giving the 208g knife a very positive feel. The knife comes with
its own sturdy nylon pouch, and loops on the rear allow it to be
worn on the belt horizontally or vertically.
In use this is a really great tool for everyday carry. It feels
robust and durable and when I tried the pry technique which
resulted in the old model breaking the new “Pro” knife shrugged
this off with alacrity, not even the dark grey finish to the blade
being affected. I’d like to spend more time with this knife but my
initial impression is that it is a million miles removed from its
forerunner both in materials used in its construction and overall
performance. Retailing iro UK£65.00 this is a good buy in my
opinion and would make a perfect gift as it comes in a cracking
“Walther” presentation box!
Overall after working with the knife, tomahawk, and
flashlight for a little while I’ve come away very impressed that
Umarex really have finally got it right with their new Walther Pro
range. Money and time have obviously been wisely invested and
the net result is a great range that is absolutely worthy of your
consideration if you’re looking some quality items, sensibly priced.
For more information on the models reviewed and the rest of
the range of Walther Pro tools and flashlights please visit www.
armexonline.co.uk
It can be powered by the included 18650 lithium-ion rechargeable
battery for optimal run-times, or alternatively can be powered
using two CR123A lithium metal batteries or three AAA alkaline/
NiMH batteries. The PL70R boasts a stunning 910 lumens when
used with a 18650 lithium-ion rechargeable battery and still has
an impressive maximum output of 430 lumens when used with
AAA NiMH rechargeable batteries. You can choose your light
output from 100 %, 40 %, 10 % or Tactical Defense Strobe (TDS),
the latter of which is quite mind numbing and could be a real
benefit in a tricky situation!
It comes with a charging cradle that can be connected by
means of a 1m cable to a power charger unit both of which are
included, or a USB port (5 V). An adapter for a charging socket in
a car is also supplied (12V / 24V). The Beam Adjustment System
(BAS) is a simple single-hand operation and in use the PL70R
is straightforward and intuitive to work with. The PL70R retails
in the region of UK£90.00 and for this you’re getting a rugged,
technically up to the moment flashlight for your money!
It’s great to see a Tactical Tomahawk in the new “Pro” line as
in recent years the good old “hatchet” has undergone something
of a resurgence with professional police and military users; more
and more operations are undertaken in urban environments,
breaches and searches all requiring a “one tool” approach. The
Tomahawk from Walther Pro is really ready to tackle any job
required!
Equipped with a synthetic handle mated to a durable 420
stainless steel blade, this tool feels like it means business as soon
as you heft it. The black coated blade measures 123mm, while
the entire axe 420mm long including a composite glass-breaker
handle. There’s also a 70mm rear spike on the opposite end of
the blade, which is perfect for prying. The Tomahawk comes with
a sturdy sheath which just the job for protecting you and it, as the
blade has a good, keen edge to it!
I’ve used the Tomahawk for various tasks, chopping wood,
prying open planks nailed together, and even used it to smash
an old window to simulate a breach. The blade gives it a great
weight and feel in the hand and makes chopping a cinch. For
most this will be more at home as a handy tool than as a tactical
implement but at iro UK£60.00 it’s a great bit of kit.
pmcimagazine.com