Re: Zebralight SC30 & H31w (1xCR123A/RCR XP-E) Reviews: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, and more
Very thorough review!
I've been considering purchasing the H51Fw. I thought the flood version might be preferable for a headlamp, especially if I have another light with me for distance. It sounds as though you find the hotspot large and smooth enough that you don't feel the need for the frosted diffuser. I don't want to put words into your mouth, but does that sound about right?
Just updated the review with some experiences on using the headlight H31w version. Fortunately, I'm in the middle of doing renovations on my home, so it has provided a good opportunity for some field-testing.
Frankly, the H31w worked better than I expected. As mentioned in my review, my favorite headlamp is my old 3xAAA Petzl Tikka XP (that I long-ago modded from a Luxeon 3 to an SSC P4). I like this light because its optic produces a very smooth and wide hotspot with the modded SSC (slightly wider than the H31), and it has built-in diffuser covers that you can slide over for full flood (for up-close work).
Of course, the H31 is much brighter on Hi - but most of the time, I prefer to use H31's Med modes anyway. And though I had to give up the full flood feature, I found the H31's hotspot to be wide enough that it wasn't a problem working with it. The headband held the light securely - both light-to-headband, and headband-to-head (the latter is adjustable). The headband holder holds the light securely, but you can still easily rotate it for an optimum angle. I didn't experience any of the "slippage" that was common on the original H50 model. I also find the button easier to access and use than my Petzl. But we'll see how I manage without the diffuser covers …
Very thorough review!
I've been considering purchasing the H51Fw. I thought the flood version might be preferable for a headlamp, especially if I have another light with me for distance. It sounds as though you find the hotspot large and smooth enough that you don't feel the need for the frosted diffuser. I don't want to put words into your mouth, but does that sound about right?
