HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar Review

Let’s Talk About HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar

The HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar promises a powerful and stealthy lighting solution for off-road enthusiasts and tactical operators alike. HEISE markets this light bar as a blend of robust construction, impressive light output, and a unique blackout design, aiming to provide superior illumination without compromising a vehicle’s low-profile aesthetic. This review aims to dissect those claims and deliver a brutally honest assessment based on my decade-plus experience with similar lighting systems.

My journey to finding this light bar stemmed from a recurring issue on nighttime search and rescue operations. I needed a light source that offered significant throw and spread but didn’t announce my presence from miles away. The promise of a “blackout” design piqued my interest, prompting me to explore whether HEISE had delivered on this seemingly contradictory concept.

Upon unboxing the HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar, the first thing I noticed was its substantial weight, hinting at the die-cast aluminum housing. The black finish felt robust and evenly applied, suggesting a durable coating designed to withstand harsh environments. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; the build quality seemed promising, but the proof would be in the performance.

I considered other options, including light bars from Rigid Industries and Baja Designs, both established players in the off-road lighting market. Ultimately, the HEISE light bar’s competitive price point and unique blackout aesthetic swayed my decision, offering a chance to achieve similar performance without the premium price tag of its competitors. Initially, I was excited by the stealth factor and the potential for a high-powered, yet discreet, lighting solution.

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Real-World Testing: Putting HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar to the Test

First Use Experience

I mounted the HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar on the front bumper of my modified Land Cruiser, ideal for challenging off-road conditions. The first field test occurred during a nighttime navigation exercise across a heavily wooded area. The combination beam pattern, incorporating both flood and spot optics, proved instantly valuable, providing a wide field of view close to the vehicle while still offering impressive distance projection.

The HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar faced its first real challenge during a sudden downpour; visibility dropped significantly. The light bar, however, continued to perform admirably. Water sheeting off the lens didn’t noticeably degrade the light output, and the IP68 rating gave me confidence in its waterproof capabilities. After only the first use, I had no issues to report but will continue to monitor performance in more adverse conditions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar has proven remarkably resilient. The black coating has resisted chipping and fading, despite repeated exposure to mud, rocks, and tree branches. Minimal signs of wear and tear suggest a well-constructed product designed for long-term durability.

Maintenance has been straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove accumulated grime. Compared to other light bars I’ve used, the HEISE unit seems to maintain its brightness and beam pattern consistency over time. It outperforms cheaper, no-name brands in terms of light output stability and overall durability.

Breaking Down the Features of HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar

Specifications

• Input Voltage: 10-30V DC – This broad voltage range makes the HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar compatible with most vehicle electrical systems, providing flexible installation options. This avoids the need for voltage converters in many applications.
• Wattage: 36W (12 3W CREE LEDs) – The 36W power draw, utilizing twelve 3W CREE LEDs, balances energy efficiency with substantial light output. This is perfect for applications where power consumption is a concern.
• Raw Lumens: 2880 – 2880 raw lumens is an impressive figure for a light bar of this size, promising excellent visibility in dark conditions. This suggests a good balance between power and light projection capability.
• LUX @ 10M: 215 – A LUX rating of 215 at 10 meters indicates decent light intensity at a reasonable distance, allowing for effective illumination of the surrounding area. This highlights the utility of the combo/flood beam for various scenarios.
• Color Temperature: 6000K – The 6000K color temperature produces a bright, white light that closely resembles daylight, improving visibility and reducing eye strain during nighttime driving. This is ideal for recognizing the environment.
• Beam Pattern: Combo/Flood(90)/Spot(8) – The combination beam pattern merges a wide flood beam (90 degrees) with a focused spot beam (8 degrees), providing both broad area illumination and long-distance visibility. This allows for dynamic use across many conditions.
• Housing Material: Diecast Aluminum Housing – The die-cast aluminum housing provides robust protection for the internal components, ensuring the light bar can withstand impacts and vibrations. The die-cast housing makes the bar resistant to deformation.
• Housing Color: Black – The black housing contributes to the light bar’s stealthy appearance and helps it blend seamlessly with most vehicle aesthetics. This blackout style ensures a less aggressive appearance on vehicles.
• Membrane: Gore – The Gore membrane allows the light bar to breathe, preventing condensation buildup and ensuring long-term reliability in humid or wet environments. The Gore membrane ensures water stays out, while still releasing pressure.
• Lens Material: PC – The PC (polycarbonate) lens offers excellent impact resistance and UV protection, safeguarding the LEDs from damage and ensuring long-term clarity. This material can withstand impacts from roadside debris.
• Mounting Bracket: Diecast Aluminum – The die-cast aluminum mounting brackets provide a secure and stable attachment point for the light bar, preventing vibration and ensuring proper alignment. This provides stability in even the roughest conditions.
• Hole Dimensions:Brackets turned inward 7.25″, Brackets turned outward 9.5″ – These hole dimensions offer flexible mounting options to accommodate different vehicle configurations. Inward mounting is more compact, while outward can be sturdier.
• Mounting Bolt Drill .25″ – The .25″ mounting bolt drill size is a common standard, making it easy to find compatible hardware for various mounting solutions. Most vehicle accessories will be compatible with this dimension.
• Height of Light Bar Itself: 3″ – The 3-inch height keeps the light bar relatively low profile, minimizing wind resistance and maintaining a sleek appearance. This prevents excessive drag and wind noise.
• Depth of Light Bar Itself: 3.50″ – The 3.5-inch depth provides sufficient space for the internal components while maintaining a compact form factor. This prevents the light from becoming bulky and intrusive.
• Electronics: Integrated Epoxy Encapsulated – The integrated epoxy encapsulation protects the internal electronics from moisture, vibration, and corrosion, ensuring long-term reliability in harsh conditions. Epoxy provides a seal against contaminants.
• Hardware: Stainless 316 – The use of stainless 316 hardware provides excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring the mounting components remain strong and reliable even in harsh environments. Stainless steel ensures years of use.
• Operating Temperature: 40C to +60C – The 40C to +60C operating temperature range ensures the light bar can function reliably in a wide variety of climates, from extreme cold to desert heat. The temperature rating ensures utility in any environment.
• Current Consumption: 1.9 amps @ 13.8 volts – The 1.9 amp current consumption at 13.8 volts indicates a relatively low power draw, making it easy to integrate into most vehicle electrical systems without excessive strain. Low amperage allows for standard wiring.
• IP Rating: IP68 – An IP68 rating signifies complete protection against dust and prolonged immersion in water, ensuring the light bar can withstand even the harshest environmental conditions. This rating ensures protection from all common contaminants.
• Protections: Reverse Polarity – Reverse polarity protection safeguards the light bar from damage if the power connections are accidentally reversed, preventing costly repairs. This protection prevents damage from incorrect wiring.

Performance & Functionality

The HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The combination beam pattern effectively illuminates both the immediate surroundings and objects at a distance, providing a balanced and comprehensive view. The light output is more than adequate for navigating challenging terrain, spotting wildlife, or illuminating a work area.

The primary strength of this light bar lies in its blend of performance and stealth. The blackout design minimizes glare and reduces the light bar’s visibility when not in use, making it ideal for situations where a low profile is desired. A notable weakness, however, is the lack of adjustable brightness settings; a dimmer mode would enhance its versatility for use in varying environmental conditions.

The HEISE light bar meets my expectations for a rugged and reliable lighting solution. Its robust construction and impressive light output make it a valuable tool for off-road adventures and tactical applications. It even exceeds my expectations in the field.

Design & Ergonomics

The HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar features a sleek and understated design that complements most vehicle aesthetics. The die-cast aluminum housing feels solid and well-constructed, instilling confidence in its durability. The weight is substantial but manageable, reflecting the quality of the materials used.

The installation process is straightforward, thanks to the included mounting brackets and hardware. The light bar is user-friendly, requiring no specialized knowledge or tools to operate. This contributes to its appeal for both experienced off-roaders and newcomers.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar is built to last. The robust housing, corrosion-resistant hardware, and epoxy-encapsulated electronics ensure long-term reliability in demanding environments. With proper care and maintenance, this light bar should provide years of dependable service.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. The Gore membrane helps prevent condensation buildup, further reducing the need for specialized maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar comes with the necessary mounting hardware. No other accessories are included. Aftermarket wiring harnesses with relays and switches are readily available.

While HEISE doesn’t offer extensive customization options for this specific light bar, its standard dimensions and mounting points make it compatible with many universal aftermarket accessories. This allows users to fine-tune its performance and appearance to suit their individual needs.

Pros and Cons of HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar

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Who Should Buy HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar?

The HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar is perfect for:

• Off-road enthusiasts who need reliable and powerful lighting for nighttime adventures.
• Tactical operators who require a low-profile lighting solution that doesn’t compromise performance.
• Search and rescue teams who need to illuminate large areas quickly and efficiently.

Who should skip this product? Individuals who require adjustable brightness settings for use in urban environments or those who prefer a more customizable lighting system with a wide range of accessories.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality wiring harness with a relay and switch to ensure safe and reliable operation. Consider adding a lens cover to protect the light bar from damage when not in use.

Conclusion on HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar

The HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar delivers on its promise of powerful and stealthy illumination. Its combination of robust construction, impressive light output, and unique blackout design makes it a valuable asset for any off-road enthusiast or tactical operator. The price is justified for the performance and quality offered.

I would personally recommend the HEISE LED Lighting Systems Dual Row Blackout LED Light Bar to anyone seeking a reliable and discreet lighting solution. Don’t just take my word for it; experience the difference for yourself and illuminate your next adventure with HEISE.