The Failed Steiner MAWL

Published on June 1, 2024
Duration: 11:19

This video provides an in-depth review of the discontinued Steiner DBAL-A4, a civilian-legal IR laser aiming module with an integrated white light. The presenter highlights its dual IR illumination modes (CQB flood and long-range spot) and white light capability, comparing it unfavorably to the MAWL C1 due to its less refined illumination control and 'worst of both worlds' performance in practical scenarios. The review details its physical characteristics, button layout, and battery configuration, ultimately concluding why it failed in the market.

Quick Summary

The Steiner DBAL-A4, a civilian-legal IR laser aiming module, was discontinued due to its impractical illumination modes. Its wide CQB flood and narrow long-range spot offered limited utility, often leading to user self-blinding. Unlike competitors like the MAWL C1, it lacked refined control and intermediate settings, making it a complex and expensive device with compromised performance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: MAWL C1 vs. DBAL-A4
  2. 00:34Steiner DBAL-A4 Overview
  3. 01:15DBAL-A4 Functionality Breakdown
  4. 01:32Physical Characteristics and Weight
  5. 01:51Side-by-Side Comparison: Right vs. Left
  6. 02:11Mode Select Switch and Fire Buttons
  7. 02:26Battery Configuration (CR23A)
  8. 02:35Toggle Button Functionality
  9. 02:45Illumination Mode Issues
  10. 03:37CQB Flood Illuminator Problems
  11. 03:54Long Range Spot Illuminator Issues
  12. 04:20Worst of Both Worlds Scenario
  13. 04:30Progressive Dimming Limitations
  14. 05:07White Light Illuminator Dimming
  15. 05:15White Light Focusing Lens Issues
  16. 05:39Remote Switch Ports and Viz Override
  17. 06:38Viz Override Negligent Discharge Hazard
  18. 06:56Conclusion: Why DBAL-A4 Was Discontinued
  19. 07:55Alternative: Surefire XVL2-IRC
  20. 08:11Understanding Discontinued Products

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main issues with the Steiner DBAL-A4's IR illumination modes?

The Steiner DBAL-A4 had two primary IR illumination modes: a very wide CQB flood and a narrow long-range spot. The flood was often too blown out for close use, while the spot was too intense and narrow for intermediate ranges, leading to user self-blinding and limited practical application.

How did the Steiner DBAL-A4 compare to the MAWL C1 in terms of illumination control?

The DBAL-A4 offered limited control, forcing users between two extreme illumination modes with no intermediate options. In contrast, the MAWL C1 provided more refined control and immediate access to different IR illumination patterns, making it more versatile.

What made the Steiner DBAL-A4's white light illuminator less effective?

The DBAL-A4's white light illuminator featured a short focusing lens, resulting in a square beam pattern and insufficient candela output. This design limited its ability to produce a focused, usable beam for tactical applications.

Why was the Steiner DBAL-A4 discontinued?

The Steiner DBAL-A4 was discontinued because it was considered too large, too complicated, and too expensive for its performance. Its illumination modes were not as effective as competitors, and its usability was hampered by its design limitations.

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