I have been quite satisfied ordering batteries and chargers from PSS Enterprises in Montreal.

I use the Maha 2100mAh 4-Pack AA IMEDION Ultra Low Discharge Batteries to power my flashlights, headlamps and GPS units. (PaulsFinest.com Link)

It is quite important to avoid the classic NiMH batteries as they show poor performance in cold temperatures and discharge extremely quickly while sitting in your pack waiting. “Low Discharge” or “LSD” NiMH batteries are a much better investment in my experience.

What headlamp and flashlights do you use? I noticed when we were in (…) that your lights were far superior to anything anyone else had.

So here are my current lights and some thoughts on where to go next.

Headlamps

I have two headlamps…

Petzl MYO RXP (Primary)

This is a programmable regulated version of the MYO XP. (I believe it is slightly brighter than the XP.) Although the “programmable” seems pretty useless at first, it allows you to program the lowest setting to be the first click–usually it is the last. Key feature: AA batteries.

Petzl Tikka (Secondary)

This is “secondary” as in I don’t even carry spare batteries (AAA) for it. It really only gets used if I’m needing a reading light while in command. It has a built-in red filter.

Flashlights

I also have two flashlights… both are very bright, the difference is mostly in the colour of the light.

Fenix TK20

This is a very cool looking light that has a very warm yellow light, which apparently is better for finding evidence. It is also very narrow beam, which allows it to throw light extremely far. 2 AA batteries.

EagleTac P10A2

This one has a wider beam and is the classic LED bright white colour.

What Next

Also, if you were going to replace them…is there better out there that you know of?

Petzl has one called ULTRA which is insanely bright but is probably way too expensive and uses a proprietary battery pack.

EagleTac has a new light, the P20A2. It is a touch brighter than the P10A2. According to the website, both the P10A2 and the P20A2 are available with a “Neutral White” LED. You might like that better.

You can usually find these on eBay or elsewhere on the ‘net.

For the next time I have extra money burning a hole in my pocket, I want to get a bigger searchlight, something like the Fenix TK40.

Update: see my other post for how to power these toys.