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Hunting Supplies Accessories

Best Headlamp for Hunting Reviewed [2024]: Safety & Security

Any big game hunter needs a consistent light source when they’re late following a deer track or dressing their game. A flashlight is an option, but not a very good one when compared to a headlamp because the latter is hands-free and gives you consistency of light wherever you look.

You need a good headlamp as part of your hunting gear because the quality of the device could make the difference between a clean, humane kill and a messed-up shot. Keeping that in mind, the RangerExpert team reviewed and prepared a list of the best headlamps for hunting with a detailed buying guide.

Just check out our reviewed units and find your best match without having to go through the trial-and-error sessions that we did long ago.

11 Best Headlamps for Hunting We Reviewed

1 Vont ‘Spark’ Flashlight Super Bright (Editor’s Choice)

Vont 'Spark' LED Headlamp Flashlight (2 PACK) Super Bright Head Lamp Gear

The Vont Spark Headlamp is on top of the game when it comes to ensuring optimum safety and security. It provides you the ultimate versatility with excellent illumination, especially when you’re on one of those hunting expeditions in the woods, in the river, in the forest, or at the lakes with your friends.

Using the cutting-edge XPG 3W LED technology that produces maximum brightness, the Spark Headlamp comes power-packed with 200-lumen LED lights. It can light up the entire area ahead of you, whether it be a road, a track, a pathway and even when you focus on an object 1,000 feet away.

Built with military-aircraft-grade materials, this monster of a Headlamp from Vont has passed stringent quality evaluations and certifications, earning it an IPX5 waterproof rating that makes it your most ideal headlamp to use for any type of hunting since it can withstand water splashes, being drenched in the rain, or being accidentally dropped in the lake or river.

As for comfort and convenience, this Vont product (the leading innovator in smart electronics) boasts of a 45° angle tilt that will allow you to have the light beam concentrated where you need it to without having to strain your neck. The Spark Headlamp also comes with a high-quality adjustable band that’s sturdy enough to stay fixed in your forehead but stretchy enough to feel comfortable even with prolonged use.

And with its one-touch button to switch between its various modes of low, medium, high, and strobe illumination, you’re sure to easily and quickly find the right one to use for whatever purpose you’ll use your headlamp for.

The Spark Headlamp is powered by 3 AAA batteries (not included in your order) and measures 2.25 x 1.37 x 1.68 inches. Practically extremely lightweight at 45.5 grams without batteries on, the Spark Headlamp works at its best in a maximum runtime of around 8 to 10 hours.

Pros

  • Ultra bright LEDs with 200 lumens
  • IPX5 water-resistant
  • Pressure-and drop-resistant
  • Compact and solid design but extremely lightweight
  • Extra comfy strap that’s adjustable with a sturdy stretch
  • One-touch toggle through low, medium, high, and strobe light modes
  • Quality guaranteed for a lifetime

Cons

  • Batteries not included in your order
  • Not rechargeable

Our Verdict

Hands down, this is the best headlamp for hunting that can provide you real value for your money. With a battery life that is unbeatable, up to 7 light modes, ergonomic design with 45 degree tilt, IPX5 Waterproofing and lifetime warranty this is the lamp that you will never go wrong with! We highly recommend this one from our end.

2 Cobiz Brightest High 6000 Lumen LED (Second Best)

Cobiz Brightest High 6000 Lumen LED Work Headlight

This Cobiz model is one of the world’s brightest headlamps for hunting. It features 3 powerful LED lamps that provide enough lumens to guide you through the darkest routes and corners.

It’s designed to produce four levels of brightness allowing you to choose the one that suits your environment. For example, the middle light turns on when on low mode while the two smaller lamps turn on for medium. All three bulbs light when switching to high mode while the strobe draws the attention of rescuers when you’re in an emergency.

Our team noticed that it comes with a 90° swivel ability which allows you to focus the beam on the ground with ease. Besides, it’s switches and wires are waterproof, allowing you to enjoy an optimal performance in situations of a sudden downpour. It comes with the popular 18650 rechargeable batteries which can charge via any DC power source within 7-8 hours.

There is an indicator light on the charger that shows green when it’s fully charged and red light when the battery is low.

This unit comes with adjustable overhead and round headbands. So, it’ll provide a better fit than our top pick considering its top strap. It weighs 13.6 ounces with dimensions of 7.1 x 4.6 x 1.1 inches, which is still within the standard; but it’s heavier and bigger than our number 1 pick. It is also not suitable for sea diving or long exposure to rainwater.

Pros

  • Excellent light focusing system
  • Descent charging system
  • Power indicator light
  • Reliable angle adjustment
  • Sufficient battery life
  • Powerful brightness
  • Good-quality build

Cons

  • Not ideal for sea diving

Our Verdict

This is a nice headlamp with three lighting modes that function under different combinations. It’s ideal for running due to its extreme stability on the head. Its battery life is great while you can monitor its charge and discharge rate with ease using the indication light. You can easily use this model for work and other personal purposes as well.

3 LE LED Headlamp Flashlight (The Budget King)

LE LED Headlamp Flashlight

If you’re looking for a cheap but comfortable head torch, then the LE LED headlamp might be the one for you. It comes with two elastic and easily adjustable headbands for a comfortable fit. Besides, you can remove the straps anytime for washing.

It’s powered by 3 AAA size batteries and can last up to 10 hours on red light only. Also, it’s waterproof IP rating is IP44, which means it can withstand water splashes; even though you shouldn’t immerse it in the water. Weighing 2.85 ounces, with measurements 5 x 3.4 x 2.8 inches, it’s lighter on the head than our top pick and runner up choice.

One of the most interesting things about this model is its multiple light modes and the ease of operation. The first three presses of the button ignite the three white light modes while the fourth is red and the fifth press will turn it off. Although some users were not satisfied with its output at 78 lumens, this didn’t bother us considering its low price.

Pros

  • Different lighting options
  • Battery life up to 10 hours
  • Suitable to wear on hats and helmets
  • Padded and adjustable straps
  • Extremely affordable
  • Long warranty period

Cons

  • Not very bright

Our Verdict

From our assessment, this is the cheapest headlamp on the market. It’s lightweight and easy to carry. It comes with a two-year warranty and a money-back guarantee, which is indicative of the brand’s commitment to quality. So, if you’re looking for an all around great product with amazing features without breaking the bank, you’ve got it here.

4 Kohree CREE 80000 LUX (Advance Choice)

Kohree CREE 80000 LUX

Our research team found a lot of good features that this top rated headlamp for hunting boasts of. It’s equipped with the latest Cree XPL LED to cast a super bright light beam up to 275 yards.

There’s also a 5-position band rotary switch that lets you choose between red, green, and white lights. You’ll get a flooding red or green light by rotating the switch anticlockwise while a clockwise rotation results in the normal spot white.

It features a rechargeable lithium battery that runs for over 12 hours on low beam and 6 hours on high beam mode. It comes with a home charger with green and red lights to indicate when the battery is charging and when it’s on full capacity.

Also, it has a robust design which allows you to mount on hats that makes it easy to wear or remove without spending time on strap adjustments. Also, it has a sealed and anodized aluminum build that’s resistant to both rust and water.

It costs a little below $100, that’s not a big deal considering its advanced features. Its tendency to come off the hat clip is a major reason for concern to many users, but you can replace the clip with ease.

Pros

  • Super bright light
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Emits white, red, and green colors
  • Durable battery
  • Anodized aluminum construction
  • Waterproof
  • 2-year warranty

Cons

  • Relatively expensive

Our Verdict

Strong, light, and durable, no doubt this is the best clip on hat light for hunting. It’s installed on the hat that gives you a comfortable feel and eliminates the need for frequent adjustments when wearing or removing. It offers the option for both red and green lights which is ideal for stealth operation and blood tracking. So, if you’re hunting coon, duck, deer (like elk), hog or coyote, this is a great choice for the money.

5 GRDE Headlamp 18650 (Top Rechargeable Headlamp)

GRDE Headlamp 18650

The GRDE Headlamp 18650 features two rechargeable 18650 Li-Ion batteries that last for seven hours on low mode. It comes with three battery charging options – USB, car, and wall. This means you won’t have to worry about charging the battery before setting out for an adventure.

It features an IP50 waterproof rating to ensure you’re having a good night hunting experience in any weather conditions. If you’re a new user, it’s advisable to remove the plastic cover from the battery. Also, don’t use the headlamp when being charged to enhance its longevity as well as your safety.

It generates 1800 lumens with 3 lighting modes that allow you to alternate with ease. The adjustable zoom function allows you to easily switch from spot to broad lights, making it easier to identify near and distant objects.

The angle adjustment allows you to point the beam upward or downward within 90°. It weighs 12.8 ounces which is almost the same weight as our runner-up choice.

It’s equipped with an ergonomically designed headband that fits comfortably on the head. From our observation, this light source won’t fit perfectly on many adult helmets but you can take out the straps to use it as waist or desk lamps.

Pros

  • Ability to zoom from spot to floodlight
  • Many charging options
  • Rechargeable batteries included
  • Multiple brightness levels
  • Very durable and reliable
  • Long-lasting battery

Cons

  • Difficulty when using on a hat or helmet

Our Verdict

This is another high output hunting headlight which you’ll not regret buying. You can enjoy the diverse charging options including USB cable, car and wall chargers that come at no extra cost. The battery is so reliable and it provides diverse lighting options for any situation. It’s one of the best rechargeable models on the market.

6 LED Headlamp Flashlight Shining Buddy (Kid’s Choice)

LED Headlamp Flashlight Shining Buddy

Since its creation in 2014, Shining Buddy is committed to flooding the industry with top-of-the-line flashlights and this model is patented for children. It features an ultra-bright led bulb with five settings for hiking and walking.

You’ll want your kid to wear something light and the manufacturers have that in mind. It weighs 2.6 ounces, which is lighter than some of the models on this list.

It’s made with high-quality materials, making it resistant to shock and unfavorable environments. With an IPX5 rating, it can hold up against minor water splashes. Still, it comes with 3 AAA batteries for easy and allows for quick application once it reaches your doorstep. It’s also available in different colors for you to choose from at an affordable rate.

Although a few users were not happy with the battery since it’s non-rechargeable, don’t worry, it has enough capacity to back you up for a whole day.

Pros

  • Reliable and affordable
  • Stays fixed on the head
  • Resistant to shock and weather
  • Quality build
  • Very bright
  • Long-lasting battery and bulb

Cons

  • Not rechargeable

Our Verdict

This is a convenient headlamp for both kids and adults. It’s bright and ideal for various outdoor tasks like hiking and camping. It works flawlessly and can withstand shock and heavy downpour. If you’re eager to present your child any type of hunting gear this season, this is what you need.

7 Foxelli USB Rechargeable Headlamp

Foxelli USB Rechargeable Headlamp

This is the same brand as our top pick with a little difference in their batteries. The Foxelli USB rechargeable headlamp features a 1200mAh Li-Ion battery that charges to full capacity in 4 hours. This battery can operate for 40 hours after a single charge; so, you’ll have little concerns about downtime and recharge.

Our team noticed that it shines brightly and strongly at 180 lumens over a distance of 200 yards. It comes with a variety of light modes including white and red lights. Also, you can adjust the light to a maximum angle of 45° depending on your activity.

Its durable build renders it useful for heavy rain, heat, cold, and other gruesome conditions. Besides, it’s rated IPX5, which means it can withstand water splashes from any angle. The 2.4 ounce weight makes it one of the lightest hunting headlamps out there. The headbands are easily adjustable with ergonomic designs that allow you to enjoy complete comfort when wearing.

Measuring 1.4 x 2.4 x 1.6 inches and weighing 2.4 ounces, it is one of the lightest and most portable on this list.

Pros

  • Super bright light
  • Long-lasting battery
  • Good waterproof rating
  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • USB rechargeable
  • Easily adjustable bands
  • Cold and impact resistance
  • Constructed from tough and high-quality materials

Cons

  • Need to have a backup battery at hand

Our Verdict

This is an excellent device for use by both professional and beginner hunters. It’s lightweight yet sturdy enough to withstand cold and occasional impacts. It produces 180 lumens, casting powerful beams over a large area. It’s LED bulb runs on a 1200mAh rechargeable li-ion battery that holds charge for over 35 hours after a single full charge.

It’s easy adjustability makes it the perfect fit for diverse tasks, including hunting, running, hiking, and fishing.

8 Vont Super Bright IPX6 Waterproof LED

Vont Super Bright IPX6 Waterproof LED

The Vont Super Bright LED is made of military-grade high-end materials with advanced engineering for attaining bright beams which is adjustable. The battery housing features a seal protection that keeps the inside from dust, water, and fog. The strobe mode of this advanced level lamp promises life-saving blinkers when under a hazardous situation.

Talking about hazardous signals, it also offers red beams for covering miles of distance as the red light wave travels longer distances than all other visible light waves.

Vont LED is almost 10 times brighter than any other similar category headlamps and packs 3 AAA type batteries strong enough to last for several days, which makes it one of the best LED headlamps for hunting. Aircraft-grade materials make this lamp so hard that you can drop it from up to 10 feet above on a hard surface without damaging it.

We found this unit amazingly lightweight weighing only 1.5 ounces only. The strap that comes with it is stretchable and highly adjustable. So, it will fit both adults and kids alike.

Another attractive feature is the IPX6 rated waterproofing capacity. You can do your scuba diving sessions without any worry.

Vont lamps are used by professionals from the military, police and every other law enforcing agency. We liked the fact that the manufacturer offers a money-back guarantee for one long year. They claim that this thing will not stop working or break within that period of time if not subjected to deliberate actions.

Pros

  • Super bright beam
  • Strobe mode
  • Adjustable brightness
  • Red light signal
  • Military-grade material
  • Weather-resistant
  • Battery saving

Cons

  • It is difficult to remove the battery cover

Our Verdict

This is an amazing option for hunters and adventurers for it has some useful safety features e.g. strobe mode, red light signal, and weather-resistant design. It can create enough illumination for hunting and adventures. So, if you have the budget, grab it before stocks run out.

9 Foxelli Headlamp Flashlight – 165 Lumen

Foxelli Headlamp Flashlight – 165 Lumen

During our testing, we saw that the Foxelli Headlamp fared better than every other product we had. First, it’s built to last with an IPX5 rating, which implies it’s protected against water splashes and can still perform in the rain.

This product offers the best comfort on the head, thanks to its adjustable and elastic headband that stays fixed on despite the strain. This unique item comes with many illumination options too. So, you can select between white and red light modes or SOS and strobe anytime.

Also, it can be tilted within an angle of 45° to concentrate the beam on a given area without bending your head. It uses the CREE – 3W LED technology to emit a maximum brightness level of 160 lumens while taking low power to improve battery life.

It’s powered by 3 AAA batteries which will deliver a maximum runtime of 45 hours irrespective of the light mode you’re using. It measures 1.6 x 2 x 1.6 inches and weighs 3.2 ounces, which is within the ideal weight range.

You’ll appreciate the built-in timer function that turns off the unit at a single press of the switch when the light has been on for 5 seconds. This model comes with everything you’ll need to have a fulfilling backcountry hunting adventure. This multi color outdoor gear comes at a reasonable price point.

Yet, it doesn’t come with a locking feature, requiring you to meddle with the adjustments every time. Also, the light slightly spills into the eye which could be uncomfortable.

Pros

  • Several settings
  • Good waterproof rating
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to use
  • Good battery life
  • Limited lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Lack of clip to maintain the best adjustment position

Our Verdict

This is the best headlamp for hunters that want a classy and high-performance vision aid. It has everything you’ll need in a headlight considering its ratings. If your priority in a headlamp includes ease of use, brightness, and battery life, this is the ideal option.

10 Black Diamond Storm (Aluminum)

Black Diamond Storm Headlamp

Our findings show that the Storm headlamp is useful for carrying out repairs and hunting in the dark. This model is an update of the old black diamond series with multiple lighting settings. It has a double power LED that emits 350 lumens casting a beam covering the distance of 85 yards.

This product runs on 3 AAA batteries and emits red, blue, white, and green lights depending on the situation. Also, you can activate any of the 8 lighting modes by pressing the switch button in quick succession. It measures 7.09 x 4.72 x 4.72 inches and weighs 3.2 ounces that makes it a little smaller than all the models on this list.

The PowerTap technology allows you to switch between full power and dim modes with a single press of the button without going through the cycle. What’s more, it features a memory mode that retains the previous brightness setting once it’s on so you don’t have to reset yourself.

It comes with a lock mode that prevents you from making any accidental activation of the switch. It’s IP67 rated, making it dust-and water-proof. Still, it can withstand water immersion of 1meters for 30 minutes making it ideal for use in both rain and snow weather conditions. Although some users complained about the weight on eStores like Amazon, its battery performance is simply extraordinary.

Pros

  • Durable and reliable
  • Padded headband for enhanced comfort
  • Long running time
  • Powerful cone of light
  • PowerTap technology for simplified operation
  • Multiple lighting settings

Cons

  • Feels bulky and heavy

Our Verdict

The Black Diamond Storm Headlamp is the product to buy when you’re wishing for performance overweight. The solid build allows you to operate in a challenging environment. So, if you care about switch controls, search no more.

11 VITCHELO V800 Headlamp

VITCHELO V800 Headlamp

This is one of the most powerful headlamps for hunting capable of producing 168 lumens light that can cover a distance of 110 meters. Measuring at 2.4 x 1.9 x 1.5 inches and weighing 2.08 ounces, it’s compact and light enough for easy carrying.

It comes with a soft pad placed between the battery compartment and your forehead, which protects you from getting a mark on the forehead after wearing it for some hours. Also, it features 4 adjustment levels that allow you to easily tilt the beam’s focus from horizontal to 45° downward. With this, you can see the road surface clearly without having to bend your head.

The headband which is made of a soft and elastic material with buckles for adjustments for use with different head sizes and shapes. With this, you’re guaranteed of a unit that’s secure to your head even when you’re running. We discovered that it has an IPX6 rating, which means it’ll survive rain and cold conditions but not suitable for any underwater activity.

As with other headlights, this one is powered by 3 AAA batteries and because it uses the latest CREE LED technology, it can run for 120 hours on low settings, which indicates its extremely low power consumption. It comes with two separate buttons for white and red lights to help you access the color you need with ease. You can choose any of the 4 levels of white light, red or SOS modes.

Interestingly, this hunting flashlight is covered by a lifetime limited warranty which is a guarantee of the great craftsmanship and innovation used for its production.

Pros

  • Powerful and reliable
  • Lifetime limited warranty
  • Lightweight
  • Good battery life
  • Excellent build and craftsmanship
  • Many lighting settings
  • Dual switch buttons

Cons

  • Not ideal for underwater duties

Our Verdict

The battery on this item is one of the best you’ll find today. It offers superb protection against water splashes. You’ll want to buy it for the ease of switching between white and red lights using separate buttons.

Best Hunting Headlamps – Buying Guide

Hunting headlamp buying guide

1. Beam type

Each type of beam has its purpose and which can affect both the target and the hunter’s vision. Here are a few beam types to look out for.

  • Diffuse light – A little dispersed, covering a wider area than the focused beam. It allows you to see everything within your range of sight.
  • Focused beam – It covers more distance than the diffuse light. And is great for spotting a distant object. It’ll focus the full shining power of the LED bulb on a given area.
  • Red light – It allows you to check objects at night and in the dark without discomfiting your eyes.
  • Blue light – This light type is great for map reading since it allows you to see the slightest detail with clarity. You can quickly flip between blue and white light modes without adjusting your night vision.
  • Violet spectrum – Blood tracking becomes easier when using light within the violet spectrum. Ideally, blood trails glow and become easier to see in the night when a violent light strikes it.

2. Beam Distance

You need the best headlamp for hunting not only to ensure that you have a good view of the path ahead but to make this hunting season a successful one. This keeps you at a position of advantage against any possible attack.

3. Water Resistance

There is nowhere you’ll go out to hunt without exposing yourself to unfavorable weather conditions which include rain or snow. Although you may not find a model with 100% waterproof rating, it’s important to avoid buying one with a poor water-resistant value.

4. Power Source

These devices are powered by disposable or rechargeable batteries. Hunters usually prefer rechargeable batteries because of their relative lightness and low maintenance cost.

Yet, most rechargeable batteries don’t indicate when the battery is getting low and might suddenly go dim, leaving you stranded in the night. Always consider a backup power source to avoid any unexpected failure.

Also, try to check the battery capacity since you wouldn’t wish to experience a sudden downtime in the woods.

5. Light Output & Brightness

Your preferred choice should be bright enough to help you easily navigate your way and spot even the tiniest targets. You can take a good look at the lamp’s lumen to measure its quality. Usually, the top-notch models come with high-quality glass and reflectors for a perfect beam.

6. Operational Mode

These units feature high, medium, and low modes which you’ll easily switch depending on your situation. Most of them feature red and green light modes which help to enhance your night vision when on blood trail or reading.

Besides, the rate of power consumption depends on the operational mode, so, use the high mode only on an occasional basis to limit its energy drain.

7. Battery Life

Looking at how it feels if the light goes down at the top of your game is enough reason to buy a headlight or a flashlight with a long-lasting battery. Also, you’ll hunt with confidence since you’ll already know how long it’ll take before the next recharge.

8. Headlamp Size & Weight

We recommend you to buy headlamps weighing around 7 ounces or less even with the battery. Besides, you may not want a heavy hunting gear since it’ll likely cause neck pains or discomfort. However, the larger the model, the greater the weight and the battery.

9. Adjustability & Comfort

Best hunting headlamps come with adjustable straps to give you a perfect fit. Also, the straps have pads and cushions to prevent any discomfort when wearing for hours.

10. Ease of Use

Operating your headlight should be straight and easy irrespective of the number of modes, since you’ll be uncomfortable with models needing you to cycle through the lights before switching on or off.

The ergonomics should be great with soft and responsive switches. Also, it should allow you to operate the buttons with both hands.

11. Brand & Warranty

While many manufacturers adhere to the industry standards and regulations, some don’t. If you do your research, you’ll have some idea about which brands are reliable so you can find the best headlight for hunting easily.

Also, the number of years of warranty on a product is indicative of the manufacturer’s commitment to excellence. You’ll have more confidence when using devices with a long warranty period.

FAQs

1. Can deer detect green light?

Ans. Study found that deer can see blue the best while red being the worst. They can also detect yellow, green, and UV lights. But they are not so good like humans when it’s about detecting color shades.

2. How many lumens should my hunting headlamp have?

Ans. Consider a headlamp between the 300 to 400 lumen range because that’ll be enough for most hunting situations. 100-200 lumens should suffice for close-range tasks like tracking or field-dressing. Look for the adjustable light output feature to make the batteries last longer.

3. What type of bulbs or LEDs are suitable for hunting headlamps?

Ans. LED (Light Emitting Diode) bulbs are the most common and preferred choice for hunting headlamps because they have a good balance of brightness, energy efficiency, and durability. They also tend to have longer battery life compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.

4. Should I choose a headlamp with a red LED or a green LED option?

Ans. Headlamps with red or green LED options are popular for hunting because these colors don’t spook game animals as much as white light. Red light helps preserve night vision while green light is suitable for navigating in low-light conditions.

5. What’s the weight range of hunting headlamps?

Ans. Here’s a general weight range you can expect although it varies depending on the design, features, and battery types.

a) Lightweight headlamps: Weighing between 2 to 4 ounces, they provide maximum comfort and are suitable for shorter hunts or those who prefer a lighter load.

b) Mid-range headlamps: They fall in the weight range of 4 to 8 ounces with a balance between weight and additional features such as adjustable brightness settings, longer battery life, or water-resistant build.

c) Heavy-duty headlamps: These headlamps can range from 8 to 12 ounces or more. They often incorporate robust construction, higher lumen outputs, and extended battery life for more demanding hunting situations or professional use.

About the author

Marc Niad

It’s been several years that Marc, a retired teacher and a proud dad, has silently been piling up mature bucks down the South. This humble hunter began his hunting journey at quite an early age and since then, he spent countless hours in the woods and learned good lessons in terms of woodsmanship. Along the way, he also made money sharing his skill with his followers and well-wishers.

The Ranger Expert is the brainchild of this veteran hunter who loves hunting the swamps and the hills around the Mississippi and Homochitto rivers. His most favorite hunting technique is taking his climbing gear and going to the top of pines with a 25.06 – the old-fashioned way!

He gets most of his games during late December through mid-January – his favorite hunting time. Marc strongly believes that hard work, passion, and a bit of luck can bring you success in the wild.

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