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I tend to stick with what I know, but we are now in the 21st century, so maybe it's time I updated from my incandescent drop light.
What do you guys use? I need a bright one (old eyes) that can fit into tight spots (under the dash, etc.) and would prefer one that is explosion-proof and does not get hot. Cordless might be a plus, too.
Whatcha using out there?
Last edited by Easy Rhino; 08-26-2018 at 12:50 PM.
I have three drop lights. Two 30+ year old reel type incandescents that hang from the ceiling that I use for under the hood work and for burning my arm.
Hoping to find LED or fluorescent bulbs for rough service for them.
A Craftsman 110v fluorescent that works fine under the car and won't burn your arm.
The light I love is a battery powered LED Trident StreamLight that fits on a headband and 3 settings.
I also have tried other cheap LED lights, but none I was happy with.
I have a dual bulb fluorescent that works great. It has two switches so the bulbs work independent and an outlet which allows it to double as an extension cord. I got it at Home Depot.
That said, I use the led flashlight on my iPhone more than anything else! It is small, bright and lasts the whole day on a partial charge. With my old eyes it is also handy to have the camera which acts as a magnifier and makes it easy to reach around behind the dash to snap a pic of wiring and other things I can’t see directly. I now use it more in the garage than as a phone!
We use the 32 LED rechargeable 'Night Stick' type of lights at work. Lightweight, rugged, hours of light and very bright, and cordless. No more burnt interiors or broken bulbs or messy cords. Would not even consider going back to a corded type of light.
I've been upside down in the driver's footwell, up to both elbows into a wiring harness and had one of those hot metal incandescent bulb housings roll up against my cheek to the point I heard meat frying...
Never again...
Last edited by Frankie the Fink; 08-26-2018 at 06:22 PM.
Got this for Christmas a couple years ago and love it. I don’t think snap on really made it and I know it’s not a drop light but it’s bright and adjustable LED. The tape roll is for size comparison.
I have tried many but this one gives me the brightest light and stays cool to boot. Dropped many times but like a Timex, takes a lickin' but keeps on tickin'..... This and my super bright headband led fits just about all my needs so far.
My .02. This headstrapped LED is GREAT in small places (under dash). The nice thing about it is you don't necessarily have to wear it in the confined areas.
Hate droplights, any kind. Most give you glare and not pinpoint light. I use this small LED flashlight, uses 3 AAA batteries, very bright light, lasts a long time, and fits into tight places. I don’t think any light is ideal, but this gets me by.
I use an LED light that runs on 3 AA batteries for days. It is magnetic and swivels. No cords in the way and I have dropped it and knocked it off many times with no ill effects.
I know you are looking for recommendations on drop lights but I own and have used just about every type of lighting. After many years I have found the most effective light is a top grade headband light. The light goes with you, shines in the direction you need without constant repositioning, has adjustable light intensity/brightness, adjusts to spot or wide flood, never shines in your face disrupting your vision, allows to keep both hands free to work, no cords to get fouled up, light source doesn’t produce heat, won’t drop and break, allows you to see in tight places. I could keep giving more reasons but you get the picture. The headband light option should be considered and you would be pleasantly pleased.
I know you are looking for recommendations on drop lights but I own and have used just about every type of lighting. After many years I have found the most effective light is a top grade headband light. The light goes with you, shines in the direction you need without constant repositioning, has adjustable light intensity/brightness, adjusts to spot or wide flood, never shines in your face disrupting your vision, allows to keep both hands free to work, no cords to get fouled up, light source doesn’t produce heat, won’t drop and break, allows you to see in tight places. I could keep giving more reasons but you get the picture. The headband light option should be considered and you would be pleasantly pleased.
Their are quite a few brands of “quality “ headlamps available with many being developed and promoted for the hard core outdoors/hunting/ adventure enthusiasts. My best headlamp is made by COAST. Purchase Coast brand based on friends recommendation, available hi lumens, focus and adjustable light intensity plus lifetime warranty. Purchased at Menards. Used at high intensity level it will chew up AAA bateries considering turning wrenches for hours. Just stockpile AAA batteries when you see them on sale. Use mine so much on additional projects thinking of having it surgically implanted on forehead.
Last edited by Tmichaelson; 08-29-2018 at 10:35 PM.
08-26-2018, 12:50 PM
Seeking Recommendations for Best "Drop Lights"
