I’m just going to jump right in and tell you, after using this light for three months, I replaced my go-to headlamp with the Fenix HM65R.

Why? Because every time I needed a headlamp I wished I had the Fenix HM65R. It just works in every situation I have had that needed light.

The headlamp world is full of options but the Fenix HM65R is truly impressive and a step above the competition. From the fit and feel to its function, it’s a worthy device. Fenix did what no other headlamp maker has been able to do, make a headlamp that does everything well. 

While the price may seem a little high, MSRP is $94.95 it’s worth it (I’ll provide a link to where you can get one cheaper). So, while it is a tad more expensive than most, what it offers justifies the cost.

Consider also how much people (maybe even you) spend on a Patagonia hat, a Yeti tumbler or water bottle, a North Face parka, and camo hunting clothes from Sitka gear, a headlamp (arguably more important than any of those items) that does it all for under $100, is okay with me. 

Headlamps are a must!

One of the most indispensable items in all of my bags is a headlamp. Since my first mountaineering expedition back in the late ’80s, I’ve probably tried at least one headlamp from every popular brand. Black Diamond, Prince Tech, Energizer, Petzl, Torch, Rayovac, you name it, I own it or have tried it.   

I use headlamps for everything from hiking, cooking outdoors, even at home when it’s dark outside - we have lots of short days during the long northern Montana winters - to hiking to my favorite photography spot, to working under the house, and finding items in my camera bags/boxes. A good, high-quality headlamp is one of the most important products I own. I do not travel without one!  

I used this light for 3 months before I completed this review. My commitment to you is to make sure the products I write about are sound meet my standards, do what it claims, and are reliable - that takes time.  

Fenix HM65R

Cameron sent me the Fenix HM65R, it’s the top end of Fenix offerings. Super bright, waterproof, drop-proof, super-bright, rechargeable, or disposable battery-operated, and super bright when needed. I say when needed because it can operate pretty dim if that’s your pleasure.  

Not too long ago, I would not go to the mountains with a rechargeable anything, let alone a headlamp.  But Fenix changed that. This Fenix HM65R rechargeable light is ready for prime time.

I suppose as technology changes so do I, especially with products like this. I think battery technology and LED lights are the keys.

Over the past year, I’ve been carrying a Mophie Powerstation Pro battery with me. I can use it to charge my phone, a camera, and now a headlamp! In other words, recharging is no longer a risk or deficit in the backcountry.  The Fenix light uses the new USB type 3 connection.

• Lumen output: max 1400 lumens; floodlight to 16 m, spotlight to 75 m

• Rechargeable: Micro-USB hosing a 3500 mAh Fenix 3.6v 12.6Wh battery

• Burn time: 40 hours on low, 3.5 hours on high

• Weight: 3.4 oz.

Pros 

• Can be recharged, or replace the rechargeable battery with 2 x CR123 batteries. Recharges with a USB C. This is genius. 

• Bright! 

• Dual Beam (wide and focused bean)

• Durable 

• Waterproof

Cons

• A bit bulky

• Have to wear your hat backward, but Fenix now has the same light with a different headband style.

• Weight can be an issue if you’re going ultra-light but for a light in this category, it’s perfect.

• Buttons are a little challenging to operate with bulky gloves on 

• Now sure how it holds up in super cold weather. 

I would 100% recommend this light to a friend, and yes, this light found a permanent place in my camera box and pack. 

Where to buy it. 

MSRP 

$95 - but you can get 20% off.  Here is where you can buy the Fenix HM65R headlamp.

This is not a paid endorsement 

Just so we’re clear, this is not a paid endorsement. When I receive products to try, I always offer to return them when I’m done - whether I like the product or not. There is never a financial incentive for me to suggest you buy something. I always tell those who ask me for a review that I only tell the truth. My policy is that if I don't like something I won't write about it, but I also will only ever tell the truth about a product when asked. 

On the other hand, if I like it, I’ll shout it from the bleachers.