• Settling in to your sleeping bag
• Finding that needed lost item
• (And fingers crossed you don’t have to do this), but going to the bathroom in the middle of the night
Best Headlamp for Camping – HL26R
Between camp set up, take down and everything in between, camping requires a lot of hands-on activity. This is why our top pick is a lightweight headlamp that won’t weigh you down when you are focused other things. The Fenix HL26R rechargeable headlamp is not only lightweight and compact, but also features both spotlight and floodlight lighting options through its dual switches. Easily keep your headlamp charged with its built-in rechargeable battery via the Micro-USB port and included USB charging cable.
Best Flashlight for Camping – UC30
When traveling our great country, you need to be prepared for the unplanned and carrying a flashlight on you can help you see what matters. The Fenix UC30 is both compact and highly functional. With 204 meters beam throw, a max of 960 lumens, the UC30 gives you all the punch you need, while offering reliable Micro-USB charging.
Best Lantern for Camping – CL25R
Let’s be honest. Who doesn’t want a cool lantern for camping? They are the staple for all camping lights. So, when you mix in super brightness with functionality, you get the versatile Fenix CL25R. This rechargeable, all-season camping lantern illuminates large areas up to 82 feet in diameter with its 350 maximum lumen output, and also features a reliable Micro-USB for go-anywhere charging. The CL25R’s versatile brightness levels and mounting options, combined with its extreme compact size make it the perfect tool for any outdoor night activity and even for automotive assistance.
]]>
Introducing the newest headlamp from Fenix -The Fenix HL26R is an ultra lightweight rechargeable headlamp specifically designed for trail running. With built-in rechargeable Li-polymer battery, it can be charged through Micro USB port. Featuring spotlight and floodlight, dual switches for fast operation, plus IP66 rated structure and fully reflective headband, the HL26R is competent for the complex environments of trail running and long distance hiking.
When it comes to selecting an LED Flashlight, you would be wise to start by looking at the battery(ies) it takes to operate the light. There are many battery types on the market, with each having limits on its use. Did you know certain environments require certain batteries? That’s just part of the consideration when selecting a light. BATTERY TYPES, BATTERY LIMITS & BATTERY SAFETY all need to a part of your light selection.
Today’s batteries are varied and POWERFUL! There is much to know about all your battery choices – 18650 rechargeable batteries, 14500 rechargeable batteries, 26650 rechargeable batteries, alkaline throw-away batteries, etc. What does all this mean?
KNOW YOUR BATTERY TYPES
Selecting a flashlight is like buying a car: if you want the automobile to operate using a certain fuel type, you go to the dealership and ask to see all the autos that are powered by diesel, gasoline, electricity, etc. When selecting a flashlight, FIRST you may want to consider what kind of battery(ies) you want to use in the light… throw-away, rechargeable, Ni-MH, li-ion, lithium, etc. Factors such as the temperature of the environment where you are going to operate the flashlight must be considered. Not all batteries are designed for certain temperatures. You don’t want to purchase a flashlight or headlamp for your next Arctic trip only to find out it won’t operate when reaching your destination.
Rechargeable batteries fall into one of these chemistry categories: Nickel Cadmium (NiCad), Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) or Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) technologies. Then there are the non-rechargeable, throw-away batteries: alkaline and lithium.
A. Lithium Ion (Li-ion) Rechargeable Batteries
Rechargeable flashlight batteries found in lights made in the past several years are generally Lithium Ion. Lithium Ion (Li-ion)
Fenix Batteries batteries come in various sizes:
B. Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Rechargeable Batteries
These rechargeable batteries normally come in AAA, AA, C, D, 9-Volt, and 12-volt sizes. They are a great all-around battery. The downside is they have a shorter shelf life than a lithium-ion battery.
C. Lithium (NOT Lithium-Ion) Non-Rechargeable Batteries
These come in AAA, AA, 9-Volt, and small cylinder (CR123A) sizes. Because they have a slow self-discharge rate, these batteries can have a shelf life up to 10 years, depending on the brand. Lithium batteries perform very well in below freezing temperatures. If you will be using your flashlight or headlamp in extremely cold temperatures, be sure the device will operate on a CR123A battery.
D. Alkaline Non-Rechargeable Batteries
These are the most commonly found battery types and aren’t rechargeable. They are also very inexpensive. You will find them in these sizes: AAA, AA, C, D, 9-volt, and button cells. The downside of alkaline batteries is they have a tendency to leak, causing damage to any device they are in. It is recommended that you power up the device about once a week when using alkaline batteries. This will lessen the chance of a battery leak but there is still a possibility of a leak. If you don’t plan to use the light often, it would be safer to store the batteries OUTSIDE of the device. Another downside is their low power output, which affects the run time and lumen output you can get from this battery chemistry.
KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT FROM DIFFERENT BATTERY TYPES
Once you determine which battery type is for you, then you can realistically select a flashlight. Here is a common request we get from customers:
“I would like a 2000-lumen flashlight that runs on the commonly found alkaline battery. I also want to carry the flashlight in my pocket.”
Now that you understand batteries, you will see why this isn’t possible. Alkaline batteries are very low power so achieving 2000 lumens in a pocket-size flashlight using an alkaline battery just isn’t possible.
To get high lumens, you need high-powered batteries! To get high lumens in a small flashlight, you need high-powered batteries! When you add multiple high-powered batteries, you are able to reach extremely high lumens.
KNOW BATTERY QUALITY & SAFETY
Now that you understand batteries better, know that not all batteries are created equally. Batteries are a case of “you get what you pay for.” Because the new lithium-ion batteries are so powerful (and potentially dangerous), you never want to cut corners on such batteries. If you need to save money, buy a less expensive flashlight rather than purchase a lower-quality battery.
With the exception of alkaline batteries, you always want to purchase PROTECTED batteries. Protected batteries have built-in safety measures to prevent over charge, over discharge, and overheating. Fenix protected batteries have three levels of protection built into the batteries.
It is important to properly store batteries when not inside a device. You always want to store batteries in a clean, dry location. It is important that stored batteries don’t make series contact, positive to negative ends. Inspect your batteries often for any bulges, wrapping tears, or degradation. Properly discard the battery immediately if you notice any battery failure.
Original post on www.fenix-store.com
]]>“There are too many choices!”
“Why this one over that one?”
Have you ever said that? Then this will help you narrow down your MANY choices. With all the flashlight variations and models, it can sometimes be overwhelming when deciding which light is the best fit for your specific needs. Since most of us aren’t looking to buy ten different flashlights with all different features, we wanted to provide a list of the most important features to look for in an LED flashlight. By deciding on these features, you will narrow down your choices greatly.
1. Power Source (Battery Type)
What kind of battery do you want to use?
Do you want a light that uses a battery that you can easily find worldwide?
Do you want to use rechargeable batteries or throw-away batteries?
Some flashlights use regular AA or AAA alkaline batteries that are easily found.
Advantage:
* Easily found worldwide
Disadvantage:
* You can’t get high lumens from these batteries
Some flashlights use rechargeable batteries (Lithium-Ion). There are several different kinds of rechargeable batteries.
Advantages:
* You can get higher lumens from a rechargeable battery.
* You don’t have to keep replacing batteries.
Disadvantages:
* These are more expensive than alkaline batteries.
* You will have to get an external charger for the batteries (unless they charge in the flashlight)
* Not easily found worldwide
Once you have an idea of the type of battery you want to use, you can begin shopping for your flashlight/lantern/headlamp.
2. The Main Use of Your Flashlight
What is the main way you will use this flashlight?
Do you need a flashlight for close quarters or outdoors?
Do you want a flashlight you can carry in your pocket, in a holster, or off your body?
Do you want a light with an SOS or Strobe for emergency purposes?
Our flashlights are divided into basic application types. The main categories are Everyday Carry, Tactical, Utility, Key Chain, or Rechargeable.
Sometimes getting the highest lumen flashlight is not what you need. For example, a 1000-lumen flashlight can easily be carried on your hip or in your pocket. That many lumens can easily reach a maximum beam distance of 325m (like the TK15). Do you really need that flashlight if you will just use it mainly indoors?
Every flashlight has a specification chart. You can compare the spec chart of each light to compare each flashlight’s performance (not features). You will be able to determine if the flashlight is “overkill” for what you need. Then look at the other images and product descriptions to see if you need all the features. Normally, the more features, the more expensive. If you don’t need the features, you can select another basic light. Our E Series Flashlights are where you will find most of the entry-level lights. Our UC Series has a few other entry-level options.
You never lose the Fenix quality in these smaller lights!
3. Lumens Needed and Beam Pattern
Lumens are hard to imagine so you may want to think in terms of “what is the size of the area I need to light?”
How do I compare the lumens of one light to the lumens of another brand?
As determined in #2 above, there is no need to purchase a 6000-lumen flashlight which has a maximum beam distance of 730m if your primary use is going to be in an enclosed building. On the other hand, if you need a light for search and rescue, you will want one with the farthest beam distance (like the RC40 or TK75).
Lumens are just one part to compare. You will need to look at the beam distance since the reflector on each light creates a unique beam pattern. For example, one of our lights has 960 lumens and has a maximum beam distance of 355m feet. Then another flashlight has 2000 lumens and has a maximum beam distance of 320m. This distance difference is an indication of the 960-lumen flashlight having a reflector that is more focused and “throws” the beam forward with minimal “flood.” The 2000-lumen flashlight has a shorter “throw” because the reflector allows more of a “flood.”
When comparing flashlight brands, there are specific words to look for so that you are comparing “apples to apples.” The flashlight should state performance specifications based on “ANSI STANDARDS.” Simply put, those are international standards companies use to get an accurate performance of their products. If you see a light with a state lumen output but it doesn’t have “based on ANSI Standards,” then you can only question how the lumen output was determined.
So in selecting the lumens, you will also want to look at the beam pattern and beam distance.
Originally posted on www.fenix-store.com
]]>There are sometimes when you require a flashlight that can see far away and other times when you need to illuminate a large space. For instance, would you like a light you can take camping that will light up your entire campsite as well as a dark wooded trail? If you could carry just one versatile light that could adjust between spotlight and floodlight, would that be helpful? Yes!
Fenix’s FD series features zoomable – or focusable – flashlights that can adjust from spotlight to floodlight. Spotlight is a narrow, intense beam of light on one specific area or object. Most flashlight beams are spotlight, and many spotlights can go a long-distance and throw light over 1,000 feet. Floodlight is a large, powerful beam of light that can brighten a wider area of space like an entire building or football field. A floodlight allows you to see not only what is in front of you, it allows you to see beyond what is on your left and right peripherals.
Fenix FD flashlights are designed to have a continuously focusing ring with 360 degrees of active setting. By a simple twist of the head, the flashlight smoothly transitions between a spotlight and floodlight. Once the user has the light in the desired position, the beam will stay put in the focus position unlike other focusable flashlights that require a locking function. There also is no abrupt demarcation between the spot and flood portions of the beam.
Like all Fenix lights, the FD series is designed with top of the line specifications. They have IP68 rated structure unlike most competitors who have IPX4. The IP68 structure is dust proof and waterproof. Along with being impact resistant up to 1 meter, these lights are built to work in harsh conditions.
Focusable flashlights are designed for tactical and outdoor use. The adjustable focus is imperative for law enforcement and search and rescue teams as they work in different environments, under different circumstances daily. The adjustable beam is also helpful to anyone outdoors as you can choose your optimal visibility depending on your activity, hiking, climbing, pitching a tent, cave exploring, and extreme sports.
CLICK HERE for more on the FD41 flashlight
See for yourself…
This video, from Titane Decarnone’s YouTube channel, is a great example of the Fenix FD41 starting in floodlight, transitioning to spotlight and back to floodlight at the end. Thanks for the video Titane!
Originally posted on www.fenixlighting.com
]]>Many women like to brighten their path while walking home or to their cars late at night. Extra light helps them feel safe and secure. Whether you’re walking on a college campus, maneuvering through a parking garage or jogging on a dark path, a flashlight or lightweight headlamp is always essential!
Flashlights are also handy around the house when searching in storage rooms, looking for lost objects and providing light in a power outage.
From police to self-defense instructors, countless experts agree that a flashlight is a great tool to identify or ward off suspicious individuals, especially since flashlights are discreet. A powerful flashlight can stun an attacker, allowing you to get away. A few reasons why using a flashlight for self-defense is a no brainer: you don’t need a permit, there are no laws against carrying a flashlight, you don’t have to carry around extra ammo, and you certainly don’t need to be worried about your kids playing with your flashlight.
Flat tires, power outages, lost pets, natural disasters – Emergencies happen to us all. Flashlights come with several helpful features like SOS, strobe and red flashing alert modes that can aid you in an emergency. Because flashlights are compact and lightweight, they are easy to carry and store. Best practices include: keeping fresh batteries in flashlights at all times and keeping flashlights where you will need them during an emergency – bed side table, closet, glove box, emergency kit.
Not to be mistaken for just a safety tool, a flashlight can be handy in any daily task. Taking the dog for a walk, taking out the trash, weekend camping trips, walking back from photographing a beautiful sunset, lighting a fire, and finding that contact lens you dropped on the floor all require extra light.
Flashlights are a convenient, lightweight tool that you can keep in your purse, diaper bag, keychain and even in your pocket. Flashlights can allow women to feel empowered and in control of everyday situations. Getting caught in the dark is inevitable, especially in the winter. Always be prepared, and even better, be equipped for the unexpected.
These are great options for the ladies:
All of these flashlights are available from Takealot.com
*Original article here on fenixlighting.com
]]>Tanja Schmitz from Photographing Space won the Astrobin Image of the Day on 15 November 2016, with her image featuring Cory Schmitz holding a Fenix CL25R lantern.
Congratulations Tanja!
Winning image on http://www.astrobin.com/271177/?nc=iotd
The 2016 #everynewmoon adventure took Tanja & Cory to Lesotho, the mountain Kingdom.
This image was taken at a rock quarry on top of one of the mountains as the Milky Way sets early in the evening.
About the photo:
Canon 5D MkIII
Canon 24-70mm LII
Shot at:
ISO3200
24mm
F/2,8
25 Sec
According to Tanja, the Fenix CL25R Lantern in moonlight mode, is a great light to use for these type of shots.
You can follow Tanja on
Instagram: www.instagram.com/astrotanja/
Twitter: twitter.com/astrotanja
Adventure Photographer – Zoon Cronje
“Gearing up for an adventure shoot is in many ways like choosing your weapons before going into battle. ATGAT in military terms is known as ‘all the gear, all the time’ and choosing the right gear is already 80% of the battle. Needless to say that the choice of weaponry needs to be as tough and rugged as the battle itself. When it comes to my essential choice of equipment or ‘choice of weapons’, I opt for the lightweight yet powerful and bright range from Fenix.
We recently caught up with adventure photographer Zoon Cronje, asking him about why he chooses Fenix flashlights as his brand of choice.
“Gearing up for an adventure shoot is in many ways like choosing your weapons before going into battle. ATGAT in military terms is known as ‘all the gear, all the time’ and choosing the right gear is already 80% of the battle. Needless to say that the choice of weaponry needs to be as tough and rugged as the battle itself. When it comes to my essential choice of equipment or ‘choice of weapons’, I opt for the lightweight yet powerful and bright range from Fenix.
Having tested several of the flashlight ranges, I can recommend the Fenix brand with confidence. It’s adaptable to almost any conditions, it feels sturdy when carrying it in your hands and what’s more it’s robust, waterproof, impact resistant and crafted from aircraft-grade aluminium.
Probably the most versatile of the Fenix flashlights are the high-intensity TK Series models. Designed for use in “emergent and extreme environments,” it delivers a focused beam with an extensive and far-reaching range of illumination. This had me fascinated but after using it in the field I am sold!
What really works for me is the multiple brightness levels; offering energy-saving versatility, which you can control by the press of a button. One of the main features I really enjoy is the fact that Fenix sports a spot- and a flood beam in one, giving you a great range in application without compromising on power.
In addition to the obvious benefits it holds significant value when setting up shots. Whether that is for scouting a location, lighting up a subject or adding some flair to long exposure shots, it does the job!
Whether you work in law enforcement, search and rescue or you are just an avid outdoor sports enthusiast and adventure photographer like myself, the Felix’s line of lighting Illumination tools offers something for everyone”. ZoonCronje
]]>
Kraig Becker, news editor for Gear Institute, has this to say about the BC30R:
“With 6 different output modes, a maximum brightness of 1600 lumens, and a burn time of more 20 hours, the BC30R from Fenix Lighting just might be the most impressive bike light on the market today”.
The BC30R is our first digital display bike light with an OLED digital display screen for exact run time readings, output modes and remaining battery life. This go-anywhere bike light is also rechargeable via a built-in battery with a Micro-USB for flexible charging options.This is the first award we have received in the US for the BC30R LED bike light, but it’s not theonlyone. The LED bike light received the gold award winner at the 2015 ISPO Beijing sports exhibition in China.
The BC30R features a Dual Distance Beam System that simultaneously offers up-close visibility and long-range illumination, reaching to more than 155 meters. The bike light has six output modes including alert flashing and burst, and also has a low power warning and an intelligent output downshift function to extend run time.
The BC30R’s unique remote pressure switch, which is only thumb distance away, offers riders the highest level of brightness at a moment’s notice. Mounted on handlebars, the cordless BC30R bike light is equipped with a quick release strap mounting system, making adjustments to the light’s direction easy and secure.
The BC30R is IPX-6 waterproof, impact resistant to one meter, and made of aircraft grade aluminum. It runs on a built-in 5200mAh/3.7V rechargeable battery with Micro-USB charging.
The original text link:
]]>
Last Month, nine climbers and one instructor from Ukraine wearing Fenix HP11 successfully reached the peak and saw the splendid scenery after overcoming various difficulties.
Ten of them began the long trek from the city of Pyatigorsk in Russia.
Above 3300 meters, there was no vegetation-only stones sprinkled with snow, making the climbing more difficult.
After two days’ training, the climbers arrived at the asylum “Eleven” at 17:00 p.m., then the weather began to be bad and the temperature started to drop rapidly. Four of them decided to climb the snowcat to go up to the height of 4800. And they reached it at 01:21 a.m., the rest of climbers got there on 3:40 a.m.
Around 08:00 a.m., they arrived in the “saddle” of Elbrus with an altitude of 5300 meters.
About 10:00a.m., they began to go downhill. It took about 5 hours to go downhill, plus 9 hours for going uphill, so it took them a total of 15 hours to finish the climbing.
]]>