Let’s Dive into Huskemaw Flashlight
The Huskemaw Flashlight is marketed as a simple, reliable handheld light suitable for around-the-house use or in situations where you need a quick beam of light. The Huskemaw Gen II model boasts LED technology, dual color lens options, and multiple beam settings, aiming to provide a versatile lighting solution at an accessible price point.
I was looking for a compact, multi-purpose flashlight that I could keep in my truck for emergencies, but also use for quick tasks around the campsite without needing to grab my larger tactical light. I wanted something with color options for preserving night vision and a decent runtime.
My first impression upon unboxing the Huskemaw Flashlight was that it felt surprisingly lightweight, due to the aluminum housing. The build quality seemed decent for the price, but I wasn’t expecting it to be as rugged as some of my higher-end lights.
I considered the Streamlight MicroStream and the Olight i3E EOS, both popular AAA-powered options. I ultimately chose the Huskemaw Flashlight due to the inclusion of colored lenses (red and green) at a similar price point, which seemed like a great added value for my intended use.
Overall, I was cautiously optimistic. The lightweight feel and lower lumen output (250 lumens) made me question its durability and brightness, but the colored lenses and simple design held promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Huskemaw Flashlight to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test for the Huskemaw Flashlight was on a weekend camping trip in the nearby Angeles National Forest. I used it primarily for navigating around the campsite after dark, and inside my tent for reading.
It performed adequately in dry conditions, the beam was sufficient for close-range tasks, and the red lens was useful for maintaining my night vision while stargazing. However, the push-button end cap felt a little flimsy, and I occasionally had difficulty switching between modes quickly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After about two months of regular use, the Huskemaw Flashlight is showing some minor signs of wear and tear. The black finish is scratching easily, but the light still functions as intended.
Cleaning is fairly simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it usually needs. The battery compartment has remained free of corrosion so far, even after getting caught in a light rain shower.
Compared to my previous experience with a Maglite Solitaire, the Huskemaw Flashlight offers a brighter and more versatile beam, as well as color options, at a similar size and weight. However, my tactical Streamlight ProTac HL-X is significantly brighter and more durable, but also much larger and heavier. The Huskemaw Flashlight fills a nice niche as a lightweight, affordable, multi-purpose light.
Breaking Down the Features of Huskemaw Flashlight
Specifications
The Huskemaw Flashlight is manufactured by Huskemaw, and intended for duty, outdoor, and work applications. It is available in black and blue.
The body is constructed from aluminum, and it emits a white beam with a light output of 250 lumens. This is acceptable for close-range tasks.
The Huskemaw Flashlight boasts a 5-hour battery life, powered by three AAA batteries. It uses an LED bulb.
It has a diameter of 1 inch, a bezel diameter of 1.375 inches, and a clear glass lens. Weather resistance is included.
Each Huskemaw Flashlight comes with a storage case, hand strap, and two colored lenses. It requires 3 AAA batteries, which aren’t included.
These specifications matter because they define the intended use and limitations of the light. The aluminum construction keeps the weight down, while the LED provides efficient light output.
Performance & Functionality
The Huskemaw Flashlight performs reasonably well for its intended purpose. The three beam settings (high, low, strobe) offer versatility for different situations.
The light’s primary strength is its simplicity and ease of use. However, the relatively low lumen output and the somewhat flimsy-feeling end cap are weaknesses. The addition of colored lenses is a welcome feature.
It meets expectations for a budget-friendly flashlight, but it doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The aluminum build contributes to the light weight and portability of the Huskemaw Flashlight. The compact size makes it comfortable to hold in the hand, but it feels a bit cheap in comparison to more expensive lights with more ruggedized designs.
The end-cap button is generally easy to use, although switching between modes isn’t always seamless. The learning curve is minimal.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the aluminum construction and the relatively simple design, the Huskemaw Flashlight should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care. However, the lightweight materials may not withstand heavy abuse.
Maintenance is simple, mostly consisting of cleaning and periodic battery replacement. The glass lens may be more prone to scratches than a polycarbonate lens.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Huskemaw Flashlight comes with a basic storage case, a hand strap, and the two colored lenses (red and green). There are no apparent customization options beyond that.
Given the standard size and AAA battery format, it is compatible with generic AAA batteries from various brands. However, due to its basic design, it’s unlikely to be compatible with any specialized flashlight accessories.
Pros and Cons of Huskemaw Flashlight
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for a wide range of users.
- Lightweight and compact design is perfect for everyday carry or stashing in a bag.
- Colored lenses (red and green) offer added versatility for preserving night vision or signaling.
- Multiple beam settings (high, low, strobe) provide options for different situations.
- Simple and easy to use, with minimal learning curve.
Cons
- Low lumen output (250 lumens) may not be sufficient for all tasks.
- Aluminum construction feels less durable than higher-end flashlights.
- End-cap button feels somewhat flimsy and can be difficult to operate smoothly.
Who Should Buy Huskemaw Flashlight?
The Huskemaw Flashlight is perfect for: casual campers, homeowners needing a backup light, or anyone looking for an affordable and versatile everyday carry flashlight. It’s also a good option for someone wanting to experiment with colored lenses without a large investment.
Who should skip this product? Anyone needing a high-powered, durable light for professional use or demanding outdoor activities should look elsewhere.
Must-have accessories or modifications? High-quality AAA batteries are a must to maximize battery life and performance.
Conclusion on Huskemaw Flashlight
The Huskemaw Flashlight is a decent entry-level flashlight that offers good value for its low price. It provides a usable beam, multiple modes, and the added benefit of colored lenses in a lightweight and compact package.
The price is certainly justified for what you get.
I would recommend it to anyone looking for a basic, affordable, and versatile flashlight for light-duty tasks. Pick one up and see if it meets your needs!