Steven Johnson wrote:I don't know the author, but it appears to be a pretty reasonable list.
Thanks. I hope folks find it useful.
Oh and while I own an alarmingly vast collection of headlamps, these days I mainly use the Zebralight H600w and the Kavelight with XM-L modules that were custom programmed for me. I'm working on replacing the Kavelight's two CREE XM-L diodes with five or so Nichia 219 diodes for better color accuracy and a smoother spot beam.
If it's low budget you're looking for then the best LEDLenser H14 knockoff (I mention them on the list) costs less than $20 from eBay and can be found by searching for "zoom 1200 headlamp T6 cree" and looking for the blue strap - it doesn't have a T6 in it nor does it make 1200 lumens (less than 700 actually) but it is cave worthy if you keep it above water and are careful with the cord. Slow shipping from China. Make sure your backup lights are bombproof if you're using imported generic knockoffs though!
I also just posted a safety article about lithium batteries which I hope folks will look at if they are considering switching to 18650 cells, which is very worthwhile but does require a new set of safety knowledge. (
http://www.forums.caves.org/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=14755)