Headlamps (ie. a light strapped to your head)

mikeymikec

Lifer
May 19, 2011
19,910
14,149
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I'm putting one on my Christmas list. Initially my main use for it was going to be that when I'm working in computers, I'd like a bit more light on the topic (though I'm wondering whether the potential lack of light angling/positioning means that my hands will be casting shadow on what I'm working on).

My wife mentioned another possible scenario for it is when I'm going running in the dark. The latter scenario requires something that has a better grip, so the first one we looked at has a strap that goes around the head, the second also has a strap going over the head.

Has anyone bought this kind of thing before for these reasons? What are you opinions on what I ought to be looking for.

One other thing was that the first one we looked at had the option of using an AA battery which I quite like the idea of because I don't want a potentially useless piece of kit once the rechargeable battery dies.
 

sdifox

No Lifer
Sep 30, 2005
98,728
17,213
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For working on computer I would say one of those lights that you pull to whatever position you need it to be and stays put.

For running armband lights with torches as well as brinking lights.
 
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highland145

Lifer
Oct 12, 2009
43,973
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Crawling under the house. It's pretty low. Trying to carry tools and a light is a pita.
 

mrblotto

Golden Member
Jul 7, 2007
1,639
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Something like this? Safety is important too!
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BarkingGhostar

Diamond Member
Nov 20, 2009
8,410
1,617
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I'm putting one on my Christmas list. Initially my main use for it was going to be that when I'm working in computers, I'd like a bit more light on the topic (though I'm wondering whether the potential lack of light angling/positioning means that my hands will be casting shadow on what I'm working on).

My wife mentioned another possible scenario for it is when I'm going running in the dark. The latter scenario requires something that has a better grip, so the first one we looked at has a strap that goes around the head, the second also has a strap going over the head.

Has anyone bought this kind of thing before for these reasons? What are you opinions on what I ought to be looking for.

One other thing was that the first one we looked at had the option of using an AA battery which I quite like the idea of because I don't want a potentially useless piece of kit once the rechargeable battery dies.
Your wife silently shrugged that it might also help you find her love button sooner than later.
 

WelshBloke

Lifer
Jan 12, 2005
32,413
10,535
136
I've used petzl headtorches for years, for cycling and hiking, they've always been good for me.
 

TheVrolok

Lifer
Dec 11, 2000
24,254
4,092
136
I bought a headlamp about 15 years ago and it was one of the single greatest "tool" purchases ever. I use it All. The. Time.
 

snoopy7548

Diamond Member
Jan 1, 2005
8,211
5,271
146
I got a cheap headstrap light (incandescent) maybe ten years ago and use it occasionally. It's helpful for walking around in the attic where lighting isn't great and I need to use both hands.
 

pauldun170

Diamond Member
Sep 26, 2011
9,260
5,300
136
I'm putting one on my Christmas list. Initially my main use for it was going to be that when I'm working in computers, I'd like a bit more light on the topic (though I'm wondering whether the potential lack of light angling/positioning means that my hands will be casting shadow on what I'm working on).

My wife mentioned another possible scenario for it is when I'm going running in the dark. The latter scenario requires something that has a better grip, so the first one we looked at has a strap that goes around the head, the second also has a strap going over the head.

Has anyone bought this kind of thing before for these reasons? What are you opinions on what I ought to be looking for.

One other thing was that the first one we looked at had the option of using an AA battery which I quite like the idea of because I don't want a potentially useless piece of kit once the rechargeable battery dies.

I have a ton of them. Colemans, Ozark Trail, Black Diamond...all different combinations of lumens and functions.
Get one with multiple color modes. Bare minimum get one with red (bugs)
I'd go with one that has full adjustable brightness vs the typical lo-medium-high
Ozark is cheap but always seems to have some shortcoming. Whether its a battery case that pops open with the slightest bump or a poor light spread.
Coleman's are ok but I don't like the pricing for what you get. Same thing with Petzels.
Fenix makes pricey, top notch stuff but lack of color modes is a deal breaker.

An older Black Diamond Spot is currently my go to for everything from camping to running to "general usage around everywhere". 3 AAA batteries. Water resistant and stays put. Best band adjust-ability and comfort at of everything I have. Switching between red light mode can be wonky but once you get used to it its not a big deal.

My recommendation is a Black Diamond Spot 325.
Fairly inexpensive and rock solid.
If you didn't have the running use case then I would recommended the Black Diamond Storm which is a bit beefier.
 

Zanovar

Diamond Member
Jan 21, 2011
3,446
232
106
Use them when im running at night.They are a pain in the arse though
 

Zanovar

Diamond Member
Jan 21, 2011
3,446
232
106
Hey hi, are you going to let yor dog shit on my route? why not pick it up? may i suggest i pick you up and wipe youre nose in it.What do you think
 

Herr Kutz

Platinum Member
Jun 14, 2009
2,545
242
106
I have one with a class I division 1 rating so I can use it in hazardous areas.