Most preppers have at least considered using a headlamp, and for good reason. They are inexpensive, lightweight and handy as H E double hockey sticks! But they also have some downsides as many who have used them can tell you. Personally, I would recommend them. The above picture is from the website where I ordered mine and I wouldn’t give it up for anything, but at the same time, wouldn’t always reach for it when venturing out into the dark. Here are my reasons…
Advantages:
- Keeping both hands free. I can’t name all the times that I’ve used my headlamp for this reason alone. Washing dishes during a power outage, working with wiring or plumbing under the house, anytime you need illumination and both hands free for use.
- Bright light. Today’s headlamps most often use cree LED lights which are super bright. If it has intensity settings even better!
- Aimable light. Most models come with a tilt feature that lets you aim the light downward for tasks such as reading. Some also have a zoom feature which can help concentrate the illumination to one spot.
Disadvantages:
- Insects. Ever notice how bugs are attracted to your porch light at night? Try strapping one to your forehead and see what happens. Trying to light a fire outdoors in the dark wearing one of these can be an exercise in frustration…ask me how I know.
- Indiscrete. If you’re trying to be hidden, good luck!
- It’s on your head! Talking face to face with someone wearing a headlamp is annoying at best.
Considerations:
- Power. Try to get a headlamp that uses a battery size you commonly use and stock. Obviously rechargeable batteries have their advantages and many headlamps come with a charging port for car lighter or USB adaptors. The one pictured above uses 18650 lithium batteries which I use for quite a few applications and has a port that I use to charge with a USB cable.
- Tilt/Zoom. You may not realise just how handy these two features are until you own and use a headlamp.
- Price. Dollar store models don’t last. Also, the old style bulbs in them really eat up batteries. However, you don’t need to spend $100.00 up for a lamp that does the trick and lasts. Beware of fancy models with multiple heads and tactical designs often found on EBay.
In conclusion, having a headlamp has been a smart investment. Handy in many situations and a fairly inexpensive prep. (mine cost about $12.00 from EBay, not including batteries and charging cable).
