Good headlamps (aka hands-free flashlight)
 

OK, I know there are a bunch of flashlight nuts on the board. Any recommendations for decent headlamps that won't fall apart and aren't scared of a little water? This is for my trip to the Amazon river this summer. I believe it will be for the occasional night excursion, but I have an email out to the sponsor to find out more about how much and often she thinks we are to need flashlights.

I had found these on a major online retailer, and thought that they seemed like a decent compromise between price and quality.

Fenix HL21
http://www.fenixtactical.com/images/...hl21-1-002.jpg

But if there's a good option for $15 or 20 too, then great.

I would probably also be taking a smallish LED flashlight as a backup.

I don't know about water but Petzel makes a great headlamp.

I I love my Princeton tec remix... Bough mine for 20 bones online. I have eseveral friends who have the fuel, which is also damn good for the money.

REMIX | Princeton Tec

Light, brite, good battery life, and takes a beating well.

I have a Streamlite that won't die. It's so old though, that I think the newer ones are in a totally different class.

My comment would be to get rechargable if you have AC power. If not, then you will be packing a lot of spare batteries. And the head strap should have a strap over the top of your head - it'll be more comfortable and will stay put on your head better.

Zebra light, much brighter then the Fenix and lighter too I believe. I just bought one (back order)because we have a camping trip coming up in a few months with the boys.

H600 Cree XM-L 750Lm Headlamp 18650 and ZL631 Combo


Zebralight H600 & H600W LED Headlamp Review - YouTube

you can get them with AA but they are not as bright. Sometimes max brightness its just not necessary.

Thanks all, sounds like lots of good info

I'll check these various options out

Petzl brand. Period. These are widely used during expeditions.

That is all.

Steve,

If you have nothing to do, read some of this stuff. A bit crazy but some good info on what you are looking for. Jungle light needed

Ask them and see what they suggest.

I always like to use those sorts of lights with a ball cap. Keeps the glare out of my eyes.

Petzl - hands down. I have 4 or 5 of them. They are in your price range if you get a simple one. I have had the princeton tec and they are not to the same level IMHO.

G

Good info guys, thanks. I sent an email out to the trip sponsor last night. She said that there is very little need for the flashlights, just one or two night excursions, so she has gone with a cheap headlight from target and a small maglight. I'll try to upgrade the headlights a bit without spending a ton. This trip is already costing a fortune, so this is not the time to be splurging.

This is whats strapped on my search and rescue helmet. Wouldnt even think of considering anything else.

Petzl Duo.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1367942669.jpg

sounds like a great trip!!

i would try to catch one of those crazy ass big catfish and a slew of peacock bass. haha

anyways. i NEVER travel without a quality flashlight and head lamp. i take both.

my flashlight is a G3 surefire. about $45. takes three expensive CR123 batteries, but they have a shelf life that is downright amazing.

my head lamp(s) is a tikka Petzl. the headband is just about worn out on both of mine.

i am shopping the 600 from Zebralight. love it!! looks bombproof. tiny..i just need to figure out the battery options. my knowledge of rechargeables..non existent.

in an emergency..i am not going "out" because it got dark :)

mine has the red light option..
makes night time easy..
and you don't blow everyone's night vision..

Rika

Thanks guys, I grabbed a couple of inexpensive Petzls. The sponsor said go with a $5 headlight, but I just couldn't make myself do it. I checked out a couple of the big box stores and found Coleman, which is probably very similar, but at pretty much the same price, I figured I'd get something that had a solid recommendation.

Sweet - you can't have enough of these. I use them working on my car - try it next time you are under it.

G

I could have really used one while I was laying the insulation in the attic

Well done. You won't regret it. Plus it will come in handy everytime you work on the car, home improvement, etc..

I use mine more around the house than hunting/camping if I'm honest.

18650 rechargeable battery for your Zebra light is what I ordered. IMO, they produce more, much much more power or light, and last longer then Recharger 123s. Keep them charge and you are golden. buy two batteries (protected) and keep one on the shelf. Get the Japanese made Panasonics.