Question Any experience with Big Blue AL1300NP light

[Wants2divemore]

Does anyone have any experience with the Big Blue AL1300NP light? It will be used mainly for rec diving along reefs or wrecks, and either a primary or back up for night dives. I have an OrcaTorch D550 (1000 lumens) which I like. I'm trying to decide whether to get another D550 or if it's worth the extra expense (~$50) for the Big Blue for slightly increased lumens (1300). I haven't had any problems with the D550 and have had heard good things about Big Blue, but trust SB more than online reviews.

 

[Superlyte27]

We have them. I prefer the Dive Rite BX2 to that BB though.

 

[Wants2divemore]

We have them. I prefer the Dive Rite BX2 to that BB though.

What makes you prefer the BX2 to the BB?

 

[Superlyte27]

What makes you prefer the BX2 to the BB?

It’s brighter, more durable, no push button to fail and I think I could drive over it and it would survive. Also it’s single 18650 with a micro usb port for charging.

 

[Divin'Papaw]

I've used the prior generations of the same light (AL1000NP and AL1200NP) for years. Both are going strong. They are my go-to lights and I wouldn't hesitate to buy another if I needed one. I like the multiple power settings, rechargeable batteries, and durable constructions. I prefer a push-button light to a twist-on and their buttons are incredibly durable. I've never had an issue with either light. I am also not gentle with them. I have at least one on every dive clipped to my right waist d-ring. They get bounced around as I'm getting on and off boats. They get bounced around in my gear bin. They have held up incredibly well. Not a single complaint.

 

[Blakerunner]

Does anyone have any experience with the Big Blue AL1300NP light? It will be used mainly for rec diving along reefs or wrecks, and either a primary or back up for night dives. I have an OrcaTorch D550 (1000 lumens) which I like. I'm trying to decide whether to get another D550 or if it's worth the extra expense (~$50) for the Big Blue for slightly increased lumens (1300). I haven't had any problems with the D550 and have had heard good things about Big Blue, but trust SB more than online reviews.

My wife and I have two of them. They get banged around a lot, and never fail. We always have them tucked into our BCDs, and the spot beam really throws a lot of light into ledges and cracks.

But I do keep buying them because I sometimes end up using them as a gift to dive guides at the end of big trips. They are a great light for developing countries because of the removable rechargable battery and USB charging. No disposable batteries to trash in places where there is no garbage service.

 

[thomschoon]

I have one and use it for hunting lionfish, has been used and abused and still works great. I tried a few different lights but like the size and weight for the what I use it for, carry it on a retractor on left d ring.

 

[CptTightPants21]

They are fantastic cave backup lights - bright, tight beam, durable, good burn times. They can pass for a recreational primary light. It might not be the biggest or brightest in that capacity, but it will do what you need it to do.