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Let me introduce you to this little gem, a true multi purpose torch and a must have for hunters and Bushcrafters, being both a hunter and a general outdoors person I can see how useful this little torch is going to be.

First off a little about the Sidewinder and you will see how handy this can be to your hunting, hiking or bushcrafting trips. As you can see the Sidewinder is not your normal looking torch being more of a square shape as opposed to the round shape of a standard torch, which is something I personally liked. A lot of thought has gone into making this torch as it fits so well in the hand with the main switch positioned perfectly.

Streamlight Sidewinder.jpg


The Sidewinder is different but still a fully functional tactical style torch. The main body is made from a super strong high-impact nylon which offers exceptional durability and full weather resistance. (drop-test verified from 30 feet.) It features an unbreakable polycarbonate lens with scratch-resistant coating, this is sealed with a gasket to keep everything waterproof. The Sidewinder features an 185˚ tilting head so it can be used as a straight through torch or you can angle the head in a position that suits you.

sidewinder-angled.jpg
sidewinder-straight.jpg


The Sidewinder features a main white C4 LED bulb with red, green and blue side lights which are great for when you want to preserve your night vision. The coloured LEDs will allow you to load magazines, read maps or view a compass while in the field, they are not gimmicks and are very useful lights. They give off a good beam and the blue and green are great for seeing through fog and rain. Each of the 4 LEDs has 4 brightness settings, enabling you to set the light output to the task at hand.

sidewinder-red.jpg
sidewinder-green.jpg
sidewinder-blue.jpg


The Multi function switch is one of the best I have come across on a torch, very easy to operate and has a quality feel. To change between the main light and the coloured LED lights you simply pull the outer ring of the switch out and turn it to one of the 4 positions for the desired light you require, once locked back in place there is no fear of it altering your desired settings. The main on/off switch is located in the centre of the outer ring and has a positive feel to it and is big enough to operate with gloves or cold hands. To dim the light in any mode you simply hold the on/off switch down. It also features a strobe setting which is activated with 2 fast clicks of the main on/off switch.

The Sidewinder takes 2 x AA batteries (inc) which are cheap and easy to find almost anywhere these days. One feature I liked is the batteries can be changed by feel alone, tactile battery polarity indication on the body allows battery replacement in the dark. The tailcap is secured with a heavy duty metal thumb screw which sits flat in the base, allowing the torch to tail-stand even with the head is at 90°. The battery compartment cap is tethered by strong flexible wire to prevent the loss of the cap in the field.

sidewinder-battery1.jpg
sidewinder-battery2.jpg


The Sidewinder has a very sturdy wide steel belt clip so it can be attached to a belt but also clothing or webbing for total handsfree use or even attached to your backpack or hat. An elastic headband is also available as an extra so it can be used as a headtorch. The belt clip can be fitted to each side of the light for right or left handed use. As I mentioned before, a lot of research and thought has gone into this superb light.

sidewinder-beltclip.jpg


A few Specifications:

Main beam provides 55 lumens
1 metre water resistant
Size: L x W x D: 2.34" x 1.08" x 4.65" (5.94 x 2.74 x 11.81 cm)
Weight: Lithium – 4.38 oz (124 g); Alkaline – 5.02 oz (142 g)
Colours Available: Coyote Brown or OD Green.

Estimated usage time with 2 x AA batteries (results will vary depending on battery type)

White (main LED)
High - 5.5 hours
Medium 2 - 11 hours
Medium 1 - 45 hours
Low - 100+ hours

Green & Blue LEDs
High - 16 hours
Medium 2 - 35 hours
Medium 1 - 100 hours
Low - 150+ hours

Red LED
High - 24 hours
Medium 2 - 60 hours
Medium 1 - 140 hours
Low - 200+ hours

I was going to make a Pros and Cons list on this torch but I could not find anything I disliked about the sidewinder, from re-loading to skinning, to making a brew, reading a map or compass or even walking the dog this little beauty does it all in style and will be at home in any bugout bag , hunting bag, pocket or even in your glove box.

Overall this is a superb torch that the bushcrafter or hunter will find very useful while out in the great outdoors. I know you will be as impressed as I am and will be adding one to your wanted list.

Full details and more pictures can be found on Streamlights website: Streamlight Tactical & Safety Rated Flashlights & Headlamps
Author
Gazo
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