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The first time I used a Butterfly, the bottom fell out of the base. I tried the reflector on another brand of lamp. When I scraped it against the ceiling, the reflector bent out of shape. Justrite reflectors, with much worse scrapes did not get bent. If you want a Butterfly, buy it and set it on a shelf. Do not put carbide in it or mount it on a helmet.

Well to update on my lamp, my dad and i messed around with it for about an hour last night. We soldered a spade on the back instead of the wire mount. Fired it up, and once we fixed the only leak it had and fit the tip in a little tighter, It worked like a charm. I would feel good about bringin it in a cave for now. I will definately get an autolite later and use this one as a back up, but ill update how it works on my first cave trip with in a couple weeks.

I took the lamp out for a spin last weekend, and loved it. I really didnt have any problems besides the striker not working because it got a little wet, and it went out twice when i whacked my head pretty hard. otherwise it was pretty decent. I did have to fool with it a little more than the other guys using cabide, but it was just getting the flame tuned in just right. Does anyone know where I could pick up some carbide locally near indianapolis? Everyone Ive talked to says they cant sell it to the public. I know there has to be somewhere to get it without payin the outrageous shipping costs.

Try a long established welding shop for carbide.

Heck, Western Auto used to sell it in Missouri.

I called alot the the welding supply places. They wouldnt sell me any, but maybe a small local shop will. It seems like everyone thinks Im goin to use it for something destructive or something, when all i want to do is take and use it while caving.