Streamlight LED

Mark Baker tests this flexible tool light

In use

When working in deep vessels or hollow forms it is always tricky trying to establish how good a finish you have achieved. One solution is to shed some light on the subject. An angle poise lamp may help, but the main problem here is that it will not bend around corners. This is where a flexible portable light source is ideal and this pen-like Streamlight from Craft Supplies USA may be just the ticket.

Unlike units of old, this model sports an LED light at the end of a flexible shaft, which is robust and will withstand the rough and tumble of any workshop situation. The batteries are inserted into the pen-like body and the end cap can either be screwed in completely to give you permanent light, or backed off a little to allow you to use the end switch to allow the light to be activated when needed.

The shaft can be bent in all manner of curves and is rigid enough that it won't go floppy when extended in a straight line.

Verdict

The ability to see things clearly under well-illuminated lighting is an absolute must. I bought one of these lights over a year ago when visiting the USA and it is still going strong on the same batteries.