Fenix HL18R-T 500lm headlamp review: Pros and Cons

The Fenix HL18R-T headlamp released in 2021. It uses Cree XP-G3 S3 LED, 2 x Everlight 2835 white LEDs, SMO reflector and 1 x ARB-LP1300 Li-Ion battery pack. The powerful emitter in this headlamp provides up to 500 lm output, 1700 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 82 m.

Table of Contents

• Fenix HL18R-T specifications
  • Body, materials, weight, colors
  • System, LED, lens, reflector
  • Performance, flux, intensity, throw
  • Software, user interface, modes
  • Features, battery, protections
  • Accessories, package contents
• Conclusion, pros and cons
• Photos

The content of this article reflects our own experiences and viewpoints. We aim to offer insights on a topic, and we hope others find it helpful and motivating. Additionally, we make every effort to provide accurate and comprehensive coverage. If you found an error or something lacking in the specifications for the Fenix HL18R-T, then tell us.

The HL18R-T is useful when you need to use both hands. You need both hands in camping, hiking, or working in low-light. This light has 3 + 2 modes of lighting. The HL18R-T mode memory eliminates the need to cycle through modes. You don't have to do this each time you turn on the flashlight. It provides convenience and saves time. The USB charger port lets you charge this flashlight. You can use it with alternative power sources.

Fenix HL18R-T specifications

Headlamps have a light attached to a headband. This allows users to wear them without using their hands.

Body, materials, weight, colors

The flashlight weighs 63.2 g. It is lightweight and easy to handle for most people. A smaller flashlight is easier to carry in a pocket, bag, or pouch. This makes it more convenient for everyday use or when you're on the go. The HL18R-T flashlight is available in black.

System, LED, lens, reflector

Cree is widely regarded as a reputable LED manufacturer. Warm, white light is generally more comfortable. It's also less harsh on the eyes than cool, white light. The SMO's main job is to focus and project light from the source. It does this into a defined beam pattern. The electronic switches may have a higher chance of standby drain.

Performance, flux, intensity, throw

500 lm can provide a decent amount of brightness and be suitable for many everyday tasks. 1700 cd can make things quite bright. It's enough for many everyday tasks. The throw is the distance in meters at which the flashlight produces a light intensity of 0.25 lux. Candela per lumen (cd/lm) measures a flashlight's beam intensity. It compares this to its total luminous flux or output.

Software, user interface, modes

A flashlight's modes are different output settings or brightness levels. They can be chosen to meet different needs and preferences. The flashlight has mode memory. It remembers the mode you were using when the light was last turned off. It stays in that mode when you turn it on again. The SOS flashes Morse code so you can signal for help when needed.

Features, battery, protections

The HL18R-T flashlight's power source is 1 x ARB-LP1300 Li-Ion battery pack. It provides reliable, long-lasting energy for top performance. The battery indicator lets you know when the battery is low, charging, or fully charged. This flashlight can charge the battery with a built-in charger. It works with a USB power source. This flashlight has built-in low voltage protection (LVP). It prevents damage from over-discharge, so it doesn't need protected cells.

The thermal protection feature helps prevent overheating. Overheating can harm the flashlight's performance, battery, and safety. The "6" in the IP66 rating shows the level of protection. It's against solid objects, like dust and foreign particles. The IP66 rating indicates that the flashlight has a protection against water jets. The flashlight's impact resistance is its ability to withstand physical shocks. It can accomplish this without sustaining any damage.

Accessories, package contents

By including a battery with the flashlight, you avoid the extra expense. You would have to buy a battery separately.

According to the ANSI/NEMA FL1 Standard, we measure the performance of the HL18R-T flashlight 30 seconds after switching on the light. The ANSI/NEMA FL1 2009 Standard is a set of flashlight performance guidelines.

Photos

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by David Hagon

I love bushcraft and flashlights. I find joy in mastering wilderness survival skills and exploring the realm of illuminating gadgets. Bushcraft isn't just fun, it's a learning journey. I form a strong bond with nature. It's more than a hobby, it enriches me in practical and spiritual ways.