For the love of lumens: the Black Diamond ReVolt

Posted by Melanie van Zyl on 18 February 2013

We all know how precious diamonds are and a Black Diamond is one gem you’ll want for your crown. The Black Diamond hybrid power ReVolt headlamp is a new addition to their range and should be the perfect new accessory for your pip when you venture outdoors.

Black Diamond ReVolt recharging socket

Black Diamond ReVolt recharging socket

Headlamps are handy, if not mandatory, for hiking, fishing, camping and caravanning, not to mention stumbling around your home when Eskom pulls the plug without notice. At 110 lumens, the ReVolt is taking the spotlight when it comes to illumination – and it’s rechargeable.

It may seem a bit odd to think about a headlamp’s charging capabilities when you’re heading into the bundu, but the ReVolt works on alkaline batteries too. The ReVolt takes 3 AAA batteries (either alkaline or the NiMH rechargeable option) and can be charged through a USB cord that fits your average BlackBerry. This versatile headlamp can be powered by your laptop, car charger, wall plug or solar charger, wherever you may be.

Charging the Black Diamond ReVolt

Charging the Black Diamond ReVolt

The functions take a while to figure out as there is only one button, but once you get to know the ReVolt you come to appreciate all it can do. There is the option of a spot light that can shine 70m ahead of you fuelled by alkaline batteries or about 60m with the rechargeable option. There is an adjustable beam that creates a wider area of light covering an 8m berth in front of you as well as a dimmer, so you can easily switch from trotting about in the bush to lighting up your braai at close quarters.

Another nifty feature is the battery monitor on the ReVolt, which indicates three levels of battery power so you can plan your nocturnal activities accordingly.

Black Diamond ReVolt battery indicator

Black Diamond ReVolt battery indicator

The ReVolt’s lumens are encased in weather resistant housing and it is protected against splashing or sprayed water from any angle. This headlamp is a lightweight piece of equipment at only 97g and an excellent extra for your travel backpack.

Admittedly, the recharge option does mean the headlamp doesn’t perform as well when recharged compared to its alkaline battery power, but it is always comforting to have options when faced with darkness.

The new Black Diamond ReVolt is available from a number of outdoor stores across South Africa including Drifters, Ventures for Africa and Cape Union Mart and retails for R699.

Quick specs for the Black Diamond ReVolt

NOTE: these are based on use with 3 AAA alkaline batteries.

?       High-output LED bulb

?       Maximum output of 110 lumens

?       Maximum beam distance of 70 meters

?       Lowest beam distance of 3.5 meters (so you can still see your braai)

?       Average run time of 70 hours at its highest and 300 hours at its dimmest

?       It has a regulated output

?       Rechargeable

?       Batteries-3 AAA alkaline or 3 AAA NiMH rechargeable

?       Material(s)-Plastic

 

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