Black Diamond Ion

Average Rating:
Reviewed by 6 Trailspace users

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Description

The Ion is a headlamp made by Black Diamond. It has an average rating of 3.5 stars (out of 5), based on 6 user reviews.

Here's what other sites are saying:

From Moosejaw:
"Black Diamond Ion Light (Fall 2008) A great ultralight backup light, the new Ion Light by Black Diamond is small enough to stash just about anywhere, plus the reflector-housed, 1/2 watt LED casts a far-reaching beam for finding your way up that final pitch of 5.11 or down that last mile back to the trailhead. Our lightest headlamp at 30 grams (1 oz), the Ion has a pivoting head that angles the light anywhere you need it, and a replaceable 6-volt battery provides power for 15 hours at the low setting and 3 hours on high. Yes, the Ion is unnoticeable in size and weight, but don t let its diminutive size fool you this two-setting headlamp is Black-Diamond-tough, able to withstand apocalyptic levels rain and sleet."

From Backcountry.com:
"Black Diamond created the Ion Headlamp for backpackers and climbers who want a just-in-case light source for all-day outings and anyone else who likes to pack light. Two LED lights provide plenty of light to build anchors, make a few rappels, hike down the trail, or pitch a tent. Thanks to the ridiculously low 1-ounce weight, the Black Diamond Ion Headlamp makes the cut for any ultralight trip."

From REI:
"Keep it in your pocket or stashed in your pack, the Black Diamond Ion is so light and compact there's no reason to ever be left in the dark again. Great as an emergency backup or as your primary light for featherweight expeditions, the Ion is the size of a book of matches. One bright 0.5-watt LED bulb lights the way; high and low settings let you determine how much light you need. Pivotable head allows you to aim the beam where you need it most; tough construction withstands use in rain, snow and sleet. On/off switch requires you depress the button for one second to turn on, reducing inadvertent, battery-draining operation while stowed in your pack. Slim half-inch elastic headband adjusts with a slider to fit over a climbing helmet or a hat. Battery included."

From Teton Village Sports:
"This Black Diamond ION LED headlamp is so light and microscopic that it can go anywhere. With two SuperBright LEDs offering proximity lighting for 15 hours, this functional lamp is a must for literally everyone. Weighs less than an ounce. Counter display box with orders of 12 units. Wt: .8 oz/1 oz (without/with battery)."

User Reviews

Ion
Reviewed by Tom3118, Sep 12, 2007

"The battery is terrible. It lasts less than 3 hrs and costs like $6-9 to replace _if_ you can find it. At ~30g (incl battery) it is a good emergency backup, but you don't want to actually have to use it. A better choice IMHO is the Wiz, a 2AAA model weighing 56g (incl battery) with better light and 35hrs life."

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Ion
Reviewed by Beweglich, Jun 29, 2006

"The greatest headlamp I have ever owned not only due to the great price I got it for but also because of its miniscule size and weight. Can go anywhere, I've even taken it kayaking.

The bummer is its expensive battery...

Black Diamonds Silver Oxide batteries are expensive, but it is okay because REI carries them."

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Ion
Reviewed by kmsquared, May 03, 2006

"I've used an Ion for a couple of seasons. It's sturdy and certainly very lightweight.

However, this is my big gripe about it: it uses a unique battery that can be hard to find, that is pretty expensive -- about a buck a volt -- and that doesn't last very long."

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Ion
Reviewed by MountaingirlBC, Apr 18, 2006

"In my ubiquitous quest to lighten my pack weight, the Black Diamond Ion Headlamp was an exciting find. I was skeptical about relying on a such a tiny headlamp but much subsequent use has put my mind (and my back!) at ease.

Black Diamond describes the Ion as “The ultimate emergency backup light."

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Ion
Reviewed by IcySmooth52, Apr 04, 2006

"This isn't a bad product, but I have to say there're far better ones out there. A big problem with prolonged uses of the Ion is the lack of a third vertical strap that's on most headlamps can make its light bouncy with moving around. Also it's not nearly as bright as others which makes it a bad choice to use when pushing for a few more miles at the end of the day."

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Ion
Reviewed by Doug, Apr 21, 2005

"This headlamp is in its element around camp. However I've used it for night hiking on established trails. I would use something a little brighter on rougher ground. It's super lightweight and simple, it's either on or off. If you get one and happen to drop it the battery can bend one of the contacts and it won't turn on, but it's an easy fix."

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