Flashlights

Flashlights are time-tested favorites for good reasons. Flashlights are easily portable and are available in a range of sizes so you can choose the right size for your needs. Many people keep a veritable arsenal of flashlights because each one is so different and serves such a unique function. A larger flashlight such as the Streamlight Tactucal Handheld you’ll find in our online store is ideal for throwing a bright, clear, focused light to see both long range and peripherally, as well as adapting to attach to your weapon. Smaller flashlights, like the Pak-Lite 9V LED flashlight are distinguished by their size and run time. A dynamo flashlight requires no batteries but rather runs on power generated by cranking the attached handle.  

When choosing a flashlight you’ll want to consider the following qualities:

Size

Is space a factor in your decision? Do you need to maximize space?  Bulky, large flashlights, may offer the type of light intensity you’re looking for but will be heavier and harder to carry and maneuver. Larger flashlights often require D cell batteries, adding to your overall load and space requirements.

Durability

A durable flashlight is a must. You can purchase a flashlight just about anywhere but cheap plastic construction won’t hold up to the inevitable drops and abuse your light will take in the field.  

Water resistance

Purchasing a water resistant flashlight is a decision you won’t regret. You’ll need your light come rain or shine so be sure to invest in one that is specifically water resistant to avoid losing your light to water damage.

Light Beam Intensity

Some flashlights are capable of multiple intensity settings. This is particularly useful if you plan to use a single flashlight for all of your needs giving you the ability to turn down the intensity for general lighting and turn it up for activities like searching or patrolling.

Run Time

Directly linked to intensity and bulb type, run time is the length of time you can leave the light on. Flashlights that utilize LED bulbs and offer multiple intensity settings tend to have the best run times.

Power Source

When it comes to powering your flashlight there are also choices. Batteries are certainly still the most popular choice due to the extended run time they offer. You can find a flashlight for every type of battery out there. The smaller the battery, the less you’ll have to store and carry. Flashlights such as the Coghlan’s Dynamo Flashlight available in our store are a great secondary or backup light as they require no batteries. Just crank the handle to power the bright LED lights.

Lanterns

Lanterns, also known as emergency lanterns or hurricane lanterns are popular general lighting choices. Great for lighting up a room or space without the targeted beam of light that flashlights are known for. Most lanterns are equipped with a dimmer so you can adjust the intensity as well as a handle for carrying or hanging. Lanterns are available with a variety of light bulb and battery types and even with candle or oil flame options. We prefer a bright, adjustable, LED emergency lantern for lighting a room or a large tent. Traditional propane hurricane lanterns are also available and while they won’t require batteries, they will need fuel or candles and can pose a fire risk. Hurricane lanterns are substantial in size and while perfect for lighting a room or lighting the path in the dark, they can be a bit much to carry in a bug out bag. A micro lantern, on the other hand, uses the same concept but fits in the palm of your hand. Perfect for illuminating a tent or hiking at night, this tiny lantern can be hung, carried, or sat on the ground.  

Headlamps

Popular with hikers, backpackers, and most outdoor enthusiasts, headlamps are essentially flashlights attached to a headpiece. A headlamp gives you all the benefits of a handheld flashlight while keeping your hands free. Headlamps are great for hiking as well as performing tasks like cooking, cleaning, or mending in the dark. Most people prefer a strong LED light beam with multiple intensity choices. Many headlamps also offer a strobe function for emergency signaling.

Candles

Candles are another staple of emergency preparedness and survival. Most emergency and survival candles are made of citronella and designed to burn for extended periods of time using one or multiple wicks. The citronella wax also doubles as a bug repellant. Candles are particularly valued for their easy of use (all you need is a way to light them) and their relative durability – they generally aren’t damaged by water or abuse. Some candles may be used with candle lanterns (or Alpine lanterns).

Lights

In addition to flashlights, lanterns, and headlamps, lights that are pretty similar to those we use on a daily basis are available. These lights, like the Estrella #X and Light A Life 3 W plug into an external power source like a car battery or portable power system such as the Goal0 Line and give off a lamp-like light that’s perfect for lighting a campsite and can also be daisy chained together to create a string of lights.