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Nitecore

Nitecore HC65M helmet light review

Cree XM-L2 U2 LED
1000 lm output
3000 cd intensity
1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery

The Nitecore HC65M helmet light was released in 2019. It uses Cree XM-L2 U2 LED, SMO reflector and 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The powerful emitter in this helmet light provides up to 1000 lm output, 3000 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 110 m.

Curious if this Nitecore helmet light is great? Keep reading to find out!

Table of Contents

  • Nitecore HC65M specifications
    • Body, materials, weight, colors
    • System, LED, lens, reflector
    • Performance, flux, intensity, throw
    • Software, user interface, modes
    • Features, battery, protections
    • Links
  • Conclusion, pros and cons
  • Photos
  • Comparisons

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.

Nitecore HC65M / HC65M

This light has 5 modes of lighting. The HC65M mode memory eliminates the need to cycle through modes. It provides convenience and saves time. You can use the strobe function as a self-defense tool. The flashlight is rechargeable easily via USB port.

Nitecore HC65M specifications

BrandNitecore
NameHC65M
TypeHC65M
Rating
Rated 4 / 5 based on 1514 user votes.
Launch2019
Formhelmet light

Nitecore HC65M / 3

Body, materials, weight, colors

Weight88.5 g
Length82.7 mm
Head diameter18.3 mm
Dimensions82. 7x 50 x 46 mm
Materialaluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish
Colorsblack

The flashlight is lightweight and easy to handle for most people. A smaller flashlight is easier to carry in a pocket, bag, or pouch. The aluminium body of the HC65M has excellent thermal conductivity. The HAIII coating is uniform and attractive. The HC65M flashlight is available in black.

Nitecore HC65M / 2

System, LED, lens, reflector

EmitterCree XM-L2 U2 LED
Color temperature6500 K
ReflectorSMO
Lenstoughtened AR coated glass
Switchelectronic front

Cree is widely regarded as a reputable LED manufacturer. Warm, white light is generally more comfortable. The SMO's main job is to focus and project light from the source. The AR coating is thin and applied to the lens surface. The electronic switches may have a higher chance of standby drain.

Nitecore HC65M / 1

Performance, flux, intensity, throw

Flux1000 lm
Intensity3000 cd
Throw110 m
CD/LM factor3

With 1000 lm, the HC65M flashlight will offer a brighter and more powerful beam of light. The HC65M flashlight has 3000 cd, it provides a much brighter and more intense beam. 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.

Software, user interface, modes

Modes5 modes
Mode memoryyes
Ramping modeno
Strobeyes
SOS/Beaconyes

A flashlight's modes are different output settings or brightness levels. The flashlight has mode memory. It remembers the mode you were using when the light was last turned off. You can use Strobe for signaling purposes. It can also be used for self-defense or to attract attention in emergency situations. The SOS flashes Morse code so you can signal for help when needed.

Features, battery, protections

Battery1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery
Battery indicatorno
Charger portmicroUSB
LVPyes
Thermal regulationyes
ProtectionIPx8
AUX LEDsyes
Magneticno
SpecialsNVG mount
red light

The HC65M flashlight's power source is 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The built-in charger allows for convenient and versatile charging. This flashlight has built-in low voltage protection (LVP). It prevents damage from over-discharge. The built-in thermal control adjusts brightness output to prevent overheating. The "8" in the IPx8 rating means the highest level of protection. It has auxiliary LEDs which make it really nice looking.

Official sitehttps://flashlight.nitecore.com/

Conclusion, pros and cons

This Nitecore flashlight, like any other, has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's take a close look at both sides to understand this flashlight better. I share my thoughts on its standout features and the parts that might need improvement. Keep in mind, these are just my opinions, and you might have a different perspective.

Pros

  • lightweight
  • aluminium body
  • AR coated lens
  • adequate performance
  • multiple modes
  • mode memory
  • tactical strobe
  • SOS/beacon function
  • USB charger
  • low-voltage protection
  • thermal regulation
  • waterproof
  • auxiliary LEDs

Cons

  • cool light
  • low intensity
  • no battery indicator
  • non-magnetic

Photos

Nitecore HC65M / HC65M photo 1.
Nitecore HC65M / HC65M photo 2.
Nitecore HC65M / HC65M photo 3.
Nitecore HC65M / HC65M photo 4.
Nitecore HC65M / HC65M

Comparisons

According to our statistics, the Nitecore HC65M flashlight was most often compared on our site with the following flashlights.

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Updated: May 1, 2024

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.