If you've ever worked in confined spaces (under a car's dash, behind a sink, inside an appliance, etc.), you know that at times even small flashlights are too big. Sometimes you need a small light that can wrap around obstructions and light obscured areas.
Until now, in these situations I have used a "Bend-A-Light" that is similar to the Stylus Reach.The standard Bend-A-Light retails for about the same price as the Stylus Reach, so a comparison of the two is useful.
The Bend-A-Light is larger and slightly heavier.Its flexible neck is longer than that of the Stylus Reach (9.5" vs. 7.5" from bulb tip to flashlight body).However, the effective reach of the Stylus Reach is greater because its body is only slightly wider than its flexible neck (owing to its use of super-small "AAAA" batteries).The body of the Bend-A-Light houses "AA" batteries and is over twice as thick.
The Stylus Reach also features an aircraft aluminum casing (vs. the Bend-A-Light's plastic body), a MUCH more flexible neck that is shielded and insulated with PVC, up to 60 hours of run time on one set of three "AAAA" batteries (included), momentary "blink" or constant-on switching, and it's waterproof!Moreover, it has an unbreakable LED light that burns cool and is as bright or brighter than the Bend-A-Light's fragile, incandescent bulb.
[I should mention that there is a considerably longer (24"), brighter Bend-A-Light called the "Krypton Pro Bend-A-Light."However, I have no experience with it.]
I am exceptionally impressed with the brightness and quality of the Stylus Reach.It is one of those items that nobody knows they need until they have it.It would make a great gift for any do-it-yourselfer or tech geek.
If Streamlight would make a version of the Stylus Reach with a longer neck, I'd happily buy it, too.
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Streamlight 65612 Stylus Reach Penlight, with Flexible 7 Inch Extension Cable and White LED, SilverProduct Description: Stylus Reach Silver Flashlight w/White LED Blister Packaged
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It's amazing how versatile and bright this little penlight is.The only problem is that it uses AAAA batteries which are hard to come by as other reviewers have commented on.I keep one in my briefcase in a pen slot and know that I have by my side one of the best flashlights in the consumer market.It's also great for playing doctor at home for close up examinations.Just don't point it in someone's eye.I have both the regular version and the one with the flexible head.I use the flexible head model when working in the engine compartment.
