Hunting Washington Forum
Equipment & Gear => All Other Gear => Topic started by: Outdoorskindaguy on September 20, 2022, 10:07:06 AM
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Whats a good hunting headlamp thats durable and low profile? In your opinion:)
Thanks!
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If I'm using a headlamp, I generally am not concerned about low profile.
I've had expensive, highly rated ones and cheap-o units from Lowes. I now steer toward the cheap units with an extra in my survival pack. The expensive ones are usually a little heavier and the benefits don't (in my opinion) outweigh both the financial and weight cost.
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I bought this one for my son recently:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09YXPCPVC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Decent price, rechargeable with built in battery and good amount of light. I can't speak to durability yet.
For stuff like that, I often look at the hiking community, particularly the long trails like PCT, AT, CDT as they get a hundred or more days use in a year and have a pretty good idea of what works.
There are brighter, there are cheaper, there are lighter, but that one seemed to me to be a good compromise.
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Been really happy with my Black Diamond Storm
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Probably bulkier than what you are look for but this has been a great headlamp. Powered by two 18650 batteries which can recharged in place or switched out. I don’t think that I’d buy another headlamp that doesn’t use 18650 cells.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06Y5MKYHQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
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I WENT THROUGH A TON OF HEADLAMPS OVER THE YEARS. the STUFF YOU FIND ON AMAZON WITH THE 18650 BATERIED ARE BRIGHT BUT THEY ALWAYS FALL APART AFTER A YEAR OR SO. I CURENTLY USE A RECHARGABLE MILLWUAKEE HEADLAMP. ITS A SPENDY BUT HAS LASTED ME FOR A CPUPE YEARS NOW AND USE IT FOR WARK AS WELL AS HUNTING.
HOME DEPOT SELL COAST HEADLAMPS THAT ARE ALSO RECHARGABLE. THEY AREA BOUT HALF THE PRICE OF THE MIWUAKEE AND ARE VERY GOOD AS WELL. MY SON HAS BEEN USUNG HIS FOR A COUPLE YEARS NOW AS WELL.
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I’ve had a lot over the years in all price point and by far best is the Duracell 3 pack from Costco for $15. Simple, bright, run on aaa and have red and blue lights.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
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I have 2 rechargeable nitecore headlamps. $30 and super bright, comfortable, lightweight and long lasting.
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I don’t think that I’d buy another headlamp that doesn’t use 18650 cells.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06Y5MKYHQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
I don't think I would buy another that DOES use 18650 cells. Always seem to end up with go out issues. AAA you know exactly what you get and spares are light. Backpack a few days and 18650 goes dead .....
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AAA batteries for sure, and flip one backwards or pull one out when not in use, that keeps it from turning on in your pack. Always carry spares in your pack, batteries and head lamps.
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I like the cheap energizer ones from Walmart. A pair and a spare.. when I’m heading back to the rig, I wear two, one fore and one aft.. may not make much sense, but it seems to ease my mind tromping around in brown bear country.
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Once I figured out how to lock my storm so it wouldn't turn on in my pack......it has been awesome.
I own 5 and they are all black diamond. One of them is over 20 years old and still running strong. It's only a 150-200 lumen though. I now own two storm 400's and 2 icon 700's.
I prefer the icon 700 due to the brightness and the fact that it takes AA batteries. Now every electronic in my pack takes one size battery. The Storms are very cheap now days, so there is no way I would buy anything else if money was a factor.
Petzel also makes great lights.
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I still carry a Petzl, they have been bulletproof. I don't like their batteries though, AAA is ok as I have rechargeables, but their rechargeable seems to be not that great.
I had an older Petzl that went in the ocean twice. I opened it, dumped the saltwater, rinsed with fresh and it's still running years later. The only reason I am changing is brightness and rechargeable.
I think most guys are carrying battery packs for phones/InReach/Headlamps/GPS/watches and whatever other gadgets we carry these days.
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I don’t think that I’d buy another headlamp that doesn’t use 18650 cells.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06Y5MKYHQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
I don't think I would buy another that DOES use 18650 cells. Always seem to end up with go out issues. AAA you know exactly what you get and spares are light. Backpack a few days and 18650 goes dead .....
To each his own. I’ve converted all my flashlights that use the 3 AAA battery carousel to run on a single 18650. Lasts a lot longer and is rechargeable.
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the black diamond spot 400 is pretty low profile and has a lock feature when stored so it doesn't turn on. There is a learning curve on the one button operation, but I prefer it now.
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i have had good luck with those cheap 3 pak head lamps that you find at costco in the fall... they last a while, i carry spare and they are bright. if they crap you toss
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Another vote for black diamonds those are what we run great headlamps
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I’ve been using the Streamlight Septor for several years. Inexpensive and has been dependable.
https://www.streamlight.com/products/detail/septor-headlamp
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I've been using the Fenix HM65R and couldn't be happier
www.fenixlighting.com
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I have the older version of this light and really enjoy it. I have 2. I run 18650 batteries on everything I own, and just keep some charged spares in my pack. They are SUPER bright, last a long time with 2x 18650s, and are cheap. The cord does get held onto the switchboard with solder, so I've had to resolder each one once, but I've glued the cord to the housing and haven't had a problem since.
https://www.amazon.com/Headlamp-Flashlight-Headlight-Waterproof-Rechargeable/dp/B07VL8S7LZ
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LED benies from Costco. The recarchable 2 packs last long and work great for 90% of hand use
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I have been using Streamlight Double Clutch USB Headlamp and like using the flood for gutting and the spot for getting out.
https://www.streamlight.com/products/detail/double-clutch-usb-headlamp (https://www.streamlight.com/products/detail/double-clutch-usb-headlamp)
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I've been using Princeton Tec F-RED for years, best lamp I've ever owned. I normally get about 30 hours of run time on 3 AAA's. F-Red means it can be white or red, I think the make one that's green.
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I use the duracell ones from Costco, but also have a higher end backup (which I rarely need to use). They work great!
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Last light headlamp and also look at their led light rope
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Thanks for all the opinions! Good stuff.
Carry on!
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Another vote for Princeton Tec.
My Black Diamond Storm eats batteries just sitting in a bin.
Princeton Tec Byte with red and 200 lumen white LEDs have been great.
Two AAs.
I would insist on red LEDs if hunting.
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My vote is the Milwaukee rechargeable headlamp. It goes through battery fast on the brightest settings and a little heavy but tough as nails, super bright and I carry a few extra batteries
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You guys don't just use the hobo freight model.
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I have 2 rechargeable nitecore headlamps. $30 and super bright, comfortable, lightweight and long lasting.
I have a bunch of others but got one of those 2 years ago. Super small, lightweight, bright and fast charging
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You guys don't just use the hobo freight model.
:yeah:
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I use the duracell ones from Costco, but also have a higher end backup (which I rarely need to use). They work great!
Yep, it’s all I use. If it gets lost or damaged no big deal.👍
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I like the inexpensive 2 or 3 pack energizer ones. However, my favorite is a rechargeable Coast XPH30R
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I use headlamps constantly at work and in the field. I strongly recommend ones that use 18650 lithium batteries. They are rechargeable with a cell phone cord and extremely bright. The batteries last forever and can be easily swapped out if one dies. They outshine those little AAA models massively.
https://a.co/d/5N8947n
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I use headlamps constantly at work and in the field. I strongly recommend ones that use 18650 lithium batteries. They are rechargeable with a cell phone cord and extremely bright. The batteries last forever and can be easily swapped out if one dies. They outshine those little AAA models massively.
https://a.co/d/5N8947n
+1 and +2 on this. Weve moved all of our flashlights, headlamps and other items to 18650. I just keep a few in my pack. I really like the headlamps that take 2x 18650 batteries in parallel, they seem to last forever and are so bright its ridiculous...
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Got the Zebra that's so loved on Rokslide - died in the cold day 2. Had BlackDamond with big battery pack on back of strap - what a head knocker. Couldn't get rid of it fast enough.
Maybe I'll try the Fenix 60L one that can take 2 standard batteries as a backup.
I read about some lights getting hot - if its getting warm thats sucking juice down.
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Got the Zebra that's so loved on Rokslide - died in the cold day 2. Had BlackDamond with big battery pack on back of strap - what a head knocker. Couldn't get rid of it fast enough.
Maybe I'll try the Fenix 60L one that can take 2 standard batteries as a backup.
I read about some lights getting hot - if its getting warm thats sucking juice down.
The blackdiamond icon 700 has the ability to remove the battery pack (4 AA's) from the head strap and place it in your pack or on your pack straps, belt, etc. It has an extension cord that allows the battery pack to be placed other places than your head. It is pretty awesome, though I don't mind having 4 AA's on my head.
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https://www.amazon.com/SLONIK-Rechargeable-Headlamp-2200mAh-Battery/dp/B07Z3L22J3?pd_rd_w=zu3sv&content-id=amzn1.sym.9b6c7c5b-711f-47e9-8510-2ca3ff59483f&pf_rd_p=9b6c7c5b-711f-47e9-8510-2ca3ff59483f&pf_rd_r=25MV59DVN1SJCD4A6T7R&pd_rd_wg=mbc2h&pd_rd_r=9c65b728-ad22-4263-90fe-e3cfd192840b&ref_=sspa_dk_rhf_yoy_pt_sub_1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExU0VYU0lLTFlFU0hTJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwOTg1OTYxQUcwNkJUR0g3SEMwJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTAzODA1ODhaNzkySEc5QjZYQVMmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9yaGZfeW95JmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ&th=1 (ftp://www.amazon.com/SLONIK-Rechargeable-Headlamp-2200mAh-Battery/dp/B07Z3L22J3?pd_rd_w=zu3sv&content-id=amzn1.sym.9b6c7c5b-711f-47e9-8510-2ca3ff59483f&pf_rd_p=9b6c7c5b-711f-47e9-8510-2ca3ff59483f&pf_rd_r=25MV59DVN1SJCD4A6T7R&pd_rd_wg=mbc2h&pd_rd_r=9c65b728-ad22-4263-90fe-e3cfd192840b&ref_=sspa_dk_rhf_yoy_pt_sub_1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExU0VYU0lLTFlFU0hTJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwOTg1OTYxQUcwNkJUR0g3SEMwJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTAzODA1ODhaNzkySEc5QjZYQVMmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9yaGZfeW95JmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ&th=1)
this is the one I have used for a couple years now and works awesome for hunting and work.
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Nitecore NU25 for backpacking and boating: after multiple newer black diamonds crapping out on me and fussing with their one button trying to get red light without blinding my night vision I wanted a dedicated red light button. You could carry 2-3 of them and still be half the weight of a home depot headlamp. Old guys must have necks like rutted out mule deer to carry those fat 10 lb bricks on their foreheads all night. 😂. Plus thats like 3 ounces more body weight I dont have to lose every year.
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You guys don't just use the hobo freight model.
:tup: They work, and often they are free with a coupon.
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You guys don't just use the hobo freight model.
:tup: They work, and often they are free with a coupon.
50 lumens wouldn't be worth the weight in my pack. The moon puts off that much light. :chuckle:
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Nitecore NU25 for backpacking and boating: after multiple newer black diamonds crapping out on me and fussing with their one button trying to get red light without blinding my night vision I wanted a dedicated red light button. You could carry 2-3 of them and still be half the weight of a home depot headlamp. Old guys must have necks like rutted out mule deer to carry those fat 10 lb bricks on their foreheads all night. 😂. Plus thats like 3 ounces more body weight I dont have to lose every year.
Which black diamond models are you referring to? I think my spot is 3.4 ounces including batteries and works great.
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I love my Fenix HM65R. Slightly heavier and bulkier than my Princeton Tec Remix that I used for years but a much better headlight and well worth it.
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Figured I would bring this one back up - Just got a rechargeable 600 Lumen LEDLENSER and the thing seems pretty amazing. Has a 7 yr warranty as well
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I just bought the Peax Back Country Duo for my Son and I. Haven't really used them yet but they have white and red LED's. They have good reviews on YouTube from independent people. They are located in Montana and support hunting.
https://www.peaxequipment.com/products/backcountry-duo
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Whats a good hunting headlamp thats durable and low profile? In your opinion:)
Thanks!
really like the peax headlamp, great red light on it too
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Fenix hm65r for our camp. I believe we have 4 of them
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I’ve had a lot over the years in all price point and by far best is the Duracell 3 pack from Costco for $15. Simple, bright, run on aaa and have red and blue lights.
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I have a lot of cheaper headlamps, the Coast from HD and Duracell from Costco (I think I have 6) I take two of the Duracell's with me to deer camp with extra AAA batteries. I have never had one fail.
I replace the batteries every year before deer camp.
Ironically the $120 Streamlight headlamp I received for Christmas one year failed the first time I used it when I needed it most.
I won't buy safety or emergency gear that recharge especially by USB.
I received one of those clip-on your hat 3 LED lights duhicky as a stocking stuffer awhile back. You probably have seen them in the in the checkout lanes at Lowes and HD. That cheap sucker just keep on ticking. I keep it in my pack as a backup. I used it hiking back to camp in the dark once and it was much more comfortable then wearing a headlamp for three hours.
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owned alot of headlamps over the years. I bought a Peax last year and will have this one for a longtime. Rechargeable and extra battery will last a long time. Built to take a beating
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I've been using a Coast FL74 for several years that I bought from costco when they carried them. It has worked great and is still going strong.
I'd like to try one of these so I can turn night time into day time with the flip of a switch:
https://sniperhoglights.com/50kap-headlamp/
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I bought and used the peax last season. Absolutely love it. Very bright, battery lasts a long time, and can lock so it won’t turn on in your pack. I picked up a second battery on Amazon
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My favorite right now is a Fenix rechargeable for most situations. If I'm going in deep, I carry a replaceable battery black diamond and extra batteries so I don't run out of light.
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Rechargeable neck lights of Amazon or the dewalts take a couple AA batteries. Hands free and bright led
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After I struggled to see razor clam shows during a night dig last December, I went down the r/flashlight (https://www.reddit.com/r/flashlight/) rabbit hole, and convinced myself I needed to upgrade my headlamp kit. :chuckle:
[/size]
[/size]These lights use rechargeable lithium ion 18650 batteries, except for the Fenix, which uses 21700 batteries.
[/size]
[/size]Wurkkos HD15R (https://www.wurkkos.com/products/wurkkos-hd15r-angle-flashlight-headlamp)
[/size]Skilhunt H04R RC (https://www.skilhunt.com/product/h04r-rc-usb-magnetic-rechargeable-led-headlamp/)[/color]
[/size]Skilhunt H200 (https://www.skilhunt.com/product/h200-18650-usb-magnetic-charging-led-headlamp/)[/color]
Fenix HP30R v2.0 (https://www.fenixlighting.com/products/fenix-hp30r-v2-rechargeable-headlamp)
[/size]
[/size]Sites with good info:
[/size]https://www.reddit.com/r/flashlight/
[/size]https://zakreviews.com/arbitrary-list-2023.3.html
[/size]http://flashlights.parametrek.com/index.html
[/size]https://budgetlightforum.com/ (https://budgetlightforum.com/)[/color]
[/size]https://1lumen.com/ (https://1lumen.com/)[/color]
[/size]
[/size]Batteries:
[/size]Never buy lithium ion batteries from Amazon - too many fakes and sketchy sellers. I bought my batteries and charger from these sites:
[/size]
[/size]https://illumn.com/ (https://illumn.com/)
[/size]https://liionwholesale.com/ (https://liionwholesale.com/)
[/size]
[/size]Other trustworthy battery sites:
[/size]https://www.18650batterystore.com/
[/size]https://www.mtnelectronics.com/
[/size]https://www.imrbatteries.com/ (https://www.imrbatteries.com/)
[/size]
[/size]Battery reviews & info:
[/size]https://lygte-info.dk/info/batteryIndex.html[/color]
[/size]http://batteries.parametrek.com/index.html
[/size]
[/size]Charger:
[/size]https://lygte-info.dk/review/Review%20Charger%20Vapcell%20S4%2B%20fast%20charger%20UK.html[/color]
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Well I have a dozen or more headlamps in my truck right now as am packing for hunting.
Every thing from 150.00 to $20.00. Rechargeable and AA batteries.
Twice coming out my rechargeable ones have died while coming out in dark. What saved my bacon was a Costco head lamp with AA I carry in my pack as an extra.
After years of spending hundreds and getting a couple nice one for gifts. It’s the Costco ones that always work. When you need it, you need it to work.
:twocents:
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Well I have a dozen or more headlamps in my truck right now as am packing for hunting.
Every thing from 150.00 to $20.00. Rechargeable and AA batteries.
Twice coming out my rechargeable ones have died while coming out in dark. What saved my bacon was a Costco head lamp with AA I carry in my pack as an extra.
After years of spending hundreds and getting a couple nice one for gifts. It’s the Costco ones that always work. When you need it, you need it to work.
:twocents:
Costco for me too. I like being able to replace batteries if they go dead. Also carry a very small streamlite flashlight in my pack lid that can attach to my hat for backup.
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The Amazon sofirn rechargeable from 77outdoor with dual white and red bulbs is legit for the price. Brighter red than I've ever seen and the normal bulb is extremely bright and crisp white. Worth every penny.
https://www.amazon.com/Rechargeable-Headlamp-77outdoor-Lightweight-Flashlight/dp/B09MFBYN2C/ref=asc_df_B09MFBYN2C/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=693128046662&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=11180398712791892450&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1027632&hvtargid=pla-1658033313108&psc=1&mcid=fff62c726ab139a5b85c8454050b5e3c