Archive for the ‘Flashlights and Lighting’ Category
Emergency Lighting!
A Small but Quick Fix!
It is agreed that a person’s hunting and camping gear should include flashlights for general purpose (GP) and emergency situations. However, selecting a flashlight to purchase is like putting a kid in a candy store and asking them to choose – the choices are overwhelming!
There are small ones, big ones, bright ones, and even super-bright ones. But, as with most other things, the one you select should be based on what it’s going to be used for. Bigger and brighter is not necessarily better.
I would suggest that you have a couple flashlights for camping. One flashlight (not so bright) that you can use inside the tent without waking everyone up, and a larger one (bright/super-bright) that you can use for both the heavy duty and emergency lighting requirements.
NewTechnology for an Old Design!
Technology at Its Best!
If you have ever wondered how the flashlight or portable lantern has changed over the years, just look at today’s battery operated Light Emitting Diode (LED) lites.
This lighting technology has made it possible to have a much longer lite life-span, in big or small packages, and with much more efficiency. There are battery operated lights for just about every hunting, camping, or back-packing purpose.
You don’t have to deal with the fuels that can spill and make a mess. Whether it be in a flashlight, lantern, or special tactical gear, LED Lighting will serve you well at home in the back yard, on the trail, or even during an extended hunting/camping trip.
Practical Lighting!
Safe and Functional Lighting
Battery/Solar powered lighting are reputedly the safest, and debatably the most practical outdoor lighting in use today. They are easy to function and require little-too-no maintenance. But, both have some limitations that must be considered.
Solar lighting needs periodic sun-light to operate properly. They will not function at 100% if the weather does not oblige. The down-side to battery operated lanterns is recharging. Batteries are not prone to long life in cold weather, and the bright light seems to dull rather quickly. However, many batteries can be recharged with a vehicle’s electrical system or the 110 volt in-house current.
The up-side with battery operated lanterns is that they can be used safely anywhere in the camp site. But, I would suggest taking extra bulbs (if appropriate) and the development of a battery recharging capability.
Dual Purpose Lighting!
Propane Lantern
Gas Lanterns are probably the most expensive to buy because of the fuel that must be purchased and used on a fairly regular basis. They also have safety risks that must be considered with the use of highly inflammable fuel and open flame; however, for those lanterns using propane, there are ready made canisters available that will preclude the need for a funnel and manual refilling.
The newer gas lanterns are dependable, require minimal maintenance, and have spare parts/accessory items readily available . They produce a bright/steady light and are considered ideal for an out-side or large enclosed area. Also, if your are camping somewhere cold, a gas lantern does produce considerable heat.
When purchasing one of the many gas lanterns, I would suggest you look for a lantern that uses the same type of fuel as your other camping equipment. This would reduce the storage/resupply hassles.
Cheapest is not Always the Best!
- Quick/Cheap Emergency Lighting
Candles are possibly the cheapest form of lighting and the easiest to find. But, they undoubtedly present the greatest risk. If left unattended, a candle can easily be knocked over accidentally or blown over by the wind and subsequently starting a fire. Candles also give-out less light than gas, solar, or battery lighting devices.
Candle usage would not be my choice for any reason. But, if you decide to take some along on your next trip for emergency purposes, be sure they are only used with adult supervision and not when it’s too breezy/windy. Candles should always be secured in a way where they can not be accidentally knocked over. As a rule, never light a candle inside a tent or leave one lit, anywhere, unattended. BE SAFE !
You Do Need Lighting!
Quality Time!
The camp site at night has always been special for the family and I. Quality time, a period when we could just sit around and enjoy each other. A time for roasting marshmallows, telling stories (being stupid), playing cards/board games and/or getting ready for the next day’s activities.
For anyone planning a camping trip, important to this activity is to insure you have the proper lighting. There are no shortages as to options available. There are candles, gas lanterns, or battery operated lanterns and flashlights, even solar lights. But, before choosing one or even several types, you should first consider the benefits and precautions that each device presents.
The price may also be a consideration, but keep in mind that item quality and safety must be the first priority. The lighting devices selected should be based on: 1. What you need them for; 2. How they’re going to be used; 3. Services they must provide; 4. Safety precautions and/or constraints presented. ENJOY!