Princeton Tec Apex LED Headlamp

I had a Princeton Tec 350 lumen model previously which I used for over 2 years in the harshest outdoor conditions. 120* desert heat to freezing snowing conditions and it never failed me once. It was lost unfortunately so I ordered the new Apex 550 model and the Fenix Hp15 to see which one is better. Here's my pro/cons list:Apex 550 PROS:- the main light is more flood pattern and very white neutral in color-Straps are more robust and hold their settings better-power indicator LED on front-built in large heat sink for cooling-nicer more comfortable battery case-lifetime warranty-the 4 small LED's on the sides would be perfect for low light use like camping or setting up a camp site. They use very little powerAPEX 550 CONs:-the battery case uses a flat head tool located on the upper strap to open. Holds great but kind of a pain-the buttons are non responsive and harder to operate-the side LED's aren't much different from the main light in terms of pattern.Fenix Hp15UE Comparison:-Fenix has a more focus beam that is cleaner with less shadowing but not great for close up work-Fenix battery pack easier to open/close-Fenix has nice simple on/off buttons-Slightly better run time with the Fenix but the Burst mode is kind of useless as it's only good for a minute or so.I choose the Princeton Tec Apex 550 over the Fenix for it's flood light pattern for working up close fit my needs better and I was very happy with my old Apex headlamp.

I've used this and other headlamp extensively over the years as I spend a good chunk of my weekends out hiking and backpacking and I've never been afraid of walking after dark. Since I'm often leading others cross country and route-finding via headlamp I really rely on having a powerful light with decent battery life that can stand up to some abuse.That used to be the Apex. I used one for years (the older 200 lumen model) and have been the cause of my girlfriend and several friends getting them as well after joining me on one too many after dark adventures.Then my light started turning off randomly. I eventually figured out it caused when the wire leading into the battery was jiggled which obviously happens a lot while you’re using it.I tried to contact Princeton Tec support and they were less than ideal to deal with. Contacting them to get an RMA took quite a while as emails were ignored and phone calls went to voicemail and were never returned until I’d tried over a series of weeks. I ended up (unwisely) buying a second Apex because the replacement was taking so long and I had to have something. They eventually got me a replacement and you’d think I’d be set for a while.Unfortunately both of the new lamps have had significant issues. One has the same issue with turning off while the other has an issue with the button that controls the brightness not working consistently. So at best I have a lamp I can turn on full power either on spotlight or spread and *may* not randomly fail on me when I really need it.Needless to say I don’t recommend these to anyone anymore and I’m really frustrated with Princeton Tec. I’m dreading dealing with the RMA process again and currently looking around for an equivalent light that meets my needs.I've used the Black Diamond Icon which is has proven to be more reliable but the spotlight beam isn't focused enough for me.

Princeton Tec will always be my first choice when choosing a headlamp. They are still made in USA and have a really good warranty. I have asked for small parts in past and have always had them sent for free. Princeton Tec knows how to make a quality product and treat there product consumers.Anyway, this headlamp is amazing! Powered by 4 AA batteries this headlamp makes as much, if not more, properly focused light as car headlamps. This is a boon when spelunking, night bike riding, night skating, night hiking, etc.Battery pack is completely sealed for water tightness and is explopsion-proof rated for volatile environments. Heatsink dissipates heat very well even on very warm days with a lot of humidity. Power cable is very durable against abrasion and snagging.Top strap is removable, but I always prefer to use it as this headlamp is heavier that most others out there. This brings up my complaint about comfort. It is kind of heavy due to taking 4 AA batteries and therefore IMO top strap is pretty much essential, but hey you might like not having top strap.All AA battery types are compatible. This would be considered a high drain device when using main LED. This means that using lithium and NiMH batteries will generally net you a longer burn time than alkaline. Having option of those three types a big plus IMO.All parts are replaceable and are readily available for order from Princeton Tec. I must not, you have to call them or email them to get those parts. I have never been charged for really tiny parts on other headsets, but I am unsure if they will charge you for parts on this headset model.This headset will be my go to as my main headset and I hope Princeton Tec will continue producing amazing headsets like this.Want this one? Give it a shot cause I think you'll like it. YouTube reviews are very favorable, but they are amazing for demonstrating effectiveness of this headset. Whatever activity you use this for, stay safe fellow humans.

first impression was nice piece of kit, then the switches started to fail, main beam first press full power, second half power third flashing, now when I switch on I get any of the 3 functions. Its a bit sad really, expected something this expensive to have lasted more than two month before failing.

Utilisation dans un endroit classifié Class 1 Div 2. Bon produit

great light and multiple functions

great light and multiple functions

Excellente lampe!Très puissante!

Good headlamp