The Nitecore HC60v2 is version 2 of their original HC60 (review here) They sent one to me to compare to the old one. The HC60V2 is a high output, flood-beam, high durability, rechargeable headlamp. They’re right around $90-100 in Canada.
Nitecore HC60V2 Specs
- 1200 Lumens max output
- Includes rechargeable 18650 battery (3400mAh)
- if you were stuck, you could use 2 CR123 batteries instead
- Recharges with USB-C connection
- 680 hours on ultralow
- Battery level indicator
- IPX7 (dustproof, can be submerged up to 1 meter)
The HC60 is a rugged, aluminum-housing headlamp using a 3rd over-the-top band. As such, it’s a bit heavier than the flimsier plastic headlamps. For things like hunting or working in the yard at night, the slightly heavier, but beefier and brighter HC60 would be ideal.
Nitecore HC60v1 vs v2
The change to USB-C charging on the v2 is nice, but I think the nicest improvement is the headband and headband adjustment. The adjustment now stays put, and there’s now an angled plastic bit that stays at the back of your head and holds everything together nicely. There’s also a rubbery bit they’ve added to the material to make the front grip your head/hat a bit better. It makes it fast to just throw on and use and it absolutely will not fall off.
The voltage check feature is kinda neat. I probably won’t need it because I charge my stuff somewhat regularly, but if you go on long trips and need to check charge levels on your 18650 batteries, the HC60v2 can do it.
What do I use the HC60 for?
(I’ve got a few years on my V1, I’ll use the V2 for the same) I’ve really like the HC60 for afternoon hunts where I may need a pile of light to track a deer. It fits OK under a toque, so I just wear mine as I head out to avoid having too many things in my pockets.
I also really like it for working on vehicles. Rather than traumatizing my kids to get them to hold the light where I need it, the HC60 has enough light and enough battery juice so I can just throw it on and use for long sessions. Headlamps are great when you need both hands, whether on a car or dragging a deer.
I recharge my stuff once in a while, and I’ve never run my HC60 completely out of battery. I really like the form factor and power you get from using 18650 batteries.
