Black Diamond Icon Headlamp

3 watt bulb:	High: 70hrs Med: 88hrs Low: 104hrs
4 LED:	High: 90hrs Med: 108hrs Low: 164hrs
Adjustable Focus:	No
Average battery life:	104 hours (3-watt LED on low setting), 164 hours (LED's on low setting)
Backup Power Source:	No
Batteries:	3 AA (included) / rechargeable NiMH
Battery Life:	104-164 hours
Battery Location:	Back
Battery life at 70 degrees:	High: 80 / low: 140 hours
Battery-power meter uses 3 indicator lights:	green (50% or more), yellow (20% or more) and red (less than 20%)
Beam type:	Flood / Spot
Brightness levels:	6
Bulb:	1-3 Watt LED; 4-SuperBright LED's
Bulb Type:	3-watt bulb and four 0.5-watt LEDs
Bulb detail:	3-watt LED / 4 LEDs
Bulbs:	4 LEDs
Burn Time:	170 – 200hr
Case Pack Quantity:	5
Country of Origin:	China
Dimensions:	2 x 1.4 x 1.25 inches
Dimming Switch:	Yes
Focus:	Adjustable
Headband Type:	Elastic
Housing Tilts:	Yes
LED Type:	TriplePower, 4 SinglePower
Light output:	100 lumens
Lumens:	0-99
Max Burntime(S) on Lowest Setting:	164 H (4 SinglePower LEDs)
Max Distance(S) on Max Setting:	23 m (4 Single- Power LEDs)
Max Lumens:	100
Maximum Battery Life:	104 hr.
Maximum Range:	100 m
Maximum beam distance:	High: 100 / low: 50 meters
Maximum distance:	80 meters (3-watt LED), 23 meters (SuperBright LED's)
Power Source:	3 AA batteries
Rechargeable:	No
Recommended Use:	High performance illumination
Regulated output:	No
Retail Package Dimensions:	23 x 11 x 9 cm / 9 x 4.3 x 3.5 in
Strobe Mode:	No
Strobes:	1
Tiltable Housing:	Yes
Voltage Regulator:	No
Warranty:	3 Years
Waterproof:	Water-resistant
Weight:	[With batteries] 6.6oz (187g); [without batteries] 4.1oz (116g)
Weight W/ Batteries:	4.1 oz.
Weight Without Batteries:	116 g / 4.1 oz
Weight with batteries:	188g or 6.6 oz

Color
Lime	51.96 59.99 7 More...
Silver	45.46 51.96 8 More...
Green	45.46 64.95

Excellent lighting system
Rating:
I have been a serious caver since long before the advent of LED lighting systems. Their introduction has changed the expectations of what a lighting system can do. I regularly go on expeditions of 7 days underground, so any system that reduces the battery weight I need to carry for a trip is a definite win. Before LED systems I would carry literally pounds of C cells on a trip. I bought the first commercially available 'serious' LED headlamp consisting of 24 ultra brigh LEDs in 1999 for $300. This was a wonderful light, but suffered from weight (over a pound) and battery availability (3V lithium D cell), but was great because one battery would last an entire expedition. Since then I have upgraded twice--first to the Black Diamond Zenix IQ, which is a good light, and most recently to the Icon. I decided to upgrade to the Icon while purchasing some gear before a recent expedition so I could get a lighter backup light instead of my original 1 pound system. I found the Icon and after some quick comparisons with the printed information against the Zenix IQ, I figured I would give it a try and use the Zenix IQ as a backup. According to the marketing, the Icon was supposed to be brigher and have longer battery life than the Zenix IQ. From previous expeditions I knew that the Zenix would go through 2 Duracell AAs in about a day and a half, so I brought 2 AAs per day on this trip just in case I would need to use the Zenix for the entire time and still have backups. It turns out that I used the Icon the entire time. It was definitely brighter than the Zenix. At no point did I feel I needed something brighter. What amazed me, though, was the fact that it was my only light for all work outside of camp for a trip of 168 hours underground, and I did the entire expedition on my original set of batteries! Sure, I noticed it was a little dimmer on the last day, and I could have changed batteries then, but the light was still bright enough to exit the cave comfortably and safely and see almost as well as on my way in. I just wanted to see if they would make it for the entire trip. Now I know that if I bring the Icon with 3 new Duracell AAs loaded and 3 in the pack and I should be good with backups for an entire week underground! Good job Black Diamond, and I can't wait to see what is next.
Caver Doug at REI on 09/09/2007
This Headlamp is BRIGHT
Rating:
I recently purchased the Icon for a camping trip with my girlfriend and it did a great job. This lamp is incredibly bright. Black Diamond lists a beam distance of about 300', which seemed accurate to me after we went on a 2 mile night hike in the middle of the night with no moonlight. My girlfriend also brought along her headlamp, but the Icon was bright enough for the both of us and she usually turned hers off to save her batteries. I had no problem adjusting the settings with large button on the bottom in my bulky winter gloves, either. There are a couple of cons to consider with the Icon: First, it could actually be TOO bright in some instances. For example, the lowest setting in the "flood" mode is probably just as bright (or brighter) than the high setting in the "spot" mode for other headlamps. When you wake up in the middle of the night to shuffle around in your gear, such a bright light is a bit jarring to eyes that aren't ready for it. Second, and along the same lines, it would be nice to have a red option for map reading or other quick tasks where you want to preserve your night vision. Third, since the Icon is so powerful, it needs three AA batteries. I used Lithium Ion batteries, which are a bit lighter, and the battery back is nicely situated in the back of the strap, but I could see some thinking it was a bit heavy as compared to other headlamps. Finally, although the Icon remembers what mode you are in (flood vs. spot), it doesn't remember what setting in that mode you are in. Accordingly, if you have it set to the lowest spot mode when you turn it off, when you turn it back on you will be in the HIGHEST setting in spot mode. These points are all fairly minor, however, so I've still given a rating of 5 stars. I would absolutely buy this headlamp again. Well worth the price.
Kevin100 at REI on 12/12/2008
Blindingly Bright
Rating:
I compulsively bought this headlamp for the night scenario portion of a Wilderness First Responder course. It was a good excuse to buy a nice headlamp I hadn't realized I needed. My headlamp easily out-shined everyone else's. This sucker allows you to look halfway down the mountain...or at least that's what it feels like. I ended up using it a lot while teaching outdoor education in Colorado. I brought it along for a back-up light during night hikes, in case the moon failed us. When the moon did fail, the Icon was an explosion of light along the trail. No tripping was caused by not being able to see. My only issue with it is that the battery pack and the strap over the top made it rather awkward to wear around my neck while I wasn't using it. This could obviously be solved by wearing it on my head where it's designed to go, but why would I do that? I've recently started using it for bike commuting. I was able to loosen the straps and shove it over my helmet, which works great. However, if I was to use that set up for something more intense, there would be issues. Someone has posted an ingenious way to 'cement' the Icon to a helmet. But no matter how you have it rigged to your helmet, it functions almost better than a car headlight. It ensures you won't be launched over the handlebars by an unseen pothole and drivers will definitely see you. If you want a headlamp that has great battery life for the amount of light you get out of it and works for pretty much everything, this is it. If you want something small and light to jam in your pocket, pack or glovebox, this is probably not the light for you.
Sara Gress at Backcountry.com on 12/28/2009
Excellent Versatility and Comfort
Rating:
I use this a lot on the low intensity LEDs and the 50 meters of light suggested by the manufacturer is pretty accurate. I've found it to provide enough light for anything 150ft and in. Also what hasn't been highlighted in other reviews is how well is stays put on your head. Once I adjusted the bands to correct sizing, it found the light didn't shift on my head or ride up/loosen. Even putting this outside of a beanie doesn't cause it to pull the beanie up. The battery pack sits nice and flush against the back of my head, and with a beanie you can't really tell it is there. Maybe standard on headlamps, but another feature I haven't seen mentioned is the adjustable angle of the light. It has a ratchet hinge on the bottom that allows you to leave the lamp flat against your head, or you can tilt it to a downward angle for closer proximity lighting. Also, the battery pack is relatively small - really just large enough to hold 3 AAs. This makes storing it handy. It fits, along with a bunch of other stuff, in my jacket's cargo pocket, and it fits easily in my jacket's built in goggle pocket. So, if you want to keep it on you, but not wear it - say heading out on a trail around sunset - it can be stored easily without needing to be put into a backpack.
cpptrader at REI on 03/03/2008
Good bright light
Rating:
This is a really good light. The AA battery pack is really a plus for me, I'm trying hard to limit my gear to AA or 123A batteries. The battery pack has a screw closure, and the screw is captive, so you can't loose it. The screw does not require tools to open as long as you don't over-tighten it. Having the battery pack on the head also allows you to put it under your hat to keep the batteries warm. Switch and screws are on the bottom when you're wearing it, which minimizes water intrusion in the rain. The optional NIMH battery pack could be improved. The charger does not allow 12V or improvised power, and the NIMH cells, while giving long runtime, do not perform well in low temperatures (below 0C). Nicad or Li-Polymer would be a good improvement. The battery status light is nice, but it's located on the battery pack, so it's impossible to see while you're wearing the light. A short blink once a second while off, would help in locating the light in the dark. This could be an optional feature. Overall, I'm very pleased.
pbgdave at REI on 10/10/2007
Fit for the job
Rating:
I just received this headlamp in the mail from Backcountry.com. First impression: the construction does not seem to be the best quality. I am skeptical of how it will hold up to wear and tear. As far as light goes, it is awesome. I need this head lamp for spotting creatures at night for research and I have been disappointed with some of the LED lamps out there. The center 3 watt does not disappoint. It is very powerful and the three power settings are great for times when I don't need as much power. The side LEDs are very bright as well and provide great peripheral lighting. I wish there was a setting to combine the two types of lighting but it is not that important. I have not field tested it yet but I think it is just what I need. I will add more after I have put it to the test. I only gave it 4 stars because I think it could have been built a little more rugged. *side note: the actual green color is much brighter than the green seen in the picture on the site.
jgan at Backcountry.com on 05/09/2007
Light Bright
Rating:
As everyone else has said, this light is super bright. When hiking on some pretty technical trails I only use the lowest setting on the LEDs. I use the higher setting and/or center bulb (beam) to check something out or spot the dogs when they go exploring off trail. For around camp or in the tent I would actually use a much smaller headlamp that is less bright. This one is awesome for any kind of night adventure; whether its just seeing where you are going or a true safety need. I was skeptical at first of having "set" settings instead of a focusing beam like I've use on other headlamps. I've found that the 6 different settings are more than enough adjustment. One reason I chose this headlamp over other similar ones was the weight - lighter than most in its class. This is the first time I've used a headlamp with a separate battery pack and I don't even notice it on my head - even during strenous hiking. Can't wait to use it XC skiing this winter - should be more than bright enough and secure and light.
Badger at Backcountry.com on 10/18/2009
Like strapping the sun to your face...
Rating:
...only not as hot. Or as heavy. I bought this with the rechargeable battery pack option, and it's amazingly bright. I can see the spot it makes on the ground a good 20 feet away in broad daylight, and at night it's just mind-boggling. Via some magical witchcraft, Black Diamond has somehow made the focused spot on the bright setting stay focused at any distance. On the flip side, the LEDs provide a good spread of light up close for cooking, reading, whatever. It fits my head really snugly, doesn't flop around when I move, and the top strap comes off for helmets, hats, or if you don't want to mess up your faux-hawk. I can't think of anything wrong with this. Oh, and on a side note, ala2474331 is ahem an idiot. If you have an item from Backcountry, their return policy is NOT "sorry, now throw it in a burning barrel of garbage". Send it back, get your money back. Easy. Guess you're out 60 bucks now.
Angus Bohanon at Backcountry.com on 10/25/2008
I was told this was the best one, I have to agree
Rating:
I went in to REI and ask the dude near the headlamps, "What's the best one here for general use" and he said, "No question, the Icon." So I thanked him, went home and ordered one of these up from here and I have to agree. I've ordered five more since for around the house and for a friend who also agrees this is the best any of us has ever tried. Keep in mind it's a little heavier but the multiple levels of both flood and spot and the incredible power of this headlamp is just perfect for everything I do. I still have several Zipkas around, my choice for the tiny option - but they aren't comfortable to wear and don't have nearly as many light levels. I actually like the battery on the back configuration for the balance and comfort. The Zipkas now are mostly used to strap on to something and not something I wear any longer.
DAVID BAKER at Backcountry.com on 03/16/2009
Follow me with your lesser light!
Rating:
I have gone on 3 different backpacking trips with 3 different groups with the Icon & everbody wants one of these now (YES, I SAID EVERYONE, SON)! The Black Diamond Icon Headlamp is the truth, my bro & his girly friend just the other day were way behind us on the trail during a night hike (their lights sucked) & they said they always knew they were close because they could see the damn sun leading them (really it was the Icon) a mile a head of them...it's almost too bright (even on the lowest mode) for reading in the tent etc., but it's great (the best I've used) for night hikes & I use the tiny & light Black Diamond Gizmo Headlamp for reading & as a great backup light! YOU WON'T BE DISSAPOINTED, JUST BE SURE NOT TO SHINE THIS LIGHT IN THE FACES OF YOUR FELLOW HIKERS, THEY WILL BE BLINDED FOR A GOOD 30 SECONDS. :)
Brad Bleak at Backcountry.com on 08/03/2009

Show all positive reviews...


Mode	Functional Burn Time	Distance (with fresh batteries)
		0 hrs.	0.5 hrs.	10 hrs.
High	90 hrs.	23m	20m	15m
Medium	108 hrs.	17m	14m	12m
Low	164 hrs.	12m	11m	11m

	$45.46 24% off Regularly: $59.95
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What a Headache
Rating:
I put an order in for this because everyone said its the best! It was a piece of junk the minute it came out of the box. First off its very bulky and heavy also the lamp has one button that has like five modes good right wrong! you have to access them with half touch then hold for like 5 seconds and so on. It is near impossible to master or even get to each mode! Trust me if you have this on in the dark you will cry! The lamp also broke when I tried to tighten the strap! Went ahead and ordered the recharge but said to say never made it that far. I would never feel good about someone having this on at night you may get injured .
mario sarrica at Backcountry.com on 12/15/2008
Not recommending.
Rating:
I purchased this light in my search for the best headlamp for me to use. I am a locksmith and need a lamp that is bright in close quarters even in the daytime. After using this lamp in three nightly outings to try it out it started to malfunction. It would change settings indiscriminately and ignore button selections. Because I threw the paper work away, I could not return it and ended up dropping it in the burning barrel with the rest of our trash.
ala2474331 at Backcountry.com on 10/17/2008
Not reliable
Rating:
I bought this product with high expectations because I own a great deal of Black Diamond equipment (to include the Spot headlamp which is phenomenal). I used it once. I never dropped it, crushed it, abused--I did nothing to it except use it properly. After one use, the button malfunctioned: it didn't turn the light on or off. In addition, the strap easily comes unattached to the battery pack. That kind of reliability isn't compatible with the nighttime ice climbing I like to do.
Jesse Lind at Backcountry.com on 10/11/2009
Disappointment compare to older BD model
Rating:
Black dimond have slim down their Long duration head lamp, and the quality is not there anymore. I love my old Black dimond head lamps, and I have been using it since 2002 with heavy duty plastic casing 4 AA batteries w/ low bat. flashing warning. I drop it down 50 ft on tarmac, and the new Icon head lamp batteries cover have poor fitting , and it cracked @ 3 months. @ 9months everything that is platic start cracking with light usage.
Night mechanic at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 08/08/2010
first use bumps causes quitting
Rating:
On my first use in Acadia, normal bumping of the light caused it to shut down. Tapping it again and cycling the switch got it working again. I'm just glad I wasn't in a place where I couldn't use my hands when I really needed the light. I'm in the process of contacting Backcountry and Black Diamond. We'll see what happens.
Chris Gruppo at Backcountry.com on 09/13/2009
Not durable!
Rating:
For about a month it works great,then it just stops working.Then I replaced the first one and it stoped working a little over a month later!The battery holder on the back where the straps attach break also.If they made it more durable it would be a good product otherwise!
MIKE TRASLIN at Backcountry.com on 03/17/2009
PROBLEMS
Rating:
Puchased 2 of these they fell apart now my replacements do not work they turn on and suddenly shut off new batteries and still the same problem my other light is a princeton and it works great
sundancepr921463 at Backcountry.com on 03/16/2009

Nice light, but not yet perfected
Rating:
I often use this light for both backpacking and caving. It is great for backpacking, but fails to stretch around my helmet for caving. The coil on the power cord has come loose from the battery pack after only caving once in a mild cave with it. I have only had the light for 2 months:( It would make a great light for light use. It is bright and the battery lasts a long time.
Caver 2 at REI on 05/05/2008
Great once you know how to operate!
Rating:
Great little light. It is a little bulky but well balanced - I guess this would be "to be expected" with the amount of burn time you can get outta this thing. As others have noticed, I noted as well that the settings and different modes were difficult to access and program. Other than that, the performance of this little guy is stellar. just study things out before you take it on a trip.
Shane Baker at Backcountry.com on 03/23/2009
not ideal
Rating:
the Icon has ups and downs: downs: heavy (weight not worth the resource for backpacking); top strap has poor attachment design and can become uncomfortable or unstable. ups: very bright light; excellent for cycling at night; beam throw is about 40 yards at peak output; and uses AA batteries. overall, i wouldn't recommend this lamp, but it functions well.
the andy special at Backcountry.com on 02/10/2010
Good Headlamp, really awful battery case
Rating:
Good headlamp, super bright. good adjustment. TERRIBLE battery compartment. It had to have been designed by idiots. Not even close to water resistant, the screw is a pain, and the batteries are hard to get in. Loading new batteries in a tight situation in the field would be a nightmare.
bryanc at Mountain Gear on 11/11/2008
Adequate
Rating:
I used this lamp for one battery charge before returning it. The light dimmed too much as the batteries aged. The replacement Apex is much nicer. Voltage regulation makes a big difference.
the_bearde1190025 at Backcountry.com on 09/08/2008

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Black Diamond Icon Headlamp Reviews Summary:

Positive Reviews:

Excellent lighting system

This Headlamp is BRIGHT

Blindingly Bright

Excellent Versatility and Comfort

Good bright light

Fit for the job

Light Bright

Like strapping the sun to your face...

I was told this was the best one, I have to agree

Follow me with your lesser light!

Negative Reviews:

What a Headache

Not recommending.

Not reliable

Disappointment compare to older BD model

first use bumps causes quitting

Not durable!

PROBLEMS

Neutral Reviews:

Nice light, but not yet perfected

Great once you know how to operate!

not ideal

Good Headlamp, really awful battery case

Adequate