Last week, I purchased 3 Pico Lites (two on their own and one as part of the PSP+) from Knifeworks (who got the order out really fast in what must be a busy time for them).

When the packages arrived I got them out and tested them just to make sure everything was in working order. They all were very dim and any light faded out quickly, which made it look like the batteries were already dead.

I felt really unlucky with all three lights in that state.

I was prepared to go out and buy more batteries (which I still need to do), but I sent off an email to Essential Gear's address, letting them know what the situation was.

Uriah from Essential Gear mailed back and suggested wiping off the batteries, and offered to send me replacement batteries right away.

Well, the offer wasn't needed as wiping off the batteries proved to do the trick. But it was great to know that they stand behind their products and were very responsive and ready to send out a fix if needed.

Our Pico Lites are now ready to go and I found them to be a lot smaller than I expected (which is good). They throw out lots of light and the switch mechanism means I don't have to worry about them being in pockets and what not.

Glad to hear it all worked out! I cant wait to go to Dicks sporting goods so I can snag one of these up at the same time. Im sure my Stylus pro will enjoy the company.

I've never heard of wiping batteries. was there a reason given?

comms:
eGear said batteries can get some residue built up on them, which makes sense with these little button alkaline batteries. All it took was just a bit of rubbing with some kleenex and they were fine. So it was enough to affect the current flow the led needs, but not anything visible.

Less talk ... more pictures showing how much illumination you get from a Pico light. A photo is worth a 1000 words!
:-) :-) :-)

Pete #2

How easy will it be to wipe off those tiny button cells and reload them in an emergency with adrenaline pumping, inclement weather, low blood sugar, or any of the above?

That is great customer service on the part of the vendor though.

If you're like me, you'll likely send a few of them airborne and have to chase after the little cells during the process. I hope this isn't a problem with the standalone battery packs they sell.