I find myself in need of an LED lantern primarily for ATV carry. Since it will be jostling around in the Quad it has to be pretty stout. I strongly prefer something that runs on AA batteries for redundancy as well as compactness. Runtime is not that critical--anything over about 4 hours would do just fine--but it has to be reasonably bright.

From a previous post here awhile back I found this: Guide Gear Light This looks like it could be just the thing but there is no mention of runtime or output. Does anybody have one of these and if so, is it pretty sturdy? If not, do you know of any others that might fit the bill?

Regards, Vince

I just recently bought a River Rock 0.5W LED lantern at my local Target after reading a review on Flashlight Reviews . It uses 4AA and gives about 8 hours of regulated (i.e. steady, not gradually dimming) output. I haven't used it long enough in one sitting to verify that 8 hour runtime, but I'm sure it's in that neighborhood. The light is bright although with some distracting artifacts, but some people over at CPF seem to like using Glad Press 'n Seal to even out the light. The globe does not heat up much.

I bought it primarily for blackout use as an area light, but it feels quite solid and seems reasonably well constructed and should stand up well for outdoor use. No variable output, but there's also a flashing mode, which is very bright, and could be useful in an emergency situation. I recommend it--and only about $20!

I have recently purchased 5 of the River Rock lanterns available only at Target. This thing rocks. Waterproof, indestructible - I have thrown one of them against the floor 3 or 4 times as a test - no damage. Bright - and should get at least 8 hours of light off of 4 AA batteries. It's only $19.99. Not all target stores carry them, but this one is absoutely the best for the money.
River Rock Review on Flashlightreviews.com

I can't speak to that light, but I THINK that is that vendor's private label. I purchase from them all the time and am always pleased. I buy hunting stuff in addition to some of the things we discuss on here. Their service is good and they are reputable. If you didn't like it you could send it back; of course that's a hassle. Others can probably give you a better product recommendation.

I have a 'lantern' similar to the Guide Gear Light. It does not provide room-wide illumination. LED brightness is measured right in front of the LED, not around it, so I don't think you can compare illumination ratings of LEDs and incandenscents. While an LED may have a rating of, say 5W, it provides that 5W only directly in front of the source. Having a frosted globe around an LED is of little to no help in spreading the illumination.

I totally agree with randyo, I just got back from Target and picked up one of these -- one word --wow! For $20, this is an incredible buy!, very bright, will add to the bob immediately, and am going to buy some more for the house during power failures. You can't beat this one for twenty bucks. Can't believe they sell them for that. Yet another great item from the great people on this board! Bravo!

OH - You won't find them in the Camping section or in Sporting Goods. They keep them in the Automotive / Hardware area where most of the various flahslights are.
I avoid that area - everything is sooooo tempting.

Thanks guys. The one from Target looks like it will do the trick. The Guide Gear light is sold out anyway. I'll pick one up this weekend.

Regards, Vince

Hi Guys

I've heard about this light over at CPF, does Target have an online store where I can purchase these and get them shipped here to France.

Hello.

Do you know the Glo-Toob?

You can find info at http://www.glo-toob.com
I've one of them (the white LED model) and is amazing the luminous capacity of such a small device. And it is practically indestructible.