This is a quality product.
This is mainly a review of the Coast XPH34R. However I do also somewhat review the Coast HL8 by comparison. Both of these products are quality items which I own. The HL8 is an earlier model with a lower light output. The advantage of this light is it will take AA batteries, and can be equipped with an optional rechargeable battery at extra cost. It is also in my opinion an more comfortable light to wear if you are not using a hard hat. The portion of the light that rests against your forehead seems larger, and the light is lighter. The brightness on the HL8 is easily adjustable with a 3 position rotary switch. This light is mainly a plastic build, but well made, and that may be why it is lighter. The XPH34R is primarily a metal product. It seems to be precision machined. It is designed to be used with Coasts lithium battery made for this product, and works well, is very bright. It is not as comfortable as the HL8 because it is heavier, and it appears that the area of the light that rests against the forehead is smaller, so more weight on a smaller area. This potential problem (not everyone will find it a problem) could be mitigated by using it with a hard hat. Coast provides a battery carrier which can be inserted in lieu of the rechargeable battery that takes AAA cells. I do not think AAA cells would last very long in this product, so you might want to get a spare rechargeable. You adjust the brightness of this product by a series of button presses. The light starts in medium mode. To set on high, press the button twice. To set on low, 3 times. The turbo mode can be activated by holding the button down for two seconds. I actually prefer the mechanism of the HL8 for setting brightness, but unless you are changing this often, the button presses should work fine. I like both these products and rate them 5 stars. However, be aware that while the XPH34R is pitched as a 2075 lumen light, this is ONLY in turbo mode, which shuts off after a very short time, and goes to a lower brightness… I assume to protect the light from heat damage. I can not find this detail in the light specs or description, but it is in the Q & A on the Coast website re this product… so I would rate the description as a little misleading. It has been my experience that Coast honors its lifetime warranty. I am a bit of a Coast-a-holic, (I have lots of their products), and have replaced two of them under warranty, which has been hastle free, and one reason I keep coming back for more. I wish they made cars. Read more

















