I currently use a Streamlight Polytac LED inspection flash light, $40.00. For being so compact (approx 5 inches length & just 4 oz) it produces 5,200 candela peak beam intensity; 130 Lumens. Powered by two 3V CR123A lithium batteries (included) the run time is 3 hours. It's also waterproof and has a limited lifetime warranty.
Even with my butter fingers, it has never broken!
Always looking for better tools so share your preferences on lights or other inspection aids.
Qcrobert, I am currently using the Fenix PD30R5 and really like it. I also have the Fenix LD10 & LD20. I have the Streamlight Stinger & Poly Stinger and the Lenser P7 & T7 as well, just to name a few. I am a flashlight junkie.
I went ahead and bought a rechargeable kit for the CR123A batteries. The cheapest I could find them around me is $2.00 a piece. Recharge kit was $25.00 for the Charger and 4 rechargable CR123A's.
I am also looking into one called the Hex Light that I saw on another forum that is machined out of solid aluminum and you can plug into the USB port of a computer to program the functions to suit your needs/wants. I will see if I can find that website.
I use the LED Lenser on my hardhat, I like the focus beam and adjustable brightness, I think they sell them at lowes now for around 40 bucks. http://www.highperformanceledonline.com/headlamps the H7 is the one I have now.
My favorite is a Surefire "Backup". It is small and takes one 3v lithium battery, has a high and low range - about 110 lumens on high and 5 on low if I recall. Made in America with a lifetime warranty.
Actually I am fond of just about all Surefire lights. I have several for different uses, but the Backup rides clipped in my front right pants pocket every day of the week.
4Seven flashlights rock!!! Very small, light weight and sometimes to bright. Most models are programable so up close work isn't to bright to see small porosity.