Petzl Actik Core Headlamp Review
The PETZL ACTIK CORE is a rechargeable, compact, and multi-beam headlamp with red lighting. It is designed for outdoor activities. Petzl Actik Core headlamp offers a power of 450 lumens, making it ideal for dynamic outdoor activities such as mountaineering, running, trekking, and camping. I have consistently relied on the PETZL ACTIK CORE during numerous nighttime runs through forests and parks
The red lighting preserves night vision and avoids dazzling during group movements. The reflective headband also makes it easy to see at night. It comes with CORE rechargeable battery. Thanks to the HYBRID CONCEPT construction, it is also compatible with three AAA/LR03 batteries (not included). With available fixings as accessories, the headlamp can be easily installed on various types of helmets or bicycles.
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp Review
Main Features:
- Output: 450 lumens (ANSI/PLATO FL 1)
- Weight: 75g
- Type of beams: wide or mixed
- Power supply: CORE 1250 mAh rechargeable battery (included)
- Charging time: 3 hours
- Battery compatibility: alkaline, lithium or rechargeable Ni-MH
- Certification(s): CE
- Waterproof: IPX4 (weatherproof)
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Light, Compact and Powerful Headlamp
This is the perfect blend of lightness, compactness, and power. With only 75 grams of weight, this headlamp packs a punch with its 450 lumens of illumination. Two types of beams (wide and mixed) and several levels of white lighting meet the needs of high-performance lighting for dynamic outdoor activities. Whether you need focused illumination for near or distant vision or require swift movement lighting, the PETZL ACTIK CORE has you covered.
It features red lighting, designed to preserve your night vision and prevent dazzle during group movements. The thoughtful inclusion of a reflective headband ensures visibility at night.
Refillable and Easy to Use
- The CORE battery is rechargeable via a micro USB socket.
- HYBRID CONCEPT construction: comes with the CORE rechargeable battery and is compatible with three AAA batteries.
- Single button to easily and quickly select the level or color of lighting.
- Removable and washable headband.
- LOCK function to prevent accidental ignition during transport/storage.
The Field Test
The tests were carried out during autumn hikes with late returns to the car and during a weekend in a refuge in Arizona. It has 3 white lighting modes. The mode selection is done by simply pressing the main button located on the top of the front. The change is very easy when the headlamp is screwed on the head, even with gloves because the button is large enough. This is really appreciated!
The first lighting mode of the PETZL ACTIK CORE, with a power of 6 lumens, boasts an impressive runtime of 130 hours. This extended duration makes it particularly well-suited for scenarios such as the campsite and provides ample illumination for activities like setting up a tent or navigating within an 8-meter range. Additionally, the low-intensity mode proves advantageous for “cool” progressions.
With the 2 other modes (100 and above all 450 lumens), we immediately understand the classification in “active” frontals. The lighting is really impressive in maximum power at 450 lumens and allows a very precise and distant vision, not far from 100 meters. In terms of performance, it’s all good with multi-beam vision. It is a perfect headlamp in dynamic mode, making it a good choice for night hiking, climbing, and mountaineering.
As on most headlamps, you also have a “red” mode which is particularly valuable in the early morning in a refuge when you leave for your alpine race.
The ACTIK® CORE is not the lightest in the PETZL range, but its weight remains clearly reasonable with its 75 grams when weighed, especially for this type of performance! However, if you are looking for ultralight, it is best to go for the PETZL BINDI.
One of the undeniable advantages of the Petzl Actik Core lies in its hybrid construction at the power supply level. You have the choice of using the rechargeable battery or the three AAA / LR03 type batteries. Lovers of trips to the other side of the planet will appreciate it because it is not always easy to recharge your headlamp in isolated places. 3 batteries in the bottom of the bag and to hell with the hassle!
The Petzl Actik Core is versatile. I also use it on a bike with its flashing red mode (announced visible at 700 m and with a battery life of nearly 400 hours). And yes, a frontal is used to see but also to be seen!!!
Final Thoughts
Despite its simplicity with just one button and four light settings, the PETZL ACTIK CORE is a reliable and versatile headlamp, even in the context of today’s advanced standards. Its straightforward design makes it user-friendly, which ensures ease of operation in various situations. The durability of the equipment further reinforces its suitability for a wide range of applications. The battery also lasts a long time.
