Energizer Hard Case Tactical Torch

I thought that Energiser just made batteries, but they now offer their Tactical, Hard Case torch. The design puts me in mind of the StreamLite Sidewinder as it’s an L-shape with a hinged head with a number of lighting options, though is a bit more sophisticated. 

OD Fine By Me

In a military-type, OD finish the Hard Case is tough, waterproof and can stand being dropped from 3metres high. The body is alloy with a polymer coating. At the rear is a clothing clip and the lockable head can swing upwards from vertical through 125º. Power comes from 2 x AA batteries (supplied). It can also run on one at lower output, which makes it most practical.

The torch offers five LEDS. Looking from the front, in the centre is a large, 70-lumen white lens. Around this are four smaller units – top right blue, bottom right green, top left red. Bottom left is a white IR with strobe function.

Push the Button

Switching/selection consists of four rubber buttons – three under the torch head control the red, blue and green LEDs all of which offer three power levels. These are accessed by quickly pushing the button and spooling though high, medium and low outputs. I have to say all are intense and the blue might make a good blood tracker too. At the bottom of the body is the hinged battery compartment with a simple, rotary locking lever. On the base is the main, white light switch, again with selectable power levels, this also controls the IR functions.

At 70 lumens, though no searchlight, the main beam has more than enough power for a torch of this nature. Underneath the head in the centre of the yoke it hinges on is a lever that when pushed to the right locks it into position and shows a padlock symbol. When moved to the left it selects the IR LED, which can be solid ON or strobe. Though more a military function, for the night hunter this form of illumination would certainly make you stand out through an NV scope.

Pretty Good

Initially I thought; OK just another torch, but the more I used the Hard Case the more I realised it’s quite a little performer in terms of general use illumination. The main beam is powerful enough for searching and picking up, while the three, smaller, coloured LEDs also have their functions. Red is great for not ruining your night vision for example and the blue could make a good blood tracker. Green offers a surprising amount of illumination as an alternative to white. Not sure if I’ll ever use the IR/strobe functions but it’s there. Light, tough, waterproof and easily attached to your clothing, this is overall a useful field/general use torch system.

For: Effective and versatile general use torch
Against: Do you need a strobe function?
Verdict: Well worth adding to your hunting gear

PRICE: £69.95