REVIEW: Flashlight FSS-014 Ratnik

Imagine it's night or you have to go into a dark bunker, then it's time to grab the flashlight. After a strong sip of vodka, Ivan does the same: today we introduce you to the next part of the new RATNIK kit of the Russian army. It's the Pouch and Helmet Light FSS-014.

This is how it's delivered. Fresh in the packaging, the seal torn.

There it is, the FSS-014 flashlight. And there's also paperwork included.

We want to document this for all who can read Russian.

And also for all who collect or are interested in Russian military items. There's a phone number included, you can surely call.

Those from the West have a slight "flash" when they look at the FSS-014 flashlight. And they are right: the Western counterpart is the Streamlight Sidewinder Compact II 2 Military, seen on the right in the picture.

A look at the light panel confirms: it's almost the same. Or let's say this: if Ivan thinks something is good, he has no moral problems copying it and adapting it to his needs. The most notable difference is that the Russian clone does not have an IR function. HERE is the American flashlight directly from Streamlight.FSS-014 in detail: the clip is ideal for clipping on and off. It also serves for helmet mounting with its loop.

The shape is determined by the function, this is the battery compartment.

The body carries the light source.

The battery compartment and the selection button for controlling the different lights.

This cap on the left holds the bracket. On the right, the flashlight is turned on and off.

The cap of the battery compartment unscrewed. This is made watertight with an O-ring.

A look inside the battery compartment. The Russian chose the commonly used AA batteries as a power source. A smart choice...

The front of the flashlight: an LED and three small colored lights. The flashlight weighs 95 grams.

SPARTANAT is the online magazine for Military News, Tactical Life, Gear & Reviews.
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