Stuff to add texture to reflector to improve beam quality

[Quickbeam]

You don't apply it to the reflector, but to the lens - WriteRight. You can use Clear Con-Tac paper, but it does not have quite the same effect - not quite as good, although much cheaper.

http://thelightsite.cruxial.com/reviews/writeright.htm

http://thelightsite.cruxial.com/reviews/con-tact.htm

Also, check this thread about 2/3 of the way down.

http://www.candlepowerforums.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=002644

 

[dilettante]

Thanks! I've got a 2D Maglite and an old Petzl Zoom headlamp that could use some help.

 

[dilettante]

I think I remember reading about some stuff you can apply to reflectors to texture them and improve beam quality. Unfortunately I do not recall what it is called. I tried a few searches without success.

Is there such a thing?

If so, what is it called and where can I get some?

 

[SFR]

Po' man's WriteRight: Scotch tape!

 

[Nerd]

scotch tape works? OMG.... or did you "texturize" it yourself?

 

[JRT]

3M makes a version of Scotch tape called Satin
tape that is much clearer than regular Scotch tape.
Look for a purple and yellow label.
Really does help.

 

[Nerd]

If it's clearer, how does it help to diffuse the light?

 

[hotfoot]

Nerd, in Singapore 3M satin is most likely called 3M Magic tape, the white translucent/opalescent version common in Popular, Evergreen...almost anywhere. It only appears to become transparent when its stuck on something like paper, or giftwrap..etc. I'm guessing the apparent imporved "transparency" is due to the fact that its surface is matte, hence reflecting little light (glare). So you see what's underneath better.

It works great! Only problem is that the adhesive is not the same quality as WriteRight, so expect to replace it often. It doesn't like heat and exposure.