PETZL ACTIK CORE Headlamp - Powerful, Rechargeable 600 Lumen Light with Red Lighting for Hiking, Climbing, and Camping - Grey

I use this on my bike helmet. the medium brightness level is plenty (100 lumins?) and the batteries last way longer, but I can use the lower level if I'm off the bike, and I have brighter to go if I need it. on bikes I recommend two lights: one on your head to Iluminate where you look, and one on the handlebars to illuminate in front of where you're steering.Batteries: Bonus feature: the battery packs for these are removable and rechargeable via USB Micro and are the same form factor as three AAA batteries, so in an emergency you can pick up a pack of standard AAA batteries at a store along your route to get you home. the "Core" battery packs are pricey though, and often sold out where I buy them locally. I typically keep at least 3 in rotation, which I number with sharpie when new. I use them sequentially to ensure I use them equally. by having three to rotate through, when I deplete #1, I replace it with #2, put #1 to charge when I get home, then I still have #3 to replace #2 with while #1 is charging.Battery longevity: I forget how long the medium setting is supposed to last because I mostly only use them an hour at a time and just swap to the next spare when they run out. I think it was something like 8-10 hours, so that's like a week of winter commutes an hour each and like two weeks of summer commutes. You know when they start to wear out because you no longer get the longevity.The style of the headband on these newer models actually unclips at one of the size adjusters, allowing me to thread the band through the ventilation holes of my helmet and re-clip it. the older versions I had to cut the band off and buy hook & loop straps for this, which meant then I couldn't use it off the helmet afterwards.

I purchased this lamp in April 2023 and today I clicked on this because I was curious about the current price. Seeing that I never did a review, I thought that after having owned it and used it daily for 2 years, my review might be useful for others. I have been very pleased with the quality and ease of use of this lamp. I use it around the house when I need more light or at night taking out the trash, etc. In all this time, I only had one issue. One of the two headband clips broke. I contacted Petzl who sent me a new one free of charge when I offered to purchase one. FYI, the 600 lumen setting is VERY BRIGHT, you don't need 10,000 lumens and all that nonsense. Its a great lamp, I highly recommend it. I won't say I'm going to buy another one because I believe the one I have will last years to come. If I could give 10 stars I would.If you buy one, read the instructions and take the time to learn how to use the buttons. Its a bit confusing at first, like learning how to use the iphone but once you've got the hang of it, its easy!

Blindingly bright on the highest setting. I love this so much, I bought another one for my wife for night bicycle riding. Fits well on the petzl Bike adapter II. I started using petzl headlamps while in the infantry deployed to Afghanistan, and I’ve never had a petzl fail on me. Battery life is superb, and the rechargeable core batteries stand the test of time.

The PETZL Actik Core is a front lamp that has garnered attention for its innovative design and practicality. As someone who enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and camping, I was excited to test this rechargeable lamp. Overall, while it offers solid performance and impressive features, I can't help but feel slightly underwhelmed by its price point.Pros:Rechargeable Convenience: One of the Actik Core's standout features is its rechargeable battery. The convenience of not having to stock up on disposable batteries is huge, especially for those who frequently venture outdoors. The battery life is commendable, providing ample illumination for most adventures, whether you're navigating a trail at night or setting up camp after the sun goes down.Brightness and Versatility: With a maximum output of 600 lumens, the lamp delivers powerful brightness, making it suitable for a wide range of activities. Whether you are hiking, cycling, or just need a reliable source of light around the campsite, this front lamp has you covered. Additionally, the ability to adjust the beam between flood and spot modes allows for versatility, catering to different situations.Comfortable Fit: The design of the Actik Core is ergonomic, with a lightweight construction that makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods. The adjustable strap is also a plus, ensuring a secure fit during vigorous activities.Durability: Built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, the lamp is water-resistant (IPX4 rated) and designed to endure a variety of weather conditions. This durability adds to my confidence when using it in unpredictable environments.Cons:Price Point: While the Actik Core excels in many areas, I do find it on the pricier side compared to other front lamps in the market. The cost is justified to an extent due to its features and performance, but consumers on a tight budget may find it hard to rationalize the investment.Limited Accessories: Although the lamp is exceptional in its core functionality, it lacks some accessory options that could enhance its versatility. For example, a more robust mounting system for bikes or a more comprehensive carrying case would be welcome additions.Battery Life Under High Output: While the battery life is decent, running it at the maximum brightness setting can drain it quicker than expected. If you plan on using it for extended nighttime activities, you'll need to manage your power settings accordingly.Conclusion: In summary, the PETZL Actik Core Rechargeable Front Lamp is a reliable companion for outdoor enthusiasts who need a dependable light source. Its convenience, brightness, and comfort make it a strong choice when you're navigating the great outdoors. However, its higher price tag may deter some potential buyers, especially those who may not require all of its features. If you're willing to invest in quality and performance, the Actik Core could be a worthy addition to your gear collection; just be prepared to spend a little more than you might for similar products. Overall, it's a good lamp—just not for everyone's budget.

I love the different light settings. I use it primarily for work, and it's great when I need light in confined areas where traditional lighting doesn't reach. This lamp fixes that problem and does so superbly.

This is my second petzl purchase. Upgraded from ticca core. Amazing battery life, more than enough luminosity for night hiking or astrophotography. The red led feature really helps if you are taking photos at night.