(Part 3) Reddit mentions: The best headlamps

It's really not too hard to get started - just go where there's no buildings, and then stay there!

I like to find places that say "primitive" camping, which just means "less likely to be trashy people". I don't like to be at a campsite with 93 different tent sites, 92 of which are occupied by people playing music and drinking their bush beer at 3am and burning their styerfoam coolers. This may mean you get a campsite without restroom facilities, or with only a "vault toilet" (permanent porta-potty) - that's OK, you can go a day without a shower, it won't kill you. Be conscious that this is slightly more difficult for girls, if you have to pee in the woods, though.

Embrace the solitude; look up at the stars.

What kind of gear do you already have? You can get started super cheap if you're just doing some car camping and you don't want to get really involved in it.

There are a lot of posts and discussion all over the internet about how to shed weight so that you can go long-haul backpacking and do cool things way out in the wilderness, but cost scales like this with lightness. If you're just doing casual / first time / car camping, just go with some inexpensive gear until you decide, for you, what kind of camping you want to do.

For example, a three season sleeping bag will do you just fine for $23, for casual use. You may only get 20-30 uses out of it before you wear it out, but it's cheap. It's also good to have a sleeping pad; the old classic thermarest for $20 has worked just fine for people for 20 years, or an inexpensive inflatable pad at $25 makes a great choice. I usually don't bring a pillow, I usually wad up my clothes or jacket or both and use that as a pillow.

You typically want to have a tent that advertises (number of people actually sleeping +1) if you're doing simple / beginner camping, so for 2 people, get a 3-4 person tent. This is so you can fit all your gear in the tent. See if you can borrow one from a friend, or if you want your own, a 3 person tent or a 4 person tent will do just fine at $50.

It's a good idea to have some way to see in the dark, so bring a flashlight, or a mini lantern, or better yet, a head lamp is super useful.

You'll want to also remember to bring trash bags and toilet paper, in addition to the things you'd normally bring for an overnight trip (change of clothes, toothbrush, etc). Bring warmer clothes than you think you need, too - just in case. I can't count the number of times I've been camping, and thinking "Oh, it's only going to get down to 50 tonight", and because I'm far away from the city that the forecast was for, it actually gets down to 30 and I'm cold. Bring a jacket, bonus points for water-proof (in case it rains). Also, grab a small first aid kit (some bandaids, gauze, travel size hand sanitizer, neosporin, and a compression wrap should be able to handle most of what you'd need).

Bring water - especially if you don't know if there'll be potable water at the campsite. Just grab one of these things at the store is the easiest way. Bring a couple of disposable plates and some plastic cups.

Bring a folding chair! Don't bring anything that plays music! (annoys other campers).

For making food, I wouldn't bother with buying a stove or anything - just bring some charcoal and make a camp fire, and do "pocket dinners" or "hobo packs" - a great way to make a meal that is personalized to your tastes, and super easy. Grab some kielbasa or pre-cooked sausage, some onions, potatoes, brussel sprouts, bell peppers, mushrooms, whatever, make a big-ass sheet of aluminum foil by taking two big ass pieces of heavy duty foil and folding the edges together, dump the veggies in, wrap it up except for one end, put in about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of water, then just put it on the coals for 20 min, flipping halfway through, and then when ready, grab it with some tongs, put it on a paper plate, open it up, and eat right out of the foil. Makes clean up easy - just throw the whole thing away. For breakfast, poptarts or energy bars or bagles (toasted on the fire on a marshmallow fork!). My favorite camping breakfast, though, is hard-boiled eggs with bacon salt sprinkled on them. We boil the eggs ahead of time, but it does mean you'll have to fit them in a cooler.

At night, make sure all the food stuff is back in the car, or in a secure (bear-proof, which really mostly means racoon proof) location. Same thing with the trash - put it in the dump location, or put it in your trunk to pack it out. Before you go to bed, also fold up your camping chairs, and put them in the car, or under the picnic table, or whatever, so that they don't get the dew on them.

And lastly, but very important, remember to read all of the state, local, and federal regulations about where you'll be camping. Some places won't let you have fires, some will let you have fires only in established fire rings, some make you sign a thing and print it out and bring it with you, etc. In California, we have to have a shovel and a bucket of water. Some places, you have to sign a wildlife / "crumb-clean" pledge, some places you have to pay in advance. Most places don't want you to bring firewood because of pest infestation risks, so plan to either gather firewood at the site or buy it from the rangers if they offer it. Some places will have restrictions on where you can park and how many cars are allowed, or how many people per site, etc. Some places allow dogs; most don't (?). A lot of places have specific regulations about alcohol, and some have regulations about smoking. Just be aware of all of this ahead of time.

Hope this helps! Dunno if it's what you're looking for, but ... well, there it is!

I don't know if I would trust any headlamp with a USB-C port on it into a cave... it seems like asking for trouble with it getting filled with mud and other nasty stuff. A similar light is the Nitecore HC50, which is $15 cheaper and has red lights. I have this light and have taken it in many muddy, wet caves and have banged it up something good and it is still rocking strong. The beam is awesome, and while it's only 565 lm this is honestly still brighter than useful pretty much always. I typically run it at the second or third brightness setting anyways. My only complaint with this light is that it is a bit heavy, which isn't really a problem when strapped to an ecrin roc, but can be annoying when not using it with a helmet around the camp.

My favorite light is my Zebralight, the hype for this thing is well deserved. While it doesn't have a red light, the form factor is awesome. It is super light on the head without the hassle of a battery in the back. I think many people will agree that the Zebralight H600 series is one of the best caving lights you can get. (note there four versions of the H600, two LED colors cool and neutral, and two beam spreads, flood and spot)

Nitecore makes a blatant ripoff of the Zebralight that is $30 cheaper. While I don't have one of these, I did have a chance to play with one after a buddy of mine got one and it seems to be pretty neat. Considering how much I like my Nitecore HC50 I'm willing to bet this would be a solid light to get as well. One thing I like about the Zebralight over the Nitecore is that it works with flat-top 18650 batteries so you can bust open old laptop batteries and use the cells to power the light, whereas the Nitecore requires a button top 18650. Not a huge issue but something to consider.


Edit (some more thoughts):

It sounds like you are new to caving, welcome! I would recommend that you attend a local grotto meeting, which I believe for you would be the Southern California Grotto. You may meet some awesome people and it's a good way to get involved in the sport.

Also, with your flashlight purchase don't forget to get an 18650 battery and a charger for it. You may already have these since you have the Nitecore MH25 but I figured I'd mention it just in case. Be careful with the batteries to get a reputable brand because there are a lot of fakes out there. Panasonic makes good batteries, but unfortunately there are a lot of ones that say Panasonic that are made somewhere else and a lot of ones that say other things that are made by Panasonic. Confusing! I got this one and it works great. You can take a risk with cheaper ones, just know they might not last so long. This charger works good for me. I've had both of my lights last for a 14 hour cave trip so the battery life is pretty good.

Well, if you don't need anything right away, wait for a 20% coupon. The prices at REI are generally higher than you'll find elsewhere, though if you're a member of the co-op you'll get 10% back (on full priced purchases only) at the end of the year. If you need stuff right away, like leaving this afternoon, then the 10% isn't bad... but better to wait for the 20% coupon or buy elsewhere.

cwcoleman provided a nice list of things. But check out the Adventure medical Kit .5, only $15.41 from Amazon compared to $20 from REI... with a 20% coupon Amazon is slightly cheaper.

The BD Storm headlamp $40 on Amazon, $50 at REI but the same with the 20% coupon.


The MSR Pocket Rocket is a good stove, but nowadays there are other nice options that are lighter and smaller, some are much cheaper. The Snow Peak LiteMax is a good stove that is lighter and packs smaller though a litte more expensive.

There's an even smaller and lower priced stove that's gotten popular, the BRS3000T which at under 1oz and less than $15 is an amazing stove, though it's a little small if you want to do anything except boil water.


Going up in weight, the Jetboil is a fantastic stove (that really only boils water, but does a great job). It's heavier but very fuel efficient, and easy to use.

Consumables like fuel, food, energy bars are always good... but you may feel like you wasted the GC since you don't have a nice new shiny toy in your hands.

If I had a $100GC, I'd probably buy some new shoes, REI does have a nice collection of shoes.

When I read these threads, I'm reminded how fortunate I am that I had a dad who was building circuit boards for the Navy and had a soldering iron in my hand when I was 9. Thanks for the reality check. Let me offer some tips.

> Conclusion: should I invest in magnifying glasses? Do you use a magnifying glass? Also, an absurdly bright light in front of you would help.

I would resist(no pun) this as long as possible. Seems like a really good idea, ends up being a crutch that hurts you. I think once you get more acquainted with the iron, the smallness of the components will matter less. I also sometimes use a headlamp to light up specific areas. Looks kinda silly but works a treat.

> Conclusion: fix your helping hands to something. Make sure your elbows can rest on the table to keep your work steady.

Absolutely, even a couple C clamps could do the trick. That being said, I've been using adhesive putty to hold my workpieces, it's great, highly recommended.

> Conclusion: a very pointed pencil tip would help. Some people like knife tips.

I can understand why you might want this, but it's actually going to hurt more than help. A needle tip does not hold or transfer heat like a larger tip. What you'll gain in precision, you'll lose in actually being able to solder something. Instead, a knife or chisel tip(my preference) both still come to a relative point, but have enough mass and surface area to adequately heat a joint. The precision will come with practice.

> Conclusion: keep track of your components, and maybe put them immediately back in the labeled bags. Or in labelled bins.

Reading component color codes should only be a last resort, especially for small components. Even if the colors are easy to see and understand, they only tell you what the resistor should be, not what they actually are. Instead, get yourself a multimeter. Then, you can measure the actual resistance of components, saving the strain on your eyes, and arming you with advanced knowledge about the actual resistance of the component. Honestly, a multimeter is indispensable for myriad reasons, this just being one. It's the actualization of our greatest commandment, Ohm's Law. It's the tape measure of electronics.

> Conclusion: triple check your order.

Yup.

Before anything else: Someone else said jack stands - get them. Don't die under a car. I almost did, it's easier to fuck up than you think.



I have the 1.5 ton HF aluminum jack, I wish I had gone for something a little bigger. It doesn't really have the lift height for bigger jobs.



Another thing I don't see mentioned: LIGHTS. I keep two of each of these in my garage:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06W2HTGFL/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0015UC17E/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Plus I have the Braun (HF) flexible work light:
https://www.harborfreight.com/390-lumen-magnetic-slim-bar-folding-led-work-light-63958.html
This thing is great, but I have the typical HF complaints about quality especially around its willingness to charge all the time. I put a washer on the battery and that seems to have solved the issue for now.



I wouldn't mess with a pneumatic impact unless you find yourself in a situation where you really need one and can't afford an electric. Your compressor flow rate has a lot more to do with its ability to run air tools than anything else, and unless you really have a shop quality compressor you won't run a pneumatic impact very long.



I'd wait until you really need an impact and if you find you do, I'd suggest this one:
https://www.lowes.com/pd/DEWALT-XR-20-Volt-Max-1-2-in-Drive-Variable-Brushless-Cordless-Impact-Wrench-1-Battery-Included-and-Charger-Included/999947862



Now it's not the best electric impact you can get - the Milwaukee and Makita versions are both marginally better - but it's available at every big box store, and when you factor in the cost of batteries it's WAY cheaper.



For hand tools, I'd go 100% harbor freight (pittsburgh). Most things can be done with 3/8" and a lot of extensions, but having 1/2" is really helpful. If you use it enough to break it, upgrade then. I use 1/4" for lots of things but it's a luxury for the most part. Get metric deep and standard depth sockets. I also consider ratcheting box wrenches nearly a necessity. Again, the pittsburgh set is a great deal for what you get. Get all the lengths of extensions you can.



If you find you want (or need) nicer hand tools, my next step up is generally gearwrench. This set is one of the few things I might consider a splurge on out of the gate:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BTEXPDK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1



You need a torque wrench. Someone else suggested the tekton 1/2" drive and I 100% concur if you had to pick one to start with. Make sure you learn how to use it and how to properly store it. A deep lug socket (19mm or 21mm usually) is your friend, figure out what size your lug nuts are.



I can't live without a couple pairs of vice grips. They're by far my favorite tool for grabbing spring-loaded hose clamps.



You need at least one dead blow hammer. They're cheap as hell at harbor freight (noticing a theme?)



Magnet trays are usually free at harbor freight with a coupon and purchase. Get a nice stack of them, they're priceless.



Other Odds and ends that I use a bunch:

• I keep a 10mm T-handle which makes my life easier disassembling little crap under the hood
  
  
• The $20 set of t-handle hex wrenches from harbor freight gets used more than just about anything in my garage
  
  
• telescoping magnet
  
  
• telescoping inspection mirror
  
  
• Oil filter socket that fits the things you will work on. Will save your hands and knuckles.
  
  
• 9 mil (black) harbor freight rubber gloves
  
  
• you'll probably eventually need an O2 sensor socket. Get the crowfoot kind
  
  
• 5/16" nut driver gets an absolute workout on screw-type hose clamps.
  
  
• With the age of things you're working on, you're probably gonna need a mapp gas torch too
  
  
• pumice soap, like fast orange or something of the sort
  
  
• I get a lot more use out of my punch set than I expected, but not a must have
  
  Finally, abuse www.hfqpdb.com - there is often a coupon for whatever the hell it is you're gonna buy at harbor freight. If not, use the 20%.
  
  I'm sure I'll think of a bunch more stuff later on
  
  Edit: I told you I'd forget some stuff.
  
  Prybars are a must have
  
  A pick set is nearly a must-have
  
  One of my favorite things I've done is get a big bulk food scoop from GFS and put it in a 5-gallon bucket of oil dry. You end up needing it a lot.

Completely personal but beyond a good baselayer nothing else I own is running specific for the winter. Up top I'll usually use a compression shirt and then layer a few shirts on top of that culminating in a hoodie (the front pocket is clutch for carrying extra tissues or storing your hat/gloves). Layers are your friend. Bottom wise I'll do compression shorts and/or tights depending on how cold it is and another pair of shorts over top just for another layer. Other than that I wear my normal socks, a buff if needed, a knit hat, and some light gloves. This setup has carried me through the coldest and windiest parts of the winter last year. I made a quick down and dirty jumping off point for you to look at some decent, affordable gear: Tesla tights, Tesla top, Reflective knit hat, Buff, Headlamp, Lightweight gloves. You may want to look at maybe some windproof layers, wool socks, or heavier gloves depending on what the weather actually looks like near you. I wasn't a fan of the yak trax style grips and ended up just using my trail running shoes a lot in the winter, just be careful.

A telescopic back scratcher which I removed the top from, and makes a great pocket bellows. It's resurrected fires even after heavy rain.

My Petzl e-lite headlamp which I think may be a discontinued model. Weighs nothing. Red light mode is great for reading, and strapped to a water bottle makes a good enough lantern. I'm very fond of kit that's good enough without being perfect.

>On my second topic, what sort of general gear do I need?

Get a flashlight or headlamp, one that has the option to be red or white. They're incredibly helpful for when you do your night flights.

The red light wont kill your night vision during the flight, and the white light will help you not lose anything when the flight is over. I personally have a headlamp like the one I linked. Headlamps are great for when you need to write in the dark.

Also get a nice pair of aviators for when the sun's shining right into your face. Makes all the difference between a frustrating (and potentially dangerous flight) and safety when you can actually see the instruments and outside.

I bought this for night riding. Use heavy duty velco to secure it to the helmet. It's super bright and the red safety light is nice.

I run at all times of day. My long runs I try to get in early on the weekend before it gets really hot. During the week I go after work or at night for both heat and family reasons. Invest in a headlamp(http://www.amazon.com/Petzl-E99-PG-Headlamp-Graphite/dp/B0027GXC96/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1310479015&sr=8-2), vest and flashing light(http://www.amazon.com/Nathan-Clip--Deluxe-Safety-Strobe/dp/B000MQ99GS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1310479143&sr=8-2) for night running safety. I generally try to stay to more well lit places but that lamp is pretty bright so you can navigate well.

I upgraded to a Petzl Tikka XP 2. Lets you go for both wide & diffuse vs direct beam settings. High / Low / Strobe. Both red and white settings. Baller strength, long life. Just in case you want to ride the higher end of your price range - great since it's an investment, at least for outdoors types.

I've also got older models of the original Tikka and a Black Diamond 4-LED lamp. A bit simpler and weaker, but both in the 20-35 range and honestly solid as long as you've got fresh batteries.

Thank you again for doing this!!

I have been thinking about getting a headlamp for my sons orienteering and this one would be awesome.


https://www.amazon.com/NITECORE-Performance-Versatile-L-Shaped-Organizer/dp/B076HPV5V4/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=hc33+nitecore&qid=1572420406&sprefix=hc33+&sr=8-3

Cheers!

It is this one but looks like the exact product is no longer available. Or I suck at googling.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rechargeable-Headlamp-Zoomable-Resistant-Cycling/dp/B06XRXHB7D

White light on the the front is super bright and has an adjustable focus/spread. Also tilts, so sometimes I tilt it up to get drivers attention, like flashing high beams. Back has red lights, and both front and back can choose from on/low/flash/off. And it's USB chargeable and waterproof.

4 pairs of pants? How about 1 pair of these or some equivalent? They're convertible so they're your pants and your shorts, and they dry fast so you could wear them in the water if you wanted to swim. A couple pairs of socks and underwear make sense, as you'll wear one then change and wash the used one for the next day. Also, are you weighing items like boots that you'll actually be wearing rather than carrying in your pack? Do you need anything beyond a good spork for eating?

As for what's missing, I don't see duct tape (don't bring a whole big roll, just wrap some around a thin piece of cardboard so it's flat and small), medical supplies (very basic stuff). You might want to replace a flashlight with a headlamp; this one is one of the most awesome and well-designed items I've ever used.

The Petzl Bindi should be good when it comes out. Rechargeable headlights have their pros and cons though. If you accidentally switch them on in your pocket or they go flat from use, you're a bit screwed since you can't change the batteries for a spare set.

This page lists many of the most popular headlamps by weight.

The Petzl E+light is good and the CR 2032 batteries are excellent for runtime/weight ratio. Almost negligible weight to carry a spare set also. Also has red leds like the e+lite.

The E+lite is very floody. An alternative 2032 battery headlamp with a further throw is this vitchelo one. You can swap the heavy headband for some shock cord to make it like this more expensive version of the same light.

I've tried a few different flight bags from headset-only sized to army ruck sized.

I keep going back to my free Gleim bag they sent with the Deluxe PPL Ground School. Incidentally, not a single one of the Google Images results is of the actual one I have. It's been five years now, though...

The simple ASA kneeboards on Amazon work well for me.

These hat lights with red LEDs are almost required for night flying, since I fly old planes with poor night lighting:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003F88740 - I paid like $10 each though. $25 is too high.

Mechanical pencil velcroed to dash works great for note taking, clearances.

Or for 20 bucks more get a Nitecore HC50 with about 4 times that performance. I understand its not AA but why not spend that 20 extra bucks and actually but a good piece of equipment with a good brand name behind it?

Good Luck everyone

I'm trying m'y Luck for

Acebeam H40

The following is strictly a backpacking list, as it includes lightweight items that cost more for that reason:

ULA Circuit Pack $225, 41 oz
Tarptent Double Rainbow Tent $289, 42 oz
Therm-a-rest X-lite regular size sleeping pad $100, 16 oz
Enlightened Equipment Revelation 20 degree Sleeping Bag $250, 20 oz
Sawyer Squeeze Mini Water Filter $23, 2 oz
Evernew Water Bag 900 mL + 2000 mL $30, 2.5 oz
MSR Pocket Rocket $40, 3 oz
Petzl Tikkina $20, 3 oz
Some cheap aluminum cookpot, $20 5 oz

Total: $997, 8.4 lbs

The main ones I'm actually recommending are the first 6 on the list, as the rest were just chosen to show that it is possible to stay under $1000 with everything else you'll need, although unfortunately with sales tax it's over $1000 already.

Another thing to take into consideration is that some of the National Parks like Yosemite NP and Sequoia NP require bear canisters like a Bear Vault or a Bearikade.

I want an early present!

[This] (http://www.amazon.com/Petzl-Tikkina-Headlamp-Ocean-Blue/dp/B00H7KA786/ref=dp_ob_title_sports) would be very useful in the theatre.

Happy birthday!

This Acebeam H40
would be a good addition to my beloved Convoy S2+, which I only got because of you guys. Thank you.

Bring a headlamp (i cannot vouch for this one specifically, just something similar). This was a lifesaver for me while walking around after dark. Just hang it around your neck and illuminate the ground in front of you. Not to mention, it makes portapotty's a lot easier and you don't have to worry about dropping your phone!

I bought a LED Hat Clip Light for camping and it worked great, now I use it any time I need to go looking for something in the dark. Leaves both hands free and the light is always pointed where I’m looking

My setup:

• Cheap reflective vests with LEDs on the back that you can set to blink.
  
• Black Diamond Spot Headlamp. Bright enough. Runs on AAAs. Has a quick double tap feature on the side to go to full brightness.

I like this. Less than an ounce, nice and bright. I wear it on my head to see on night runs or on my arm so cars can see me in the rain:

https://www.amazon.com/FireFly-Ultralight-Headlamp-orange--On-Sale/dp/B00K1JKDHU/ref=sr_1_1?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1474468682&sr=1-1&keywords=firefly+ultralight

Would love to have this flashlight. It would be useful for my gf's family back in their town since they regularly go to the sea during lowtides to look for shells, and clams they could eat.

https://www.amazon.com/Black-Diamond-Storm-2016/dp/B019EY4VZM/?tag=parametrek-20

I always wear a hat to help tame my hair and keep sweat out of my eyes (and for sun protection when it's light out), and so I use one of these and love it.

The Black Diamond Spot headlamp is really great for camping, $32:

https://www.amazon.com/Black-Diamond-Spot-Headlamp-Olive/dp/B06VV4DP69

Get a headlamp, it sucks trying to fumble around with a hand held flashlight to do anything at night and you don't want to be that camp site that blinds your neighbors by turning on your headlights to do anything. Bring lots of water, especially if you plan on drinking but also so you can rinse any dishes and wash your hands/face. Bring separate coolers for drinks and food because with people constantly grabbing drinks the ice will melt faster than you think. Also, if you do need to make an ice run don't be afraid to run to the gas station rather than paying the premium for ice at the shops on the grounds. If you're not a heavy sleeper, bring ear plugs because even if you get there early to set up chances are you'll get one or more RVs nearby who run generators all night no matter where you camp. Bring trash bags and use them, its one of the easiest things to forget. I think everyone else pretty much has everything covered.

This is what I use for a red light:

https://www.amazon.com/LED-Headlamp-Flashlight-Red-Light/dp/B00R0LMMF8


THere are a lot of LED headlamps out there, and most are garbage because they require you to cycle through the different modes to get to red. This makes it impossible to specifically turn the red off and on as needed.

But this headlamp has a separate, dedicated button for the red light, and also has a white light mode which is useful at the end of the session when you need to break everything down and see what you're doing.

Doubt something that specific will be part of a Black Friday sale though.

Edit: actually mine might be a bit different. This has independent red/white buttons, but the red button has two modes: strobe and solid. This would annoy the shit out of me if I was just trying to turn it on and off. Will try to find a non-strobe version.

Edit2: Seems the mode switching on this is smart enough to remember which mode you put it in. You have to quick press to change modes, but once the mode is set, you can turn it on and off and it will remain in the same mode. Another option: probably the same unit: https://www.amazon.com/VITCHELO-Headlamp-Waterproof-Duracell-Batteries/dp/B01AYDU2IW

Thanks again! I'd be glad to grab a Nitecore NU32!

I've had the same headlamp for over 4 years now...made by Energizer. Similar to the one shown here:
http://www.amazon.com/Energizer-3-LED-Performance-Batteries-Included/dp/B003F88740/ref=sr_1_16?ie=UTF8&qid=1396143739&sr=8-16&keywords=energizer+headlamp

I paid 7 USD for it, beats the pants off the more expensive models some of my buddies use. I orginally bought it in a hurry, for an impromptu cave exploration trip at St. Helens, but this thing has been all across the world with me now, and has taken a beating...still works good as new.

Lost my HC30 so would love to get another one. Loved the UI and the size.

https://smile.amazon.com/NITECORE-Performance-Versatile-L-Shaped-Organizer/dp/B076HPV5V4/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=nitecore+hc33&qid=1572439901&sr=8-6

Thanks for backing the giveaway McFarlie6996!

Just subbed yesterday to learn about flashlights for camping and outdoor purposes! Holy moly is there a lot more to flashlights than I thought. I've been hoping to grab a nice headlight to start.

Thanks again Paramtek!

[ACEBEAM H40 SST20 4000K 95+ WARM White LED Headlamp] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N981DQ6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_k2.0DbAJFBQZY)

I posted this before, handy at night if doing time lapse, astro etc, frees up both hands! And it's very bright, throw in some extra batteries because cheap.

Thanks for the giveaway mate


Black Diamond Spot Headlamp, Black, One Size https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06W54SBSL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_22mLDbVFNAHPG

ACEBEAM H40 SST20 4000K 95+ WARM White LED Headlamp - 600 Lumens, Light Weight https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N981DQ6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_bh40DbM95SJWH

Thank you.

I use this Energizer clip on light for working in dark places. I've also used it for kayaking at night. It works great and the battery lasts forever. And it didn't cost $90.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06W2HTGFL/ref=twister_B0719KKCG4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Headlamp for the win!

As for lights, i would suggest a headlamp, for sure. Specifically a Nitecore HC50. You can see where youre going and have enough time to dodge any death trap that awaits you. The light goes wherever your head turns (obviously) and its from an angle that will actually illuminate the road ahead, unlike anything you attach to your trucks, 5 inches from the ground. You can attach it to your helmet, easily.

Oh, and you have the option to remove the head strap and attach the light to your backpack strap or your belt, which are some great options, in my opinion. The light can be angled towards the floor, as well, without having to tilt your head down.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00GNJM3AM/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1505454015&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=hc50+nitecore&dpPl=1&dpID=51LrYWk3MjL&ref=plSrch

My $100ish must have use everyday options include: cordless 3/8 ratchet https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CZWBYBK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Tw.2DbXFTMF30, lighting! a good rechargeable headlamp https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CV3VTYB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_aI.2DbYZ76FY7, flashlight or decent under hood light https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MTXC016/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_sK.2Db40MCX8D, a portable jump box https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015TKUPIC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_mL.2DbX8E94SN or 24 cans of brake cleaner https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JRPDW7M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Du.2DbZ2WMZDE

This one looks cool Black Diamond Strom Headlamp, Octane https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019EY4V5W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_lj6CCb6B4HG6H

Good for most UL uses ;)

https://www.amazon.com/Cyclops-CYC-MHC-W-Micro-Mini-Light/dp/B001QCXTBI

Hard to beat the price on these though.

www.walmart.com/ip/Generic-8220-Ozark-Trail-10-Pack-3-LED-Caplight/49332868?action=product_interest&action_type=title&item_id=49332868&placement_id=irs-2-m2&strategy=PWVAV&visitor_id&category=&client_guid=f22b439e-1047-4375-a3e8-abab8c686faa&customer_id_enc&config_id=2&parent_item_id=49332881&parent_anchor_item_id=49332881&guid=a7e58bac-79b3-4e40-8206-46d5b40628f8&bucket_id=irsbucketdefault&beacon_version=1.0.1&findingMethod=p13n

Well i am just in time i would like this nice one

I was given this by a friend. I've ran hundreds of miles wearing it. It also finds its way in my bag every time I go camping (as a back up). It was also my back up red lens light on my last deployment.

Thanks for doing this!

Acebeam H40

I'll take an acebeam h40 in sst20 4000k. Thanks!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N981DQ6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_bh40DbM95SJWH

Black Diamond Strom Headlamp, Aluminum https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019EY4VZM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_uQnWCbZN1XF06

Been looking at it for a year and a half now.

Nitecore HC50 is on sale and squeeks under the limit:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GNJM3AM/ref=s9_dcacsd_dcoop_bw_c_x_3_w

But if they sell out this would be cool too:
https://www.amazon.com/Headlamp-Headlight-Rechargeable-Waterproof-Headlamps/dp/B075ZN5LJY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1511208054&sr=8-1&keywords=wowtac%2Ba2s&th=1

I swear by the Black Diamond Storm - https://www.amazon.com/Black-Diamond-Strom-Headlamp-Octane/dp/B019EY4V5W/

I'm gonna ask do you need to do anything with your hands during these inspections - and if so, would a headlamp be more suitable?

For example:

• Nitecore HC50
  
• Zebralight H502. It's AA, but closeup inspections aren't going to require high output so you may want to consider the convenience of the format.

I use a headlamp and we have a big Coleman lamp that we use at our campsite. Any headlamp will work - I got this one from Amazon https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01F7UQQGE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 . The Coleman lamp is the Quad LED lantern https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001TS71NG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 . It's a little pricey but it has four LED panels that you can remove and use as individual handheld lamps.

I just got the Petzl e+lite and I really like it. It's not as bright as the regular sized headlamps but it weights next to nothing and it can be clipped to the bill of a hat.

Only thing missing from my camping kit is a headlamp. Thank you for doing this giveaway!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GNJM3AM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ep_dp_NZrXzb54HKPY6

Check out the Nitecore HC33.

NITECORE HC33 1800 Lumen High Performance Versatile L-Shaped Headlamp with Lumen Tactical Battery Organizer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076HPV5V4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_mLnJAbFQJZTK8

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GNJM3AM

Been wanting a red headlamp (if that counts as a flashlight). I think this is a good one?

this should do the trick

What... what are you trying to do?

​

Could you not just use a head lamp? https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014JUMTXM

Dang, wouldn’t mind adding this to my quiver!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00GNJM3AM/ref=mp_s_a_1_47?ie=UTF8&qid=1506100071&sr=8-47&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=nitecore&dpPl=1&dpID=51LrYWk3MjL&ref=plSrch

Peltz for the headlamp and the wallet is a crabby wallet

Main light: Princeton Tec Apex

Backup light: Olight S2A Baton

Backup backup light: Petzl e+Lite

The first two are up helmet mounted, and the third lives in my oversuit pocket.

I’m going to look into it, i dont have a budget really... this kind of experience shouldn’t have one simply from not knowing when I will do it again...

EDIT: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06W54SBSL/ref=twister_B06XQFZCPX?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Is this good?

An item.

https://www.amazon.com/ACEBEAM-H40-Cree-XP-L-Headlamp/dp/B07N9876V7/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?keywords=acebeam+40&qid=1571826875&sr=8-5

Acebeam H40!!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N981DQ6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_bh40DbM95SJWH

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N981DQ6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_bh40DbM95SJWH

Typical Gig Bag:

https://imgur.com/a/MfXGy

1. Laptop
   
2. Chromecast
   
3. 1TB Portable Hard Drive
   
4. Flash Drive
   
5. USB Hub and Ethernet Adapter
   
6. Packable Rain Jacket
   
7. Backpack
   
8. Headlamp
   
9. Screwdriver w/ Bit Set
   
10. Zip Ties
    
11. Paracord Tie Line
    
12. Bluetooth Speaker
    
13. Gloves
    
14. Dual-Sided Sharpie
    
15. Stainless Steel Sharpie
    
16. Zebra F-701 w/F402 mod
    
17. AAA Batteries
    
18. USB-C OTG Adapter + Flash Drive
    
19. Adjustable Cable Clamps
    
20. First Aid Kit
    
21. Advil
    
22. Nail Clippers
    
23. Mints
    
24. CRKT Eating Tool
    
25. Sunscreen
    
26. Water Bottle
    
27. Headphones
    
28. USB Charger
    
29. Multi-Tool Pouch
    
30. Fisher Space Pen w/ Pocket Clip
    
31. Leatherman Sidekick
    
32. Flashlight
    
33. Pocket Notebooks
    
34. Kershaw Cryo
    
35. Hank
    
36. G-Shock Watch
    
37. Pixel XL w/ Slickwraps Slate Skin
    
38. Wallet
    
39. Keys
    
40. Electrical Tape
    
41. Locking Carabiner
    
42. C-Wrench
    
    

Serfas TSL 6 Thunderbolt and headlight. I also ride with a Fly 6 rear cam.

You can read reviews about them wherever, here's my advice:

1. Buy a better headlight then you think you need. As you get faster, or even if you just find yourself racing down a steep hill, you'll start to outrun your light. AKA you'll be coming up on the edge of your beam very quickly. It's much cheaper to overspend on a great light than it is to buy a good light and a great light 6 months later. (personal experience)
   
   
2. Internal Batteries only. You take it off the charger, you know you have a full charge. I wasted a lot of batteries because I was paranoid about remaining run time. Sure, you can carry extra batteries in case it dies, but i'd just rather it stay lit. Plus I've found if a light breaks, it's the electrical connection at the batteries.
   
   
3. Two tail lights. Forgetting/too lazy to charge. Water damage. Falls off. Be redundant so cars always see you.
   
   
4. I ride with a shitty led similar to this mounted low on my seat tube. It helps to light the rear wheel/pedals for clipping in/shifting on dark country roads, and kind of helps drivers go "oh, it's a bike!" rather than "what the fuck are those flashing lights."
   
   
5. I used to have this light mounted to my helmet visor. I no longer use the visor due to riding in the drops most of the time, but it is useful in the countryside when you're sometimes wondering if that dark shape off to your right is a trashbag or a dog.