The trouble with most penlights is they are simply not bright enough for anything but close inspections. This changed with the introduction of the Coast HP3R rechargeable, focusing penlight, which is the brightest penlight on the market as of this writing (2018). This little critter's LED puts out a remarkable 245 lumens on its high output setting, which is more than a lot of standard size flashlights.

For power, you have the option of using two AAA alkaline batteries, or the included lithium-polymer rechargeable battery, which Coast calls their Flex Charge Dual Power system. Either way, you have a penlight that is truly useful.

A MicroUSB cord, automotive and AC wall adapters are included. Sliding the penlight's end cap rearward reveals the MIcroUSB charging port, a clever design feature.

This penlight has high and a low output settings that are selected by simply pushing the button at the rear of the light, which also turns the light on and off. Twist the head of the light to focus the beam from flood to spot, or anywhere in-between.

The high setting puts out the 245 lumens indicated above with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. The low setting converts this penlight into a regular inspection unit with a 26 lumen output, but with a six hour runtime. Both of these runtimes are impressive for the lumen output.

If the lumen output was not a sufficient selling point, then the high beam illumination distance of 305 feet (93 meters) ought to convince you this light should be part of your regular field gear.

The rugged aluminum body is checkered for a no-slip grip and comes with a convenient pocket clip. The HP3R is offered in five anodized body colors: black, red, blue, green and orange.

It is ideal for hunters or backpackers who wish to travel light, but may be in the field at night. It is compact, impact resistant, water resistant and comes with a lifetime warranty against defects in workmanship and materials. The HP3R meets ANSI/FL1 standards.

Specifications

• Beam optics: Universal, focusing
• Light output (high): 245 lumens
• Light output (low): 26 lumens
• Beam distance: 305 ft. (high); 101 ft. (low)
• Run time: 1.5 hours (high); 6 hours (low)
• Batteries: Li-Polymer rechargable or 2xAAA
• Weight: 1.8 ounces (51 grams)
• Length: 5.8125 inches (14.76 cm)
• 2018 MSRP: $90

Bottom line: This is the most powerful penlight on the market today. Given its size, quality and lumen output there is no excuse why every outdoorsman should not have one in their kit. The truth be known, just about everyone who reads this would benefit by keeping one in the glove compartment of their vehicle.

With a 2018 MSRP of $90, the HP3R is not cheap. However, given the peace of mind and safety that it would afford under adverse conditions, the price is right.