The H-22 LED headlamp has three output modes: High, Med, Low and Red Blink. It is powered by 3 AAA cells placed in a special carrier. A fully adjustable elastic 3-point headstrap system supports the lighting unit on the user's head.

The body of the H-22 Headlamp is plastic with a silver finish. On its right is a click switch that allows the user to select one of 4 available output modes, and on its left is the screw cap for the battery compartment. On the back of the headlamp unit there are two magnets that allow the light to be attached to a metal surface. The light body is attached to the forehead plate with a ratcheting 90° adjustable hinge. The forehead plate has a foam pad on the inside which rests against the user's forehead. A three point adjustable elastic headband is attached to the forehead plate via slots in the plate. The attachment points have a gap in the center to allow easy removal of the straps.

The bezel/head of the light consists of 20 LEDs mounted inside a silvered plastic reflector. A plastic lens and rubber bezel ring help to protect the LEDs. Below the 20 main LEDs are two red LEDs on little stalks.

Output is in the form of a uniform wide spot of light. Some artifacts may be seen on the very periphery of the spillbeam. Overall it is a smooth wide directional flood of light. Very nice for walking around in the dark. Clicking the switch in series allows for selection of the various output levels. One click turns on the center 7 LEDs. The second click leaves on the center 7 and turns on the 6 on the right side side of the center 7. The next click turns on the all the LEDs. Last click turns off the white LEDs and turns on the red blinking LEDs. One more click turns it off. The beam is slightly bluish in color, which is not unusual for some white 5mm LEDs.

Beam at one meter at target center

Runtime Plot: Looks like a boost semi-regulator of some sort working in there... about 1 hr 45 min to 50% on high power - not bad at all!

Runtime completed with Duracell ProCell alkaline batteries. More information on runtime plots is available HERE.

The switch is a little rubber covered clickie on the right side of the light. It protrudes, so is susceptible to accidental activation. Remove the batteries from the unit when packing. The switch produces a soft click and provides gentle tactile feedback when activated.

This unit has rubber seals all over the place. I'd give it a "Splashable" without any doubts. Open it up and let it dry if it gets wet.

The headband was fairly comfortable. No real complaints in this area. The rubber pad on the forehead plate is partially recessed to prevent it from creating a pressure point which could become uncomfortable during extended usage. However, it is a little bit heavy on the forehead since the batteries and everything is at the very front. Try it out before going on any long hikes.

3 AAA alkaline cells, placed in the included carrier, power the light. Remove the left side of the light by twisting counterclockwise. Drop out the carrier (it only goes back in one way) and insert AAA cells into the carrier with the positive side toward the internal springs. Slide the carrier in contacts first and replace the endcap.

What I Liked: Bright, Variable output, Fits well, Water resistant.

What I Didn't Like: Uses a battery carrier - one more thing to lose.

Conclusions: Great output, and very easy to operate. An excellent little inexpensive headlamp for around the house, car, garage, etc. Several modes of operation available for high brightness or battery conservation at the user's choice. Personally I wish the red LEDs stayed on constantly so they could be used for very low light situations and preserving night vision, but you can't have everything!

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