Fenix HM65R Headlamp Review: Hands-Free Lighting for Extremes

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The Lowdown

The Fenix HM65R headlamp is a perfect solution for any need where lighting and two free hands are a must. The band is easily adjusted and comfortable, and the headlamp is lightweight. The all-metal magnesium housing is rugged and wearable in the outdoors. Plenty of lighting options make this perfect for any situation; I have found a lot of use out of it this summer.

Overall
5

Pros

  • Lightweight and rugged headlamp
  • Super bright with four different settings
  • Headband is comfortable and easily adjustable

Cons

  • I would love to have an option for either green or red light modes
Fenix HM65R Headlamp Review: Hands-Free Lighting for Extremes Listen to this article

There are many times I find myself needing to see in dark conditions. Working on my Jeep and golf cart, hunting, fishing, or smoking meats in the dark. It seems to happen a lot, and having two free hands is always a must. The cure for that is a headlamp, and I recently got to check out the Fenix HM65R headlamp.

The Fenix HM65R headlamp is a dual light source magnesium headlamp that boasts 1400 max lumens. The light is made to survive the elements with an IP68 waterproof rating, IP6X dustproof rating, and 2 meters of impact resistance. The adjustable headband is comfortable and fits in any situation, such as wearing a hat. I like how the front has a rubber texture to hold the light in place.

Fenix HM65R Headlamp

The primary power option is a 18650 battery and can also use two CR123A batteries. Charging is accomplished via USB type-C, which is fantastic. With four settings controlled via the dual buttons, the light works from 50 Lumens up to 1000.

Fenix HM65R Headlamp

One thing I love about the Fenix HM65R is its weight; at 3.42 ounces, this is one of the lightest I have used. The magnesium body is both lightweight as well as rugged.

Fenix HM65R Headlamp

Fenix HM65R headlamp spotlight outputs include:

  • Turbo: 1000 Lumens/2 hours/534 Feet
  • High: 400 Lumens/22 hours/331 Feet
  • Med: 130 Lumens/42 hours/187 Feet
  • Low: 8 Lumens/300 Hours/19.6 Feet

Having four light settings is really handy. I have found myself using it on the lowest setting usable to make sure the batteries last longer.

The light is comfortable and gave no issues as I laid for a long time under my Jeep. Once the band is adjusted, it feels as if you are not wearing anything on your head. If I could add any features to it at all, it would be adding the option for either green or red light modes.

Fenix HM65R Headlamp

The Fenix HM65R headlamp is a perfect solution for any need where lighting and two free hands are a must.

The band is easily adjusted and comfortable, and the headlamp is lightweight. The all-metal magnesium housing is rugged and wearable in the outdoors. Plenty of lighting options make this perfect for any situation; I have found a lot of use out of it this summer.

The Fenix HM65R headlamp retails for $94.95; it is available directly from the manufacturer.

Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample

What I Like: Lightweight and rugged headlamp; Super bright with four different settings; Headband is comfortable and easily adjustable

What Needs Improvement: I would love to have an option for either green or red light modes

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About the Author

Travis Ehrlich
Travis is a high school teacher and coach in a small South Texas town. His love for gadgets began at a very early age, and he has been a cross between a jock and a geek for most of his life. He has two boys and a wonderful wife who lets him be a gadget freak. He is a Mac convert and has drank the whole pitcher of Kool-Aid! He is also an avid guitar player and loves the outdoors, especially hunting with both a bow and rifle.