Torches

August 2006

Roadside repairs are never easy, but if you can’t see what you’re doing they’re twice as tough. Changing a tyre or tinkering under the bonnet in the dark is a recipe for disaster – so shed some light on the problem with a top-quality torch. Keep one of these handy companions in the car and you’ll thank yourself when you break down in a dark country lane. There are loads of different designs available, ranging from robust rubberised units to stylish drilled aluminium offerings.

A torch will take a battering in the car, so the tougher it is the better. Newer-style products use LEDs instead of traditional bulbs, and are generally more durable. Flashlights come in a massive array of sizes, but in this test we consider models which are easy to store in a car’s glovebox.

It's a hard-knock life in a car, so our test focused on build quality. We dropped each torch from one metre on to the boot floor four times, then checked for damage.

Performance when working under the bonnet was noted, as was the spread of light from a distance of four metres. Points were given for an adjustable beam, positive switch and grip comfort.

We also wanted a way of positioning the torch so it could be laid flat without rolling off. Batteries and bulbs were removed to check for ease of use, while price was taken into account.

Verdict

Blending performance and protection at a great price, the Duracell Voyager wins this test. In second is the bulletproof Mini Maglite, with its adjustable beam and good looks. The bright Police Tech Focus is third; it’s good, but just too pricey.

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