When it comes to reliable and portable lighting solutions for outdoor activities, the Black Diamond Spot Headlamp is an excellent choice. This compact headlamp has been a staple in the industry for years, and its latest iteration offers improved features and performance that make it an attractive option for hikers, campers, and adventure-seekers.

Design and Build

The Spot Headlamp features a rugged and lightweight design, constructed from durable polycarbonate and aluminum components. Weighing in at just 3 ounces (85g), this headlamp is easy to carry on long hikes or backpacking trips. The adjustable headband ensures a comfortable fit for most users, while the removable battery compartment makes it simple to replace batteries or add extra light sources.

Light Output

The Spot Headlamp boasts an impressive 335 lumens of maximum output from its single LED light source. This is achieved through Black Diamond’s proprietary Focusing Optic technology, which allows for a precise and adjustable beam pattern. The light can be focused from a wide floodlight to a narrow spotlight, making it ideal for tasks such as navigating trails or reading in the dark.

Modes and Features

The Spot Headlamp offers four pre-set modes: Bright (335 lumens), Medium (150 lumens), Low (60 lumens), and Red Light (1 lumen). The latter is perfect for preserving night vision during hunting or stargazing activities. Additionally, the headlamp features a convenient red light mode that preserves the user’s night vision.

Battery Life

Black Diamond claims up to 200 hours of battery life on low power settings, which translates to approximately 40 hours of continuous use at maximum brightness. Our testing revealed slightly shorter battery life, but still an impressive performance considering the headlamp’s compact size and weight.

Additional Features

The Spot Headlamp also includes several useful features such as:

• IP67 waterproofing for protection against rain and dust
• A built-in SOS strobe mode for emergency situations
• A simple and intuitive interface with easy-to-use controls
• A removable battery compartment for added convenience

Comparison to Competitors

When compared to other headlamps on the market, the Black Diamond Spot Headlamp stands out for its balance of performance, durability, and price. While more expensive options like the Petzl NAO+ offer advanced features such as GPS integration and temperature regulation, they also come with a higher price tag (around $200). In contrast, the Spot Headlamp offers excellent value at an affordable price point of around $40.

Conclusion

The Black Diamond Spot Headlamp is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a reliable and compact light source. Its impressive brightness, adjustable beam pattern, and long battery life make it suitable for a wide range of activities, from hiking to camping to emergency situations. While it may not offer the most advanced features or cutting-edge technology, its durability, ease of use, and affordability make it an attractive option for those seeking a hassle-free lighting solution.

Technical Specifications:

• Light Output: 335 lumens (max), adjustable beam pattern
• Battery Life: Up to 200 hours on low power settings, approximately 40 hours at max brightness
• Modes: Bright (335 lumens), Medium (150 lumens), Low (60 lumens), Red Light (1 lumen)
• Water Resistance: IP67 waterproof and dustproof
• Weight: 3 ounces (85g)
• Dimensions: 2.5 x 4 inches (6.35 x 10.16 cm)
• Battery Type: Three AAA alkaline batteries
• Price: Around $40