r/Firefighting • u/Aggressive-Data-211 • 1d ago
Tools/Equipment/PPE Helmet mounted light recommendations?
I’m a volunteer on a department in the South East US. I’ve seen two different styles of helmet mounted flashlights: purpose built and multipurpose helmet mounted (small flashlight in a helmet mounted bracket). Does anyone have any recommendations on the type and where to purchase it.
I was looking on Amazon but wasn’t sure that was the best option. Streamlight seems to have a good inventory.
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u/slothbear13 Firefighter/Medic and Former CBRN 1d ago
Streamlight sells two different kinds. Neither is better than the other; you pick it based upon what kind of light beam you want. Make sure description says "intrinsically safe." Be sure to turn it off when you face people. Enjoy
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u/THATSjustFAPtastic DFM - the “fire” code is mightier than the sword 1d ago
https://giphy.com/gifs/7LAqMVFxOGPAc
Especially the blinding part…1
u/Rogue_Wraith 1d ago
I don't think I ever wore bunker gear in an environment where intrinsically safe was a concern.
There's a good chance other gear - like your radio - is already not intrinsically safe.
It's not like it really hurts anything...but, if you're bunkered up, there's a good chance that stuff is already on fire.
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u/slothbear13 Firefighter/Medic and Former CBRN 20h ago
I've used my helmet light around wrecked cars dumping out gasoline far more than I have in a fully involved fire but I see your point
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u/Rogue_Wraith 20h ago
Even then, the likelihood of ending up with an actual vapor level in the explosive range at head height in open air is so extremely low that it's not something I'd really consider when making a flashlight purchasing decision.
It's not like the car is intrinsically safe, anyway.
There's absolutely a time and place for intrinsically safe tools. I just wouldn't worry about it for a helmet mounted flashlight.
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u/barunrm FF/PM 1d ago
Streamlight makes a good product, but my personal take on helmet lights is that they blind others when you’re talking or looking at them and are a snag hazard on your helmet.
My personal preference and suggestion is an inverted survivor on the coat, and a box light at the hip.
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u/Beneficial_Jaguar_15 1d ago
A box light at the hip isn’t a snag hazard but a helmet light is 😂 moron
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u/barunrm FF/PM 20h ago
Ok bro. A box light comes with quick release, the helmet light is permanently affixed to your lid. Moron.
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u/Beneficial_Jaguar_15 16h ago
To each their own. My 100 gram vantage II is not a snag hazard. Your Indiana jones cross body kettlebell might knock someone unconscious if they weren’t already.
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u/Disgruntled_Wumpus 1d ago
Streamlight is a solid company. I have paid much more for worse flashlights. I would just get one of their little handheld ones, and the rubber helmet band from them. Brackets don’t always work on a specific helmet rim, and place the weight on the side of the helmet, which can make it ride lopsided and be more prone to hanging up on stuff. The helmet band keeps it much closer to the helmet’s center of balance, has fit multiple helmets I’ve used no problem, and often is a cheaper option. Had it for 4 years and in fires, no issues.
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u/FordExploreHer1977 1d ago
Streamlight Vantage 180 X. Can mount it above or below the brim. It’s removable to use as a handheld light. Can move the head to not blind others and point where you want it. The battery is rechargeable. 250lms bright. Lifetime warranty. Comes in any color you want as long as it’s black or orange.
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u/Dad_fire_outdoors 1d ago
I pop riveted a cheap headlamp onto my shield. Pulled off the band and used those holes for the pop rivets. Cost next to nothing, slap new batteries every once in a while. If it breaks, whatever. It is pretty protected because of the bill and shield. Never lost it.
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u/Ibanez314 1d ago
I've been using a Streamlight Vantage for about 10 years now. I mount it under the brim. It's never been a snag hazard in any fire nor rope/wire confined space obstacle.
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u/ReApEr01807 Career Fire/Medic 1d ago
MagLite XL50, because it's cheap and mine is solidly 10+ years old and fine. The lens is a little warped, but she still shines
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u/RedditBot90 1d ago
I have Streamlight Vantage that clips onto the brim. It’s small and fairly light, the CR123 batteries seem to last a long time, it’s easy to turn on with gloves. I’ve had it for nearly 10 years, been reliable. I think they make a smaller, lighter version now.
I like helmet lights, they put light where I’m looking. But I know some people don’t x
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u/18SmallDogsOnAHorse Do Your Job 1d ago
Streamlight is good, don't buy from Amazon as they're known for counterfeits. I'd recommend getting a Polytac 90x for your coat instead of adding something to your helmet, it will offer more control and will reduce entanglement potential.
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u/Jokerzrival 1d ago
I have a foxfury. I like it and it can easily be detached and used as a handheld light because it is a handheld in a holder.
As others have said. Helmet lights are fine but very use specific because otherwise they blind people
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u/Jokerzrival 1d ago
I have a foxfury. I like it and it can easily be detached and used as a handheld light because it is a handheld in a holder.
As others have said. Helmet lights are fine but very use specific because otherwise they blind people
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u/Firemnwtch 1d ago
I used the streamlight vantage for a while. I preferred the one on my jacket. All the helmet ones do is blind all your buddies.
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u/mbloom01 1d ago
Agree with most here, helmet lights just blind everyone else. I always just used a streamlight survivor on my coat, but only as needed.
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u/DonKeedick96 1d ago
So I’ve come full circle. Started with a streamlight mountable one, changed to a regular aa/14500 flashlight in the streamlight band, and just switched to an acebeam hs21 headlamp that I mounted to the bottom of my shield. I can flip it up to light up the room without blinding people which is nice. I used to have to cover it with my hand or shut it off before looking at someone. Now it’s just in the up position and I’ll tilt it down if I need to see far
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u/skank_hunt_4_2 Career FF/Chauffeur 21h ago
Please don’t use it during overhaul. I want to assault dudes who burn my retinas with helmet lights.
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u/gearheadmedic 18h ago
Nightstick XPP!
FAR superior to the streamlight! You can adjust it in any direction so you are not blinding everyone else. It secures better as well.
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u/localfirefighterbob water makes everything better 11h ago
After ruining a handful of them i never bought another helmet light again. Too expensive. A good stream light on your jacket and a strapped box light is what you need.
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u/iambatmanjoe 8h ago
Streamlight vantage 180x but I use a rechargeable battery and a quick release clip. $100 at the fire store
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u/Snoo_63184 1d ago
I’ve never had a need for one. Helmets are heavy enough. Just run a small one on your jacket. And maybe a box light.
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u/Little_Worth_3568 1d ago
Streamlight Vantage II is my go to! It’s compact but super bright. I like it because it’s not bulky and isn’t heavy at all! Runs off of a C-123 battery. Amazing light, I’ve been using mine for years!