High power headlamps: description, selection and operation
A flashlight is an almost indispensable thing in hiking, fishing and hunting. But since most of these entertainments are active, holding a simple flashlight in your hands is not very convenient. Therefore, it is best to buy models that are somehow fixed on the body, for example, headbands.
Peculiarities
Today, there are a large number of these devices, while one of the most popular models is considered to be a high-power LED headlamp. These flashlights are different from others. They are quite hardy, shine brightly, and their cost is not too high.. The beam of light from such a flashlight is powerful and directed to one point, which allows you to see everything well at a great distance.
Pros and cons
The benefits of headlamps include:
- convenience and practicality;
- compactness and light weight;
- high endurance, as well as strength;
- the light of such a flashlight is quite bright and powerful;
- hands remain free in any situation;
- you can use it in a variety of areas of activity, for example, fishing or hunting, for convenient reading a book on vacation or for repairs;
- you can always choose the most suitable mode of operation.
Despite such a large number of advantages, many find their disadvantages in such devices. In some models, for example, the mount is not very strong, which means that the flashlight may slip off. In addition, for many, the fact that a beam of light is directed to one point seems to be just an inconvenience.
Brand Overview
But most users are still satisfied with such a device. There are a large number of different models of flashlights of this type. To make the choice a little easier, you need to consider several options for models from different manufacturers, which are considered the most popular in the world.
"Bright Beam" LH-170
The power of this model is 170 lm. You can use this flashlight for fishing and outdoor activities. However, the duration of its operation, even in energy-saving mode, will be short-lived. All other characteristics of the headlamp are excellent.
First of all, it has rich light. Flashlight "Bright Beam" is not afraid of any mechanical damage, even falling from a height of 4 meters. In addition, it is waterproof - when submerged to 1 meter, this model will still work. Its price is not too high and is approximately 650 rubles.
Zebra Light
This model has several operating modes at once, which allows those who use such a flashlight to adjust its power. At its maximum mode, it can work no more than one hour. But its main feature is water resistance.. Even when submerged to a depth of two meters, it will be able to function. Its cost is no more than 5 thousand rubles.
Cobra LH-190
This rather powerful model has 3 operating modes at once, providing a different degree of illumination. This flashlight can work more than two days in a row. In addition, the kit includes a rechargeable battery that can be easily charged via a USB port. Its price is not too high - you can buy it for an amount in the region of 1.5 thousand rubles.
Phoenix HL25
This model is considered one of the most modern, as well as multifunctional flashlights. The power can be adjusted independently, it ranges from 3 to 275 lm. The light is very bright due to the sputtering on the glass. The case is quite durable, as it is made of aluminum alloy. Its price is average, up to 3 thousand rubles.
LED lens
This is also a fairly powerful model, the brightness of which is 350 lm. Such a flashlight shines 250 meters ahead. It can work without interruption for up to three days. Its price is approximately 5 thousand rubles.
Small Sun W602-T6
This model is considered heavy duty, because it has 4 modes at once. In addition, its luminous flux is 1000 lm. The flashlight is equipped with an additional zoom, besides it is resistant to moisture. The case has an aluminum coating, which makes it very durable.
Coast FL60
These models are manufactured in Portland. These lanterns are considered one of the most powerful in the world. This latest American creation has gained popularity all over the world, despite the fact that its brightness is only 300 lumens. You can order this model only with a lifetime warranty. Accordingly, the cost of such a flashlight will be quite high.
Petzl Nao
This model is also quite popular, despite the high cost. This flashlight has a special sensor that itself adjusts the brightness depending on the degree of illumination around. In addition, it has access to all settings.
S.O.G. Dark Energy
If initially the manufacturers of this line of flashlights were engaged only in the production of military models, now they are also producing them for ordinary people. This model has a brightness of 685 lm and 5 operating modes. Despite its high quality and functionality, it is quite affordable, and any simple lover of fishing or hunting can afford such a purchase.
How to choose?
Having decided to choose a flashlight for hunting or fishing, you need to spend time studying the features of the model so that the light source does not fail at the most inopportune moment. Be sure to make sure that it has all the qualities necessary for a particular use. Most often, all flashlight models are evaluated according to several criteria.
Functionality
You need to make sure that the flashlight has the right number of operating modes. For example, one mode will be enough for fishing. In the case when a person goes hiking, it is best to choose a model with several modes. Then the flashlight will also serve as a lamp for lighting the tent, and will help you find all the necessary things at night.
In addition, you should pay attention to zoom models, because they are considered more powerful and practical.
Dimensions
It is very important that the flashlight is not too heavy and large. After all, this can cause discomfort to a person. That's why when buying a model you like, it is best to try it on so that you can be sure of its convenience.
In addition, if the flashlight is large, this does not mean that it is more powerful than small models.
Reliability
It is worth buying flashlights from already proven manufacturers who have proven themselves in the sports equipment market. In addition, it is necessary to familiarize yourself with user reviews in advance.This will allow you to understand which models are more successful and reliable.
tightness
Head models must be sealed, because it is they who most often suffer from the ingress of dirt and dust into them. This is especially true for models made from low quality materials. With any fall, such flashlights immediately fail.
Therefore, when buying, be sure to pay attention to the letters IK and the numbers that stand next to them. The numbers indicate the height from which the flashlight can fall and not be damaged.
Waterproof
This parameter is very important for those people who love fishing. The letters IP must be present on the flashlight, which indicate that this model has good protection against both water and any dirt. If the letter X is in this place, this, alas, means that the flashlight can fail at any moment. There may be another designation - this is IPX4, which indicates that the flashlight is waterproof, but it will not be protected from dust.
Battery life
The time during which the flashlight will work smoothly depends entirely on the mode in which it operates. If the model is supplemented with white and red LEDs, and can work in different modes, it will be easier to save battery resources. After all, the red LED does not use too much power, so this mode can be used both for reading and for searching for necessary things.
In the case of switching to a white LED, the energy consumption will be significantly higher, but the light will also become correspondingly brighter.
Lighting
High-quality headlamps must have several modes for long-range illumination. One of them should be flood, which is intended for diffusing light.The second is narrowly focused, with which you can well illuminate a distant object.
In addition, the luminous flux is of particular importance. If you need a flashlight for hiking, then an indicator of 70 lm is enough. In the event that a flashlight is needed for fishing, the indicator should not be lower than 180. One of the most powerful options for flashlights are models that have a brightness of 1010 lumens.
Convenience
When choosing a flashlight for yourself, you need to pay attention to its fastening. It should be not only horizontal, but also vertical. In this case, the purchased model will never slip off your head.
In addition, it is worth paying attention to the fact that the flashlight was tilt-adjustable.
How to use?
Headlamps can be used in many different ways. For example, during a small halt. After all, with its help you can:
- quickly set up a tent;
- collect brushwood for a fire;
- bring water from the river;
- to prepare dinner.
In addition, in this case, too strong lighting can not be used. It will be enough diffused light that will not dazzle.
In addition, unforeseen situations can arise on a hike, and headlamps are the best suited for rescue work. They come in handy in such cases:
- search for people who are lost;
- provision of first necessary medical aid;
- analysis of possible blockages.
In addition, very often such flashlights are used for hiking in caves, where it is almost always dark. It is also suitable for night travel. For example, if a person does not catch the last bus or the subway, then with the help of a flashlight it will be possible to get to the right place without much adventure.
In summary, high power headlamps are quite handy and useful. In addition, they can be used in a variety of cases - not only for hunting or fishing, but also in emergency situations. But most importantly, when buying, do not make a mistake with the choice, because its further operation will completely depend on it.
On choosing a headlamp, see the following video.