I approach it from my wife's point of view. What does she think she needs. What would she carry every day. And she is a tough customer. Any gadget had better prove its worth on the spot.

I tried to promote the PrincetonTec Blast over the Photon II because I like the concentrated beam. No sale. She went with the Photon II because she can use it with one hand (one arm may be holding groceries) and it is very lightweight.

As a matter of fact, no woman I have discussed this with (mom, aunt, sister in law) has chosen the Blast. The Photon II wins every time.

Guys love the gimmick factor. If I have to put the groceries down to twist a bezel and turn a light on, I will. No problem. To the women, that's the deal-killer.

The differences between genders continue to fascinate me.