Headlamps: Surefire Saint vs Fenix HP10

mckrob

mckrob

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Jan 15, 2007
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I am thinking of a new headlamp for nighttime SAR, I've already got several Petzls, now looking for something a bit brighter. I currently use my TacTikka combined with a Fenix L2D and Surefire Outdoorsman, which is a decent combo, but I would like something a bit brighter that will let me free up my hands.

Anyone out there either have or used both of these models? The Fenix is brighter and cheaper, while I like that the Surefire will take both AA and CR123 batteries.

Comments / suggestions welcome !
 
Do you have links to each of these? I haven't used either but have been very impressed with my Fenix lights as compared to surefile. Brighter lights for less money with great construction.
 
I've heard good things about both, but would probably go with the Surefire just for the warranty. Then again, I'd probably also look at a Zebralight H501.
 
How much night time searching do you do?

Are you looking for the headlamp to be a main source of light while night searching?

Right now I use a pricetenTec Quad Tac. Its all I need for a headlamp, mainly the burn time is what I like, then I also have a TK-10 strapped to my HSGI on the right shoulder. And a Maglite XL100 for a mobil hand light.

I'm just not sure if a super bright one is the way to go with the other hand helds you have. Its just hurts my night vision so much.

Just personal Experience.
 
Fonly said:
How much night time searching do you do?

Are you looking for the headlamp to be a main source of light while night searching?

Right now I use a pricetenTec Quad Tac. Its all I need for a headlamp, mainly the burn time is what I like, then I also have a TK-10 strapped to my HSGI on the right shoulder. And a Maglite XL100 for a mobil hand light.

I'm just not sure if a super bright one is the way to go with the other hand helds you have. Its just hurts my night vision so much.

Just personal Experience.
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about 3/4 of our searches are at night.

I'll take a look at the PrinctonTec, I'm not familiar with this model.

another reason I like the the Saint, it's adjustable with a dial from 0-100% so one can turn it right down if need-be. I really like the red filter on my TacTikka, its great for walking the trails at night and maintaining night vision, but not the best when searching for people/evidence.
 
mckrob said:
about 3/4 of our searches are at night.

I'll take a look at the PrinctonTec, I'm not familiar with this model.

another reason I like the the Saint, it's adjustable with a dial from 0-100% so one can turn it right down if need-be. I really like the red filter on my TacTikka, its great for walking the trails at night and maintaining night vision, but not the best when searching for people/evidence.
Click to expand...

ok, Certainly can't argue with a good head light. If output is the main thing, the Fenix is the way to go, also, its a good price.

Let me know what you end up getting, I've never used a head lamp for main searches, the Quad Tac works for me during evidence searches, but then again, I still have a hands free light, just its on my shoulder strap.
 
Fonly said:
Oh and if price isn't an issue, Go for the Petzel Ultra, 350 lumens baby! :D
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Yeah, but that thing is a BEAST. We used to sell them at my old job, and it's definitely more noticeable of a feeling/weight than other headlamps. I wish someone would put one of the new high output LEDs in a headlamp, although I am sure there are all kinds of heat concerns.
 
I have the full size SAINT and I love it. Easy enough to use with a very nice flood beam pattern. :thumbup:

Downside is the thing's $185. I'm sure for that price you can get some very comparable headlamps.

That being said, you can also consider the SAINT Minimus. The full package comes with the adapter but you can buy it with just the single band, light, and battery cover. Ultra light weight and very simple to use.
 
IMO headlamps should be for close area lighting and the Zebralight covers that area perfectly. Its also extremely light and comfortable so wearing it for extended periods is not a issue. I highly recommend one, you will not be disappointed.
 
Princeton Tec makes some nice lamps as well. you should take a look into their line.

Here's one to give you an idea:
8f18763bee6e7b1effcc472097e02a5e

POWER 90 Lumens

LAMP 8 Ultrabright LEDs,
5 Ultrabright LEDs,
3 Ultrabright LEDs,
1 Ultrabright LED,
8 Ultrabright LEDs

BURN TIME 70 Hours
BATTERIES 3 AA Alkaline or Lithium
WEIGHT 228g
UL RATING: APPROVED
Class I Division 2 Groups A, B, C & D
UL TEMP CODE: T6

Proprietary heatsink technology and 8 shock-resistant, wide-angle Ultrabright LEDs are the foundation of the Corona. You can switch between 8, 5, 3 or 1 LED output, making it a great hands-free lighting choice to satisfy all of your outdoor, work and personal lighting needs.
 
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