Let’s Talk About Lightforce Performance Lighting 20 in Single LED Bars
For over a decade, I’ve been immersed in the world of outdoor and tactical gear. I’ve seen trends come and go, and I’ve tested countless products promising unparalleled performance. But sometimes, a product comes along that genuinely catches my attention and the Lightforce Performance Lighting 20 in Single LED Bars is one of those.
I was searching for a reliable and robust lighting solution for my overland vehicle build. The stock headlights weren’t cutting it during nighttime off-road adventures and I needed something that could withstand the rigors of the trail.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the robust construction. The extruded aluminum body felt incredibly solid, and the black anodized coating gave it a sleek, tactical look. It felt like a serious piece of equipment. Compared to cheaper LED bars I’ve handled, the Lightforce offering felt significantly more substantial and better built. I ultimately chose the Lightforce Performance Lighting 20 in Single LED Bars over brands like Rigid Industries and Baja Designs because of Lightforce’s long-standing reputation for quality and their lifetime satisfaction guarantee.
My initial impression was excitement. I was excited to see how it would perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lightforce Performance Lighting 20 in Single LED Bars to the Test
First Use Experience
I mounted the Lightforce Performance Lighting 20 in Single LED Bars on the front bumper of my overland vehicle and took it out for a night run in the Mojave Desert. The terrain was a mix of sandy washes, rocky trails, and wide-open plains.
The Lightforce bar performed exceptionally well in all conditions. Even in dusty conditions, the beam remained clear and didn’t create excessive glare. Ease of use was excellent: the included wiring harness made the installation process straightforward, and the switch was intuitive to operate, even with gloves on. I didn’t experience any immediate issues, but I was especially impressed with the beam distance, which significantly improved visibility compared to my factory high beams.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of regular use, the Lightforce Performance Lighting 20 in Single LED Bars have proven to be incredibly reliable. They’ve endured scorching desert heat, freezing mountain temperatures, and torrential rain without any issues.
There are no signs of wear and tear beyond some minor scratches on the lens from brush and debris. The housing remains solid, and there’s no evidence of moisture ingress. Maintenance is minimal: I occasionally wipe down the lens with a microfiber cloth to remove dust and dirt. It significantly outperforms cheaper LED bars I’ve used in the past, which often suffer from flickering LEDs, moisture buildup, and premature failure.
Breaking Down the Features of Lightforce Performance Lighting 20 in Single LED Bars
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Lightforce Performance Lighting.
- Bulb Type: LED.
- Length: 20 inches (508 mm).
- Color: Black.
- Depth/Thickness: 508 mm (stated as length, likely a typo in provided details).
- Extruded Aluminum Body with Black Anodized Coating: This provides exceptional strength and corrosion resistance.
- IP69K Rated: This is essential for off-road use, guaranteeing protection against high-pressure water and dust ingress.
- Hard Coated, Scratch and High Impact Resistant Polycarbonate Lens: This protects the LEDs from damage in harsh environments.
- Genuine Gore Waterproof Membrane with Mechanical Seal: This prevents moisture buildup inside the housing, ensuring consistent performance.
- Operating Voltage Range of 10 ~ 36 Volts: This makes it compatible with a wide range of vehicles.
- 5000k Color Temperature: This provides optimal color spectrum of light to maximize depth perception and reduce eye fatigue over time.
These specifications are vital because they translate to real-world durability and performance. The IP69K rating and robust construction mean I don’t have to worry about damaging the light during demanding off-road expeditions. The 5000k color temperature is comfortable for extended nighttime driving, reducing eye strain.
Performance & Functionality
The Lightforce Performance Lighting 20 in Single LED Bars excels at its primary function: providing bright, focused light. The beam pattern is well-optimized for both distance and width, illuminating the road ahead without excessive glare.
Its strengths include its exceptional brightness, robust construction, and reliable performance in harsh conditions. A minor weakness is that the single-row design might not provide as wide of a beam as a dual-row bar, but the throw distance more than makes up for it. The Lightforce bar meets and exceeds my expectations for off-road lighting.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional. The materials feel premium, and the construction is solid.
The weight is reasonable for its size and doesn’t feel overly bulky or cumbersome. There is a slight learning curve associated with aiming the light correctly during installation to get optimal beam placement.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, the Lightforce Performance Lighting 20 in Single LED Bars is built to last. The robust construction and high-quality materials suggest a long lifespan.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning. The fact that Lightforce offers a lifetime satisfaction guarantee speaks volumes about their confidence in the product’s longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lightforce Performance Lighting 20 in Single LED Bars comes with stainless steel brackets, mounting hardware, and a comprehensive wiring harness including a relay and switch connector. This provides everything you need for a straightforward installation.
While there aren’t many customization options specific to this bar, it is compatible with standard aftermarket mounts and wiring accessories. Users could easily upgrade the switch or add a dimmer module if desired.
Pros and Cons of Lightforce Performance Lighting 20 in Single LED BarsPros
- Exceptional Brightness and Beam Distance.
- Extremely Durable and Weather-Resistant (IP69K Rated).
- Includes Complete Wiring Harness for Easy Installation.
- Sleek and Tactical Design.
- Backed by Lightforce’s Lifetime Satisfaction Guarantee.
Cons
- Single-Row Design Might Not Offer the Widest Beam.
- Price Point is Higher than Some Competitors.
Who Should Buy Lightforce Performance Lighting 20 in Single LED Bars?
Pros
- Exceptional Brightness and Beam Distance.
- Extremely Durable and Weather-Resistant (IP69K Rated).
- Includes Complete Wiring Harness for Easy Installation.
- Sleek and Tactical Design.
- Backed by Lightforce’s Lifetime Satisfaction Guarantee.
Cons
- Single-Row Design Might Not Offer the Widest Beam.
- Price Point is Higher than Some Competitors.
The Lightforce Performance Lighting 20 in Single LED Bars is perfect for overlanders, off-road enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a reliable and robust lighting solution for their vehicle. This light bar can be used by search and rescue personnel who require dependable illumination in challenging environments.
This product might be overkill for those who only need occasional auxiliary lighting. Also, those on a tight budget might find the price prohibitive. A must-have modification would be adjustable mounting brackets to fine-tune the beam angle.
Conclusion on Lightforce Performance Lighting 20 in Single LED Bars
Overall, the Lightforce Performance Lighting 20 in Single LED Bars is an excellent lighting solution that delivers on its promise of performance and durability. The price is justified by the quality of construction, exceptional brightness, and the peace of mind that comes with Lightforce’s lifetime satisfaction guarantee.
I would highly recommend this product to anyone who needs a reliable and high-performing LED light bar for demanding applications. Don’t settle for subpar lighting: invest in the Lightforce Performance Lighting 20 in Single LED Bars and experience the difference.