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Non Tool Forum => Flashlight Forum => Topic started by: eamo on December 15, 2016, 10:06:02 PM

Title: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on December 15, 2016, 10:06:02 PM
Anyone got an opinion of the led lenser seo5 ?

I need a new head light, needs are -

decent brightness with variable output
red light
waterproof
reasonable pricing - about £40 ish or so.

The seo5 ticks all those boxes so wondering if anyone has one and what they think of it ?
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: AimlessWanderer on December 16, 2016, 01:23:49 AM
I've had several LED lenser lights, and gotten rid of them all. I personally won't be buying any more of their lights.

My most used is a Silva Ninox, though Petzl make excellent headlamps too.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: firiki on December 16, 2016, 09:55:47 AM
I think in most cases Led Lenser stuff is way overpriced for what you get. From a quick look at seo5 specs I'd say that yup, this rule of thumb sure applies here.

I got my wife a Fenix HL30 (2015 edition) and I can't praise it enough. It ticks all of your boxes and I want one for myself too :D

(http://forum.multitool.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=66295.0;attach=270410;image)

The TIR optic it uses produces a fantastic beam, the modes are well spaced IMO, it has pretty good runtimes and different battery options is a plus (2*AA be it alkalines, Ni-MH or Lithium primaries). I also find the extra, overhead headband very pleasing. All in all, I absolutely recommend this light.

(http://forum.multitool.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=66295.0;attach=270412;image)

The only negative points are that the battery compartment's lid can be a tad hard to get open and you'll probably want to use a coin or a SAK bottle opener screwdriver so as not to damage the thing, but that's only a minor gripe in my book. The other negative point is that it uses electronic switches (that I normally avoid) and this means there is some parasitic drain happening but it's too little to actually worry about it.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on December 16, 2016, 04:58:56 PM
I've had several LED lenser lights, and gotten rid of them all. I personally won't be buying any more of their lights.

My most used is a Silva Ninox, though Petzl make excellent headlamps too.

thanks Al, why the dislike for led lenser ? I agree with you re. petzl and silva kit, i'm currently using an older petzl light but it's no longer up for what i need as i'm doing a lot more night hiking / running.

thanks Firiki, i'll check out the Fenix range :)
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: metasyntax on December 16, 2016, 05:32:06 PM
thanks Firiki, i'll check out the Fenix range :)

+1 for the HL30, it's a very good light
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Gareth on December 16, 2016, 05:55:36 PM
I've had several LED lenser lights, and gotten rid of them all. I personally won't be buying any more of their lights.

My most used is a Silva Ninox, though Petzl make excellent headlamps too.

thanks Al, why the dislike for led lenser ? I agree with you re. petzl and silva kit, i'm currently using an older petzl light but it's no longer up for what i need as i'm doing a lot more night hiking / running.

thanks Firiki, i'll check out the Fenix range :)

My main gripe with them is that they still seem to way overstate their run-times.  The quality is...ok, but just not quite what I'd expect for the prices they charge here.  Oh, and I think they purposely pick out the bluest tinted LEDs they can find.  All this is based on some long established feelings and they might have improved, but I've not heard about it if they have.

I don't have a Fenix HL30 but I do like the fact it runs on 2xAA cells. :tu:
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: AimlessWanderer on December 16, 2016, 08:17:24 PM
I've had several LED lenser lights, and gotten rid of them all. I personally won't be buying any more of their lights.

My most used is a Silva Ninox, though Petzl make excellent headlamps too.

thanks Al, why the dislike for led lenser ? I agree with you re. petzl and silva kit, i'm currently using an older petzl light but it's no longer up for what i need as i'm doing a lot more night hiking / running.

thanks Firiki, i'll check out the Fenix range :)

The light they throw off is awful. Full of artifacts, and less "clean" than a 3.99 petrol station purchase. The zoom feature is pointless. It seems to narrow the beam, but not increase the throw much. You can get much better lights for less than half the price. I just can't think of anything good to say about them.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on December 16, 2016, 08:53:18 PM
fair enough lads, no led lenser for me. i'll continue my search :)

i'll post my next "thought" on what to get when it arrives :D
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Mechanickal on December 16, 2016, 09:29:58 PM
I love Lensers...
I agree on the fact that other lights can do the same for less, but NOTHING comes close to my F1R handheld in regards of lumens/weight.
Carry a P3 on me every day (AAA). It took a hell of a beating and keeps going strong...
I just can't think of anything bad to say about them, unless some of their pricing...
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on December 16, 2016, 09:53:25 PM
ok, the petzl lights in my price range are all IPX4 - weather resistant. I need weather proof, ipx4 might hack it, but I don't want to take the chance so that rules petzl out.

I love Lensers...
I agree on the fact that other lights can do the same for less, but NOTHING comes close to my F1R handheld in regards of lumens/weight.
Carry a P3 on me every day (AAA). It took a hell of a beating and keeps going strong...
I just can't think of anything bad to say about them, unless some of their pricing...

yeah, this is a pretty big purchase for me - my current light is a petzl and has served me well.

i'm currently thinking silva ninox 2 - it's pricier then i want by about a tenner but i can live with that :)
 
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Blackbeard on December 17, 2016, 06:44:39 AM
enegizer makes a few decent ones and they arent pricey, I have HD vision one, 150 or 200 lumens cant remember, you can ramp down the flood and spot lamps till you get light level you like and it has a red light,
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on December 17, 2016, 10:36:13 AM
enegizer makes a few decent ones and they arent pricey, I have HD vision one, 150 or 200 lumens cant remember, you can ramp down the flood and spot lamps till you get light level you like and it has a red light,

yeah good call there BB - i looked at the energiser vison hd+ - very reasonable priced, less then a tenner, only prob is only rated to IPX4 - i will be getting wet, very wet :) as well as hiking, i will have it in my kayaking kit in case we're caught out late.
My current petzl has done me well for probably a good 10 years and it's only now that I'm doing a lot more outside that its reached its limitations. I'm hoping to get the same time out of my new light hence the, um, overthinking ?? (or research) :)
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on December 17, 2016, 10:57:57 AM
My most used is a Silva Ninox, though Petzl make excellent headlamps too.

Al, just reading back through and you have the ninox - are there any cons or is it worth £55 ? :tu:
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Blackbeard on December 17, 2016, 12:03:24 PM
there's a whole subforum on candlepowerforums devoted to headlights, probably find some suggestions there

http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/forumdisplay.php?6-Headlamps
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on December 17, 2016, 12:15:47 PM
there's a whole subforum on candlepowerforums devoted to headlights, probably find some suggestions there

http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/forumdisplay.php?6-Headlamps

:2tu: . . . . but them other forums ain't MTo . . . the only forum worth visiting on the net for anything !
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Blackbeard on December 17, 2016, 12:28:35 PM
well, the activity in this subforum on mto, is very slowww, you would be served well to click that link, but I get the feeling your just pulling my chain  :rofl:
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Mechanickal on December 17, 2016, 12:28:54 PM
there's a whole subforum on candlepowerforums devoted to headlights, probably find some suggestions there

http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/forumdisplay.php?6-Headlamps (http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/forumdisplay.php?6-Headlamps)

:2tu: . . . . but them other forums ain't MTo . . . the only forum worth visiting on the net for anything !
Home run...
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Tomcat_81 on December 17, 2016, 12:33:45 PM
Just my opinion - LED-Lenser's best working department is the avertisement and publicity team.

Got one Led Lenser which fell apart pretty quickly, got rid of it, changed over to Fenix (HL 30 - good Headlight!), Nitecore, Thrunite and am happy now ...
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on December 17, 2016, 12:35:36 PM
well, the activity in this subforum on mto, is very slowww, you would be served well to click that link, but I get the feeling your just pulling my chain  :rofl:

 :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

yeah i am a bit  . . . . but tbh, for me MTo is a one stop shop (mostly, i did click the link, thanks), most of my posts have nothing to do with multitools but rather other activities but i get the best advice and support regardless :) as does everyone else.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on December 17, 2016, 12:46:20 PM
Just my opinion - LED-Lenser's best working department is the avertisement and publicity team.

Got one Led Lenser which fell apart pretty quickly, got rid of it, changed over to Fenix (HL 30 - good Headlight!), Nitecore, Thrunite and am happy now ...

yeah Firiki recommended the fenix HL30 too - it gets mixed reviews but seems a decent light. It also ticks all the boxes - waterproof, red light and pretty small.

decisions, decisions . . . .
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Blackbeard on December 17, 2016, 12:59:34 PM
see if I wanted to know where to find a bone or what dogs butt smelled the best I would talk to your avatar, but i wouldnt ask him to help me do my taxes or help me hang a picture  :rofl: :rofl:
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on December 17, 2016, 01:03:54 PM
see if I wanted to know where to find a bone or what dogs butt smelled the best I would talk to your avatar, but i wouldnt ask him to help me do my taxes or help me hang a picture  :rofl: :rofl:

 :rofl: :rofl: see, i would, i talk to my dog all the time, we have quite the conversations so we do :D :D hanging pictures not so much, he hasn't a lot of interest in DIY
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Smashie on December 17, 2016, 04:26:15 PM
I think I've tried most of the brands now, you want to take a guess at the only headlamp that's lasted?
























Show content
Energizer! 
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: ThePeacent on December 17, 2016, 05:18:43 PM
I don't have any headlamp from them, (yet...), but I can definitely recommend all Led Lenser torches, lights and products  :salute:

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-12/20161206_105811_zpsm5093chq.jpg)
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on December 17, 2016, 05:30:11 PM
I think I've tried most of the brands now, you want to take a guess at the only headlamp that's lasted?
























Show content
Energizer! 

interesting, S-Man . . .  ah frakit, so many choices  :rant:
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: AimlessWanderer on December 17, 2016, 05:50:11 PM
My most used is a Silva Ninox, though Petzl make excellent headlamps too.

Al, just reading back through and you have the ninox - are there any cons or is it worth £55 ? :tu:

Hard to say. £55 seems high, I'm sure I paid less than £40. I also haven't bought many other big name headlamps. The LED Lenser came in a kit with the Orange Fuse that I built my Fuse-ilier mod from, and I gave that headlamp away to someone who in turn also gave it away....

Aside from that I have a Petzl E+lite which has got me out of a fix a couple of times, a Zebralight that drove me bonkers every time I tried to use it, and a few cheapies where the elastic in the headband gave up on me before the light did.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Brock O Lee on December 22, 2016, 10:11:33 PM
I can recommend the Fenix HL30 too. I bought it in mid 2013, and it's still going strong. It has a terrific creamy, floody beam, and runs well on NiMH's. I agree about the battery compartment being a bit difficult to open, but it hasn't been a problem. The others here are also great, but the HL30 wins with best flood, colour and power. It is the heaviest of the bunch though.

(http://i1243.photobucket.com/albums/gg548/hansjkruger/Mobile%20Uploads/_20160517_221416_zpsrcw4sxdw.jpg)
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on December 23, 2016, 02:18:04 PM
thanks guys - i am edging towards the silva ninox 2 - i'm in no rush, off for a few days so can wait to see if the prices drop post christmas :)
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Gareth on December 23, 2016, 05:01:01 PM
I'm a little biased against 3xAAA lights.  While it gives you around 4.5V they don't have a lot of amp hours to play with.  Not a problem if you're not using it for days at a time or are prepared to carry a few extra sets of batteries, but I prefer a light based around 1 or 2 AAs.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: metasyntax on December 23, 2016, 05:14:56 PM
I'm a little biased against 3xAAA lights.  While it gives you around 4.5V they don't have a lot of amp hours to play with.  Not a problem if you're not using it for days at a time or are prepared to carry a few extra sets of batteries, but I prefer a light based around 1 or 2 AAs.

This. I've got a LED Lenser NEO (3xAAA) and a Black Diamond Storm (4xAAA). Neither one can hold a candle to the Fenix HL30. And they're not a whole lot lighter, when you start talking about four batteries (1.6oz) versus two (1.8oz). Of course, it may also be the manufacturer that has something to do with it. Fenix certainly knows what they're doing.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on December 30, 2016, 07:16:42 PM
k, after a LOT of humming'n'hawing i settled on the black diamond spot for a few reasons -

and yes, i did listen to you guys re AAA vs AA batteries -

it ticked the boxes i need ticked - waterproof, red light, plus a pretty decent beam
affordable, about 2/3's the price of the ninox i was thinking of
it got a few mentions here as been a good light so thats always a plus

ordered online so it'll be a while before it arrives i'll post a pic/opinion when i put it through its paces.

Cos it was cheaper then i had budgeted, with the "spare" money i had leftover i also bought a couple resqume tools as one of my puppies chewed the seatbelt cutter/hammer i keep in my car  :facepalm:



Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Gareth on January 02, 2017, 06:04:05 PM
Oops, missed your latest update mate. :-[  Have you got it in yet?  Certainly looks like a good headlamp. :tu:

This thread came to mind as I just ordered myself a Fenix HL22.  Not one that would suit you as it doesn't have a red LED, but it seems to tick all the boxes for what I was looking for. 
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on January 03, 2017, 08:34:01 PM
no, hasn't arrived yet.

that HL22 looks nice, any pics/thoughts yet ?
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Gareth on January 04, 2017, 12:05:47 AM
no, hasn't arrived yet.

that HL22 looks nice, any pics/thoughts yet ?

Not due until tomorrow so I'll snap some shots then.  I'm heading to the hills for a couple of nights as of Thursday so I'll soon see how it holds up.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Gareth on January 05, 2017, 09:48:37 AM
Got the HL22 in yesterday and early impressions are good.  I've quickly added a piece of semi-opaque tape over the lens as it's got a pretty tight spot and I wanted to soften it some.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on January 16, 2017, 09:13:34 PM
ok, my black diamond spot came couple days ago, so far i like it though i expected it to throw the beam a bit further as it's 200 lumens - plenty bright for what i want though. Got a camping trip coming up in the next few weeks it'll get a serious workout then, for now just been used for pottering around nothing serious.
had to watch a youtube video to work through all the modes, but really its intuitive enough - it'd want to be, its only a headlight ! ! !
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Gareth on January 16, 2017, 09:16:15 PM
ok, my black diamond spot came couple days ago, so far i like it though i expected it to throw the beam a bit further as it's 200 lumens - plenty bright for what i want though. Got a camping trip coming up in the next few weeks it'll get a serious workout then, for now just been used for pottering around nothing serious.
had to watch a youtube video to work through all the modes, but really its intuitive enough - it'd want to be, its only a headlight ! ! !

Good news mate.  I'm looking forward to hearing how you get along with it. :tu:
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Gareth on January 16, 2017, 09:22:35 PM
I should also say that my HL22 passed my camping test with flying colours.  The long press of the switch to turn it on took a bit of getting used to, but I get that it's designed to make accidental activation less likely.  The low mode is excellent for close up stuff like cooking and finding things in the tent, the medium mode is just about perfect for walking around in a dark forest.  The high actually didn't get used much, but it's not a problem having it there IMO.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on January 16, 2017, 09:24:35 PM
ok, my black diamond spot came couple days ago, so far i like it though i expected it to throw the beam a bit further as it's 200 lumens - plenty bright for what i want though. Got a camping trip coming up in the next few weeks it'll get a serious workout then, for now just been used for pottering around nothing serious.
had to watch a youtube video to work through all the modes, but really its intuitive enough - it'd want to be, its only a headlight ! ! !

Good news mate.  I'm looking forward to hearing how you get along with it. :tu:

yeah i'll update with pics(hopefully) and a more informed opinion after my camping trip


I should also say that my HL22 passed my camping test with flying colours.  The long press of the switch to turn it on took a bit of getting used to, but I get that it's designed to make accidental activation less likely.  The low mode is excellent for close up stuff like cooking and finding things in the tent, the medium mode is just about perfect for walking around in a dark forest.  The high actually didn't get used much, but it's not a problem having it there IMO.

 :like:
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: firiki on January 20, 2017, 01:38:08 PM
I should also say that my HL22 passed my camping test with flying colours.  The long press of the switch to turn it on took a bit of getting used to, but I get that it's designed to make accidental activation less likely.  The low mode is excellent for close up stuff like cooking and finding things in the tent, the medium mode is just about perfect for walking around in a dark forest.  The high actually didn't get used much, but it's not a problem having it there IMO.

How is the HL22 in terms of flood/spot?
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Gareth on January 20, 2017, 01:47:16 PM
I should also say that my HL22 passed my camping test with flying colours.  The long press of the switch to turn it on took a bit of getting used to, but I get that it's designed to make accidental activation less likely.  The low mode is excellent for close up stuff like cooking and finding things in the tent, the medium mode is just about perfect for walking around in a dark forest.  The high actually didn't get used much, but it's not a problem having it there IMO.

How is the HL22 in terms of flood/spot?

Definitely biased towards spot as it comes, but I added a piece of semi opaque tape to the lens and that suited me much more.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: firiki on January 26, 2017, 10:47:12 AM
I should also say that my HL22 passed my camping test with flying colours.  The long press of the switch to turn it on took a bit of getting used to, but I get that it's designed to make accidental activation less likely.  The low mode is excellent for close up stuff like cooking and finding things in the tent, the medium mode is just about perfect for walking around in a dark forest.  The high actually didn't get used much, but it's not a problem having it there IMO.

How is the HL22 in terms of flood/spot?

Definitely biased towards spot as it comes, but I added a piece of semi opaque tape to the lens and that suited me much more.

:salute: Crafty. One's gotta love -or at least appreciate- these throwy lights: they become very versatile with the right bit of equipment (even if is just a bit of tape).
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on March 19, 2017, 08:17:21 PM
ok, so it's been a while since I got my lamp, had time to use it a bit so here are my thoughts -

short story - i like it, whether it was worth what i paid, time will tell i guess.

however - for a 200 lumen light it doesn't throw the beam as far as i thought it would. i don't know a whole pile about how lights work (other then the obvious before Mags gets in there) but my €4 cheapie cree hand held off ebay throws its beam a lot further. That is my only complaint, and having said that it served me well on a number of night hikes.

It's comfortable, and the strap is easily adjusted if you put on/take off a hat
The battery saving function is definitely a good thing - i forgot to lock the button one time, had it in my bag and the batteries got run down, this hasn't happened since when locking the on switch.
it's easy to adjust from low beam to high, and vice versa. it has some kind of tap function but that was a pita and i don't use it
i haven't tested the waterproofness - i had meant to dunk it in a bucket of water but forgot, and the weather on my night hikes was dry. it's gotten a little wet from rain but nothing substantial.
Red light function works as you'd expect.

yeah thats about it. For me, the main thing is the waterproofness as it will spend a lot of its time in a kayak bag where it will get wet, and thats the one thing i haven't seriously tested yet.



Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Gareth on March 19, 2017, 08:55:18 PM
Glad to hear it's working well for you mate. :tu:

Might I make a suggestion for the kayak?

(https://images.jet.com/md5/03a9e63e7a491f68e6c95c8db0c09a1e.500)
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on March 20, 2017, 09:13:07 AM
Glad to hear it's working well for you mate. :tu:

Might I make a suggestion for the kayak?

(https://images.jet.com/md5/03a9e63e7a491f68e6c95c8db0c09a1e.500)

thank you Garath :) (have you taken over from Mags in the Eamo slagging dept. ??) however, when you swim as much as i have done the past few months ziplocs really don't cut it - my "essentials" (ie, my lunch) go into a dry bag which goes into a dry bag and the phone / car keys don't go anywhere near the water.

re-reading my post, it won't get wet in the kayak bag, but it will sooner or later get really wet during a kayak trip :)

Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Gareth on March 20, 2017, 09:44:46 AM
Ah, I see the problem...you need to stop falling in. ;)

Seriously though, I see your point.  The shame is electrical items either pass a waterproof test, or they fail permanently. :-\  At IPX6 I'd not push the full immersion as that's really beyond the rating.  It should handle anything short of that though. :)
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on March 20, 2017, 10:13:49 AM
Ah, I see the problem...you need to stop falling in. ;)


that i do - after months trying, i've finally managed to roll, i now need to work on making it consistent and that should hopefully help alleviate my swim problem :)

the spot is rated to IPX 8 which was a major attraction for me -

IPX8: Waterproof—Tested to operate up to 1.1 meters underwater for 30 minutes. If submerged, water may enter the battery compartment and it will still operate, and it should be dried out completely afterwards.

if i need my light underwater for 30 minutes then i have much much bigger problems then seeing in the dark :D :D :D
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: zoidberg on March 20, 2017, 10:20:08 AM
One thing for sure is the battery compartment is not water proof in any way.
I really like the light but it has a couple more disappointments for me, the lens scratches easily and eneloops don't fit.
Fwiw I find the tap function useful.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on March 20, 2017, 10:24:10 AM
thanks for the headsup re the lens scratching - i'll keep that in mind when packing it :tu:
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Don Pablo on March 20, 2017, 11:12:58 AM
One thing for sure is the battery compartment is not water proof in any way.
I really like the light but it has a couple more disappointments for me, the lens scratches easily and eneloops don't fit.
Fwiw I find the tap function useful.
Eneloops don't fit?  :ahhh :ahhh
I would hope that its just the high capacity ones that don't fit, the standard capacity is adequate...
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on June 09, 2017, 11:44:04 AM
so, i went to dig out my new(ish) black diamond spot as i'll possibly need it over the weekend and i noticed some rust staining on the side - and it wouldn't turn on. Quick bit of investigation later and -

(http://i1159.photobucket.com/albums/p639/eamonf/20170609_100303_zpsjwa9dxy5.jpg) (http://s1159.photobucket.com/user/eamonf/media/20170609_100303_zpsjwa9dxy5.jpg.html)
now, this was immersed in water once, for about a minute as a test, in a bucket. So, seems to me it's not IPX8 for sure.
Anyway, cleaned the contacts replaced the batteries and it is still functioning but disappointed in this, i bought it specifically because i wanted a waterproof light.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Gareth on June 09, 2017, 12:42:47 PM
Damn, that's a bit of a fail, isn't it? :-\  I'd be very tempted to send that pic in to Lenser and see what they say.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on June 11, 2017, 03:28:00 PM
yeah, took your advice there Gareth and sent the pic to black diamond, doubt anything will come of it, too much hassle/cost sending it back and besides i've cleaned it up and it's still working.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on July 07, 2017, 12:16:27 PM
so, as i said a while back i sent the pics to black diamond. After a couple days got an email from their support, asked me a couple more questions and she said she'd send a new one. Today a courier dropped off a replacement.  :hatsoff: to black diamond their customer service is excellent.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on May 13, 2020, 05:01:17 PM
so my search continues - the Fenix HL60R has caught my eye, Clown has been giving me good advice in another thread, I'm wondering what others think of it ?
It ticks the boxes for me -
Waterproof IPX8 but then so is the BD Spot i had bought and that didn't go well.
Decent light output
Red light for night nav

The HL60R is pricey (to me - about €75 give or take). 
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Stefano on May 13, 2020, 05:14:41 PM
so my search continues - the Fenix HL60R has caught my eye, Clown has been giving me good advice in another thread, I'm wondering what others think of it ?
It ticks the boxes for me -
Waterproof IPX8 but then so is the BD Spot i had bought and that didn't go well.
Decent light output
Red light for night nav

The HL60R is pricey (to me - about €75 give or take).

It is expensive but keep in mind that you get a high capacity quality battery and it has USB charging
I am sure it is truly waterproof.
I don't remember if this model has a neutral tint but probably yes.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on May 13, 2020, 05:20:15 PM
It is expensive but keep in mind that you get a high capacity quality battery and it has USB charging
I am sure it is truly waterproof.
I don't remember if this model has a neutral tint but probably yes.


hmmmm, for another €20 i could get the HM65R , , , , , , , and down the rabbit hole i go  :facepalm:
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Stefano on May 13, 2020, 05:28:49 PM

hmmmm, for another €20 i could get the HM65R , , , , , , , and down the rabbit hole i go  :facepalm:

I have great respect for Fenix brand and I bought many of their lights.
But I never bought his 18650 headlamps, when I started with the lights I bought two small Fenix HL21 (1xAA)
I have a house full of Headlamps but they are all Zebralight and Armytek.
Those Fenix models that you say have a good reputation but on my head I prefer compact lights and in recent years I orient myself only on models that have a diffuse beam (opaque lens or TIR)
Do you already have a good 18650 charger and high-quality batteries?
However you could also consider Armytek Wizard Pro or Armytek C2 (I recommend you warm tint) they are sold with battery and with USB charging cable.
I don't know what use you have to do but the new Wizard Pro is XHP.50.2 and it has incredible performance with a small size
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on May 13, 2020, 05:36:03 PM
I have great respect for Fenix brand and I bought many of their lights.
But I never bought his 18650 headlamps, when I started with the lights I bought two small Fenix HL21 (1xAA)
I have a house full of Headlamps but they are all Zebralight and Armytek.
Those Fenix models that you say have a good reputation but on my head I prefer compact lights and in recent years I orient myself only on models that have a diffuse beam (opaque lens or TIR)
Do you already have a good 18650 charger and high-quality batteries?
However you could also consider Armytek Wizard Pro or Armytek C2 (I recommend you warm tint) they are sold with battery and with USB charging cable.
I don't know what use you have to do but the new Wizard Pro is XHP.50.2 and it has incredible performance with a small size

I'll check those out, thank you :tu: - the main use is hillwalking and kayaking, it *will* get wet so need something robust.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Stefano on May 13, 2020, 05:38:47 PM
I'll check those out, thank you :tu: - the main use is hillwalking and kayaking, it *will* get wet so need something robust.
I can guarantee
 on Zebralight and Armytek waterproofing.
I used them in torrential rain and often wash my armytek in water :-)
If you need advice on which of the many models to buy, write here or also in PM.

Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on May 13, 2020, 05:49:41 PM
I can guarantee
 on Zebralight and Armytek waterproofing.
I used them in torrential rain and often wash my armytek in water :-)
If you need advice on which of the many models to buy, write here or also in PM.

thank you.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Syncop8r on May 14, 2020, 11:15:18 AM
I'm after a headlamp with similar features myself - my requirements are:
- Variable modes very bright down to not very
- Good run time
- Red light
- Durable
- Weatherproof, or as waterproof as I can get without paying too much.
- Easy to find in this part of the world

My previous one was (is - it's around here somewhere) a Black Diamond Cosmo but I'm thinking of trying another brand, perhaps Petzl.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Stefano on May 14, 2020, 11:50:35 AM
I have seen that customer interest in a red auxiliary light has grown in recent years.
Until now I did not give much importance to this feature.

I was intrigued recently when I read that red light doesn't attract insects, this can be useful in summer when watering the garden.
Typically the torches that have a white/red light have a red auxiliary light with a very low power, are one or two lumens really useful? Can anyone tell about their experiences with red light?

My only experiences with red light are with Fenix lanterns, I have an old CL25R that has a fixed/flashing red light of 1.5 lumens which I find very low and useful only as a signal.

It is different with the small CL09 (I have bought 3 copies) it has a fixed/flashing red light of 5 lumens, with it (red light) I already have a decent vision, the hot season with the annoying insects has almost arrived, one evening I want to test although I would like a few more lumens to water the garden and have good brightness..

I was considering whether to buy a headlamp only with completely red light (Zebralight H502pr - 100 lumens) then I saw that Armytek has made a dual version withe/red (Armytek Wizard WR) with 1000 lumens (withe) and 250 lumens (red light)  In Europe, however, I currently cannot find it.

I don't want to go off topic with red light but I'd like to hear some story about how you use red light and how many lumens (it can be very interesting)

I hope it is understandable :-)
(I use Google translator, I edited the original message because the translation was having problems.)
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Syncop8r on May 14, 2020, 12:59:32 PM
Your English is better than that of many native English speakers.  :tu:

I initially wanted the red light for night flying as it allows you to see things inside the cockpit (that aren't illuminated) without compromising your night vision as badly as white light does.
I also see it being useful in situations where you want to see what you are doing without disturbing others eg. camping.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Stefano on May 14, 2020, 01:22:17 PM
Your English is better than that of many native English speakers.  :tu:

I initially wanted the red light for night flying as it allows you to see things inside the cockpit (that aren't illuminated) without compromising your night vision as badly as white light does.
I also see it being useful in situations where you want to see what you are doing without disturbing others eg. camping.

Thanks
I have read many discussions about red light in the past.
Today I went back to CPF to read again, there are many threads on this.
I understand that there is a good deal of myth around the red light.
To preserve night vision more than color it is important that the power is sub lumens (less than 1 lumens)
I had an interest in the red light because I read that the insects do not see it, it seems to be true but unfortunately the mosquitoes can see it and therefore the utility in my case would be less, probably I will not pay 50/70 euros for a professional Headlamp with powerful red light only to water the garden.

I looked at some Petzl models, on Amazon they can be bought cheaply, but all the models I have seen have a red light with 2 lumens.
I stay with my Headlamp Armytek and Zebralight which have many ultra-low levels.
The flashing red light however still interests me, it can be used as a taillight for the bike.
The rear lights for the bike are all cheap and short-lived, there are professional models but they are expensive and I wonder if they are much longer lasting.
I bought a third CL09 mini_lantern for this reason, a small fixed / flashing red light can therefore be useful for many purposes.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Don Pablo on May 14, 2020, 01:42:00 PM
I am also convinced that it is mainly low lumens, not colour, that preserves night vision. :tu:
My Manker E03H has an user-adjustable low mode: 21 options from 0.0000000001 lumens to somewhere between 0.1 and 1 lumens?
I will take a comparison picture tonight.
It also came with a red clip-on filter, but I haven't noticed a difference when it comes to preserving my night vision. :dunno:
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on May 14, 2020, 02:03:12 PM
Yeah my interest in red light is for map reading at night and also not blinding the others in my group.
Pabs / Stefano you might be right with regards to low lumens vs red light vs night vision I'll try a test tonight  :D
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Don Pablo on May 14, 2020, 02:21:38 PM
:popcorn:
Me too. :tu:
I'll adjust my eyes to the dark tonight, and try to spot a difference after reading with the lowest white and red light levels that I can read with.

Then I'll see if turbo mode with the red filter clipped on ruins my night vision. :D
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Syncop8r on May 14, 2020, 02:43:46 PM
Oh great, now I have to investigate if this is true or not. Thanks guys.  >:(

Oh well, it makes a break from busting COVID-19 conspiracy theories.  :angel:
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Syncop8r on May 14, 2020, 02:49:30 PM
The rods respond to low light levels.
The cones respond to colour.

There might be something to do with red light having a longer wavelength.

I'll look into it tomorrow...
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on May 14, 2020, 03:32:43 PM
i look forward to the results of your research
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on May 22, 2020, 04:05:38 PM
So lads, how did the research go ? Do we actually need a red light option for night nav ?

So, I've settled on either the Fenix HM65R or the HL60R but I can't decide

Both are pretty high lumen lights plenty for my needs.
Both IPX8 very important to me.
Both are rechargable I've decided I want this feature.

The difference in price is about €13 once shipping etc is taken into account. The HL60R does have a red light, not sure if this is a deal breaker or what to do when I need to preserve my night vision   :dunno:
The HM65R has a spot and a flood, I think I prefer that rather then just one beam.
HM65R is USBC vs HL60R micro USB, not a big deal either way.
HM65R weighs 97 g vs HL60R 121 g.

Suggestions ?
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Don Pablo on May 22, 2020, 04:40:27 PM
I forgot to do some research. :facepalm:
But it's on the nighttime agenda for this weekend now!
I've selected a book with hard to see pics to provide a worst case scenario. :tu:
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on May 22, 2020, 07:14:29 PM
Good job Pabs - I'm closer then ever to making a decision - the Fenix HM65R SuperRaptor is on sale I can get it for about the same price (€4 difference) as the regular light. Seems it can only be bought in Finland but thats ok too :)
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Stefano on May 22, 2020, 08:59:17 PM
So lads, how did the research go ? Do we actually need a red light option for night nav ?

So, I've settled on either the Fenix HM65R or the HL60R but I can't decide

Both are pretty high lumen lights plenty for my needs.
Both IPX8 very important to me.
Both are rechargable I've decided I want this feature.

The difference in price is about €13 once shipping etc is taken into account. The HL60R does have a red light, not sure if this is a deal breaker or what to do when I need to preserve my night vision   :dunno:
The HM65R has a spot and a flood, I think I prefer that rather then just one beam.
HM65R is USBC vs HL60R micro USB, not a big deal either way.
HM65R weighs 97 g vs HL60R 121 g.

Suggestions ?

If I had to choose between the two I would take HL60R.
I am a traditionalist on headlamps, as a form I do not differ from Armytek and Zebralight but between the two Fenix you mentioned I would take HL60R.
Although it has a particular shape, it is a robust, sold and reliable lamp.
Sorry only for the fact that HL60R is sold with a 2600 mA battery only
Check if it has two springs in which case you can also use flat cells, otherwise you will need a button top battery.

Too much weight in my head then I don't like it at all (that's why I would reject the other model)
The other model (HM65R) is original but I don't like it because it is dual_tint, a light must be cold or warm.
In the woods at night I did tests in the past, the result of two shades at the same time is not beautiful but neither is the eye going from hot to cold.

Question: Did you also consider the HM61R?
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Stefano on May 22, 2020, 09:04:17 PM
Good job Pabs - I'm closer then ever to making a decision - the Fenix HM65R SuperRaptor is on sale I can get it for about the same price (€4 difference) as the regular light. Seems it can only be bought in Finland but thats ok too :)

If you decide to choose HM65R, *buy it in Finland*
(Fenix HM65R SUPERRAPTOR 2020)
The Finnish version maintains constant brightness in a better way than the standard version.

There are rumors that this Finnish version will become standard and the previous one will be abandoned.

Edit:I know a person who has the Finnish version and has told me well of this light.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on May 22, 2020, 09:17:50 PM
If you decide to choose HM65R, *buy it in Finland*
(Fenix HM65R SUPERRAPTOR 2020)
The Finnish version maintains constant brightness in a better way than the standard version.

There are rumors that this Finnish version will become standard and the previous one will be abandoned.

Edit:I know a person who has the Finnish version and has told me well of this light.

Thanks the Finnish version isn't much more expensive given I'm buying online anyway.
Interesting about what you said about the different tones of ligjt I hadn't thought about that but makes sense when you said it

The hm61r the shape doesn't appeal to me I dunno why I just don't like lights shaped that way  :dunno:
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Stefano on May 22, 2020, 09:42:07 PM
Thanks the Finnish version isn't much more expensive given I'm buying online anyway.
Interesting about what you said about the different tones of ligjt I hadn't thought about that but makes sense when you said it

The hm61r the shape doesn't appeal to me I dunno why I just don't like lights shaped that way  :dunno:

It is not the first time that Fenix has made dual tint lights.
Their thought is that neutral light is useful if you have to see it up close, tint is less important over long distances.
In theory it may be true but I do not agree with this opinion.
In the past, many thrower lights were only sold with a cool withe tint because if you illuminate an object at 200 meters, the tint does not count much but even here I disagree.
In a wood, the difference between a CW and a NW tint  can be clearly seen!
I had many warm headlamps but I wanted to combine them with a hand-torch of the same tint, using a Fenix TK15 or TK09 for the throw, the cool withe tint disturbed the warm light of my Armytek Wizard.
For this reason I bought first the cheap Convoy  C8 with warm (T6 4C) and after a warm Predator.
Naving a homogeneous tint is nice.
I have not understood if the HM65R Finnish version is dual tint or if it is entirely neutral?
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Stefano on May 22, 2020, 09:52:07 PM
The hm61r the shape doesn't appeal to me I dunno why I just don't like lights shaped that way  :dunno:

To me the angular headlamp shape
I use them without the upper band, I carry them hanging on the neck with their band, then I can use them with the band on the forehead or on the neck (or a light in the forehead and another hanging on the neck)
They can be unhooked from the band and used as a standing torch (or if they have a magnet in the tail they can be hung)
in the trousers pocket they take up little space even with the band (at least the Zebralight or Armytek band, other brands may have larger and bulky bands)
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on June 15, 2020, 05:48:25 PM
so, it finally arrived - it's bright alright  :) - going to be a few months before I really see what it can do ! Thanks Stefano for the help :)
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on June 17, 2020, 12:54:29 PM
and i got around to taking a picture of it -
(https://i.imgur.com/3A38lQx.jpg)
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Don Pablo on June 17, 2020, 01:06:27 PM
Reminds me of this robot. :D
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/studio-ghibli/images/3/3f/Robot.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20181024030041)

How well does it work? :popcorn:
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on June 17, 2020, 02:09:45 PM
Reminds me of this robot. :D
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/studio-ghibli/images/3/3f/Robot.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20181024030041)

How well does it work? :popcorn:

yeah, well, it's the middle of summer so . . . . . . . it seems real bright, actually, really really bright
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Don Pablo on June 17, 2020, 02:23:51 PM
This is important! Stay up until 1am. :poke: :P
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on June 17, 2020, 05:47:00 PM
This is important! Stay up until 1am. :poke: :P

You've never watched gremlins have you ?
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Don Pablo on June 17, 2020, 06:01:04 PM
You've never watched gremlins have you ?
Err... No?
I did see Beetlejuice, so I don't think I'm a lost cause...
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on June 17, 2020, 06:15:35 PM
Err... No?
I did see Beetlejuice, so I don't think I'm a lost cause...
Um ? What ?
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Don Pablo on June 17, 2020, 06:24:20 PM
I thought we were talking about classic movies and so I missed the point... all because I didn't see Gremlins. :ahhh
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on June 17, 2020, 07:53:53 PM
I thought we were talking about classic movies and so I missed the point... all because I didn't see Gremlins. :ahhh

No. We're talking about my new headlight not that I've a whole pile to say about it. Gremlins might be old, but :dunno: if it is a classic ? hmmm maybe we are talking about old/classic movies ?
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: cody6268 on June 18, 2020, 03:50:53 AM
No. We're talking about my new headlight not that I've a whole pile to say about it. Gremlins might be old, but :dunno: if it is a classic ? hmmm maybe we are talking about old/classic movies ?

At least we're not talking about old headlamps. My Granddad has a Kohler lamp which he used in the coal mines. It is incandescent, thus pretty dim. Battery pack is huge (and its charger is bigger than a toaster!), lead-acid, and weighs about 5-6 pounds.  They only recently phased them out, in favor of LED models (and I mean as recently as 5-6 years ago), some of them don't even have battery packs, others have Li-Ion packs that are tiny.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Don Pablo on June 18, 2020, 10:31:21 AM
Geeez. I went into a salt mine a few years ago. Everyone was using helmets with what appeared to be 18650-powered integrated headlamps.
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Syncop8r on June 19, 2020, 05:20:40 AM
Geeez. I went into a salt mine a few years ago. Everyone was using helmets with what appeared to be 18650-powered integrated headlamps.
Being charged with a salt and battery is more than a miner offence. 
Show content
:facepalm:
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: Don Pablo on June 19, 2020, 10:21:16 AM
:oops:
Title: Re: i need a new headlight - thinking of the led lenser seo5
Post by: eamo on June 19, 2020, 11:02:58 AM
 :rofl: