Lights, next best option?

[ACR]

Hi All,

I just wanted to pick the brains of the pros. I know that the ideal setup when it comes to a light, would be a canister light. But seeing as how canister lights are worth more than I have to spend right now what would my next best option be?

Thanks!

 

[mjcoussens]

I would recommend to DIY your own can light. As simple as they are I find it really tough to justify the expense of ready-made can lights. bnscherm has a really nice write-up available here that I used as a basis. I used the EZ-light method to seal the maglite head. I also made a larger battery pack (14.4v compared to 12volt) to overdrive my 50-watt halogen bulb (they're cheap bulbs, so why not...always carry a spare in your dive kit) and significantly increase the light output. Total cost to build was about $200 if you've got some tools. I did mine entirely with a hacksaw and a dremel.

PM me if you'd like a supply list of hardware from McMaster-Carr.

Matt

 

[Randy43068]

I would agree with what Matt said.

 

[rjack321]

You could get a photon torpedo LED light for now and when you have the cash for the canister later the PT will be a great backup light.
They are about 75% as bright as a 10W HID, nice tight beam, fairly long battery life.

 

[strazz]

I'd buy a good LED backup light. Anything else will eventually find its way to the bottom of your closet.

Check out the Photon Torpedo and the Salvo Rat. Both are great lights.

 

[GDI]

ACR there is no next best option. If you are looking at tech diving then committ yourself to getting the equipment you want right from the start. Pace Your self doing it$$. But in the long run you will save time and energy in buying the right stuff at the beginning.

Let me ask you a question: Where do you want your diving to take you? Once you answer this then your selection of equipment may be easier. Do not cut corners here. In tech diving you will soon learn that it is not a "buddy dependant" aspect of the sport and that means having the right equipment. This does mean not having a buddy but rather to have to rely on a buddy.

 

[OneBrightGator]

Look for a used D8, with a lantern grip if you can find one. I picked up one for $35 and I still find uses for it among my two other primary lights. By the time you get around to assembling a full technical kit the $35 will be a drop in the bucket and piece of mind as a backup primary because contrary to what some will say you can, and I have, done full cave dives with it.

 

[Randy43068]

Look for a used D8, with a lantern grip if you can find one. I picked up one for $35 and I still find uses for it among my two other primary lights. By the time you get around to assembling a full technical kit the $35 will be a drop in the bucket and piece of mind as a backup primary because contrary to what some will say you can, and I have, done full cave dives with it.

That is bad advice. Because YOU did it doesn't mean one SHOULD do it.

 

[battles2a5]

Have you considered a used light? Go to TDS and look in the classifieds. You should be able to pick up a used 10w HID for between $350 and $400.

 

[piikki]

I have been in the same situation as you for quite while. I prioritized couple of pieces of expensive gear ahead of the HID (like custom drysuit), and decided to wait until both buddy and I can afford a good/similar light. I went with Torpedo too and it has served me well. It is way more convenient than pistol grips etc that were recommended by my original instructors because I can carry it on the harness on every dive. And as stated it will later serve as a great back up light. Bright and reliable.