Ready Gov | Disaster Preparedness
Finally, a Headlamp With a Red Light That's Actually BRIGHT!
I've used plenty of flashlights and headlamps over the years, but the Fenix HM61R V3.0 has a combination of features that really makes it stand out. First, this thing is BRIGHT! With up to 1,800 lumens and a spotlight capable of reaching approximately 640 feet, there's plenty of lighting power packed into a surprisingly small package. But what really impressed me is the RED LIGHT! If you've used other headlamps with red light options, you probably know the frustration. Most have a red light that's so dim it's barely useful beyond whatever is directly in front of your face. Not this Fenix! The red light on the HM61R V3.0 is noticeably brighter than the red lights on other headlamps I've used. It's actually useful for seeing what you're doing instead of just being a feature added to the specifications. For anyone who camps, hunts, fishes, or spends time outdoors after dark, that's a big deal. Red lighting can help preserve your night vision at appropriate brightness levels, and having a useful red light makes this headlamp much more versatile. Another feature I really appreciate is that the flashlight comes completely off the headband! You can use it as a handheld flashlight, and the magnetic base allows you to attach it to a metal surface while keeping both hands free. Anyone who's ever worked under a vehicle while holding a flashlight in their mouth will appreciate that! The rechargeable, replaceable battery and USB-C charging are additional bonuses. The construction feels solid, and the IP68 water and dust resistance rating is reassuring for outdoor adventures and wet conditions. There are a couple of things worth knowing. It's a little heavier than some basic headlamps, and the maximum 1,800-lumen output won't run continuously at full brightness because the light automatically manages heat by reducing output. My verdict: This is much more than a basic camping headlamp. It's a powerful headlamp, handheld flashlight, and magnetic work light all rolled into one. But