Coleman CCFT lantern mini-review + photos

[idleprocess]

QUICK SPECS

• Light source CCFT U-tube
  
• Type Compact lantern
  
• Switch clicky
  
• Operation single-mode
  
• Operational sequence Off | on
  
• Driver Inverter
  
• Power source Alkaline: 4xAA
  Rechargables OK
  Lithiums OK
  
• Focus Fixed
  
• Beam omnidirectional
  
• Construction Molded plastic
  
• Environmental
  Water resistance: Minimal
  Shock resistance: Moderate
  Crush resistance: Moderate
  
• Availability
  Now on clearance at Big Lots

Flat View


Perspective View


Assembly View


Scene illumination: white


Scene illumination: yellow


Alternate scene illumination: white


Alternate scene illumination: yellow

(snide) COMMENTS

• Excellent brightness for size
• Good color
• Acceptable cold-start time
• Yellow half of light guard is both useful and annoying
• balances on-end
• Lanyard works allright for hanging around neck for reading
• Suggested use: lantern, blackout light, gas-lantern replacement when camping

 

[RonM]

What kind of runtime can you get out of this light?

 

[Lynx_Arc]

Mine draws about 300ma so I am guessing about 6-8 hours off alkalines if not more. The box claims 6 hours of runtime off alkaline cells.

 

[Phaserburn]

Nimh should have similar runtime, I would think.

 

[STEVENT6]

Thanks Idle,

I've deen them at a local Big lots for 3.99 and was wondering if it was worthwhile. Until now. Wish it was waterproof.

 

[Lynx_Arc]

I don't think there are any waterproof flourescent lights out there. I figure it is water resistant/splashproof.

 

[idleprocess]

I wouldn't even give it credit for being splashproof.

Some of the larger "lantern" style flourescents using conventional low-wattage tubes might be closer to actually being splashproof/dunk-resistant.

 

[Lynx_Arc]

Yea, generally flourescent lights and water don't mix, but then I don't think you need to go scuba diving with a lantern.

 

[idleprocess]

That's a given considering the voltages that florescent ballasts generate.

 

[STEVENT6]

Well since it was only $4 I bought one anyway. When I take it backpacking I'll have to keep it in a plastic bag just in case.

 

[3rd_shift]

I got that lantern over a year ago at Walmart.
It still works great.
6-8 hours appears to be the norm for it's runtime.