Wondering what people have found to be the best thrower h/lamps without spending too much - say $40 tops.
Some cheap DX type Q3/R2 units throw quite well out to 100m or so, but I guess I’d be looking for an XML2 lamp for light output as well as throw, plus SMO reflector, and at least 2 rear-mounted 18650s for long runtime - not seperate batt pack.
Then dedome it for extra focus.
Thoughts?
I've strapped a HD2010 to my bike helmet. Does that count? :D
That would be an ideal little headlamp…
Problem is we don’t use helmets when out night shooting. An HD2010 duct taped to the head would work well - once… :_(
I don't like the brackets on bike light headlamps. It adjusts poorly and doesn't stay put. It's worthless if it doesn't have the strap that goes over the top of the head.
This type works okay.
But I really like the click type that Fenix uses.
The problem is I don't know of a headlamp that's a really good thrower. I'd like to try this out. At least then I'd be able to use my flashlights, although I don't think it'd do well with the HD2010.
Yes the nitecore strap could work though the good thrower lights get distance because of larger heads eg HD2010, A60 etc. Might not sit too well like the little torches pictured.
Problem will be finding an XML2 headlamp that’s wide enough but not too front heavy.
My experience with the nitecore hb02 is not very good: I bought 2 from different sources and they both were off centre and too tight to be worn comfortably.
I had to fix them to make them usable. I can post some pics if someone is interested.
I’ve pretty much given up on budget headlamp to give good results. IMO it is much better to buy one of those headstraps as suggested above, and go with good lights of your preferences.
The Nitecore HB02 headstrap is on sale for $6.79 at Banggood with code “bgaclf” until 22 Oct, the best price I’ve seen for it.
An XML C8 on top plus flooder on side is a good setup. Another good hunting option would be a cheap $4 XPE dedomed like the S5, they throw pretty well with pencil beam and low spill, if you prefer it.
The point being, this is a very flexible setup. Probably the best you’d see under $40.
Why do you need more than 100M throw from a headlamp?
100m is about the max distance you’d shoot at night with a .22. However, every meter of throw helps as you’ll often pick up the rabbits further out in a field when walking with headlamp on, then close in within 100m, switch on the rifle light and shoot. Headlamp ideal for walking/scanning fields with just head movement.
When shooting from a truck we use powerful XML throwers like these Maxtochs. Still light enough to be scope mounted, and when dedomed (175-230k lux) they will pick up bigger animals in clear conditions out to round 500 yards (ANSI 836-959m):
Extra throw also always helps ensure safe firing zone behind target.
The Nitecore HB02 headstrap is definitely a great thing to keep in the glove compartment even if you don’t use it for the purpose of this thread.
As far as people with giant heads, I put mine on an old Army helmet for a few days to loosen it up.
That looks nice. But is Banggood a reliable dealer to order from?
EDIT: Also that strap can fit HD2010?
Banggood is slow, but seems to be reliable. My last order from them took over a month to arrive, but did arrive as described.
Can C8 be really strapped on? The pics show only “smallish” lights strapped on.
Thanks, and I have placed my order. 
I thought the strap is adjustable? Or the range of adjustment is still limited?
… Or how big is your head? :bigsmile:
Cheap units like this one: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006QQX3C4 with the first headband picture Leftye doesnt like (I used it for months) are very surprisingly throwy and very useable, especially for about $22-29. The spill is also very usable to navigate by without having to focus the lamp and the models I got were not really ringy either. But, even though these units are way in front of the other options here for throwy headlamp output, there are two big negatives: you have a cable running down from your head to your battery pack in your pocket/waist/pack (wherever you put it) and the units are extremely poor quality controlled: I got one nice unit, and I used it for months, it was great. When it got stolen, I wanted another, I kept having to return my purchases and only got defective units. The headband isn’t bad really, especially if you wear a small cap for cold weather, (and its lighter than the light 18650+battery units) Unless you have a sensitive head I guess.
Remember, if you want to try for a good one in the online lottery, order from Amazon so you can return a unit with a defect, and only order the 4mode versions: they are brighter, and 3 light modes with hidden strobe (4mode) is so much better than the more common (3 mode) 2 light modes plus strobe you have to cycle through! To be honest, I gave up after trying a bunch of times for my second one, but I’m tempted to try again: I liked the combo of a throwy headlamp and a flooder in my hand, and the 4x18650 battery packs last forever.
Were you able to put in the discount code ‘bgaclf’? There was no provision to put in the code when I tried to order.
Yes I did use that, once you have clicked the “Buy it now” and it will lead you to a checkout page, at the bottom of that page there is a box to enter the coupon code.
Don’t think I looked at the BOTTOM of the page. Will look at the bottom next time.
The C8 tailcap is a bit big but easily fixed - remove tailcap, insert body, replace tailcap.
I’ve purchased from BG before with no problem. I think they’re quite ok. As for HD2010, I don’t have one so I cannot really say. But if the body is slim then the C8 method above can be used I suppose?