A few years ago, Maglite were effectively the Rolls Royce of the torch world. They seemed to set the standard for torches with a rugged durable design with a number of patented features that could operate in the toughest of environments with ease. So successful was this design that many other manufacturers have now followed suit, trying to emulate the same design traits. But in my opinion, they have never quite matched the Maglite quality and success.

So what is so special about the design, and in particular this 3D cell version? Well for starters you have a metal anodised body which means it will be corrosion resistant. The metal itself is quite thick, so it should be able to take a few knocks and drops against hard surfaces. There is also a knurling design around the outside middle of the body to assist with the grip. The torch is operated via a rubber protected push button on the top, and the light beam can be varied from a flood beam through to a pencil beam by rotating the torch head. The whole torch has also been made water resistant via a number of fitted rubber seals around the torch head, the end cap and the switch.

Then there are all of the 'hidden' design features. In side the end cap is housed a spare bulb just below the spring. Unscrew the torch head all the way off and the torch becomes a sort of candle giving all round light. Even better, you can stand the base of the torch into the torch head to stand it up on it's own - a great design feature for camping. And if that all isn't enough, Maglite give their torches a lifetime guarantee that it will be free from defects in their parts and workmanship.

Put the 3D cell batteries in the torch and it does start feeling the business. It has weight to it and it feels solid in your hand. If you hit something with it, that something is going to come off worse. The light beam is impressive, and that seems to be a particularly good design feature for these Maglites. They may use the same bulbs and batteries as other torches, but somehow Maglite seemed to have been able to really utilise all of the light generated to best effect, where the reflector in the head really focuses the light to where it is needed. To best see this in action, focus the beam down and shine it at some distant object across the road and you'll see just how much light it throws onto the area. That's why you tend to see torches as standard issue to many police forces and security services around the world.

Now I have a collection of Maglites that I have acquired over the years, ranging from the mini through to a 4D cell version, and this 3D cell one (meaning it takes 3 D sized batteries) is the one that I use the most. I fact, I have 3 of these in total - one for each car and a spare for taking on late night dog walks. At £18 each for the 3D variety, admittedly they are not cheap. But what you are getting for that money is a torch design par excellence that will last you a lifetime. The power source with the 3 batteries is large enough to give you durability through use, and yet the whole design is small enough to fit into your glove box in the car or into your pocket when you are out walking.

In summary, the Maglite is a well design and very durable torch that gives out much more light than many of its competitors, and with that lifetime guarantee from Maglite, this is a torch that you will be using and have around for years to come. Undoubtedly a 5 star recommendation.