Headlamps

[Grant Lamontagne]

It looks like my awesome Princeton Tec headlamp is toast and I've never been too fond of my Gerber Triode, so I guess I will have to start looking for a replacement.  Does anyone have any suggestions?

Ideally I would be looking for another intrinsically safe model as I occasionally work in potentially hazardous environments.  I'm not stuck on Princeton Tec so if there's another brand suggestion, I'm open.  Meanwhile I guess I'll make do with the Gerber, which really isn't bad, it's just not terribly bright.

Def

[Grant Lamontagne]

Oh yea, and price is an object!  I don't mind paying money for good value, but I really have no interest in spending $400 on a headlamp!

Def

[gunga]

I like zebra lamps myself. Have 3 of them.

[AimlessWanderer]

I only have a Silva Ninox (really good light) and a Petzl e+lite as back up, but I think they are both excellent and haven't felt the need to really look at any other headlights since I got them.

I don't know how they fare on zone ratings for potentially explosive atmospheres and such though, sorry.

[Screwtape]

Another vote for Zebra, I got one for Christmas and now I have a draw full of other unused headtorch as its the only one I use.

but other than headlight and intrinsically safe what else matters, are beam spread or battery type important?

[Beerplumber]

Well it's not likely in your price window but I got a surefire saint minimus last month and love it so far. I used a gift certificate to buy it so I don't seem so sick in the head but it really is the be-all end-all headlamp. It should (it better) last forever, and seems pretty indestructible. Its water proof and super bright, you'd have to check if its spark safe but i imagine it is. If this is too much for you which is pretty understandable zebralight is where it's at for sure. Im a huge headlamp fan, what good are 500 lumens if you have to set your light down to do anything? Let us know what you decide to get!


Stay multi my friends

[enki_ck]

I use a Petzl Tikka 2, it' enough for my needs. But you're definitely going to get more for your money from any Zebralight. (And going to pay a bit more too ) They are specially designed for use with Eneloops. Great output and long runtimes. What's not to like.

[Grant Lamontagne]

but other than headlight and intrinsically safe what else matters, are beam spread or battery type important?

I don't really know... I don't use headlamps that often.  I suppose if I had to choose, I want to be able to see my immediate area quite well and be able to see 20-30 feet away well enough.  Some spill would be nice and I don't need to be able to signal passing aircraft with it.

Ideally it should be intrinsically safe, but it's not an absolute necessity.

Battery type should be the same as my general theory on flashlights- AA or AAA only.  I'll also consider 9V based lights, but only as a last resort, and I have no interest in any watch or button cell lights, CR123's or rechargeable lights.  I stock up on AA and AAA batteries for a number of other devices because of the possibility of power failures and so on, plus AA and AAA (and to a lesser extent 9V) are easy to replace- both in the lights and in the stockpile.

Several years ago we were hit with a hurricane (skip to the end if you are sick of this story!) and four months later a record snowstorm.  During each of these instances the city was without power for a significant period of time- after the hurricane (Hurricane Juan for those keeping track) my city was without power for almost a week, and longer for some of the outer areas of the province.  During that week most businesses were closed as the credit card machines and cash registers didn't function without power but a few smaller convenience and Mom & Pop type shops were open and doing cash business with a calculator.  These kinds of stores have AA's, AAA's and occasionally 9V's, but no button cells, no CR123's and so on.  I was prepared with cash and so I was one of the few that were able to buy additional batteries.  Because of this I always carry cash and only buy lights that take AA's, AAA's or 9V's.

Of course, up until then my wife always thought I was just being paranoid, and while she appreciated my preparedness afterwards she also wondered how often something like that was likely to happen.  Then we got something like 96cm (about 9 feet) of snow in a 12 hour period a few months later! 

I realize that the headlamps don't often come with strange batteries, but to me, rechargeable batteries are just as useless as odd sized batteries because there are times when you just can't charge them.  I see some of the bigger ones with the battery pack on the back and I have no need or desire for that much bulk.

Def

[AimlessWanderer]

The good news is the Silva Ninox takes 3xAAA, but is still very light and comfortable. I had to lend it to a friend at new year for late night dog "walking", and he was very surprised by it (battery type, performance, and comfort). It's got throw AND spill as it uses two different lights at the same time, yet still has three power levels (and red and strobes if you're into that kind of thing) and very good runtimes in my opinion. It also stows inside the headband itself which is pretty neat and saves it getting tangled up or losing a seperate case!! 

Only problem is that I can't find any decent comparisons to other headlights . .. and I'm not  that familiar with other headlights either  So I think it's excellent, but I might be talking out of the wrong orifice ... again 

[Gareth]

I actually ended up just making myself a headband that lets me use most of my AA lights as a headlight.  Simply adapted an old headlight band with a couple of loops on the side to hold the torch, very much in the style of the NiteIze product, but more comfortable looking. http://www.niteize.com/collections/flashlights/products/headband

[Gareth]

Here it is, though it actually works better with a single AA light you can see it copes with a 2xAA as well.

[Millhouse]

I recently got my first head torch for hiking. After much searching around, I got a Zebralight H51. Excellent piece of kit.

[Beerplumber]

Here it is, though it actually works better with a single AA light you can see it copes with a 2xAA as well.

(Image removed from quote.)

Best of both worlds Gareth! I heard you mention this before but I forgot to ask for pics. I might have to steal your idea!


Stay multi my friends

[Gareth]

I can't even begin to claim it as my idea, but I do find it works.

[dks]

I just have a few of those cheap 5 to 12 LED lights that come with the head band, which I use mainly when I do repairs and I am using my hands (Car, computers, knives etc). Cheap, expendable, use 3 AAA, last for ages, light well enough for me.

[Mr. Whippy]

I'm following this thread too.  I have a Petzl Tikka plus and honestly I'm not impressed.

The headband is good and the light is uh...lightweight, but those are the two high points.

The case is a bit flimsy.  I know several people who have broken the case while replacing batteries (especially in the cold).  I don't think it's particularly waterproof.  Opening it to replace batteries is a gloves off procedure and a little tricky--especially in the dark.

And for a AAAX3 light, it's not particularly bright AND the runtimes are not significantly better than my AAX1 lights which are almost as bright (Fenix MC10 comes to mind).  I'd love to find a better option.

[Craig]

Here it is, though it actually works better with a single AA light you can see it copes with a 2xAA as well.

(Image removed from quote.)

Best of both worlds Gareth! I heard you mention this before but I forgot to ask for pics. I might have to steal your idea!


Stay multi my friends

+1 Nicely done Gareth 

[Grant Lamontagne]

While your suggestions all seem to be pretty helpful, it's looking to me like I might as well replace my old EOS with a new EOS?

The Zebralights look interesting but I'm not sure how they are supposed to be better than the Princeton Tec one?  Maybe I'm missing something though, so if I am, someone please fill me in.

Def

[gustophersmob]

While your suggestions all seem to be pretty helpful, it's looking to me like I might as well replace my old EOS with a new EOS?

The Zebralights look interesting but I'm not sure how they are supposed to be better than the Princeton Tec one?  Maybe I'm missing something though, so if I am, someone please fill me in.

Def

This isn't knocking the EOS, as I have heard many good things about it.

I think I personally would prefer the Zebralight because of these reasons:

1) Single cell battery (AA or 123).
2) Better, IMO, mode selection, including a much higher high and lower low.
3) Potentially better longevity due to aluminum being a better heatsink.

Not sure about explosive atmosphere rating, though.

[Heinz Doofenshmirtz]

While your suggestions all seem to be pretty helpful, it's looking to me like I might as well replace my old EOS with a new EOS?

The Zebralights look interesting but I'm not sure how they are supposed to be better than the Princeton Tec one?  Maybe I'm missing something though, so if I am, someone please fill me in.

Def

The advantage of a Zebra is that it has a much better driver circuit in it, is far more durable (at least in my experience) and much more useful overall.

I'd recommend this one: http://www.zebralight.com/H51Fc-AA-Floody-Headlamp-85-CRI_p_62.html

I have an H51w and it's an awesome light.  You can use it as a headlamp, but can also use it as an EDC light as well.  You can clip it on your collar, a shirt pocket, a pack strap etc. as a utility light.  Or, carry it in your pocket and use it as a handheld EDC light.  Keep the headband in your EDC bag and use it as a headlamp whenever you need.

They are also fully regulated... will produce a constant brightness as the battery drains.  They won't just cut out on you either.  Mine just steps down when the battery gets low.  They have crazy long run times on the lowest settings.  The moonlight mode they have is good for night vision type of activities.  My experience with most PT's, BD's, etc. is that they're not fully regulated, when they're regulated at all.

I've had mine for well over a year, and it's one of my favorite and most versatile lights.  I also have a Spark ST5-190nw which is my favorite dedicated headlamp.  As a pure headlamp, I think it works better than a Zebralight, because it has a t-shaped body design and a three strap headband.  The body design works better as a headlamp for wearing on a hat or cap, or under a hood than the design of a Zebra.  They're not nearly as utilitarian though, and are basically just a really good headlamp.  Spark is also making a number of pure flood headlamps now too.

In short, I've had Princetons, Black Diamonds, and a Brunton.  Probably close to a dozen different headlamps in the past five years, and my Spark and my Zebra by themselves blow the rest of them all away.  I've never had another single headlamp made by another company that is as reliable and easy to use as my H51w.

[Grant Lamontagne]

Ok, you got me... I'll see about getting a Zebralight.  Heinz, I'm going to try for the one you posted a link for (got to see if Travis can get me that one!  ) so if I don't like it that much, I'm holding you responsible! 

BTW, in case anyone is wondering, the EOS was left in the Jeep too long and all the guts corroded.  I assume there's no way to fix that?

Def

[jzmtl]

My experience with zebralight especially their warranty is horrible, literally a slow boat to China and back.

Maybe try call PT and see if you can get yours warrantied, I really like the optic on my EOS and Apex, the pattern is the most suitable to headlight I've ever tried.

[MeadMaker]

I don't currently use a headlamp very much, but I had to find a new one for my wife recently.  She is a runner and trains with two of her friends early in the morning.

The first one I brought home fit into the budget she set, a http://www.rayovac.com/Products/Lights/Work/Virtually-Indestructible-LED-3AAA-High-Performance-Headlight.aspx   There was a problem with the headband, but she wore it once anyway. It seems to be built to take a beating and puts out a very bright light and was lightweight , but she didn't like it because it was all spot and no flood.

I received a Lowe's gift card from a vendor, so I figured that it would be OK if I used it to go above her budgeted amount to buy a headlamp.  So I went to Lowes and found that they are carrying Coast (LED Lenser) head lamps.  This caught my eye because I use a L6 as my dog walking light.  The focusing beam makes that light very versatile.  Sure enough Lowes stocks the http://www.coastportland.com/hl7-led-headlamp.htm.  It is rated at 196 lumens, but more importantly it has the Pure Beam Focusing Optic system that allows you to use it on full spot or full flood and anywhere in between. 

At first she said she didn't want it because the rear mounted battery pack looked uncomfortable and it was double the amount she wanted to pay. (It's still affordable at $40) After she wore it once she changed her mind.  She found it to be very comfortable to wear and, when set on full flood, it gave her the performance she was looking for.

The Coast HL7 is actually last years model.  Now that Leatherman owns LED Lenser it is sold in the US as an LED Lenser L7.  It is pretty much the same light with some cosmetic changes.

[Mike 208]

I currently have only 2 headlights:  An older (3 LED) PT Fuel, and a Pelican HeadsUP 2690 LED.  The 2690 is safety rated (IECEX Class I, II, III Div. 1), 60 lumens (1 setting), turns off/on by rotating the bezel (works well even with gloves on), and runs on 3AAA batteries.  It's priced at about $25.00 US, so it doesn't break the bank.  It seems to be built very well, and is designed for outdoor use.  My PT Fuel is also a good headlight (my first - bought on the recommendation of store clerk), but for some reason (probably just me) I have trouble pushing the top button to turn the light on/off/switching to low, medium or high output.  I personally find the 2690 easier to use (even though it is a bit larger).  The current model has 4 LEDs and more lumen output, is priced about the same as the 2690 and also uses 3AAA batteries.

Hope this helps.

[Mr. Whippy]

Heinz,

You've convinced me.  I'm going to try on of the floody zebralights.  Probably a H31F.  Good info

[Grant Lamontagne]

Due to this thread Travis has submitted an application to become an authorized Zebralight dealer, so I hope they are as good as everyone (except Jie!) says! 

My PT is more than a few years old now, and as I understand it, when the obvious bits are corroded, the non-obvious bits are probably king size fubar'd as well.

Def

[Mike, Lord of the Spammers!]

Got to say I love my H50 and it's not had an easy life with me, and it's still going strong.

[Grant Lamontagne]

I just had a look at the Pelican 2690 and I like it- the price is certainly right and I know Pelican is a pretty solid brand.  I have had quite a few of them in the past.

Def

[Mr. Whippy]

Just ordered an H31F.  I'm hoping to be happier with it than I am with my Petzl...

[Heinz Doofenshmirtz]

Ok, you got me... I'll see about getting a Zebralight.  Heinz, I'm going to try for the one you posted a link for (got to see if Travis can get me that one!  ) so if I don't like it that much, I'm holding you responsible! 

BTW, in case anyone is wondering, the EOS was left in the Jeep too long and all the guts corroded.  I assume there's no way to fix that?

Def

Okay boss, if you get it and hate it, you can fire me.   

Seriously though... I bought my H51w just as the F models were made available.  I second guessed myself and bought one of the regular, non-flood versions.  I thought I might want it to have some throw sometimes.  So I bought some DC-fix diffusion film and put a circle of it on the lens of my 51w, thinking I could take it off whenever I needed some throw, and just put a new piece on when I wanted to go back to flood. 

Well, for the kinds of things I use my headlamps for, I've never taken the DC-fix off, not even once.  I'm wishing I had bought the F model instead now.  I also suggested the C model for a couple of additional reasons.  One, I'm a fan of neutral and high CRI tints, but some of the HCRI emitters out there, particularly the XPG's are warm and sometimes too warm for most people's tastes. 

The other is the Rebel HCRI emitter that ZL uses are much more neutral in tint, (I'm very picky about my tints).  I absolutely despise any kind of coolness in the tints of my lights; green, blue, purple, etc., particularly when I'm using them as an EDC.  The tint of the HCRI emitters in the ZL has no problems with that, and they also don't have that oranginess that most warm tint lights have.  The XPG HCRI emitters aren't orange either though; they are quite rosy in fact, but they are a bit on the warm side for my tastes, even though I still really like their look.

And as above, there's not a more versatile light on the market than a ZL H series headlamp.  You can use them as a pocket EDC light, a headlamp, clip it on a pack strap or a shirt pocket, and so on.  There's a very loyal group of folks at CPF who swear by H51's and H31's as their regular pocket EDC lights above everything else.  The UI takes a little bit of getting used to, but once you do, if you're like me, it'll be hard to go back to a regular count-click UI like most lights have, like on the regular Quarks.

Also, go over to CPF and check out the "Zebralight Mods" thread in the headlamps section; there's a lot of useful stuff there that people have done with their H51's so you can see just how versatile they are.  I love mine and swear by it.  I keep mine in its strap in my EDC bag as a backup light, and won't go camping, biking, hiking, etc. without it.