Selecting A Good Quality Dive Torch

One of the most useful tools you can add to your scuba diving equipment is a good dive torch. It doesn't matter if you are diving in shallow water or deep, a good high quality waterproof lantern can literally shine some light on the subject and help you see where you are going and what you are doing.

Waterproof flashlights come in a variety of sizes, configurations, and light intensity. Of course, all underwater lights are waterproof, so you shouldn't have to worry about getting water in your light, as long as you purchase one that is designed specifically for use underwater.

Some of the most basic scuba diving lanterns are very small and are really only intended to shine a little extra light on something you are trying to see. A basic dive torch such as this may only use two “AAA” batteries and have either a halogen or LED lamp. In fact, instead of halogen lamps, more manufactures are making the LED version since it uses less power and conserves your batteries.

A great example of a compact but powerful waterproof flashlight is the Pelican Nemo 1960 LED, which retails for about $30. This LED light is powered by two “AAA” batteries and is rated at 24 lumens, perfect for spotting those small creatures that like to hide under rocks and between crevices. A great feature of all of Pelican's scuba diving lights is that they are guaranteed for life. Pelican's claim is “you break it, we replace it.....forever.” Since Pelican's waterproof flashlights are very rugged, your chances of breaking one are very low.

If you want more candle power from your dive torch, you can also purchase a more powerful model, such as the Princeton TEC Shockwave LED Light, which retails for about $140. This powerhouse has the ability to cut through even the darkest areas of the depths with its 400 lumens of light intensity. The Princeton uses eight “C” batteries and has a powerful but long-lasting LED lamp that is rated for 10,000 hours of use.

Regardless of what kind of diving you intend on pursuing, whether shallow or deep, there's a model for you at a great price. Since these tools are so versatile and inexpensive, you will definitely want to add one to your scuba diving equipment collection.