Captain Richard Rodriguez over at BitterEnd seems to be featuring gear and gadgets recently. He periodically posts quick reviews of products he uses under the heading “Things That Work.”
Today, he directs our attention to the AquaSpec PFD strobe lights; specifically, the tiny AQ98. I’ve got an older ACR Firefly2 strobe attached to my PFD, but it’s kind of bulky, and it requires manual activation. It looks like the AquaSpec AQ98 might be a good upgrade. Here’s what the manufacturer says:
The smallest lifejacket light in the world, the Aquaspec AQ98 is a compact, tamper proof unit that combines both battery and light source in one. Its unique size and shape, combined with ease of attachment, has made the AQ98 the ideal light for fitment within an inflatable lifejacket.
“Fitment within an inflatable lifejacket,” eh? That’s what I need! Not that I have anything against ACR, by the way. Far from it. The other PFD strobe I’m considering is the ACR Hemilight 2.
Anyway, here’s what Captain Richard says about the AQ98:
The last five seasons this little light has been attached to my PFD. This season, it was time for a new one as battery life has expired. The old one still worked, for what it’s worth. I was able to find one for $35 vs $80 on most websites.
$35, eh? Not bad for a strobe with automatic or manual operation, minimum 8 hours burn time, and a 5-year shelf life.
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Tim, This is part of my prepping for 2010 towing season. There will be a few more. Stay tuned.
Any leads on where to buy this in North America at such a great price?
Graham: I just did some searching and couldn’t find any of these for sale online. Aquaspec is a UK company, perhaps they just sell locally? Capt. Richard, if you can advise on where to buy it would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Got a quick note from Richard on this:
“Landfall Navigation out of Florida”
I often notice this outfit when I’m looking for products online, but I’ve never dealt with them. —Tim
We offer the Aquaspec AQ98 Automatic Lifejacket Light $34.95 (http://www.landfallnavigation.com/aq98.html) as well as the ACR HemiLight 2 $17.50 (http://www.landfallnavigation.com/acr3768.html).
fyi, We are in Stamford, CT not Florida.
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