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Posts Tagged → headlamp

July 16th, 2014

For the tech geeks among you

Some of my hunting buddies had a discussion by email about flashlights and batteries.  I am a headlamp kind of guy, ever since my eyes started aging a year or two ago, because flashlights require one of my hands while the other tries to do the work of two hands…and I am lucky if I can get both of my hands to synchronize as it is.

Anyhow, if you are into high-tech, intense, high-output flashlights and batteries, read on:

MOSH:

As per irv suggested, AA batteries are better than AAA…. also there are batteries called 14500, physically the same size, but double the Voltage. AA 1.5, 14500 3.4v

DONT PUT A 14500 IN AN AA ONLY FLASHLIGHT, IT WILL BREAK

 …If getting a new flashlight…look for one that can use a 14500 for full brightness 200+lumens,  or a AA for half the power.

 14500 batteries are not readily available in stores.

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Irv:
Hi George, the maratac is a good quality light. I believe its sold by countycomm, which had a good reputation last i heard.

They specifically state NOT to use high power 10440 batteries which i agree with since electronics that use AAA batteries are usually delicate and sensitive to over-current.
I would not hesitate to rely on that light with AAA Lithium batteries. You will probably lose it before it dies on you.
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Irv:
Here’s a short write up you guys may want to read:
STAY AWAY FROM AAA batteries unless you have no choice.  AA batteries have 2-3 times the capacity of AAA batteries.
I use flashlights daily, and everyone knows i highly recommend headlamps. Petzl and Princeton tec are great companies but they don’t make a headlamp that is also a handheld flashlight. So far only 2 companies do. Zebra light and Armytec.
Now it all depends on what battery you want to use.
After much time and research I strongly recommend STAYING AWAY from using AAA batteries if your life depends on it.
and i HIGHLY recommend size AA batteries at the least, and even better lithium  CR123 batteries (but they can be expensive and the cheaper ones can have flaws. more on that later…)
Basically Lithium batteries are best. And Rechargeable “14500” (a rechargeable AA battery on steroids) and even stronger “18650” (rechargeable CR123 battery on steroids)   …are GREAT.
I have been constantly disappointed at the quality and reliability of other companies, and of AAA batteries. Especially in cold weather where plastics get brittle and crack, and batteries freeze up even while being used and seem warm.
After our little trip going down the other side of the mountain i bet everyone realized how important it was to have a flashlight when it gets dark, and even more important to have both hands free.
Mosh loves the flashlights he gets from ebay and i have tried them but if my life depended on them, Hell NO.
Get a good headlamp, and get a good flashlight. and get the best batteries you can afford for when it counts.
Sanyo Eneloop, most Lithium Batteries, and 14500 and 18650 rechargeables have been reliable to me.
I found some interesting gear on sale from a company called ArmyTec, from Canada.
They have good promotions going right now and theyre selling out fast…
i also recommend Fenix flashlights, and Foursevens lights.
Don’t be confused by LED bulbs, the latest bulb technology readily available is XML, and the major differences are tint: soft white, or cool white. each has its place, and that would be a write up all in itself. next time.
Take care,
Irv
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George wrote:

I like this one as an edc flashlight despite being aaa.  Falia makes us all look like couch potatoes.   She does great reviews.
By Josh • Posted in Family • No Comment