I bought this headlamp for a trip to Kenya. Background: I am a runner (ran at a D1 school, Olympic Trials in the marathon, I live in CO and run at night here and in OR). I needed something I could easily use, pack and not take up space, and be very versatile. This headlamp clicked all the boxes (except for one, I'll share that later).
First, it uses 3 AAA batteries: Easy to find, replace, etc. I bought some Amazon Basics rechargeables for the trip and was very happy with them. These batteries + the headlamp are the lightest HL I've ever had. (I've had the PrincetonTec EOS and a Fenix HP10). Due to the new tech, this is also the lightest + brightest HL I've ever owned.
I had zero problems navigating trails while running with this unit on. Because it's so light, it didn't bob up and down on my head.
I really liked the slight touch feature on the side to make this unit go to full power simply.
The battery feature works fine, though at night the blue indicator light was an obnoxious hue. I'd rather they use red or green to not destroy my night time vision.
The red light is a simple and very usable feature, this is the first time I've had a HL with this option.
I like how there were flashing modes (if needed to use as an emergency flasher).
The only downside... was the case. It's not waterproof. There is no obvious seal around the battery enclosure, thought the plastic door closes on a rubberized part of the HL case, there is still some space here and especially around the hinge. If Black Diamond wanted to make this bombproof and the best HL in this area, add the waterproofing! I didn't try this in the rain, I can't comment on the unit's ability to hold out H20, but I didn't want to be in Kenya with a paperweight in case it broke.
All-in-all, I give this 4.5 out of 5 stars. Thanks Black Diamond for making a great product. Now, go make it amazing!
| Special Feature | Durable |
|---|---|
| Color | Octane |
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
| Light Source Type | LED |
| Material | Synthetic |
| Included Components | Battery |
| Battery Cell Composition | Alkaline |
| Item Weight | 0.1 Kilograms |
| Number of Batteries | 3 AAA batteries required. (included) |
| Water Resistance Level | Waterproof |
| Brand | BLACK DIAMOND |
| Brightness | 325 Lumen |
| Battery Description | Lithium |
| Finish Type | Black |
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 4.8 x 3.7 x 2 inches |
| Package Weight | 0.2 Kilograms |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 5 x 4 x 2 inches |
| Brand Name | BLACK DIAMOND |
| Suggested Users | unisex-adult |
| Manufacturer | Black Diamond Equipment |
| Part Number | BD6206418001ALL1 |
| Model Year | 2019 |
