Hi Bravo25,
I will post some answers based on my own personal opinions and observations
Is heat an issue?
This probably depends on the size of the light, power of the light, what you mean by heat being an issue, etc?
What is the best power source (readily available)?
Once again this depends on numerous factors
Are you going to make something or buy a light?
If you have a tight budget the best power source is the one you can afford.
What is a typical runtime?
Run times will vary depending on the power of the lights and batteries used.
At least an hour may be a safe guess.
The Costco HID gets around 80+ minutes according to numerous CPF members.
The Amondotech Illuminator prototype I tested got 60 minutes the two times I tested it. In theory it's runtime should be the same as the Costco and Harbor Freight HID's
Several of the more expensive lights will get 100+ minutes and even have interchangeable batteries.
What type of throw, and output can be expected from a 35-50w?
See the Superlights III shootout or the Barn Burner Shootout.
The tree is 150 yards away. The rocks above the Tree are between 500-600 yards away.
Who do you think makes the best production HID? ( I am not really into mods, although there are a lot of good modders here)
My personal opinion here will be in three areas
Best currrent production.
Polarion hands down if you want an illuminating device rather then a signaling device.
It also costs around $950
Best Bang for Buck Higher end light
I really like the X900 and it's rechargeable battery packs, adjustable beam, adjustable head, etc.
I have been told if one is careful they can be found in the $350-$400 range.
Best Bang for Buck Economy HID
Amondotech Illuminator 35 watt HID Searchlight.
It is not available yet but will be $120 for the first two weeks it is available and $129 after that.
It does not throw quite as far as the Harbor Frieght HID but is 4lbs lighter, much smaller and has a wider beam that illuninates a larger area better.
It does not light as wide an area as the Polarion or X990, but will out throw either of them.
It is still not light at 8 lbs 11oz, but it is very well balanced and easy to carry for it's weight.
These are just my opinions and I welcome any posts agreeing or disagreeing with my suggestions.
Take Care,
mtbkndad :wave:
PS. I am willing to bet the Helios will be out of your stated price range, but it will probably knock the Polarion of the top spot for me.
I think it's price will be closer to a beast then a Polarion.
This is just my guess. :wave: