I agree about the BB, if you really want to intimidate, but I dont' know if you can get one by christmas is the only problem.
The only negative to the HID's are the startup time if your trying to instantly blaze the eyes of an intruder, you could also consider the LED's that
Eletrolumens are selling. The light is instantaneous and 1000 lumens from their K-2 stunner.. he also makes a 12 LED light thats 1300 lumens, but I don't see it on his site for some reason.
The instant initial brightness from an HID may startle and intruder, but as it drops brightness to build to full over the next 10 - 20 seconds could be enough time for them to regain enough site to get away. "if you really want to catch them!"
Someone can correct me, but the Short arc lights are also instant on, but they tend to really get up in price for what your getting in total lumens. Thier power is thier ability to focus down to an almost laser type pinpoint "several feet wide" with total darkness surrounding... so its easy to lose your target if your not careful.
I think thats the main negative to using them for helicopters.. I suppose the good its that no one gets startled except the intended target.
You also have to ask.. "just how much quality" do you want, and how big can it be?
If you find an HID with really quick startup, the bulb life usually suffers alot and they are "extremely" expensive... with a few exceptions, but that doesn't matter to many since the life is still very long.
There are some cheapys out there that throw alot of light, and you do get alot of light for the money, but your still getting what you pay for, but if your on a budget, its still a bargain.
the AI
If you want smallish and very cheap.. the
7Watt LED for 20.00 bucks is nice, only 120 to possibly 200 lumens...
Lots to consider.. the HID benifit is that while many other types of lights "unless the light is regulated", start getting dimmer as soon as it is turned on, the HID's stay full brightness for their entire run time.
Hope I just didn't confuse you more!