How to Choose the Best Handheld Flashlight

How to Choose the Best Handheld Flashlight

Written by Nick
|
Published on May 15, 2015
handheld flashlight
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Choosing a handheld flashlight can be an intimidating task. There are so many different types! The first thing to do is identify what you’re going to be using your flashlight for. Do you need a small one for your glove box, one that mounts to track a wounded deer, or a flashlight to have around the house when the power goes out? Do you need a flashlight that’s waterproof? What about one that has rechargeable batteries?

Consider the fact that brightness is very important when selecting a handheld flashlight. If your light isn’t bright enough you won’t be happy that you bought it, so be sure to take a look at the various numbers, and pick an option that is bright enough for your needs.

Listed below are the three different types of bulbs used in handheld flashlights with their different attributes that will help you decide which one is best for you.

Incandescent Flashlights

Flashlights with incandescent bulbs are not durable, but they emit extremely bright white light and are easily focused. They are extremely powerful and are a great choice for lighting up long distances.

handheld flashlight
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LED Flashlights

LED stands for Light Emitting Diodes. They are very durable and have a long life, even up to 100,000 hours. The bulbs also don’t need to be replaced periodically, which is great if you want to save money in the long run. LEDs have a soft glow and are optimal for close viewing. Keep in mind however they’re not as powerful as incandescent lights. If you’re a hunter, colored LEDs are popular. Green is not supposed to spook game; red is the easiest on our eyes, and blue tracks blood. Some LED flashlights are now using 18650 rechargeable batteries to be more powerful and environmentally friendly, but if you choose a light that uses 18650s be sure to pick up a separate charger for your batteries so you always have one ready to go.

HID Flashlights

HID stands for High Intensity Discharge Bulbs. They are many times brighter than the average standard incandescent flashlight, and even last twice as long as incandescent lights. It emits a very bright white light using much less power.

Nick

Nick