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Detailed
Description :
The Ion body, made entirely of plastic, opens in a
clamshell fashion once removed from the pivot plate
that rests against the user's forehead. There is a gap
at the rear corner of the case to facilitate prying
it open. Opening the body requires no tools and can
be accomplished solely with the fingernails. There appears
to be no rubber seals of any kind between the two halves
of the case. The instructions clearly warn against submerging
the headlamp.
The body can be removed from the pivot plate and used
as a handheld flashlight if need be.
The headband is a strip of elastic that has a "cord
keeper" style spring clip attached. By pinching
and sliding the keeper, you can adjust the length of
the elastic band to tighten or loosen the fit of the
headlamp. This leaves a "tail" of elastic
hanging behind your head.
The Ion uses two white 5mm LEDs for light. They protrude
slightly from the front of the headlamp and provide
a wide beam of light for close work such as camp chores.
The beam has some blotches that are common with the
newer, slightly higher output white LEDs on the market.
As is to be expected, the LEDs also produce white light
with a slightly bluish tint.
The switch is located underneath the headlamp and is
activated by holding the headlamp between the fingers
and thumb and clicking the switch with the thumb. There
is only one setting - there are no dimming features
or regulation in the headlamp. The switch requires a
significant press to activate and it is somewhat recessed
which should prevent accidental activation in a backpack.
The Ion takes a 6V Silver Oxide battery (included)
which is available from Black Diamond and their retailers.
It can also use a number of similar 6V batteries from
different manufactures as listed in the package.
What I Liked: Extremely lightweight. Easy to
adjust headband. Comfortable. Battery is easy to change
despite having to open entire case.
What I Didn't Like: Expensive little
battery that is liable to be very hard to find if you
are "out and about". Manufacturer claims it
is "highly water resistant" but the complete
lack of seals and obvious gaps around the LEDs makes
me question this claim.
Other Things I Noticed: Beam is
a little blotchy, but not too bad.
Conclusions: A good backup headlamp
to throw in your pack. I wouldn't rely on it for long
excursions as a primary headlamp.
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