Handheld Lights & Lanterns

Handheld Lamps from ASMC – Made by Professionals for Professionals

Handheld lamps are an indispensable companion when camping or engaging in other outdoor activities. ASMC highlights what to consider when choosing a device.

Things to Consider

For handheld lamps, quality and reliability are crucial criteria, as a malfunction in the open can lead to unpleasant or even dangerous situations. These lights should generally be robust. If used primarily for camping or similar activities, the housing should be resistant to dirt, moisture, and splashes. Due to significantly better performance in brightness and duration, devices with LED technology are preferable to those with incandescent bulbs (if they are even still offered). The power source is a fundamental consideration. Rechargeable batteries are cost-effective and provide moderate operating time. With a 12V charging cable, such devices can often be charged via the car battery. Battery-operated lamps, on the other hand, offer independence from a charging station; a set of spare batteries ensures you are well-prepared for camping trips or excursions far from power sources.

Which Light is Suitable for Which Purpose?

Many models are available for different uses, so consider the primary purpose of the lamp before purchasing. The main categories are:

Camping Lamp:

These lamps usually have a hook for hanging from the tent ceiling or frame. They run on gas cartridges, batteries, or rechargeable batteries; a 12V DC charging cable is advantageous for recharging the lamp via the car battery. Camping lamps should generally have good brightness and long duration. Additional features like remote control or a hand crank for emergency power generation add operational security and convenience.

Work Lamp:

This type is characterized by extra high brightness, usually with high power LEDs, a robust, waterproof housing, and special mounting options. The lamp head is often adjustable up to 90 degrees to illuminate the work area directly.

Flashlight:

The classic light for hobbies, leisure, and work. Numerous models are available, differing in size and additional features. Unlike classic flashlights, a flashlight usually has a constant light function and colored LED lights for emergency signaling.

Expert Tip:

The Morse Code

Not only in audio or radio communication, having a Morse code table handy is beneficial. This simple conversion table for letters and words enables universal, partially language-independent communication, especially in emergencies. More information can be found on the respective Wikipedia page. (https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morsecode)

Questions: Handheld Lamps and Lights

What Power Sources Do Handheld or Work Lights Use?

Most are powered by petroleum or electricity, and some models use gas. There are no explicit pros or cons, but batteries can be used in multiple devices beyond the lamp, whereas petroleum is usually carried solely for the lamp. Additionally, electric lamps are emission-free but may produce a "colder" light compared to gas or petroleum lamps. For complete independence, there are dynamo lamps, which function like old bicycle dynamo lights: turning a crank generates electricity, powering the lamp or storing it in a battery. Some lamp models use a block battery, which replaces standard batteries and is either included or available separately.

What Types Are Available?

Whether it's an LED work light, a gas lamp, or a (rechargeable) spotlight, various models are compact, collapsible, and still stand-alone. Handheld lamps designed for extended use and standard flashlights with an additional, switchable lighting module are also available. Typically, standing lamps are intended for tents or camping but can also provide all-around light in caves.

What Does LED Stand For?

LED stands for Light Emitting Diode.