GOODS & GEAR P ELI 9050 UTILITY LIGHT

There are a few things in life that I would consider more than enough for my needs - an Aston Martin DBX 707 is lovely vehicle, but I don’t need 700bhp. A Hasselblad H6D-100c at £31K is an exceptional camera, but many images in this mag have been taken just using my iPhone, so it could also be argued that Peli’s 9050 LED flashlight is also a bit over the top for the likes of me, and I’m not just referring to the considerable price tag.

Why?

For starters it has multiple modes to meet all your lighting needs - spot, flood and a combination spot / flood for maximum lighting, or flashing modes. Depending on which mode you choose it can reach up to 489 metres away.

My go-to mode is the combination, not only does it illuminate everything in the distance, but it shines vertically downward meaning I can see exactly where I’m walking. On high spot / flood it has an output of 3369 lumens, which is bonkers! The only problem with this much power is that the light is blindingly bright, thankfully, with a quick press of the on/off button, whichever mode you are in you are able to dim the beam - a really clever touch.

Speaking of the large push button on/off switch, it also doubles as a battery status indicator, so you always know when to charge it or replace the batteries. That’s right, the 9050 also has a flexible battery system that can run on Li-ion battery packs, AA Alkaline or AA NiMH cells.

The rechargeable battery will last anywhere between nearly 3 to 13½ hours, depending on which mode you choose, and the redesigned charger base makes mounting and dismounting the utility light quick and easy.

The 9050 also has two rear taillight LEDs that are changeable (choose from red, blue or green) which make you visible from behind. As well as having a wide base for stability, you can also stand it on its end and utilise its 112.5º articulating head. With all this tech and power you would imagine it to be a huge thing, but the 9050 is only 22cm in length and weights just 1.35kg.

If all that is not enough, it’s IP67 rated, too, and approved to NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) 1901 standards. Peli also guarantee their torches, headlamps and cases for a lifetime against breakage or defects in workmanship which in itself makes it worthy of the price.

This is an exceptional piece of kit, and although there are cheaper totrches out in the world, if you buy on price alone you may discover that Benjamin Franklin’s quote stands "The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of a low price is forgotten" Don't end up bitter, buy one price: £395.27 (£474.32 inc VAT) more at » peliproducts.co.uk