Thread: Looking for a new head torch

Just wondering what people are using out there.
I am looking for a head torch that will have good run time and also the ability to throw a decent light out. Current head torch is getting a little old and only good for about a 5 metre beam which is fine around the camp fire and under the car but not for much more.
I had a look at the lensers but damn they ain't cheap.
In all honesty would like one that can go dim and then when needed light up the place like it is daytime. I did used to have one of these about 15 years ago and walking out of a climb no one else in the party needed to use theirs it was that bright and lit the bothy up from about 2 k's back- i miss that torch and it only cost about $30.

All help and advice appreciated.

Before I give my opinion.
What is your budget? Because that will be the best way I can suggest a head torch for you

Keegan

Ive had the cheap ones off trademe that throw out a hell of a light but it wasnt fun when the bloody thing just stopped working when I was descending a slippery 45 degree clay track.

Hmm thinking I would max out at $200.00
Would you have options for say up to $50.00, up to $100 and say above $100 that might be an idea??

Yeah I have one that doesn't just die but needing something stronger. That would not have been fun for sure

I've got a Lenser with the dimmer switch on the back.

No overhead third strap means you can wear it around your neck
Wires can get a bit loose from the battery compartment so if you get one, a pre-emptive blob of 2-pack epoxy is recommended to hold them on

They are not bad

Another point worth considering is if you carry something that currently runs AA batteries, do you want a torch that also runs AA as the Lensers are AAA?
ie, do you wanna carry two different types of batteries?

My 2c

Thanks @308. I don't mind carry additional batteries. My current light runs AAA but last for ages (12hours) so not too worried about needing to replace them on a walk in or out.

I've got two head torches in mInd, the first one being a Black Diamond Storm. They price for $89, I have one and would buy another in a heart beat. Bug plus is that they're waterproof,I've actually gone swimming with it before so it definitely holds up on the claim. From memory I believe it has a max output of something like 160 lumens. Which is more than enough, with obviously the ability to be dimmed. Definitely worth checking out.

The second is the Petzl head torch which dims automatically by itself. I'm not so familiar with its details but they are very impressive I know that much. Think it goes for well under $200 though.

But I would definitely back the Storm ay, great torch

Keegan

The Petzl I'm talking about is the Petzl NAO, you should also look at the Petzl MYO. Both of these have a much higher max lumen rating, but of course cost more $$$

@nz_hunter. Had a look at a test of the black storm and not really the level of performance that I am after, needs to be much better than maxing out at 60metres.
Thanks for the info though

Then the Petzl ones you should definitely look at, they're just double the price.
No problem Willie

Been using a black diamond storm. dimmable, no external wires, pretty bullet proof, good running time., doesn't do that crap where its really bright for the first hour then starts slowly but surely going down hill for the next 20hr. Cost between $70-80.

Have a lenser 14.2R

Pros are it can be very bright all the way down to very dim in steps with the dimmer, has a rechargeable lion pack but can also run on two 18520 or whatever the number is or 4aa, good wide beam to good spot and also have a travel lock out mode so you can't accidentally turn it off and flatten the battery. Also on low runs for 40hrs.

Cons are large battery pack and if you have your hood on it can dial the dimmer a bit but it does come with an extension cord so you can locate pack on your belt etc.

Other than that it recharges via usb so can recharge in the car.

Worth the coin @Nibblet?
Is it seriously bright enough to light the place up?

I don't regret it. Depends what you want to light up? I use it for navigation in the dark and spotting possums.

For long range spotting I use the maxtoch.