First Due Tackle Pass It On – Firefighter, Rescue & Extrication Training
We’ve had the opportunity to review two COAST Products. Some thoughts on the HP14 LED Flashlight and Rapid Response 3.00 Knife are included in this post. Overall, both seem durable and reliable enough for everyday use.
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HP14 LED Flashlight
Specifications from the COAST website:
- Light output: High – 339 lumens; Low – 56 lumens
- Runtime: High – 4 hours 45 minutes; Low – 20 hours
- Beam distance: High – 175 meters (574 ft); Low – 36 meters (118 ft)
- 4 x AA batteries (included)
- Cyclone™ Heat Sink System
- Aluminum casing; Anti-roll lanyard ring
- High and low output modes
- Impact and water resistant
- 14.2 ounces (including batteries); 8.38 inch length
- Diameter: Body – 1.37 inches; Bezel – 1.85 inches
Pros:
- Probably one of the brightest flashlights we’ve seen
- Feels durable in your hand.
- Low and High settings. Wide and Narrow Beam Options.
- 4 AA batteries. No specialty batteries needed.
Cons:
- Untested in high temperature environments.
- Grip not effective.
- May not be your first line light for structural firefighting, however, would be excellent for investigations, MVC’s, and rescue environments.
Rapid Response 3.oo Knife
Specifications from the Coast website:
- Blade length: 3.00 in.
- Overall length open: 7.00 in.
- Weight: 3.70 oz.
- 5Cr15Mov stainless steel blade
- Handle material: Fiberglass-filled textured nylon
Pros:
- Knife came sharp out of the box.
- Blade opens quickly with a flip of the thumb. Mechanism seems strong.
- Safety lock easily operated and seems durable after multiple uses.
- No wiggle to blade when in open position.
- Pocket clip strong. It will not bend easily.
Cons:
- Handle material slippery when wet.
- One of us didn’t like the thumb knobs on the blade for opening. Most where satisfied.
COAST Preferred Vendor For Ordering
Pass it on!
