Best headlamp I have ever owned. I use this lamp with the rechargeable battery kit and it lasts longer and shines brighter than any headlamp I have owned in the past. With freshly charged batteries and when put on the brightest setting this light is brighter than my car headlights which might not be saying too much but it is one bright light. It is also perfect for night rides and can be rigged onto a bike helmet with some imagination. Check it out i'm sure you won't be disappointed.

This head lamp is so bright you can see the future, and burn holes in brick walls.... Seriously though..I used and abused one of these for several months in South America and it's still ticking....even got it super soaked in a rainstorm and it managed to survive...a solid design....and potentially a life saver!!! Woohoo!!

This light is the bomb for night running, it lights up the trail like a freight train. Not to mention it'll last all night. Many powerful lights don't work all night. No cords, just on you're head and if used with Lithium batteries, it lasts even longer and is lighter. You barely feel it on you're head

This is the best light I have tried so far. It is hard to turn on in your pack or pocket due to the membrane recess button. It has a combination of seven setting, 3 bright and 3 LED, 1 blinking led. The straps are adjustable over the top and around the head. The pig tail power cord works well and the light mount has an up and down adjustment. I wear glasses and there is no behind the glasses glare. It is an older model and deals can be had right now, don't delay. I am a light collector of sorts and this is my best hiking and utility light for head mount application.

When you aren't concerned about weight, this thing can really light-up the night. You get great burn time with the side LED bulbs and the center bulb is crazy bright. I've used it in pouring rain and it seals worked well. This headlamp is borderline overkill for most situations, but it's pretty awesome when you need it.

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.

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.

This light is awesome! It works wonders when used in pitch black camp grounds and all my camping mates are jealous of it's brightness. It has also taken quite a beating from the Pacific NW in the rain and cold to the deadly humid FL summer. I haven't had to change the batteries yet.

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!

Forget reading, cooking, splitting wood--this headlamp is made for skiing, snowboarding, biking, perhaps even hang-gliding or automobile-driving in the dark. Within a month of my having purchased this light, my entire ski-touring posse had purchased Icons out of jealousy. Friggin' awesome headlamp for power--bring a Zipka or a Tikka for time around camp.

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.

I bought this headlamp for the 3Watt LED, but when I recieved the light, I quickly realized this is more than just a headlamp for projecting a long distance beam. The 4 "super bright" LEDs will light up your entire work area whether it be a campsite or working on your car in the garage. I purchased the headlamp to use when I go duck hunting. I needed a spot light that allowed me to keep my hands free. It has been great. Being an ultra light backpacker so I was a little conserned that the headlamp might be too heavy for backpacking. I really like the red, yellow, and green LED battery meter on the side. I have also purchased the rechargable kit. I have used this light for everything from hiking at night to oporating a boat to doing projects in the garage. I do not endorse many products, but this gets a big thumbs up.

I purchased with the rechargeable kit.
both excellent products.
6 days Kayaking in the Everglades, the
product performed flawlessly, and w/o
needing a recharge.

Now that I have had it a while, I thought I'd write a new review. It has held up great. It is the best headlamp I have ever used! I would give it 5 stars except for one minor defect. The batteries in the battery pack shake loose rather easily so that the light does not work. You have to open it back up to re-attach the batteries. I had to place a layer of foam between the batteries and the back of the battery pack which holds them in nicely now. Other than this, it is an awesome headlamp.

THIS IS A GOOD LIGHT FOR GENERAL USE AND THE SPOT LIGHT OPTION IS GREAT FOR LOOKING FAR AHEAD. GOOD FOR SPOTTING ANIMALS IN THE DARK.

I was skeptical but after reviewing many other lights and spending too many hours debating on my top 4 lights I figured the price and high ratings made this choice obvious. After owning this light and using it on a trip from Canada to Mexico along the Great Divide, I can safely say this light is durable (I beat the crap out of this thing), comfortable (usually forgot I had it on), bright as can be (brighter than anyone else's headlamp on the trail) and long lasting. Highly recommended. Don't let your friends tell you the LED high beam wont be bright enough - it's bright! Disclaimer - First Headlamp.

I've used this light on a few caving trips and it worked great. The four LED's are great for small crawlways and chimneys and the 3-watt LED in the center works well for larger chambers and viewing things from a distance. Also the three different brightness levels are a real battery saver.

I've had another old model Black Diamond headlamp in the past and even though it was tiny, I liked it alot. So, when I needed a more powerful light for a variety of uses, I chose this one after a fair amount of searching. It's quite nice. It is a bit heavy but from what I've seen, all lights of this variety are heavy. It's exactly why they provide you with the "top-of-the-head" strap. If you have a need for a light that lasts a long time and has a lot of adjustments in light and positioning, get this one.

This headlamp totally rocks... I find myself doing all kinds of activites outside in the dark now, since I can see with this light! The spot and spread modes are great, and each mode has a different brightness setting as well as a flashing mode. battery life is also very good, even when used in very cold conditions. My favorite headlamp out there by a long shot.

Although 6.6 oz seems like a lot of head weight, the performance outweighs any concerns there. The settings are easy to switch through and offer very diverse usage. I use the center "SuperBright" for biking (It does fit under a helmet with some loosening and tweaking) and the low-light setting on the 3-Watt LEDs to read or rummage through my pack at 11 p.m. for your poker deck. The flashing green-to-yellow-to-red battery meter is awesome so you don't leave home with drained batteries installed. And it uses AAs so you don't have to dig through the secretary looking for the reclusive AAAs (which most heaslamps use).

My wife and I started at the North Kaibob Trail at sunup and hiked down to the Phantom Ranch, had a beer or two and up we came on the Bright Angel Trail. It took us some 12.5 Hrs and this photo shows just a mile or so short of the top after sunset. This headlamp is not only quite bright, but feels very light.

I got this as a gift (my Petzl myo-belt broke) and I will say that it does provide more light that the petzl did. I use it for trail running mostly on a hilly fire road that is in rather poor shape, so I worry about a ankle roll. I have had no problem with seeing the trail, no rolled ankles. It does lose intensity pretty fast so I am glad I have the rechargable battery pack, I recharge after every other run. The "half click" to adjust the light is somewhat tricky, but I always leave it on full so not a problem for me. I only wish that it had the option of being able to keep the battery pack in your jacket to help keep it warm (a big plus of the petzl myo-belt). All in all, even though the power fades somewhat fast it is a solid unit.

I'm an ultrarunner who needs a good headlamp during the night portion of endurance runs. This is easily the best headlamp I've used for that purpose. The beam is strong and focused and perfect for lighting up the trail. The 3 batteries are a little weighty but the straps and adjustments make it comfortable enough.

Fantastic headlamp! I used this in the San Diego 100 mile endurance run and ran through the night with it. Hey, if it's good enough for the Speedgoat (Karl Meltzer) it's good enough for me....and it was. Performed flawlessly, didn't even feel it on my noggin and it lit up the trail like the sun at night. Beautiful. I switched between the spotlight of the 3 watt LED and the 4 super brights and also played around with the brightness. Ran into all kinds of trail and all kinds of conditions. It lit up the nocturnal toads that were on this run, which was quite amazing. I can't recommend this enough!

My use with the Icon is limited, but so far I'm really digging it. Upon turning it on, I was immediately surprised by how broad the headlamp projects light. Rarely did I need to use the super bright setting, but it's comforting knowing that it's there. Some might consider three light settings as overkill, but honestly, it's been super functional and I can't imagine hiking without it. I really doubt Black Diamond can improve on such a valuable tool that should be a part of everyone's gear closet.

I have a drawer of headlamps (mostly little petzls and others) but it wasn't until I got a pair of the Icons that I actually developed a favorite. Now I rarely ever use anything but this light. I quickly get used to the feel when it's on my head (I thought it'd feel heavy, but it really doesn't) and the light is excellent. I highly recommend getting the rechargeable battery kit -- it really makes this an excellent headlamp. Plus, the lime green is sick in a really good way!

If are wondering if this headlamp might not be enough for night climbing, night hiking, and any other use you can think of, don't think that way. By far this is the best headlamp i personally have ever used. The battery life is astonishing, i have had mine for a little over a month and the battery life indicator is still showing full power. It eliminates having to have and hand held flashlight, and the face that in each mode you can have bright, medium, and low powers great for in the tent not to bright. extremely durable, and never turns on in my pack. Did i mention night climbing, every hand and foot hold is visible.
so over all the quality and performance of this product is better then expected.
Recommended for all.

This is my first headlamp. I purchased it for camping/canoing. Hands-free lighting on a camping trip is extremely convenient and this lamp serves that purpose great. The 4.5 watt LED's on the lowest setting make it easy to sneak into a tent without waking other occupants and the highest setting on the 3 watt spot is as bright or brighter than any flashlight I've ever owned. It is a bit heavy but the center (removable) top strap keeps it securely on your head if you opt to leave it attached. The battery power indicator is a nice plus but I've yet to have to replace the batteries- but then again, I'm using Sanyo oneloop rechargeable batteries. Because of its weight, I wouldn't purchase this lamp for a child, but highly recommend it for anyone willing to compromise a little extra weight for a lot of extra light.

This lamp puts out light, tons of it, for a long time. I use this lamp for everything from search and rescue to riding my bike to and from campus. It is a little heavy but the extra weight is due to extra functionality. The multiple dimness levels and dual light sources make this a winner.

Excellent features and not as bulky as I thought. For most applications, this light is overkill. However, if you are looking for a head system and you want A LOT of light with versatility, look no further. I own other Black Diamond products and use them weekly for my business, they have lasted for years. Excellent use of materials and fairly compact design.

This thing is awesome. Fits really well do to top of the head strap. You can wear it comfortably and right, without it being super tight on your head. It has very bright lighting and a strobe light mode. This is a must have.

I used this up on Mount Shasta at 3am and it was excellent. The 7 different modes are handy and it seems sturdy enough. I'm not sure why that one reviewer down at the bottom had such a hard time with the different modes but it's simple enough and you do not have to hold it down for 5 seconds. I should mention though that this is my first headlamp. So far, I love it.

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.

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.

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

I've been using this headlamp for over a month with the original batteries. The ability to easily change between the 3-watt and superbright LED with 3 brightness levels for each makes it very versatile. Fits comfortably with the center head strap.

outstanding product! i have used it camping, hiking, night kayaking and even working on the car.

I have had quite a number of headlamps over the years . When you you have an early alpine start and sometimes a late , late finish you need a really good lamp that will show you the way on the trail . This Icon headlamp from B.D. is just the ticket ! It is not too heavy and shines like a car headlight ! It has multiple settings , you can check out your guide book the night before , cook breakfast in the dark and find your way out on the mountain in the dawns early light !
It comes in two cool colours , and with Black Diamond quality and a Backcountry warranty you can not go wrong !
Altogether a good piece of kit .

Simon Bentley ,
Joshua Tree , Ca .

This headlamp is amazing. I am no usually a fan of the headlamps with an external battery pack but the power on this one more than makes up for it. Also surprisingly waterproof. great headlamp, i highly suggest it.

Got it and use it hiking in Norway. A bright light and batteries last a good while. Highly recommend this product.

Marty in Norway

I first bought this light after researching a lot for the best bang for the buck light. It came down between this one and the petzl myo xp. I decided on this one mainly because it is brighter although the myo probably is made of more durable material. I think I made the right choice in getting this one as it doesn't seem too delicate. I even lost my first one and decided to buy the exact same one!

I've used many headlamps over the years, but I must say this unit is quite remarkable. Adjustability is excellent for most all conditions, while maintaining decent battery life. Haven't put it through my torture tests yet, but hope it will do well. Would like the manufacturer to apply an atmospheric pressure warranty or design it for fully submersible use... this light is so good I'd use it (if waterproofed) for my cave dive expos. Awesome unit for the price. If you're a daily grinder, U can't beat it!

My main reason for buying this headlamp was to replace the old crappy one I had been using for caving. The many different settings were wonderful! The headlamp offered many battery saving options with the different light settings and I tested out all of them. I was concerned about the weight of the three batteries, but after using the lamp, I've found that I don't notice the batteries. I've also used it for some night bouldering and it's worked great! I would suggest this headlamp to anyone wanting to purchase a good quality light.

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.

Plenty of light. It's a little bulky but comfortable to wear.

Went underground in Colorado with this lamp and it was excellent, easy to function.

This headlamp was quite beefy. I'm not sure if I blinded people when I was wearing it because I was on the other side of the light obviously, but this was definitely the brightest light I have ever used. Not the best for the ounce cutting adventures, or a casual outdoor party but it is 2nd to none for everything else.

This headlamp has replaced all my flashlights around the house. It's cheaper to buy batteries because you rarely ever have to change them. The light is amazingly bright around the house--but more importantly--the trail.

This headlamp in my opinion is Black Diamonds best + amongst the the top contenders up there with those headlamps that cost some mega $$$. Seriously though, I love it.

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. :)

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.

...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.

I think it is quite obvious this is the best headlamp available. The only thing I had trouble with was figuring out how to switch modes with the "half press". I don't think this headlight has any competition right now however, so we will need 6 stars when the better one comes out.

It would be ideal to eventually be able to control the type of color of light between blue and red.

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 .

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.