Hid Nmhi Lights

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jptrealty

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Location
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I am looking for feedback on complete light systems, primary to backups. If cost isn't an issue what is the best avail.

Thank You
 
Hmm....I'd say 21w, adjustable head, with two Photon Torpedos as backups.

But then again, what are you going to be using it for?
 
LED is coming but doesn't seem quite ready for prime time. 21 watt HID is too much for wrecks - no big rooms and that close you really run the chance of blinding your team or yourself. 10 watt HID is too little for caves - not enough light for big rooms, etc. 18 watt HID would seem to be a fair compromise. Focusability is critical in either environment.

NiMH batteries are the standout best solution for a number of reasons: smaller, lighter, no memory issues, etc. 4 hours burn time on an 18 watt light means you need at least 9 amp hours of juice and I'd be looking for either a larger battery or two smaller ones and some wet connectors on the cable.

As to the manufacturer, I don't think it makes all that much difference in terms of quality. (:11: INCOMING :D) Take a look at Halcyon, Dive Rite, Sartek and see what kind of price and local service you can get. Make sure you have a collar around the switch (Sartek doesn't automatically come with one but will install one if asked) and buy an extra bulb right away - it's usually a good time to negotiate a price and, sooner or later, you're going to need it.

I've tried Halcyon and Little Johnson back-up lights and have had repeated problems with the screw-on design in both - finding a balance between a reliable seal and a light that turns itself on in response to pressure is an ongoing struggle. I don't know why a reliable pressure switch is such a problem but I've been carrying a little UK SL4 (yeah, overdriven, I know) as a third back-up, just in case.
 
Never had an issue with the TDL aluminum backups turning on or flooding. I have 5 of them. I liked them because the body is the connector. And you don't have to worry about the copper strap from the bottom of the Delrin lights to the reflector to complete the circuit. Just the reflector screwed down contacts the body and wah lah. You have light. Had them to 263feet.

And, From what I've seen. The 18w and the 21w light are pretty much the same brightness. Just different colors. 18w being white/blue. Reason I liked the 21w is from what I see. They aren't making the 18w bulb anymore. Might be wrong. And, the 18w had some issues with breakage. While the 21w was supposed to be a sturdier design.

But, the 21w and 18w side by side were about the same brightness. Just different color..

I have a Halcyon 10w I usually use for wrecks. Just since it's smaller. 4 hour burn on NIMH. The 21w is 4 hour burn too. But the head is BIG. LOL 10w is small for wrecks I like it.. Unless it's a BIG wreck.
 
I'll also chime in with Salvo or Halcyon 18/21 watt primaries. Since you seem to be doing dives close to 4 hours, I'd suggest the 13.5 aH canisters to ensure good burn time.

I've seen, not used, the Dive Rite 21w light and was unimpressed with its quality and its reflector. I can't imagine buying one instead of the Haclyon or Salvo.
 

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