Review: Snow Peak SnowMiner Headlamp
Adventurers of all types agree that Snow Peak is a name synonymous with top shelf camping gear. I have yet to see or use a piece of Snow Peak gear that did not meet or exceed my own personal high standards and the SnowMiner headlamp continues this trend. Lightweight, multi-function and versatile, this headlamp sent my trusty old USMC issued LED Petzl headlamp to an early retirement.
Initially, due to my own personal bias towards "milspec" gear, I hated it. I was put off by it's unconventional appearance as were a few others and some jokes even sprang up in camp referring to it's semi-anatomical design as "the breast headlamp ever". These initial jabs at it's sexy shape and soft texture were soon replaced by praise and admiration as it proved it's worth over many trips. The SnowMiner is now my "go to" light in camp and here's why:
Serving multiple roles in one small (and bright) package, in addition to it's traditional role as a fully adjustable headlamp it serves equally well in a hanging mode anywhere in camp. The flat base allows use as a table lamp adding to it's utility in any environment. The hook also allows me to hang this light from the headrest on the drivers seat in my truck ensuring that it's always right there when I need it.
Lighting modes include, High, Low, Strobe, and Variable (Variable mode dims the light by holding down the power button). The beam is adjustable and a push or pull of the center section on the silicone bulb enables either spot or flood patterns. The spot is very effective out to about 100 feet and the flood pattern provides a full 180 degrees of ambient lighting. Light output is very respectable with 80 Lumens on high and 8 Lumens on low.
Water resistance is good with an IPx4 water resistance rating and the 3 AAA batteries will last an impressive 55 hours on high or 140 hours on low. For simplified logistics on the road, I prefer lights that use AA or AAA batteries as opposed to those that use the CR123 lithium variety.
The bottom line? My Snow Peak addiction continues unabated. One small gripe is that due to the way the light mounts it can bounce around a bit if you are moving quickly on the trail. Obviously, this is designed as a utility light vice a tactical light so not a huge issue. Other than that, if you could only have one light in camp or in your pack this is it and the price point is more than reasonable considering all of the "value added" features packed into it. Priced around $50, the SnowMiner is a solid choice. Visit Snow Peak for more info!
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