I am tough on flashlights. I frequently drop them and have lost them outside for months. I rely on them at least twice daily. I depend on flashlights both for regular chores and for checking on things outdoors in the middle of the night when my dogs indicate that there is something outside that shouldn't be. The two flashlight brands I depend on are Jobsmart and DieHard.
I have a small homestead and am fairly new to many homesteading activities; such as raising chickens. This past year and a half has been a learning experience. One thing I have noticed is that dependable lighting is a MUST and I was fortunate to choose two flashlights that have been more dependable and durable than I would have ever imagined.
JobSmart 350 Tactical
The JobSmart line of flashlights are available at Tractor Supply Stores. I purchased mine very soon after I moved to the homestead when I realized that my camping lanterns, lights, and headlights weren't quite bright enough. I'm not embarrassed to admit that I'm slightly afraid of the dark when walking around on my mountain ridge land after dark and want a very bright light. However, my budget doesn't allow for the highest lumens and big-name brands.
I chose the flashlight that was in the middle of the price range offered at Tractor Supply at the time. It happened to be the JobSmart 350 Tactical. It turned out to be a fantastic choice for me. It uses 3 AAA batteries and the batteries seem to have a long life. I only had to replace the batteries after losing it outside for months when it was turned on.
The JobSmart 350 Tactical is thinner in size than my DieHard and lighter weight. It has a twisting adjustable beam that focuses in a wide swath or a thin beam that is very bright and reaches the chicken coop from my house so I can check on things in the middle of the night without going outside.
Product Details from the website:
Light your way with the JobSmart 350 Lumen LED Aluminum Flashlight.
- Up to 350 lumen output
- High/low mode
- Twist to adjust focus lens
- Requires 3 AAA batteries (not included)
- Working time: 1.5 hr. in high mode; 4 hr. in low mode with alkaline battery
- CREE XPG LED bulb
- Aluminum and Rubber construction
DieHard 1700 Flashlight
- Ultra Bright 1,700 Lumen LED Flashlight
- Pro grade anodized aluminum construction & heavy-duty true grip design
- Precision flood-to-spot beam through twist focusing
- 3 power modes—high/medium/low
- Includes 6 AA DieHard batteries
I can see how important good dependable flashlights would be where you live, Dawn Rae. And really, everyone needs a good source of light for many occasions. My hubby purchased a Maglite after he saw the one our policeman son had, and I remember how effective it was. Thanks for the excellent information on the JobSmart and DieHard flashlights.
ReplyDeleteI have heard very good things about the Maglite brand also.
DeleteA great flashlight is essential, and it has nothing to do with being afraid of the dark. There are creepy and deadly things roaming around in the dark that have night vision (nocturnal animals by design). Certainly better to determine that you are only hearing a raccoon or owl moving around instead of a wolf. Even the bravest snake wrangler needs to see the creature that can easily see her. I have backup flashlights for my backup flashlights. We have them in every car and in every room of our home. Simply wise to be armed with equalizers
ReplyDeleteMs. Mouse, you made me smile. Yes, even a fake-it-til-you-make-it "brave" snake wrangler needs to see at night. haha. I totally agree with equalizers!
DeleteGood flashlights are an absolute must for any household! With so many to choose from, it can be hard to know which are the most reliable, have the most essential features for your needs and provide the best bang for your buck. I appreciate your time-tested recommendations.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Margaret!
ReplyDeleteExcellent recommendations. Thanks for the review.
ReplyDeleteI do believe these are the ones my husband hand - I remember giving one to my mom to keep by her bed incase power went out, or she had to quickly glad for a light source without reaching up to her lamp (which was difficult when her health was failing) - good items to have on hand
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