I have a strange Flashlight/Energy Efficient lightbulb attraction that I can't really explain.

I have a couple of LED flashlights in my Truck, along with a Wind-Up one that I test pretty regularly.

I always have a good LED Flashlight in my backpack, and I use it all the time.

I also love the idea of LED household lightbulbs - and I have an awesome Coleman LED lantern that had four detachable LED "Modules" that I keep handy in the event of a power outage. The eight D batteries that power this this will run it for 40 hours straight.

I'm not certain if this is actually irrational, but, even though my wife and I try to have a little extra to help others in need, I fear that we'll be overwhelmed and forced to decide who gets to live and who must starve.

Re-interpreting the question after my first answer: Like haertig, my irrational fear (other than of dentists, birds and fish) is not having what I'm going to need and not being able to make a substitute. Honestly, it's why I don't fly, hate taking public transit or carpooling in someone else's vehicle, not because of any fear of an actual plane/train/car crash. It's also why I have a tendency to over pack.

Not irrational . . .

You and me both, pal. My suggestion: buy rechargeable batteries. Save money for the REALLY GOOD flashlights -- if you're like me you have enough flashlights for any conceivable need, now you're just improving your collection.

Nope, never enough, need more After our discussion in this thread about the FourSevens Maelstrom, I backordered the Maelstrom MM-X. I've already decided to program the Low setting of 30 lumens and the Medium 270 lumen setting in for this light -- Bright and Really Bright. I did not feel a need to program in Extremely Bright although that decision may change on its first late night walk in the park. I use a bright light to search for eyes looking back -- refer to the thread on coyotes.

I have many lights that can handle the low end nicely.

The Maelstrom MM-X (under the original Maelstrom X7 branding) arrived. The user interface is not difficult and gives a very wide range of power out (0.3 lumens to 480 lumens). With this light the button switch turns it on/off like on the tactical models, but rather than having two modes selected by turning the head, four power levels (moonlight/low/medium/high) are available by twisting the head. The light also has strobe/SOS/beacon modes if you feel the need. I'll test that high mode tonight when I walk the dog

Haertig,

you can hollow a bowl with hot rocks from a campfire like the indians did via charring the wood. . FYI

Ironwood