Buying the right dive light can enhance your dive experience greatly and is critical for your safety. Here are a few tips on how to buy a dive light:
Brightness
Choose lights that come with two beam areas; i.e. the primary area (the brightest spot in the center of overall beam) and the secondary spot (a much dimmer and wider area outside of central primary area). This type of dive light gives some of the advantage of width and brightness, without necessarily having to increase power.
Depth Rating
Choose dive lights that are rated for the depth you are diving at. Do not carry a light that is rated for a hundred-foot dive into deeper water. Even if you do not switch it on, it may still develop malfunctions due to stress fractures. Plus, avoid diving with a water proof light without depth rating. Although it may work perfectly well for the first few feet, as soon as the pressure starts to build, it’ll malfunction, leaving you without light.
Styles
There are many varieties of dive light styles. A meatier style is the best dive light for divers looking for a primary light and those who dive in cold water. If you want a backup light or are diving in tropical waters, then your best match is a smaller, less powerful light. You can also affix lights to your tank, enabling your buddy to spot you easily even while under murky water.
Batteries vs. rechargeable
Rechargeable batteries last much longer. However, since you use up the charge every time you switch on the light, battery strength will keep on diminishing over time. This will make your light grow slowly and ever-so-imperceptibly dimmer. However, a fresh set of batteries can restore the light to its original intensity.
Other things such as grip type, body material and switch type should also be considered while shopping for dive lights. But the above simple tips should guide you on how to buy a dive light that suits your needs.
