Eagletac D25A2 with the XPG2 in neutral tint for a good all around AA light. It will throw plenty far enough and the moonlight mode would be great for use inside the sleeper. I own two D25A2 and they are my favorite lights. They have taken some serious abuse and keep on going, I know they are waterproof as they have been swimming with me. Illuminationgear/com is the best place to get Eagletac lights and if you look in the CPF discount thread there is an 8% off for CPF members.
I really like my D25A, so it makes sense the 2 AA version would be simiar (and brighter). I second that even though i have no experience with the 2 AA version.
For a headlamp I really like my Fenix HL35. It's a great all around light with really good runtimes. http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?412750-My-thoughts-on-the-Fenix-HL35-pics-added!
I recommend either Fenixoutfitters or Fenix-Store for any Fenix purchase.
Agree! Check out the Fenix outfitter clearance section, you can find really good deals there. Returns and such. Might even save enough to get two lights
I don't own a zebralight yet but they do seem to be a really good brand and they have a large following. Most people here are recommending an 18650 light but I think for starting out and simplicity's sake a AA light is the way to go. I would pick up a pack of Eneloop rechargeable AAs and a charger such as the LaCrosse BC700 as that combination will give you the best runtimes and cut down on the cost of batteries. Also it will keep you from ending up with an alkaline battery leaking and running a light.
I have a Fenix HP12 and it hasn't seen as much use since i got the Zebralight (H602w). Since I've had the H602, I've only used it in combination with my H602 for throw. However, now that i've got the H600w, i see less of the Fenix use, although it is a really good light. I figure i'll use it off and on just to change up the User Interface (UI) every once in a while when the shine wears off the H600 i recently got. I like the Zebralight because, since they are removable (like a few other headlamps), they can also be used as a flashlight. Plus, now that i am used to it, i really like the UI. If i had it over too do, i'd not have gotten some of the handhelds i have and let the Zebra headlamps serve both purposes. The 18650 Zebralight headlamps don't come with a clip, but i found one that fit and it makes it even more useful.
I'm not opposed to rechargeable but I have not ran across a backpacker solar panel that accepts a wall plug yet........ if any of those mentioned have a usb charger I would be more attracted to them. I understand with extra batteries it shouldn't be a worry but I'm that guy that seems to practically live in the 3 percent of the 97 that what should never happen happens......... So I get concerned. Charging in the truck is not a problem though. I also went with aa because it's universal in almost all portable electronics.
^^^^ although your right[emoji4] I'm not looking to bust into subcategories of specified use yet. That's a while I'm the future yet. [emoji38] I'm looking for a pocket pet or hip buddy. One that's going to live with me at all times.
As i said above, if i had to get one light it would be a removable headlamp that would double as a handheld (90 degree) flashlight. I've heard of some Zebralights breaking after dropping. I haven't been that rough with mine, but i'd check around for people's experiences with them. I've also read the reverse, so i suppose it depends. Armytek is supposed to be more durable. I sent it back due to other issues, but i really like the warm tint of the Wizard i had to send back due to bugs in the UI.