If you frequently go hunting at night, a durable headlamp is the most important thing you need in your hunting gear. If you don’t have a hunting headlamp, it’s ok! Our review of the best headlamps for hunting will help you choose the one you’ll need.
Hunting headlamps come in various types and differ from each other due to several specifications. Luckily, we have covered all kinds of hunting headlamps in this review. Our buying guide at the end of the article will also help if you’re buying one for the first time.
With our review, you can rest assured that your money will be invested in the right place!
Now, let’s check the best headlamps for hunting!
Best Headlamps for Hunting
SLONIK 1000 Lumen Rechargeable CREE LED Headlamp
The SLONIK 1000 lumen headlamp is regarded as one of the best LED headlamps for hunting. With so many unique and exceptional features, this headlamp is the only thing you need to add to your hunting gear.
This 1000-lumen headlamp can easily let you see beyond 600 feet in the dark. In this way, the SLONIK 1000 lumen LED headlamp is the best choice for hunting at night. The quality of light emitted by the headlamp is also fantastic.
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This headlamp includes white light with five different modes of brightness. Thus, it offers the flexibility of customizing the light mode according to your preference.
The ability to charge the battery anywhere makes it a highly versatile headlamp. The battery may drain quickly in the high mode. So, you can connect it with the USB charger and recharge the battery no matter where you are!
This feature makes it a portable headlamp if you go for a hunt for several days. The IPX8 waterproof technology makes it perfect for rainy days. You can even go swimming with this headlamp. The waterproof technology will not let any water get into the headlamp.
When it comes to size and fit, the SLONIK LED headlamp comes with an adjustable nylon headband. Nylon is an excellent material and does not cause any irritation while wearing the headlamp.
Thus, the SLONIK LED headlamp comes with all the features you would need in a portable and budget-friendly headlamp for hunting.
Specific Features:
- 2200MAH battery
- Weighs only 4.19 oz
- 2-hour charging time
- Five different modes
- High distance visibility of 600 feet
OV LED 802100 Broadbeam LED Headlamp
The OV LED Broadbeam headlamp comes with a unique mechanism, which makes it one of the best-rated headlamps for hunting. Unlike many other headlamps, this one comes with an LED strip attacked on the headband.
The strip has 20 LED lights with 300 lumens output. Thus, it is ideal for hunting at night. While other headlamps have a single bulb at the center, this headlamp comes with LED lights scattered all around.
The scattered LED lights provide 210-degree of illumination, making it easy to perceive in all directions. In this way, you will easily get notice of any predator trying to attack you while hunting.
The headband of this OV Broadbeam headlamp is also stretchable. You can adjust it on your head or the cap. It will fit all head sizes with its stretching capability.
This headlamp also comes with a single button, making it super easy to use. You can switch between the three power modes by pressing the button.
We also like the lightweight design of the OV LED Broadbeam headlamp. As you hunt for hours, you won’t feel pressure on your head. The highly functional batteries also make your hunt a lot more convenient with their longer life.
You don’t need to recharge the 3 AAA-powered batteries. You can keep some with you while going for a hunt, and insert the new ones as soon as the installed ones die. In this way, your hunting experience will be better as you won’t have to wait for the headlamp to charge.
Specific Features:
- Lightweight
- 20 LEDs on the strip
- 300 lumens output
- 210-degree of illumination
- 3 power settings
PETZL – TACTIKKA+ RGB Headlamp
The TACTIKKA + RGB headlamp is regarded as the best PETZL headlamp for hunting. It comes with different options, which make it perfect for hunting all kinds of animals.
The best thing about this headlamp is the light of different colors. Yes, you heard it right! The TACTIKKA + RGB headlamps include red, green, blue, and white light.
What’s the need of buying separate headlamps with different lights when you can get all colors in one? So, make sure you end up with a successful deer hunting experience with this portable headlamp.
Besides the different light colors, this headlamp also comes with 3 different light modes. Thus, you can adjust the amount of light you need by pressing the single button on the headlamp.
The 250 lumens of this headlamp are ideal for hunting at night. However, we think this intensity is good for hunting at shorter distances. If your target is much far away, it might not be much suitable.
We like the adjustable headband and the overall sleek design of the TACTIKKA + RGB headlamp. The headband is elastic and also comes with an easy-to-open buckle. It will provide a better fit and won’t let the headlamp slip down as you hunt.
The using time of this headlamp is exceptional. You can use it for almost 260 hours without the battery dying! This time is much more compared to other headlamps in the market. So, if you plan to hunt for a week or so, the TACKTIKKA + RGB is the best headlamp to take with you!
Specific Features:
- Run time of 260 hours.
- 250 lumens of lighting
- Different light modes
- 3 light settings
- One-button system
Energizer LED Headlamp
The Energizer LED headlamp is a portable and easy-to-use headlamp packed with amazing features. Although it may not be the best and most powerful one, it is an excellent value for the money.
In the high mode, the Energizer LED headlamp delivers a light beam of 360 lumens, which allows you to see as far as 85 meters in the dark. Although the range seems less than the other headlamps in the market, it is ideal for night hunting. You will see the whole forest without any issue.
The 50 hours run time of the Energizer LED headlamp is perhaps its most impressive feature. If you plan to hunt for weeks, this headlamp is the best thing to add to your hunting gear! As the headlamp runs on 3 AAA batteries, you can keep some extra batteries with you in case you run out of charge.
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The Energizer LED headlamp also comes with a green and red light mode, making it the best headlamp for deer hunting. Thus, you can enjoy different colors of light while hunting!
Unlike many other headlamps, this one comes with 7 light modes. Thus, you have the flexibility of choosing several modes according to your preference. The IPX4 water-resistance capability allows it to prevent water from damaging the headlamp, regardless of the water’s direction.
The adjustable headband and shatterproof lens are also amazing features of the Energizer LED headlamp. It isn’t fragile like other inexpensive headlamps in the market. The company tests its durability and makes sure you get the perfect headlamp to make your hunt successful!
Specific Features:
- IPX4 water-resistance
- 360 lumens light beam
- 7 light modes
- 50 hours run time on low mode
- 85 meters visibility
Black Diamond Spot Headlamp
If you are looking for some durable hunting headlamps, the Black Diamond Spot headlamp will be your ultimate choice! Equipped with 300 lumens of bright LED lights, this hunting headlamp will make every hunt successful.
It allows you to see at a distance of 80 m at night. Although the brightness seems less, it is enough for hunting at night.
We also like the Brightness Memory feature, which allows you to control the brightness easily. While the headlamp has several light modes, you can easily switch between different modes and also turn the headlamp on or off in one mode. You don’t have to keep switching the modes to turn the headlamp on or off. This sounds like a super nice feature!
The red night vision mode also makes it the best Black Diamond headlamp for deer hunting!
The PowerTap technology is another useful feature in the Black Diamond Spot headlamp. It allows you to quickly change between different modes. Thus, it is of great use if you don’t have enough time and your target is right in front of you!
Besides, this headlamp comes with an exceptional IPX8 waterproof feature. It means that the headlamp can resist water splashes from all directions, making it ideal to use in every weather. The 175 hours burin time at low light also makes it ideal if you’re camping for several days.
Even if the headlamp runs out of battery, some extra batteries in your hunting gear will fit it easily so that you can resume your hunt!
Specific Features:
- DoublePower LED with 300 lumens
- 175 hours burn time (low)
- Innovative PowerTap technology
- IPX8 waterproof
- Red night-vision mode
Browning Nitro Headlamp Mossy Oak Break Up
The Browning Nitro headlamp is a handy choice if you are looking for an affordable headlamp with nice and elegant features. The mossy oak design on the headlamp makes you indulged in the woods so that you don’t miss your target the next time!
Besides, it has 135 lumens of LED light, which makes it a nice choice for hunting. However, it may not be the brightest headlamp in the market. Still, it can fulfill your requirement of a strong light while hunting at night.
We like the several light modes in this portable headlamp. Besides the white and green light, the red light makes it the best red headlamp for hunting deer. The different light colors make it useful for hunting all kinds of animals. So, why would you need different lights when you have all colors of light in one portable headlamp?
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The lithium-ion batteries of the Browning Nitro hunting headlamp make it a long-lasting one. These batteries increase the performance and the battery lasts for several hours. The battery is also durable enough. So, you don’t always need an extra pair of batteries with you!
While being lightweight, this headlamp also comes with an adjustable strap to make you comfortable while hunting for long hours! The different light modes make it convenient for every occasion.
Specific Features:
- Lithium-ion battery
- 135 lumens of the light beam
- Thick head strap
- Lightweight design
Nitecore HC60 1000 Lumen USB Rechargeable LED Headlamp
The Nitecore HC60 LED headlamp is regarded as the best rechargeable headlamp for hunting. While equipped with a maximum output of 1000 lumens, this headlamp will make every sight clear while you go hunting.
The LED light beam can view an area as far as 128 yards (117 m), making you view every single detail of the area in which you’re hunting. This visibility is ideal for people who frequently hunt at night and want some extra brightness to view their target.
Although the Nitecore HC60 headlamp comes with a rechargeable battery, it also has a USB cable. So, you can charge it at your convenience while hunting. However, it only has a run time of one hour in the brightest mode (1000 lumens). But, at lower modes, you can expect it to work perfectly for about 680 hours!
Unlike other headlamps in the market, this one comes with five different while light modes. In this way, it offers the flexibility of adjusting the brightness according to your preference while hunting.
However, the Nitecore HC60 headlamp includes only white light. It is also ideal to use in cold weather due to its exceptional visibility in the fog.
The coverage of this LED headlamp is another impressive feature. While offering a 100-degree wide beam, you can rotate it to 90-degree in the vertical direction too. This feature saves a lot of hunters from tilting their heads all the time to see during the night.
Specific Features:
- 1000 lumens maximum output
- 128 yards (117 m) visibility
- Five brightness modes
- IPX7 water-resistance
- Rechargeable battery and USB cable included
Coast – 30325 XPH30R 1000 Lumen Rechargeable Dual Power LED Headlamp
If you want a budget-friendly headlamp packed with some unique features, the Coast – 30325 XPH30R LED headlamp will be your choice.
While equipped with dual power, this rechargeable headlamp makes its way to the best headlamp for the money. The 1000 lumens of the light beam will make you see across the woods and hunt your target like a professional hunter! You can view your target as far as 165 meters with this headlamp on your head!
We like the multiple uses of this headlamp. It also detaches from the headband so that you can use it as a flashlight. Who would need a separate flashlight then?
Besides, the built-in magnetic base is another exceptional feature most hunters find useful. While you are using it as a flashlight, you can attach it to any metallic surface instead of placing it on the ground. The magnet is strong enough to hold it in place.
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The rechargeable batteries also have an excellent run time to make your hunt convenient. The 7.75 run time on turbo mode (1000 lumens) is much higher than many other headlamps in the market. At the lowest mode, it can run for up to 41 hours.
So, your hunting nights will be much convenient with this headlamp.
While equipped with so many unique features, how can we leave behind the water resistance? This headlamp also comes with IPX4 water-resistance technology, allowing it to resist water splashes from any direction. Thus, it is safe to use in the rain. The durable and robust body will not let water damage the headlamp.
Specific Features:
- 1000 lumens maximum output
- Detachable headlamp
- IPX4 water-resistance
- 165 meters visibility
- Rechargeable battery
Streamlight ProTac HL USB Headlamp 61307
The Streamlight ProTac HL headlamp is another portable headlamp packed with amazing features in our list! Its overall aluminum construction makes it solid and durable. Whether you fall while hunting a deer or your head hits several tree branches, this headlamp won’t even face a scratch!
We also like the green and red lens, which makes it the best headlamp for night hunting. As many hunting animals cannot perceive the green and red light, you can easily target them and end up with a successful hunt!
Besides, the 1000 lumens output allows a widespread light beam, which scatters and allows you to see as far as 232 meters. As it comes with the latest LED technologies, we can expect an extra-bright beam of light while hunting. So, we can say that even a single tree branch won’t go unnoticed with the Streamlight ProTac HL headlamp.
The different brightness modes and longer run-time are also impressive features. You can select between 3 different modes, according to your preference. In the brightest mode, the headlamp can run efficiently for 1.5 hours. Although this time is less, the USB charge port will recharge it quickly.
The IPX4 water-resistance technology makes it suitable to use in the rain. Also, it has a 90-degree tilting capability. So, say goodbye to your neck fatigues!
Specific Features:
- IPX4 water-resistance
- 1000 lumens maximum output
- 232 meters visibility
- 3 light modes
- Rechargeable headlamp
OLIDEAR LED Headlamp Torch Outdoor
What’s better than having a headlamp and torch packed in a single portable unit? Luckily, the OLIDEAR LED headlamp makes it an exceptional choice for those looking for a budget-friendly and multi-functional headlamp.
This headlamp has a large T6 LED spotlight that emits only white light. Thus, it is the best headlamp for hunting at night.
The most impressive feature of this headlamp is its brightness of 5000 lumens. Yes, you read that right!
With such exceptional output, you can see anything clearly, no matter how far it is! It offers a clear field of view at a distance of 800 meters (2600 feet).
The waterproof capabilities of this headlamp also make it suitable for adverse weather and heavy rains. However, it only has two brightness modes. It is either super-bright or low. With so much brightness, we think they should have included a medium mode too.
Anyhow, the ABS shell construction makes it highly robust and durable. This OLIDEAR LED headlamp can last more than you think! The lithium-ion battery further increases its durability and shelf-life. Even with the brightest mode, this headlamp can work for 6-8 hours!
Like other headlamps on the list, this one also comes with a 90-degree rotating feature, making it convenient for hunting and fishing.
Specific Features:
- 5000 lumens maximum output
- 800 meters visibility
- ABS shell construction
- Waterproof
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
Ultra-bright XML T6 3000 Lumen 3 Modes Tactical Headlamp
If you want some extra brightness in your headlamp, the Ultra-bright XML T6 tactical headlamp will be your ultimate choice. The maximum output of 3000 lumens allows you to clearly see far-off places, making it the best headlamp for hunting.
We like the built-in zoom technology in this headlamp. If you want to focus on a spot while hunting, move the lens to zoom as you do in a camera. The zoom-out function is also useful and increases the area of illumination. In this way, you don’t have to keep moving your head in different directions to see.
The 3 different modes of the Ultra-bright XML T6 tactical headlamp are useful while hunting at night. As 3000 lumens is too bright, you can lower the brightness to other modes according to your preference.
Besides the different modes, this headlamp allows comes with tilting technology. This feature is useful for those who suffer from neck fatigue due to constantly moving their neck. With this feature, you can tilt the torch to 90-degree.
The comfortable strap also fits all head sizes and shapes and stays comfortable for long hours. The waterproof construction makes it suitable for all weather.
Specific Features:
- 3000 lumens maximum output
- 3 brightness modes
- Zoom technology
- Uses batteries
- Waterproof construction
Coast HL8R 800 lm Rechargeable Pure Beam Focusing LED Headlamp
The exceptional features and robust construction of the Coast HL8R LED headlamp make it the best headlamp for hunting in 2021. However, it may not be the best choice for people looking for a cheap headlamp.
This headlamp offers the flexibility of switching between a focused beam and a spot beam. This feature is amazing because we haven’t seen many headlamps in the market offering both beams in one headlamp. Besides, it comes with a maximum light beam of 800 lumens, which is enough to illuminate 700 feet.
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The longer battery life is the most impressive feature of the Coast HL8R LED headlamp. Even on the brightest mode, it can run for more than 4 hours. This run time is much longer compared to other headlamps.
We also like the twist-folding lens and 3 light modes, which work perfectly to add convenience while hunting. It also has a dual power technology, meaning that you can either charge the headlamp with the USB cable or insert alkaline batteries.
All these amazing features make this headlamp worth the money!
Specific Features:
- 800 lumens maximum output
- 3 light modes
- Dual power mode
- 4 hour 15 minute run time
- IPX4 water-resistant
How to Choose the Best Headlamp for Hunting (Most Important Factors)
Brightness
The brightness of the hunting headlamp is perhaps the most important factor you need to consider. Of course, we buy headlamps to view larger distances. So, what’s the point of a headlamp that cannot illuminate a few yards?
The point here is, the higher the lumens, the brighter the headlamp. For hunting, headlamps with 600-1000 lumens are considered ideal because they can illuminate an area of at least 300 meters.
However, you will find headlamps with different levels of brightness in the market. In some headlamps, 350 lumens are also considered enough for searching for animals in the dark.
The higher the brightness of the headlamp, the more it will cost. So, you can choose the headlamp with different lumens according to your budget.
Water-resistance
While hunting, we can never expect what the weather can be. So, it is always better to take a water-resistant headlamp with you. Luckily, our guide contains many headlamps with this feature.
In general, IPX7 and IPX8 water-resistance are ideal for preventing any water from damaging the headlamp. It means that the headlamp can handle heavy rains. However, an IPX4 rating is also enough to prevent rain splashes.
If your headlamp isn’t water-resistant or waterproof, you need to be very careful with the weather.
Weight
Who wants a headlamp that makes you feel like carrying a huge brick on your head?
Of course, no one wants a heavy headlamp while hunting for long hours.
So, the headlamp you buy needs to be very lightweight, making you feel like you don’t have anything on your head.
The weight of the headlamp also accounts for the features inside. Headlamps with more advanced featured tend to be a bit heavier. However, all the headlamps recommended in our guide are light enough to make you feel comfortable while hunting.
Brightness Modes
Although many headlamps come with a much higher beam of light, it is not always necessary. Hunters need a light with different brightness modes while hunting. For example, you don’t spend the whole night hunting and looking far away for your target animals.
Hunters also have to set up their camps for which they need lower brightness. In this case, many headlamps have 3 different modes of brightness (high, medium, low).
These modes are helpful in almost all conditions and hunters can adjust the mode according to the circumstances. However, some headlamps also have 5 and 7 different modes to make your hunt more convenient.
Final Words
Finding the best headlamps for hunting can be a difficult task when you have too many factors to consider. But, our complete review will help you choose the one according to your needs. It contains headlamps with different features and prices.
So, go ahead and choose the one that will make your hunt successful with the brightest light!
FAQs
What color light is best for deer hunting?
Deer cannot see the red color. Besides, they cannot see orange, yellow, and green. They appear to them as grey or yellow.
Do headlamps spook deer?
According to some surveys, deer cannot see the light of headlamps. Thus, headlamps do not spool deer.
What color light is best for predator hunting?
Although green and white are commonly used lights, red light is considered to be best for predator hunting.
What is the best headlamp for deer hunting?
The PETZL – TACTIKKA+ RGB Headlamp comes with red, green, blue, and white light, making it the best headlamp for deer hunting. It also has multiple lighting modes and longer battery life.
What is the best Black Diamond headlamp for hunting?
The Black Diamond Spot headlamp comes with different lighting modes. It is the best Black Diamond headlamp for hunting. The waterproof feature and extreme brightness make it compatible with hunting at night.