Hi all -
I’d be interested in feedback on headlamps and what people recommend for the AT.
tks
Emm
Headlamps - Appalachian Trail
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#1
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#2
the Tikka is a popular model. and you can check peoples’ gear reviews on their journals.
0101
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#3
We like this one for the all night power. In fact the batteries have only been changed once in five years. Blah it is heavy by today’s standards but if you like to night hike, in rain fog, this thing will do it. Great for lighting up the entire shelter as a beacon for other hikers who get in late. Signaling space aliens, whatever.
We also carry a small parafin candle and a 4" square of stove windscreen for the reflector to use when journaling. Great finger warmer on cold nights and the glow is cheery. Just prop it up in front of your bag while you write or thumb type. And it is gentle on the eyes. LEDs can be harsh to read by. Two of these give a super Tiki effect during dinner. Limbo!
Bushwhack + Bramble AT '01
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#4
Hi Emm,
I go for the other end of the spectrum when it comes to lights. I carry a little three-LED hat light called the “Cyclops” that I found at Dick’s Sporting Goods in Philly. It uses two 2025 coin cells and it has only one setting, but it makes for a great night hiking/camp light for those times when I need it (mostly and hour or so in camp at night) and it weighs just 0.9oz with the batteries. I always wear a billed hat when hiking, so for me this is perfect. Anything I need the Cyclops for I’ll be likely to hat my hat on. For most smaller chores including journaling and cooking, I use a Photon II. With a set of backup batteries each, that’s it. I’ve never found use for more than that.
Strategic
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#5
I have a Petzel that has 3 settings and a blinking setting. It has a ratchet type movement to adjust it’s angle of light projection. It is supposed to go for 150 hrs on low setting with 3 AAA batteries. I love it.
Dale