Head torch tested

05th January 2008

As we’ve come to expect from the top-end producer, it sets a high standard, combining performance with design.

Comfort is key to these devices, and the Head Fire is one of the best we have tried, as it is lightweight and has no hard or sharp edges. Once on, it really starts to put rivals in the shade – the light from the 1.25 Watt Luxeon LED is so bright, the maker warns against looking directly at it. It’s seriously powerful, and easily good for 20 metres, although it’s probably best to angle it down to avoid glare. The lamp also has a four-position mount to switch from walking to working at close range.

You can cut the risk of dazzling others by reducing the output, thanks to a dimmer on the three AAA battery power pack. The kit includes these cells, which are claimed to last for up to 50 hours. But the high price means you do pay for this performance.