Description

NITECORE MT21C Tactical Flashlight, 1000 Lumens

The NITECORE MT21C is a compact multifunctional flashlight with an adjustable head that can be positioned anywhere between 0° and 90°. This makes it suitable both as a conventional straight flashlight and as an angled work light for hands-free or close-range tasks.

Powered by a CREE XP-L HD V6 LED, the MT21C delivers a maximum output of 1000 lumens, a beam distance of up to 184 metres and peak beam intensity of 8,500 candela. Five brightness levels are complemented by Strobe, Beacon and SOS modes.

A magnetic tail allows the flashlight to attach to suitable ferromagnetic surfaces, while the flat tail also enables tail-standing. Together with the adjustable head and supplied pocket clip, these features make the MT21C particularly versatile for professional work, vehicle maintenance, inspections, outdoor activities, emergency equipment and general everyday use.

Key Features

• Maximum output: 1000 lumens
• Maximum beam distance: 184 m
• Peak beam intensity: 8,500 cd
• Adjustable flashlight head: 0°–90°
• CREE XP-L HD V6 LED
• Five brightness levels
• Three special modes: Strobe, Beacon and SOS
• Maximum runtime up to 700 hours on Ultralow
• Integrated battery power indicator
• Battery voltage indication accurate to approximately ±0.1 V
• ATR Advanced Temperature Regulation
• Reverse-polarity protection
• Precision Digital Optics Technology reflector
• Toughened ultra-clear mineral glass
• Anti-reflective lens coating
• Aerospace-grade aluminium alloy body
• HA III hard-anodised finish
• IPX8 waterproof rating – submersible to 2 m
• Impact resistant to 1 m
• Magnetic tail
• Tail-standing capability
• Compatible with 1 × 18650, 2 × CR123 or 2 × RCR123 batteries

0°–90° Adjustable Head

One of the defining features of the MT21C is its adjustable flashlight head. The head can be rotated from a conventional straight 0° position up to 90° according to the task.

This allows the same flashlight to serve several different roles:

• Traditional handheld flashlight
• Right-angle work light
• Inspection light
• Hands-free equipment light when attached with the clip
• Magnetic work light when fixed to a suitable metal surface
• Standing area light when placed on its tail

1000-Lumen Maximum Output

The CREE XP-L HD V6 LED produces a maximum output of 1000 lumens in Turbo mode.

NITECORE's optical system provides a maximum beam distance of approximately 184 metres with peak intensity of 8,500 cd.

The flashlight offers five regular brightness levels ranging from 1 lumen for close-range or extended-runtime use to 1000 lumens for maximum illumination.

Brightness Levels and Performance

Mode	Output	Runtime	Beam Distance	Peak Intensity
Turbo	1000 lumens	Approx. 1 h*	184 m	8,500 cd
High	400 lumens	3 h 45 min	122 m	3,720 cd
Mid	190 lumens	7 h 30 min	85 m	1,800 cd
Low	50 lumens	25 h	42 m	450 cd
Ultralow	1 lumen	700 h	6 m	10 cd
Strobe	1000 lumens	—	—	—
Beacon	1000 lumens	—	—	—
SOS	1000 lumens	—	—	—

*Turbo runtime note: The stated Turbo runtime represents the test result before temperature regulation begins.

The manufacturer performance data was measured according to ANSI/NEMA FL1 flashlight testing standards using one 3500 mAh 18650 Li-ion battery. Actual performance may vary depending on battery type and condition, ambient temperature and individual usage.

Five Brightness Levels

When the flashlight is switched on, tapping the side switch cycles through:

Ultralow → Low → Mid → High → Turbo

This range allows the MT21C to adapt from close-range work and extended emergency illumination to high-output searching and outdoor use.

Constant and Momentary Turbo

The MT21C provides direct access to Turbo from the off state.

Constant Turbo: With the flashlight switched off, press and hold the switch. The flashlight first enters Ultralow and then Turbo. Release the switch when Turbo is activated to maintain the Turbo output.

Momentary Turbo: With the flashlight switched off, press and hold the switch through Ultralow into Turbo. Continue holding and release after approximately 2.5 seconds to exit.

Strobe, Beacon and SOS Modes

The MT21C includes three special signalling modes:

• Strobe
• Beacon
• SOS

From any state, quickly press the switch three times to enter Strobe mode. Tap the switch again to cycle through:

Beacon → SOS → Strobe

Press and hold the switch to exit the special modes.

Integrated Power Indicator

The integrated blue power indicator provides information about remaining battery power.

• When the flashlight is operating and battery power drops to approximately 50%, the indicator flashes once every two seconds.
• When battery power becomes low, the indicator flashes rapidly.

When the flashlight is switched off, tapping the switch activates the voltage reporting function. The blue indicator reports battery voltage with an accuracy of approximately ±0.1 V.

For example, a measured voltage of 4.2 V is indicated by four flashes, followed by a pause and another two flashes.

Battery Voltage Reference

1 × 18650:

• Approx. 3.5 V – low power
• Approx. 3.7 V – intermediate level
• Approx. 3.9 V – high level
• Approx. 4.2 V – full power

2 × CR123:

• Approx. 4.8 V – low power
• Approx. 5.6 V – intermediate level
• Approx. 6.0 V – high level
• Approx. 6.4 V – full power

When two CR123 or RCR123 batteries are used in series, the flashlight reports the average voltage of the two batteries.

Compatible Batteries

Battery Type	Size	Nominal Voltage	Compatibility
Rechargeable Li-ion battery	18650	3.6 / 3.7 V	Yes – recommended
Primary lithium battery	CR123	3 V	Yes – recommended
Rechargeable Li-ion battery	RCR123	3.6 / 3.7 V	Yes

The flashlight operates with:

• 1 × 18650 rechargeable Li-ion battery, or
• 2 × CR123 lithium batteries, or
• 2 × RCR123 rechargeable Li-ion batteries.

Advanced Temperature Regulation – ATR

The integrated Advanced Temperature Regulation (ATR) module automatically adjusts flashlight output according to operating conditions and temperature.

This allows the MT21C to regulate its output dynamically instead of attempting to maintain maximum power regardless of temperature.

Magnetic Base

A magnet integrated into the tail allows the MT21C to be attached to suitable ferromagnetic surfaces.

This is particularly useful when working on vehicles, machinery, electrical installations or other tasks where both hands need to remain free.

Always confirm that the magnetic surface provides secure support before releasing the flashlight. Vibration, movement, surface contamination or insufficient magnetic contact may cause the flashlight to fall.

Tail-Standing Capability

The flat tail design allows the flashlight to stand vertically on a suitable level surface. With the head rotated towards the required direction, the MT21C can therefore function as a compact stationary work or area light.

Durable Aluminium Construction

The flashlight body is manufactured from aerospace-grade aluminium alloy with a hard-anodised HA III finish designed to resist everyday wear.

The lens uses toughened ultra-clear mineral glass with an anti-reflective coating.

Water and Impact Resistance

• Water resistance: IPX8
• Submersion rating: Up to 2 metres
• Impact resistance: Up to 1 metre

The IPX8 rating applies to the flashlight in its correctly assembled condition. Ensure the tail cap and sealing components are correctly fitted before exposure to water.

Recommended Use

• Law enforcement and security work
• Inspection and maintenance work
• Vehicle repairs
• Workshop use
• Emergency equipment
• Search and outdoor activities
• Camping and hiking
• Everyday carry
• Home and vehicle emergency kits
• Hands-free work using the magnetic base or pocket clip

Technical Specifications

Product	NITECORE MT21C
Product Type	Multifunctional adjustable tactical flashlight
LED	CREE XP-L HD V6
Beam Colour	White light
Maximum Output	1000 lumens
Maximum Beam Distance	184 m
Peak Beam Intensity	8,500 cd
Brightness Levels	5
Special Modes	Strobe, Beacon, SOS
Maximum Runtime	Up to 700 h
Head Adjustment	0°–90°
Battery Options	1 × 18650 / 2 × CR123 / 2 × RCR123
Body Material	Aerospace-grade aluminium alloy
Surface Finish	HA III hard anodised
Lens	Toughened ultra-clear mineral glass with anti-reflective coating
Water Resistance	IPX8, submersible to 2 m
Impact Resistance	1 m
Magnetic Tail	Yes
Tail Stand	Yes
Length	131 mm
Head Diameter	25.4 mm
Tail Diameter	25.4 mm
Weight	103.5 g
Country of Manufacture	China

Package Includes

• NITECORE MT21C flashlight
• Spare O-ring
• Lanyard
• Pocket clip
• Holster

Note: A battery is not listed among the supplied accessories in the manufacturer manual.

Battery Installation

1. Unscrew the tail cap.
2. Insert the compatible battery or batteries with the correct polarity.
3. Screw the tail cap securely into place.
4. After battery installation, the flashlight flashes to report battery voltage.

If the batteries are installed incorrectly, the MT21C will not operate.

When to Recharge or Replace the Battery

The battery should be recharged or replaced when one or more of the following occurs:

• The blue power indicator flashes rapidly.
• Light output becomes noticeably dim.
• The flashlight becomes unresponsive.

Maintenance

NITECORE recommends regular maintenance of the threaded connections.

• Approximately every six months, wipe the threads with a clean cloth.
• Apply a thin coating of silicone-based lubricant to the threads afterwards.
• Inspect the O-ring periodically for wear or damage.
• Keep battery contacts clean and dry.
• Remove batteries before extended periods of storage.

Safety Information

• Avoid direct exposure of the eyes to the light beam.
• Do not intentionally shine the flashlight directly into the eyes of people or animals.
• Ensure batteries are inserted with correct polarity.
• When carrying the flashlight inside a backpack or bag, loosen the tail cap to help prevent accidental activation.
• Remove all batteries before extended storage to reduce the risk of battery leakage.
• Replace or recharge batteries when the power indicator flashes rapidly, output becomes dim or the flashlight becomes unresponsive.
• Allow the ATR temperature regulation system to manage output during high-power operation.
• Do not use the flashlight if the body, battery compartment, lens or sealing components are seriously damaged.

Warranty Information

According to the supplied NITECORE manufacturer documentation:

• DOA or defective products may be exchanged through a local distributor or dealer within 15 days of purchase.
• After this period, defective or malfunctioning NITECORE products are covered by free manufacturer repair service for up to 60 months from the date of purchase.
• After 60 months, a limited manufacturer warranty applies covering labour and maintenance, but not replacement parts or accessories.

The manufacturer warranty does not apply to damage caused by unauthorised disassembly or modification, improper use or battery leakage.

Statutory consumer rights under applicable national and EU law remain unaffected.

FAQ

How bright is the NITECORE MT21C?

The maximum output is 1000 lumens in Turbo mode.

How far does the MT21C shine?

The maximum stated beam distance is approximately 184 metres.

Can the flashlight head be angled?

Yes. The head can be adjusted continuously between 0° and 90° according to the task.

What battery does the MT21C use?

It can operate with one 18650 rechargeable Li-ion battery, two CR123 lithium batteries or two RCR123 rechargeable Li-ion batteries.

Is an 18650 battery recommended?

Yes. NITECORE lists one 18650 rechargeable Li-ion battery as a recommended battery option.

How long can the MT21C run?

Maximum stated runtime is up to 700 hours in the 1-lumen Ultralow mode. Runtime decreases at higher brightness levels.

What are the five brightness levels?

Ultralow 1 lumen, Low 50 lumens, Mid 190 lumens, High 400 lumens and Turbo 1000 lumens.

Does the flashlight have Strobe?

Yes. It includes Strobe, Beacon and SOS special modes, all using the 1000-lumen output level.

Does the MT21C have a magnetic base?

Yes. The magnetic tail allows the flashlight to attach to suitable ferromagnetic surfaces for hands-free work.

Can it stand on its tail?

Yes. The flat tail provides tail-standing capability on a suitable stable surface.

Is the MT21C waterproof?

It is rated IPX8 and specified as submersible to a depth of 2 metres when correctly assembled.

Is the flashlight impact resistant?

Yes. The manufacturer specifies impact resistance to 1 metre.

How does the battery indicator work?

The blue indicator warns when battery power falls to approximately 50% and flashes rapidly at low power. When the light is off, it can also report battery voltage to approximately ±0.1 V.

What is ATR?

ATR stands for Advanced Temperature Regulation. It allows the flashlight to regulate its output according to operating temperature and environmental conditions.

Is the battery included?

The manufacturer manual lists a spare O-ring, lanyard, clip and holster as accessories. A battery is not included in that package list.

Glossary

• Lumen: Unit used to measure the total amount of visible light emitted by a light source.
• Candela (cd): Unit of luminous intensity that helps indicate how concentrated a flashlight beam is.
• ATR: Advanced Temperature Regulation, NITECORE's system for dynamically regulating output according to operating temperature.
• 18650: Rechargeable cylindrical Li-ion battery format commonly used in high-performance flashlights.
• CR123: Primary lithium battery format commonly used in compact professional flashlights.
• RCR123: Rechargeable Li-ion battery format with similar physical dimensions to a CR123.
• IPX8: Water-resistance classification for equipment designed to withstand continuous immersion under manufacturer-specified conditions.
• Strobe: Rapid flashing mode.
• Beacon: Repeating signalling flash mode intended to help indicate a location.
• SOS: Emergency signalling mode using the internationally recognised SOS pattern.
• HA III: Hard-anodised aluminium surface treatment used to improve wear and corrosion resistance.

Manufacturer & GPSR Information

Manufacturer:
SYSMAX Innovations Co., Ltd.
Unit 6355, 5/F, No. 1021 Gaopu Road
Tianhe District
Guangzhou 510653
Guangdong
China

Phone: +86 20 83862000
Fax: +86 20 83882723
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Website: www.nitecore.com

Responsible Company / Distributor in Latvia:
Akciju Sabiedrība "ELKO Grupa"
Registration No. 40003129564
Toma iela 4
Rīga, LV-1003
Latvia