Short Description:

The Lightwave 3000 is made by Lightwave. The Lightwave 3000 is a standard-looking flashlight which utilizes seven white LEDs for its light source.

The Lightwave 3000 runs on 3 C batteries and has an advertised usable lifespan of 25 days. Per Lightwave, the usable lifespan of their lights goes to the point where a person could still read fine newspaper print at a light distance of 6". The device does not have a voltage step-up circuit, but uses dropping resistors to protect the LEDs from being excessively overdriven by fresh batteries.

The light is advertised as waterproof to 1', and was able to withstand a dunk test in a sink with no water getting into the case. The LEDs and circuitry are potted in place with a silicone based compound for water resistance.

The Lightwave 3000 seems quite durable and was able to withstand drop testing with no damage. This is partially the result of the ruberized armored sections added to the front, back and middle of the light.

The device is turned on and off with a rubberized click switch similar to a Maglight. The LEDs are recessed in the bezel for protection. The case opens by unscrewing the bezel. The bezel is sealed with an O-ring and a copious amount of silicone grease.

The device includes a nylon lanyard and lanyard attachment hole molded into the end of the light.

Reviewer's Impressions:

(Note: Comments for the 3000 and 4000 are identical. Both lights are essentially the same except that the 3000 uses C cells and 7 LEDs while the 4000 uses D cells and 10 LEDs. In my mind they are both very good lights and similar enough that the comments for one apply to the other.)

Of all my LED lights so far, if I had to recommend one to someone for everyday, regular duty use, it would be the Lightwave 3000 or 4000. I really like these lights.

The light put out is even, bright, and more than adequate for most tasks. The battery life is very good and the battery savings itself would make this light worth the extra cost for those who use task lights frequently. The only thing these lights lack in illumination is the ability to throw a beam a long distance. If you never need that ability, these lights are for you.

As with several of the other Lightwave lights, the lack of a voltage regulation IC is suprising. There seems to be plenty of room in the head of the light for a regulation circuit that would keep the light running at nearly the same brightness throughout the useful battery life. As-is, the light will dim significantly as the batteries are depleted.

+ + + Pluses: Long battery life, bright, watertight, tough

- - - Minuses: no voltage regulation for constant brightness