In a Hurry? Our Top 3 Picks to Buy!
Whether you are a casual hunter or a die-hard enthusiast, selecting the high-quality headlamp can make your time in the woods easier. You need a consistent light source for big game hunting, especially when you are late following a deer track or dressing a game.
A headlamp is hands-free and provides you the consistency of light wherever you look. A good headlamp is important because the quality of the product could make a difference between a clean kill and a messed-up shot. There are plenty of different options available out there that make it difficult to choose the best one.
The market is flooded with various options to pick and choose from, but sifting through specs and reviews is a daunting task. Here we have listed the Best Headlamps for hunting, along with a buying guide that will help you choose the one.
Comparison Chart For Top 10 Best Headlamps For Hunting
| Product Name | Light Modes | |
|---|---|---|
| Black Diamond Storm | 8 | View on Amazon |
| Vont Spark | 7 | View on Amazon |
| Energizer | 7 | View on Amazon |
| EverBrite | 3 | View on Amazon |
| Princeton Tec Remix | 7 | View on Amazon |
| Bushnell TRKR 325L | 5 | View on Amazon |
| Browning Nitro | 4 | View on Amazon |
| Petzl Tactikka | 4 | View on Amazon |
| Foxelli MX20B | 4 | View on Amazon |
| Petzl Unisex’s | – | View on Amazon |
Which are the 10 Best Headlamps for hunting in 2023?
1. Black Diamond Storm 400 Headlamp
| Diamond Storm Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Beam Distance | 109 yards @ high beam |
| Lumens | 400 |
| Runtime | 5 hours @ high beam / 150 hours @ low |
| Weight | 4.2 oz |
| Battery type | 4 AAA |
Black Diamond is a reputed brand name that makes reliable outdoor gear for years for those who push the limits. This hunting gear features a long-distance focus beam and a diffuse beam for close use when you need to see a large area without strain on the eyes. Further, it has powerful floodlights with three color modes and a strobe function.
With Power Tap technology, it allows instant transitioning between full and dimmed power. This option lets you toggle light intensities by touching the housing and works even when you are wearing gloves. Another amazing feature is its memory function that stores the user’s last light setting, so you don’t have to reset yourself.
When it comes to design, it has sleek, solid housing and weighs 4.2 ounces. It runs on 4 AAA batteries and emits red, blue, white, and green lights. Apart from this, you can choose from 8 different light modes by pressing the switch button. This headlamp for hunting is IP67 rated, that makes it dust and waterproof. And it can withstand water immersion of 1 meter of 30 minutes. Therefore you can use it in both rain and snow weather conditions.
Reasons To Buy
- A reliable and durable option.
- Padded headband for comfort.
- Long-running time.
- Water-resistance.
- Simplified operation with PowerTap technology.
- Multiple light settings – white, red, green and blue light.
Reasons To Avoid
- A little bit bulky and heavy.
What’s the bottom line?
This Diamond Storm headlamp boasts a solid build quality that allows you to operate in a challenging environment. Overall it is a convenient and reliable option that won’t let you down when you need it.
2. Vont ‘Spark’ Flashlight Super Bright Headlamp
| Vont Spark Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Modes | 7 |
| Lumens | 200 |
| Runtime | Up to 90 hours |
| Weight | 1.83 oz |
| Battery type | 3 AAA |
The Vont Spark headlamp offers excellent versatility with great illumination. It is an excellent choice for hunting expeditions in woods, the river, or the forest. With XPG 3W LED technology, and 200 lumens LED lights, it produces maximum brightness. This headlight can light up the entire area, whether a road or a track and focus on an object 1000 feet away.
When it comes to construction, it is built with military aircraft-grade materials. It has passed stringent quality evaluations and certifications. The lamp has an IPX5 waterproof rating that allows you to use it for any type of hunting. For user comfort and convenience, it boasts a 45° angle tilt that helps to have a light beam concentrated where you need.
It comes with an adjustable band that is sturdy enough to stay fixed on the forehead and stretchy enough for a comfortable feel. Furthermore, it features a one-touch button to switch between low, medium, high, and strobe illumination modes.
Reasons To Buy
- Pressure and drop resistant.
- Robust and compact design.
- Comfortable strap that is adjustable with a stretch.
- One-touch toggle through different modes.
- 45 Degree tiltable body.
Reasons To Avoid
- Batteries not included.
What’s the bottom line?
It is the best hunting headlamp that provides real value for money. This is an excellent choice for professional hunters with great battery life, seven light modes, ergonomic esign, and a lifetime warranty.
3. Energizer High-Powered LED Hunting Head Lamp
| Energizer Headlamp Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Modes | 7 |
| Lumens | 260 |
| Runtime | Up to 35 hours |
| Weight | 3.8 oz |
| Battery type | 3 AAA |
The Energizer High-Powered LED headlamp comes with a 260-lumen beam of LED light and can illuminate objects up to 80 meters away. It has seven different lighting modes for various situations: red, high, low, spot-high, spot-low, wide-high, and wide-low. Besides this, it has smart dimming technology so you can adjust the brightness in different modes.
This hunting headlamp runs on three AAA batteries and provides 35 hours of run time in low mode. Another great thing is that it has a rugged shell that can withstand a one-meter drop test, a shatterproof lens, and a water-resistant IPX4 body. It is one of the durable headlamps on the market that makes it perfect for hunting.
Reasons To Buy
- Available at reasonable price.
- High and low lighting modes.
- Lightweight and comfortable.
- Durable headlamp.
Reasons To Avoid
- Lack strobe settings.
What’s the bottom line?
This power headlight features durable construction that makes it a perfect rugged companion for both indoors and outdoors. At an affordable price point, this headlamp makes a great addition to any tool kit.
4. EverBrite Hunting Head Lamp
| EverBrite Headlamp Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Modes | 7 |
| Lumens | 300 |
| Beam Distance | 328 ft |
| Weight | 3.58 oz |
| Battery type | 3 AAA |
The EverBright headlamp will come in handy when you’re going on hunting or camping. Its lights are extremely bright and powered by 8 LEDs. These LEDs have light emissions with up to 300 lumens that are set to last over a hundred hours. It features seven lighting modes, dual switches controls, and COB lighting, allowing optimal lighting for any situation.
Its lightweight design and adjustable elastic band make it comfortable to wear for a longer period of time. In addition to that, the 30-degree tilting handle allows you to focus wherever you need it. Another amazing feature is the strobe light that works good for emergency situations. This hunting gear also has an emergency whistle and a red flashing taillight on the rear designed for night runners.
Reasons To Buy
- Suitable for outdoor activities.
- IPX4 water-resistant.
- Light in weight and fully adjustable.
- 328 ft long range illumination.
- Super bright LED.
- 7 light modes for versatile activities.
Reasons To Avoid
- Battery life isn’t so good.
What’s the bottom line?
This headlamp is bright and ideal for various outdoor tasks such as hunting and camping. It works great and can withstand shock and heavy downpour.
5. Princeton Tec Remix LED Headlamp
| Princeton Tec Remix Headlamp Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Modes | 4 |
| Lumens | 125 |
| Runtime | 200 h |
| Weight | 1.6 oz |
| Battery type | 3 AAA |
The Princeton Tec Remix headlamp has a solid construction and delivers great performance. It has a camo design that will blend easily with your gear. Further, it is easy to clip on and off thanks to the batter door enclosure. Thus you are not going to miss the shot as you are fiddling around with your headlight.
It features a simple and lightweight design with an asymmetrical single-arm bracket. In addition, it comes with a combination of a single Maxbright LED and three Ultrabright LEDs. You can easily toggle between these lights for long-distance viewing or close-range illumination. This wide beam and a focused narrow beam give versatility to hunt down your prey in complete darkness. The headlamp is powered by three AAA batteries, and you get 150 hours of burn time before replacement.
Reasons To Buy
- High power spotlight beam.
- Good battery life.
- 150 hour burn time.
- Water-resistant.
- Compact and lightweight.
Reasons To Avoid
- Sometimes light flickers.
What’s the bottom line?
The battery on this headlamp offers great battery backup. Also, it provides good protection against water splashes and easy to switch between different light modes.
6. Bushnell TRKR 325L Multi-Color Headlamp
| Bushnell TRKR 325L Headlamp Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Modes | 4 |
| Lumens | 325 |
| Runtime | 67 h |
| Weight | – |
| Battery type | 3 AAA |
The Bushnell TRKR 325L headlamp is the ultimate choice for your next adventure. This multifunction headlamp features 325 lumens that provide high visibility on white mode with a 95-meter beam distance on high mode and 38-meter beam distance on low mode. Further, it comes with an RBG light mode that is a great addition for big game hunters. The red LED option offers dim light without losing your night vision. And white LED light for bright light.
Furthermore, the lamp comes with a blood tracking mode that illuminates blood during hunting. When it comes to build quality, it has a sturdy construction that makes it suitable for rigorous use even in worse weather conditions. Best of all, it is IPX – 4 rated with aircraft-grade aluminum that ensures 1-meter drop resistance and can withstand light rainfall. In the package, it consists of three removable AA batteries.
Reasons To Buy
- Adjustable strap.
- Four powerful modes – high, low, red, and TRKR mode.
- Max runtime of 6.5 hours on high and 67 hours on low.
- One year warranty.
Reasons To Avoid
- Impact-resistant only up to 1 meter.
What’s the bottom line?
It is perfect for hunters who want extra help locating and staying on track while following blood trails to a downed game. All in all, it offers reliable bright light for more intensive treks.
7. Browning Nitro Headlamp Mossy Oak Break Up
| Browning Nitro Headlamp Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Modes | – |
| Lumens | 325 |
| Runtime | 24 h |
| Weight | 6 oz |
| Battery type | CR123 batteries |
Here comes another effective and affordable hunting headlamp. This Nitro Headlamp is an excellent option for hunters who don’t need a much light output but still need a high-grade headlamp that can last longer. It comes with 255 lumens, that is still the brightest setting. Hunter can easily field-dressing a deer or set decoys in the dark with this illumination.
Furthermore, it has a twist dial for cycling through the different light modes, including red and green, to maintain night vision. Also, the headlamp is easy to operate and compact design. The headlamp boasts 24-hour battery life on the lowest setting, which means you can shed light for prolonged periods. It runs on one CR123A Lithium battery that is small in size, and you can easily pack extra on longer trips. Like other headlamps on the list, it is also water-resistant and shockproof.
Reasons To Buy
- Good long-distance lighting.
- Impressive run time.
- Water-resistant.
- Long-lasting headlamp.
- Green and red light settings.
Reasons To Avoid
- Battery life is only two hours on a high setting.
What’s the bottom line?
The Browning Nitro is a reliable and versatile option. Overall it is comfortable and adjusts easily with swivel ap and down to accommodate your needs.
8. Petzl Tactikka RGB Hunting Headlamp
| Petzl Tactikka Headlamp Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Modes | 4 |
| Lumens | 250 |
| Runtime | 260 h |
| Weight | – |
| Battery type | AAA / CORE rechargeable battery |
This Petzl Tactikka provides clean and clear light output to 350 lumens. It delivers a blended beam of light that gives good close proximity light with distance light. The headlight is powered by three AAA batteries or a rechargeable CORE battery. Further, it has a sleek, compact, and lightweight design.
There are three white light settings that can be toggled through via repeated touches of the single button. It provides you with the illumination to navigate tough trails or set up your camp in the snow in the densest forest. You can choose RGB colors to preserve night vision or to make sure you don’t spook 12 point buck. Besides, the lamp is adjustable in two ways, and the strap can be adjusted to fit your head. The strap comes with a plastic buckle that allows you to clip it on and off. So in this way, you won’t alter the size of the strap when stretching the strap around the head.
Reasons To Buy
- Wide beam and close up settings.
- Low profile design.
- Easy to use with one button.
- Red and white light settings.
- Comfortable elastic lamp.
- Multiple light modes – red, green, blue.
Reasons To Avoid
- No blue or green lights.
What’s the bottom line?
This small hunting headlamp with amazing features at an affordable price. Also, it is convenient to use and compatible with a CORE rechargeable battery.
9. Foxelli Headlamp Flashlight
| Foxelli MX20B Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Beam Distance | 165 ft |
| Lumens | 165 |
| Runtime | 45 h |
| Weight | 3.2 oz |
| Battery type | AAA |
Foxelli MX20B Headlamp is built to last with an IPX5 rating that protects against water splashed and can perform in the rain. It offers great comfort on the head with its adjustable and elastic headband that stays fixed. Further, it comes with various illumination options so that you can select between white and red light modes or strobe and SOS.
The flashlight can be tilted within an angle of 45° to concentrate the beam on a particular area without bending. In addition, it uses CREE – 3W LED technology that produces a maximum brightness of 160 lumens while taking low power to improve battery life. With 3 AAA batteries, it delivers maximum runtime of 45 hours of light mode.
There is a built-in timer function that turns off the unit at a single press of switch when the light has been on for 5 seconds. However, it doesn’t come with a locking feature and requires adjustment every time.
Reasons To Buy
- Super long battery life.
- Lightweight and comfortable.
- Good waterproof rating.
- Limited lifetime warranty.
Reasons To Avoid
- No clip for adjustment.
What’s the bottom line?
This Foxelli headlamp comes with everything that a hunter will need to have a fulfilling backcountry hunting adventure. It offers excellent battery life, brightness and is easy to use.
10. Petzl Unisex’s Tactikka RGB + Headlamp, Mimetic, UNI
| Petzl Unisex’s Tactikka Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Lumens | 350 |
| Power Source | Battery |
| Battery Type | Rechargeable |
| Weight | 3 oz |
| Dimensions | 4.92 x 1.77 x 4.92″ |
Headlamps are designed for hunters. It is a source of light that is attached to the head for outdoor activities at night or in dark conditions. It comes with three white lighting levels: red, green, and blue light. You can easily change the light mode by rotating the switch clockwise or anticlockwise.
With a rechargeable 3 AAA battery, it can run for a long time. It has a single button for quick and easy adjustment of brightness or light color. It is useful in the dark for adjusting the lamp. Further, it comes with green and red lights that indicate when a battery is fully charged and when the battery is charging. Besides, the robust design enables you to mount it on hats, making it convenient to wear or remove without strap adjustments.
Reasons To Buy
- Adjustable Strap.
- Durable battery.
- High build quality.
- Red, Green, Blue lights.
- Suitable For Outdoor Activity.
Reasons To Avoid
- Make a Lot Of Noise.
What’s the bottom line?
This hunting headlamp is sturdy, durable, and lightweight. Easy to install on a hat for a comfortable feel. Also, no need for frequent adjustment when removing or wearing. So, if you are hunting duck, coon, hog, or coyote, then this is a perfect choice for the money.
How To Choose the Best Headlamps For Hunting?
Light modes and beam types
Headlamps are equipped with several different types of the beam. The basic beams are as follows – wide/flood, spot, and strobe. The wide/flood beam offers basic lighting. It provides a panoramic view of immediate surroundings. However, in this mode, the beam doesn’t travel too far ahead.
On the other hand, the spotlight offers a concentrated beam of light that projects farther away from you. This beam type is perfect during tracking. Some headlamps include a strobe mode that is a great option to indicate distress for use in emergency use. The flashing light attracts attention easily.
Beam Distance
These headlamps are used to widely light the path ahead of ensuring a great view of the things around. Select a one that can cover a distance of 250+ feet ahead of you, offering a visual advantage.
Light Settings
Usually, headlamps have red, green, and white light settings. Each color has a specific function. The Red light is used for night hunting and gives enough light to see without interrupting night vision. You can switch back and forth between headlamp and darkness without readjustment.
Apart from this, you can use the green light for hunting at night. The green color is brighter than red and produces more contrast. Also, it increases the detail you can see, but the risks are disturbing your night vision. Another option is White light that provides more visibility. It is visible from long distances and creates a lot of shadows. This light is suitable for detailed tasks that need full visibility and color vision, such as constructing your tree stand. However, this white light disrupts the night vision.
Some hunting headlamps feature a violet spectrum that is perfect for blood tracking. With this, it is easy to track the blood when using within the violet spectrum.
IP Ratings
The IP rating is an international method that identifies how well light fitting is protected from solid objects and water. It helps to determine whether it is suitable for rugged outdoor use.
- Water Resistant: A good quality headlamp should be able to perform under light rain or when it’s snowing. Sometimes, it may need to be placed on surfaces that may be wet, moist, or dry. Thus hunting headlamps that can last through these types of contact are better.
Power Source
These headlamps are powered by rechargeable or disposable batteries. Most hunters choose rechargeable batteries because of their relative light and low maintenance cost. However, most rechargeable batteries don’t indicate when the battery gets low and goes dim or leaves you stranded in the dark night. Thus consider a power source to avoid any failure. If you use a single-use batteries type headlamp, it is wise to carry extras.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many lumens do you need in a headlamp?
Generally, 100 to 150 lumens are adequate for most needs, but for activities such as route finding at night, hunters may want a powerful headlamp.
2. Do Hunting headlamps spook deer?
No. If you have a red or green light option, then choose that. If not, then keep the beam pointed in front of you as much as possible.
3. What light can deer not see?
Deer don’t see well in the middle and longer wavelength in the visible color spectrum, such as oranges, greens, yellows, browns, and reds. These colors appear in shades of gray or yellow.
