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Posted by Blackbeard on November 30, 2006 at 9:19:40 pm EST
In reply to Re: Help! Need a lightweight LED lamp gift for my hiker sister posted by Tom D on November 30, 2006 at 8:44:00 pm EST

I'd also make sure it's waterproof. These newer LEDs need a heat sink, and some of the sinks are nothing more than a grill that opens to air. A few of these units output amperages of 8 watts or more. I can see where a hat that is close to the sink could possibly get scorched. The waterproof units are enclosed, and rain won't affect them (much).

It takes a little getting use to, but some of the LEDs also put out a hot spot when viewing close distances. It tends to distort the depth of field perception. So a diffusion lens helps to avoid this.

I have the Princeton Tec Corona and Quad. Both are really great little tools. The Quad has a low battery indicator, which could save you a little extra weight and inconvenience by knowing that you might change batteries before leaving, and carry a fresh set for replacements. The Princeton Tec web site can teach you a lot about these things by comparing the different options each have.

Wal-Mart also sells some units by Energizer, Brinkman and others. Some of these have red filters for night vision. I don't know the real quality of these, but I bought my wife one to wear around the house when the power goes off. Not as cozy-feeling as a candle, but sure smells better when you put it out. She can also use it to look for the dogs at night when they don't return home on time. They really light up the retinas on animals from quite a distance.

Hope this helps!

Blackbeard

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• Re: Help! Need a lightweight LED lamp gift for my hiker sister - Blackbeard 21:27:04 11/30/2006

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