Long Throw Flashlights Vs. Flood Flashlights

What is a Long Throw Flashlight?

A flashlight intended to cast light over a vast distance is called a long throw flashlight. This flashlight is ideal for use when you need to see something at a distance or illuminate a large area.

Long throw flashlights typically have a narrower beam than other flashlights and often have a higher level of zoom. This allows the light to be focused on a specific area, making it easier to see at a distance. In addition, many long throw flashlights have been designed with an adjustable beam, which can be helpful in situations where you need to adjust the amount of light emitted.

When choosing a long throw flashlight, it is vital to consider the intended use.

  • Choose one with durable construction and long battery life for camping or hiking.
  • Choose one that is easy to operate and has a bright light output for emergency use.
what is a long throw flashlight
choose the best long throw flashlight

Choose The Best Long Throw Flashlights

  • Consider the reflector when choosing a flashlight. The reflector's form, size, and texture all affect the throw.
  • The throw is the maximum length that a flashlight's light can be projected.
  • A thrower flashlight could be required for land management, emergency signaling, search and rescue, and law enforcement.
  • The increased brightness that comes with LED technology has made a significant impact in improving the throw of a flashlight. The lens's shaping and design assist in the distribution of light.

What Makes a Flashlight "Throw"?

When choosing a flashlight, many people focus on the brightness of the light, measured in lumens. However, the lumens only tell part of the story. This is determined by many factors, including the size and shape of the reflector, the type of LED, and the power source.

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The Reflector

The reflector is perhaps an essential component in a high-performance flashlight. There are three major components to a reflector's design that will increase throw: Shape, Size, and Texture.

  • The shape of the reflector is what determines how the light is focused. A parabolic reflector will give you the most focused beam with the tightest hotspot. Elliptical and aspheric reflectors will provide a wider beam with a softer edge and less spill light.
  • The amount of light focused depends critically on the size as well. A wider and deeper reflector will produce a more focused beam with a tighter hotspot.
  • The texture is the last component of a reflector's design that affects throw. A smooth texture will produce a more focused beam with less scatter, while a rough texture will produce a wider beam with more scatter.
flashlight reflector
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The Type of LED

Recent years have seen significant advancements in LED technology, particularly regarding flashlight performance.

In terms of throw distance potential, the most crucial factor is the peak beam intensity rating.

The higher the led lumen, the better the throw distances are possible. Higher peak beam intensity produces a more focused beam of light.

In addition, newer LED technologies can produce a more intense beam of light without sacrificing battery life. This means it is now possible to get both long throw distances and high levels of brightness from a single flashlight.

LED Chips - Maytown
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The Power Source

Finally, the power source also affects how far the light will travel. A flashlight with AA batteries will not be as powerful as a 18650 lithium-ion battery. As a result, it won't be able to produce as much light or throw as far.

The number of batteries also makes a difference. A flashlight with two AA batteries will be more powerful than one with only one AA battery.

If you need a flashlight that can throw light for a long distance, look for one with a 18650 lithium-ion battery.

flashlight 18650 battery
flood flashlight

What Is A Flood Flashlight?

  • A flood light is a flashlight that illuminates the area around you with a broad beam of light. Flood lights are used when you need to see everything up close, such as when working on a car or looking for something in a dark room.
  • Floodlights differ from standard flashlights because they have a wider beam of light that lets you see more of your surroundings.
  • While standard flashlights are designed to illuminate objects far away, flood lights provide ample lighting for activities nearby.
  • Flood lights are also useful for camping and hiking. They can help you see what's around you when natural light is unavailable.
  • Whether you're trying to shed some light on a dark situation or need to be able to see better up close, a flood light is an ideal solution.

Key Takeaways for The Best Flood Flashlights

  • The first component to look at is the bulb. Two main types of bulbs are used in floodlights: LED and halogen. LED bulbs produce a brighter light, are more energy-efficient, and have a longer lifespan, while halogen bulbs consume more energy.
  • The next component to consider is the reflector. The reflector helps direct the light from the bulb and provides a wide beam of light. When choosing a reflector, it is vital to ensure that it is made from a high-quality material such as aluminum or glass.
  • Finally, it is also crucial to consider the floodlight's housing. The housing protects the internal components from damage and helps dissipate heat. When choosing the housing, ensure that it is made from a durable material such as aluminum.
key takeaways for the best flood flashlight
the reflector cup with lens

What Makes a Flashlight "Flood"?

Generally, two types of beam patterns are discussed when we talk about flashlight beams: spot and flood.

Spot beams are focused light rays that produce a tight, bright light beam. This beam is ideal for long-distance illumination, as it can reach far into the distance without wasting any light.

Flood beams disperse the light more evenly over a wide area. These beams are perfect for close-up work or lighting up a large area.

The Reflector Cup

One key factor determining whether a flashlight produces a spot or flood beam is the size of the reflector cup. A reflector cup is a curved surface that helps to direct the light. A shorter reflector cup will produce a broader, more diffused beam. A wider reflector cup will result in a tight, focused beam.

The Bulb Type

Another factor is the bulb type. Generally speaking, LED bulbs produce brighter flood beams than incandescent bulbs. This is due to the different ways that these bulbs emit light.

Comparison Between Long Throw And Flood Flashlights

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Long throw flashlights

Long throw flashlights are ideal for environments where you must see a long distance ahead. They typically have a narrow beam reaching up to 1000 feet or more. This makes them ideal for hiking, camping, or emergencies when you need to see far ahead.

However, the narrow beam can make it difficult to see anything close up. Hence, they are not ideal for all situations. For example, a long-throw flashlight will not be very helpful if you try to find something in your tent at night. Your needs and intended uses will determine which flashlight is ideal for you.

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Flood flashlights

Floodlights have a wide beam that illuminates a large area. They are excellent for usage in certain locations you need to see close up, such as in a dark room or during a power outage. In addition, the wide beam can help identify potential hazards, such as tripwires or snakes.

However, a floodlight illuminating a long distance will not be very effective. The wide beam will spread the light, making it less effective than a long-throw flashlight. So, whether you want a flashlight for close-up work or ample area illumination, a floodlight is the better option.

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