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The Best Red Lens Headlamps for Hunting, Fishing & Other Uses

Written by Everett Bledsoe / Fact checked by Brain Bartell

best red lens headlamp

If you are a man of the outdoors, you know perfectly well how a good-quality headlamp is essential. But what some people may not be aware of is the purpose of the red light option in a headlamp and how beneficial it is, compared to white lights.

When purchasing one for either camping, biking, hunting, or in case of emergencies, you might as well find the best red lens headlamp in the market. As a guide, here are three main factors that should be considered:

  • Design and durability: Since red light headlamps are likely used in more active situations, they need to be lightweight and durable enough to withstand the weather. Find one that is comfortable for you to wear on your head so you can move freely. A convenient design, which allows you to turn the device on and off quickly, is also necessary. It is also better to find a water-resistant and shockproof headlight to use in any activity and ensure that it can last for years.
  • Battery: Depending on your preference and purpose, you can choose a headlamp that is either rechargeable or has replaceable batteries. With replaceable battery-operated headlights, they are usually powered with AA or AAA batteries. Another important consideration is its battery life. If you use it more for hiking and camping, long-lasting replaceable batteries are the better option.
  • Light modes: Some products have a more straightforward design, while others have multiple different modes for different occasions. If you still need bright white light, consider purchasing a headlight with both white and red light modes for cost efficiency.

We provided below a comprehensive review of nine products in the market right now that stood out the most to us. It should give you several options if you are looking for more specific high-performing red light headlamps suitable for your needs. In addition, we also added a detailed educational “buying guide” for your perusal.

headlamps-with-red-light


Top 1
VEKKIA LED Headlamp

  • 160 lumens reaching 262 ft
  • Adjustable beam angle, 45°
  • IPX6 waterproof resistance

Top 2
Princeton Tec LED Headlamp

  • Two brightness options
  • Lightweight & comfortable
  • IPX4-rated waterproofing

Top 3
GaiGaiMall XM-L T6

  • Zoomable lens
  • 90-degree swiveling head
  • IPX4-rated water-resistant

Best Red Lens Headlamp Reviews

1. VEKKIA Ultra Bright LED Headlamp

Since its founding in 2017, Vekkia has been known for its top-of-the-line book lights, which alone is enough proof for its expertise in illumination technology. So it should not come as a shock that they could manufacture through LuminoLite an excellent headlamp, which has five modes: bright, soft, strobe, red, and red strobe.

Having these multiple lighting modes is what gave this particular headlamp a spot on my list. I love how I can easily transition it from one to the other with just the two buttons — convenient and hassle-free.

Furthermore, this headlamp has an ultra-bright LED white light with 160 lumens that can reach a range of up to 262 feet. It uses three AAA batteries, which are included in the packaging, and can operate the device for up to 30 hours.

As a runner, I am constantly on the hunt for great lightweight headlamps, and this made the cut weighing only 2.6 oz (with batteries). Believe it or not, it is so comfortable and light to the point that I often forget that I am wearing it.

And, of course, a headlamp with red filter is a plus since I can use it for better night vision, plus the beam head can be adjusted to a 45-degree angle. It is made out of a plastic material and has the IPX6 waterproof rating, which means it is safe to use during rains.

 Heads-up:  I noticed with this one that its red light is a bit dim compared to the other headlamps in the market right now.

 Pros: 
  • Five modes with two control buttons: bright, soft, strobe, red, and red strobe
  • Ultra-bright LED white light of 160 lumens reaching 262 feet
  • Lightweight at 2.6oz, ideal for running
  • Adjustable beam angle: 45 degree
  • Has the IPX6 waterproof resistance
  • Runs on AAA batteries for up to 30 hours
 Cons: 
  • Red light is not as bright
 Bottom Line:  Overall, this is an excellent and affordable headlamp option for those who want to use them for running and other more physical activities.

2. Princeton Tec Remix LED Headlamp

Princeton Tec is one of those companies regarded as experts in producing high-quality lights. With their 45 years in the industry, they manufacture several types of reliable light devices meant for industrial and tactical use — and these Remix headlamps are no exception.

The Remix series includes different varieties of headlamps, but I will specifically review the one with the red LEDs with the MultiCam body.

The lamp has two light modes: the 300 Lumen Maxbright LED that utilizes one bright white light, and the Ultrabright LED consists of three smaller bulbs in clusters.

I love how these modes allow you to switch between the two brightness depending on your needs. I think such a particular headlamp is best used for errands inside and outside the house. Since the day I purchased it, it has become my go-to headlamp whenever I take my dog out for late-night walks.

The band is very comfortable to wear; plus, plus the entire device is lightweight. It is powered by three AAA batteries, which lasted me a couple of weeks. On top of that, it has an IPX4-rated waterproof technology to be used in light rains.

 Heads-up:  Although this headlamp has lived up to the durability standard of its manufacturer, its price point can be costly.

 Pros: 
  • Two brightness options: 300 Lumen Maxbright LED, the Ultrabright LED
  • Lightweight and comfortable on the head
  • Decent IPX4-rated waterproofing
  • Excellent choice for low-intensity use
  • Uses three AAA batteries that last for some weeks
 Cons: 
  • A bit pricey compared to others in this list
 Bottom Line:  Despite its cons, this red lense headlamp remains a good buy for me for everyday household use, which is why it snagged a spot on my list.

3. GaiGaiMall XM-L T6 Tactical LED Headlamp

For a more affordable option, GaiGaiMall released their XM-L T6 Tactical LED headlamp. Unlike most multi-colored headlamps, where each colored light is built-in, this headlamp only has the white light LED bulb, then two interchangeable red and green filters. It has a high lumen light, which impressed me, and is bright enough for more everyday work.

This headlamp is a great option for still jobs that need both bright white light and a green and red light headlamp. Plus, I think this is also more suitable to store at home and in cars in case of emergency.

Besides, the headlamp weighs 10.50 oz — although not the lightest, it is comfortable and stable enough on the head. But my favorite thing about this headlamp is the tactical knobs that are smooth and easy to adjust.

Another unique thing about it is, unlike most of the headlamps here that are plastic made, this one is made out of aluminum alloy, which adds to its durability. And, of course, it is a water-resistant headlamp with a rating of IPX4.

The device proves to be flexible with its zoomable beams that let you adjust the light range depending on what you need. It also comes with a swiveling head adjustable up to 90 degrees. It uses three AAA batteries, which for me, can last for about a week.

 Heads-up:  The only con about it is it isn’t the brightest headlamp in the market. However, with the decent price point, I really cannot complain.

 Pros: 
 Cons: 
  • Not the best and brightest option in the market
 Bottom Line:  GaiGaiMall’s headlamp is an excellent budget-friendly option for those who are just looking for devices that can perform decently enough.

4. EverBrite Multibeam Headlamp

EverBrite is a manufacturer of industrial illumination devices, and they can be considered experts in the industry with hundreds of products in the market. And one proof of that is their Multibeam Headlamp.

It has two types of lights: the CREE XPG LED and the COB. The former is in charge of four modes: high, medium, low, and strobe, while the latter emits the white, red, and green lights.

On the other hand, its beam can also be adjusted from flood to spot and can reach up to 328FT. In total, this headlamp has seven modes, appealing to me the most.

I tested it for several weeks and on different activities, including biking, running, hiking, and general use. After some time, I can confidently conclude that this is one of the few headlights we can use anywhere and for different purposes.

Made out of ABS plastic and with IPX4 waterproofing, it is weather-resistant and durable enough to take for hunting and camping, plus the red light always comes in handy whenever you need it for your night vision.

I even accidentally dropped it one time while camping, and it had a few scratches but no damage at all. To top it all off, it has a built-in emergency whistle and flashing taillight.

 Heads-up:  If I had to pinpoint its downside, the batteries are not long-lasting, especially at maximum brightness. At most, the three AAA lasted me more than two hours. Plus, I also noticed how the light tends to get dimmer the longer you use the device.

 Pros: 
  • Has seven modes: high, medium, low, strobe, white, red, green
  • Can be used in any activities due to various light colors
  • Water and impact-resistant for multiple uses
  • With built-in emergency whistle and taillight
  • Durable ABS plasic and suitable for long ranges (328 feet)
 Cons: 
  • Dims after a while
  • Not the longest lasting headlight
 Bottom Line:  In conclusion, this is a great option when looking for headlamps with red light as it has several functional features most headlamps don’t have.

5. HOKOILN LED Headlamp

This HOKOILN LED headlamp is the budget-friendly piece among the bunch, and we get two packs for every order. Let me cut to the chase — its price does not reflect its quality. In fact, I was impressed at how decent this headlamp is, especially since it has the red light as well.

It has five modes: three white modes (LED high and low, and COB floodlight) and two red modes (COB night vision and strobe). The strobe mode for the red light is the safety light and is helpful in case of emergencies.

With 300 lumens and a range of up to 350ft, the brightness is good and enough to walk around a dark area comfortably. I also love how lightweight it is at 1.4 oz, which is among the lightest headlamps I ever tried.

Since buying five packs of these won’t even break the bank, I believe this 2-pack headlamp is best for household and emergency use. I even tried using it while strolling around the neighborhood, and it did its job.

I am thinking of buying multiples of these, keeping them around the house, and giving one to each of my family members, even children. The straps are adjustable so that they can fit a child’s head. Three AAA batteries power it, and based on my experience, it can light up for 45 hours straight.

 Heads-up:  Of course, you get what you pay for with this one. You cannot expect a headlamp you can jump or run with as it is not durable enough.

 Pros: 
  • A budget-friendly headlamp with two packs in one set
  • Five modes: three white modes and two red modes
  • Great for household use and strolling
  • Ultra-lightweight at 1.4 oz
  • Adjustable straps can fit any head size
  • Runs on AAA batteries power, lasting up to 45 hours
 Cons: 
  • Not durable enough for rigorous activities
 Bottom Line:  At a low price, this one is just standard but reliable for every day. But for red lens headlamp military use, we might be better off with other options.

6. Vont Tron LED Headlamp

Vont is a relatively young company compared to others we mentioned here, but they’ve been taking the market by storm. Known for their bike lights, they have been releasing different outdoor lighting, including this Vont Tron LED Headlamp.

As expected, the versatile headlamp features both white and red LED lights. The white light has three modes. It can switch to high, low, and strobe, while the red one has two: high and strobe.

I love how affordable it is, especially when products with a good performance seem to be over my usual budget. With five working light modes, this headlamp is an excellent value for money.

Also, the device has 160 lumens operated by 3 AAA batteries, which can last for up to six hours. I am impressed by how bright both the lights are. However, the range of the beam is kind of short.

Overall, I think this headlamp is most suitable for security guards and members of law enforcement. It is made out of military-grade materials and has been proven to remain unscathed even after a ten-foot drop.

I like how durable it is while still being lightweight at about 1.9 oz. It also has IPX4-rated waterproofing, which I think is decent. Wearing this on my head is not a problem as you can tell it’s light and comfortable.

 Heads-up:  As mentioned, this headlamp has a short-range. It is also not suitable for intense activities like running and hunting.

 Pros: 
  • Suitable for law enforcement use
  • Bright 160-lumen light
  • Delivers good performance at a low price
  • Durably military-grade body with IPX4-rated waterproofing
  • Runs on 3 AAA batteries that last 6 hours
  • Lightweight (1.9 oz) and comfortable on the head
 Cons: 
  • Best for short-range use
  • May not be ideal for intense activities
 Bottom Line:  The bottom line is this Vont Tron is a great military red lens headlamp, considering the high brightness lighting and the durable build.

7. Princeton Tec Byte Tactical Headlamp

Princeton Tec has another headlamp with red light option that made it into the list and this one, in my opinion, is my go-to for astrophotography.

I took out this Tec Byte Tactical Headlamp last time during a stargazing activity with my neighbors, and as expected, the red light did its job well. I got to preserve my night vision while having enough illumination to see around and enjoy the entire event.

It has a 200-lumen max bright white LED that can be adjusted from high spot to low spot and an ultrabright red LED light with the same two modes. So, if a bright white light is required, this one is also okay.

My favorite thing about this headlamp is the separate buttons for red and white, which is convenient in avoiding accidentally switching on the white light and ruining your dark-adapted night vision.

This headlamp, unlike most, only uses 2 AAA batteries that can last for 58 hours. It weighs 9.6 oz — not the lightest, but I think it’s still comfortable, especially with the straps. This one also has an adjustable angle for more convenience.

The waterproofing on it is only IPX4-rated — not the most impressive, but if it’s not going to be used for rainy activities, there shouldn’t be a problem.

 Heads-up:  One downside is the fact that there are brighter white light options that are less expensive.

 Pros: 
  • 200-lumen max bright white and ultrabright red LED light
  • Separate buttons for red and white to adjust light angle and modes
  • Comfortable and adjustable straps for
  • Reliable red light for astrophotography
  • Uses two AAA batteries lasting 58 hours
 Cons: 
  • Not the brightest light
 Bottom Line:  For red light, this headlamp is an excellent option. And I think the two separate buttons sealed the deal for me.

8. GaiGaiMall-PN-G2042 Hunting Red Light Headlamp

Another headlamp from GaiGaiMall is the PN-G2042, which they manufactured to suit the needs of hunters — and it surely did not disappoint.

Unlike other models with mainly white lights, and red light is only an additional feature, this headlamp only has a red light. It has three lighting options: high, low, and strobe, which can be adjusted depending on the user’s needs. The beam is also zoomable from the spotlight to the floodlight.

I can say that this is a good option for a red light headlamp for hunting. I love how it does not have the risk of accidentally switching to white light while you are in the woods, aiming for your game.

It does its job in illuminating our surroundings while preserving our night vision and not distracting wildlife. From my experience, it can light up to 100 yards — not to mention that the red light it emits is impressively bright. I also like how it attracts fewer insects than standard headlamps.

It is waterproof and made out of aircraft-grade aluminum, which makes it pretty durable. It weighs 5.8 oz, light enough to feel comfortable on the head. The straps are also adjustable to make it perfect on me.

The battery life with the three AAA is pretty decent as it still lasted me for several hours. I think this headlamp is decently priced and a good value for money when it comes to costs.

 Heads-up:  However, one thing that puts me off is the inconvenience of having to cycle through all the light modes before it turns off or you reach the setting you need.

 Pros: 
  • Red light only headlamp with three modes: high, low, strobe
  • Zoomable beam from the spotlight to stream beams
  • Bright light reaching up to 100 yards
  • Durable build from aircraft-grade aluminum
  • Lightweight 5.8 oz with adjustable straps for comfort
  • Available at a good price with decent-lasting AAA batteries
 Cons: 
  • Cycling through the modes take some time
 Bottom Line:  This red light headlamp GaiGaiMall is one of my top options for hunting headlamps, plus I get what I intend to pay for.

9. BORUiT RJ-3000 LED Rechargeable Headlamp

BORUiT has been manufacturing outdoor lights since 2007. Since then, they were able to launch their line of LED headlamps, including the RJ-3000. This model both has a red and white light.

The single XML-T6 LED white light brightness can be adjusted between low and high, while the two XP-E R2 red side bulbs are only on standard mode. With 3000 lumens, it is capable of lighting up your surroundings.

Compared to other headlamps I just reviewed, this one is pretty basic. However, it is impressively durable as it is made out of an aluminum alloy shell, which makes it suitable for outdoor hobbies like fishing and biking. I think it is one of the most nicely built headlamps out there.

But my favorite thing about this headlight is its batteries. It requires two rechargeable 18650 batteries that can last for four to six hours.

A power bank can charge it through the micro USB port, and best of all, it can also serve as a power bank to charge other devices. Honestly, after a few weeks of testing, this red lamp headlight meets all of my expectations. I believe it should be a staple in everyone’s gear sets. Plus, it is readily available in Walmart.

 Heads-up:  A downside for me is that its waterproofing is not impressive enough with an IPX4 rating. Although this is a standard to most outdoor gears, I was kind of hoping for higher and better water resistance with the price I paid. Unlike other headlamps, the batteries are not included in this one.

 Pros: 
  • Impressive brightness level at 3000 lumens
  • Conveniently rechargeable through the micro USB port
  • Can be used as a power bank
  • Decent battery life of up to six hours
  • Durable build made with aluminum alloy
  • Perfect for fishing and biking
 Cons: 
  • Not the best at waterproofing
  • Batteries not included
 Bottom Line:  As always, headlamps with outstanding features cost a bit more. But for long-term everyday use, I think this one’s a good investment.

What to Look for When Buying Red Lens Headlamps

headlamp-with-red-filter

Now that you have an idea of our top picks for red light headlamps, all you need to do is find the most suitable one for you. With many products you can choose from in the market, it can be tricky to find the one that ticks all your boxes — not to mention the risks of spending your money on a headlamp that might not even be worth it. That is why we came up with a checklist that can serve as your guide when you are browsing for the best red lens headlamp. Here’s what you should look for when buying one:

Budget-friendly and a good value for money: For a headlamp to be considered a great buy, it should fit right into your budget and be worth its price. If you have a limited budget, avoid spending over what you can afford. On the other hand, you should also avoid overspending or purchasing overpriced items, whether money is a problem or not.

Durable build: Most people who purchase headlamps with a red light or lens likely use them for outdoor activities. If this is the case, it is essential to find one made out of high-quality materials that can withstand any amount of shock. Manufacturers commonly use plastic and aluminum alloy, which each has its own pros and cons.

Convenient design: When talking about convenience, keep in mind that it all depends on personal preference. However, the general design qualities of a red lens headlamp you should be assessing if suited to your specifications include the placement of the buttons, ease of mode switching, the ability of the lens to adjust to a specific angle, etc.

Comfortable wear: The purpose of a headlamp is to provide a light source while keeping both of your hands free — that way, you get to work on things freely. However, if it is uncomfortable and heavy on your head, it just defeats the purpose. Make sure to purchase a headlamp that is lightweight and fits right on your head.

Weatherproof: Aside from being durable, a good-quality headlamp should also withstand any weather. It is mainly considered as outdoor gear, so it must be both shockproof and water-resistant. The level of waterproofing depends on what kind of activity you are going to use it for.

Long-lasting battery life: Especially if you are going to use it in the woods while hunting or camping, you need a red light that can last for several hours, even days, without charging or battery replacement. You should also consider the type of batteries used and choose the most convenient one for your needs.

Additional features: Other features include added light modes and colours. Some headlamps also have blue and green lights as well as a taillight. There are also ones that are rechargeable through a USB port and can also serve as a power bank — perfect for a couple of days stay in the woods. Of course, the more features it has, the more expensive it gets.

What is the Red Light on the Headlamp for

red-lense-headlamp

The use of red light is more preferred than white light during various nighttime outdoor activities like hunting, camping, astrophotography, biking, as well as emergency purposes because of the following reasons:

  • The red light is less distracting to wild animals.
  • It does not attract bugs as much as white light.
  • It is better for eyesight as it is not blinding when people accidentally look directly at it. When with other people, use red light instead of white.
  • Red light helps in preserving your night vision while providing enough illumination for you to see your surroundings.
  • It does not consume battery power as much as white light does, hence a longer battery life.
  • It does not cause light pollution, which helps avoid disrupting natural ecosystems and washing out the night sky during various astronomy activities.
  • Strobing red lights are used to catch attention for help during emergencies quickly.

Conclusion

Choosing the best red lens headlamp based on the purpose is necessary to ensure that you’re buying a suitable device while making the most out of your money. With a low budget, you also can refer more to tactical flashlight under $50 or budget tactical flashlight.

And with a lot of available devices in the market, sometimes, it’s tricky to find the headlamp that is worth its price and is durable enough to last long, especially if you’re going to use it outdoors. Good thing you have come across this article, and you can finally avoid the risks of buying faulty items online.

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