Princeton Tec

Refuel

£30 79g

lightweight, battery life basic, short beam length

Max power: 200 lumens

Batteries: 3xAAA alkaline (included)

Light modes: high-low dimmable

Max output: 21m

Max burn time 75h30

Water resistance: IPX4 (splash-resistant) princetontec.co.uk

The Refuel gives out an impressive 200 lumens for its small size, but the beam lacks any real penetration, offering only 21 metres depth both on paper and on test in the field. It’s basic, which is both its strength and its weakness.

I like the single-button operation (easy to use with gloves on) and the simple dimmer function from high to low power. The light source is four ultrabright LEDs, which emit a nice pool of light that is perfect for tasks around camp and walking familiar paths; but despite its brightness there is no means to focus it on distant objects.

The battery pack opens easily and locks securely, housing three AAA batteries that are included in the price. The light unit can be angled up and down, and is attached to a simple, stretch-webbing headband that is sufficiently comfortable for a few hours’ use.

This simple and lightweight head torch has been living in my rucksack as a spare for the last couple of months. It weighs so little (45g without batteries) that it is a reassuring back-up to my main torch – either for storing spare batteries, or as an emergency light source if my other one fails.