Torches in a metal case
prices on 244 modelsMetal
— lanterns, in the construction of which metal is used; most often this is the only case material, however, models are also produced where metal is combined with plastic.The most commonly used metal is aluminium alloy. It is relatively light, but still weighs significantly more than plastic; on the other hand, for many users this is a positive feature: "heavy" flashlights are often more pleasant in the hand and are subconsciously perceived as more solid and reliable. And in some cases — for example, for a lantern-baton (see "Type"), weight can be quite a practical advantage.
However, the main advantage of metal over plastic is its high strength and reliability. Such cases endure strong impacts that can split plastic without consequences, they are not afraid of temperature changes, friction, ultraviolet radiation, etc. The reverse side of these advantages is a higher cost than plastic; however, nowadays, metal production technologies have improved so much that “aircraft-grade” aluminium can be found in even the most affordable and inexpensive flashlights.
As for the combination of metal with plastic, it allows to some extent to combine the advantages of both materials and mutually compensate for the disadvantages. However, such combined cases did not receive special distribution; see "plastic" for details.