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.