Herpetology Lamp Combo
Herpetology, a discipline that has taken me to the depths of the Ecuadorian Amazon and the tropical forests of Asia and Africa, requires reliable and high-performance field equipment. During my expeditions – including the “Scales of the Forest” adventure and my missions in Asia (Philippines, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand) – I tested numerous lighting devices. The combination that proved essential is the Nitecore HC65 headlamp and the Nitecore P20ix UV tactical flashlight, which I also use in my role as a consultant for adventure and survival television shows.
Nitecore HC65: A robust and versatile headlamp
The Nitecore HC65 is a high-power headlamp capable of emitting up to 1000 lumens. This level of brightness is crucial for precise observations in the dark, allowing broad and even illumination, even in dense and challenging environments. Constructed from aerospace-grade aluminum alloy, the HC65 is shock-resistant up to 1 meter and waterproof according to the IPX8 standard, enabling immersion up to 2 meters.
During the “Scales of the Forest” expedition, the HC65 demonstrated its durability in extreme weather conditions, including persistent tropical rain and high humidity. This headlamp also offers various lighting modes, including a red light mode that allows discreet observation of nocturnal animals without disturbing them. Its impressive battery life, lasting up to 800 hours in eco mode, makes it an essential tool for long field sessions.
Nitecore P20ix UV Tacti
cal Flashlight: A tool for complex situations
The Nitecore P20ix is a compact and multifunctional tactical flashlight that excels with its UV feature, an essential asset for detecting reptile and amphibian species that react to ultraviolet light. With a maximum output of 4000 lumens, it provides a long-range beam ideal for exploring distant areas. Its IP68 certification ensures optimal waterproofing up to 2 meters of immersion and resistance to drops of up to 2 meters.
During my expeditions in Asia, the P20ix proved invaluable for nocturnal research in tropical forests, making it easier to detect species invisible to the naked eye. Its ability to switch between standard and UV light, with an effective UV output of 320 mW, improved the efficiency of observations. Additionally, its robustness and extended battery life, thanks to its lithium-ion battery, make it a reliable tool for both fieldwork and media consulting assignments.
Indispensable field companions
Beyond expeditions, these lamps are part of my daily work as a herpetologist and consultant for television programs. Their proven durability and reliability in the harshest conditions make them indispensable. With prices around €145 for the HC65 and €110 for the P20ix, they are a solid investment for those needing high-performance, durable equipment.
The Nitecore HC65 and P20ix are not just lighting tools. They are field allies that ensure optimal safety and observation quality, whether in academic research or outreach and science communication missions.
More informations on: