When someone mentions tools to you, what kinds of images does it conjure up? My guess would be:

• wrenches, ratchets and screwdrivers
• hammers and saws
• tables saws, routers, planers and jointers
• digital meters, oscilloscopes, wire cutters and wire strippers

…but, I doubt that anyone will ever mention the humble flashlight. That’s right, the flashlight is a tool and in some instances, it is a must-have tool.

I have a background as an industrial mechanic and believe me, there are times when a good, high-quality, reliable and powerful flashlight are needed. Try climbing to the top of a cooling tower in the middle of the night, during the dead of winter and discovering that no one has checked or replaced the burned out/broken light bulbs that provide the only light that you’ve got to work by.

You’ve got two choices:

1. Climb all the way back down, go to the store-room, get new bulbs and hope there is not another problem that is causing the “no-lights” issue. All the while, you’ve got management screaming that “production is going to go down, if we don’t get that cooling tower back up soon.”
2. You can flip out your trusty flashlight and get to work.

I can hear some of you right now saying, “a flashlight just is not going to cut it”. In the past, you would be right. But not anymore. There are a couple of brands out there that provide exceptional lighting power.

STREAMLIGHT FLASHLIGHTS

This company makes a number of different styles of flashlights and they are not cheap (cost or construction). This is one of the brands that I have used and currently own ( the Streamlight Ultra Stinger). Let me state up front – they are worth every penny! Streamlight offers:

• different sizes
• different strengths
• different styles
• re-chargeable flashlights
• disposable battery powered flashlights
• LED and incandescent versions

I have used these flashlights and they are POWERFUL and RELIABLE.

INOVA FLASHLIGHTS

This company also offers a wide variety of flashlight options and I currently own a T series flashlight that I use on my farm. It is very powerful and maintains a charge quite well, which comes in handy if you are trying to repair a well-pump in a dark well house or if you are trying to find a newborn foal in the middle of the night.

Like Streamlight, INOVA offers a variety of sizes and styles.

Working in dark conditions requires excellent lighting

If you do any work in less than ideal lighting, then you need to check into these two flashlight brands. They are powerful, durable and long-lasting. Cost is about the same. I highly recommend either brand.

Just so you know, both manufacturers offer chargers for your auto/truck so you can take them with you on a trip. You know – in case you have a flat tire or a bad thermostat while traveling at night.

COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS?

We look forward to hearing your comments, questions and suggestions. Come on, take the gloves off and let us know how you feel.

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