Caving gear reviews

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Looking to buy a new piece of gear for your next caving trip? Then check out these reviews. They might save you some money... and keep you from getting stranded far from the surface with gear that isn't up to the task. Want to tell the caving world about your satisfaction for or dissatisfaction with a particular product? Then update this page with your very own review and let your ideas be known. Rate the prodfuct on a scale of 1 to 5 stars, with 1 being "Don't waste your time" and 5 being "Get it as quick as you can". It's a fast and easy way to help your fellow caver. If you would rather have someone else update the page, send your information to Brian Alger.

Contents


Helmets

Product Description Review Rating By
Petzl Ecrin Roc This is the classic Petzl helmet, the standard for mountaineering, climbing and caving. Extremely durable, this helmet can withstand the harsh conditions and rough treatment that are often encountered in the high mountains or deep caves.
* Injection molded polycarbonate shell for protection and durability
* Easy-to-use adjustment wheels dial in headband and nape strap size for an extremely comfortable fit, even while the helmet is being worn
* Chin strap position adjusts forward or backward
* Well ventilated with 14 holes
* Headlamp attachment with 4 optimally placed clips
* 2 thicknesses of foam bands included for customized fit.
I have personally used this type of helmet for 15 years. During this time, I have had opportunities to use other helmets. None of them matched up to the comfort or usability of the Ecrin Roc. 5 Stars Brian Alger
Kong Magic Climber This helmet comes in red, white, yellow, black, and blue. Universal size 51-62cm. The website is in italian. I bought this helmet for both my boys. They complained a lot about it sliding forward over their eyes when crawling. I used it a few times and found it to be uncomforatable. It is lightweight however; and will protect the noggin. 3 Stars Brian Alger

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Helmet Lights

Product Description Review Rating By
Priceton Tec Apex The Apex is the pinnacle of waterproof LED headlamp design, boasting up to 130 lumens of output. With its 4 light levels, safety flash mode, and impact-resistant design, the Apex is an ideal headlamp for any hardcore adventure. The Apex combines a regulated Maxbright LED with 4 regulated Ultrabright LEDs, for constant brightness on all modes. Switching modes has never been easier ??? the dual switch system allows you to independently control the intense, smooth, long-range lighting from the Maxbright LED, and the wide-angle, close-range lighting from the 4 Ultrabright LEDs. Proprietary heatsink technology allows the LEDs to burn brighter and longer. The Apex is compatible with alkaline,lithium, and rechargeable batteries. I bought this light for my wife to replace her 12 year old Petzl Mega. I was highly impressed with its performance. The price was right for an LED light too at around $70. 5 Stars Brian Alger
Petzl DUO LED 14 The DUO LED 14 headlamp is waterproof to -5 m. It is specially adapted for caving and water sports. It has two light sources: a halogen bulb for lighting over long distances with a focused beam, and 14 LEDs for proximity lighting with a longer burn time. This second light source has three lighting levels, which are regulated to ensure constant lighting. When the batteries become weak, the headlamp switches automatically to reserve power mode. I have used his light for about 5 or 6 years. The LEDs provide a very bright light. A fresh set of 4 AA batteries will run all day long. The halogen bulb however is lacking in brightness. One other con about this light is that it pivots back up into its top position very easily, which blinds the people you are talking too. I feel there are other lights available that are comparable in quality and are cheaper. 3 Stars Brian Alger

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