Two Rugged, Rechargeable Flashlights Worth a Spot in Your Ditch Kit

The Wedge XT flashlight’s push-button tail switch makes one-handed operation easy, even with gloves or wet hands. Courtesy Streamlight

Reliable lighting is essential onboard, whether you’re troubleshooting belowdecks, making a dinghy run at night, or picking out channel markers on a dark approach. Two flashlights from Streamlight, a company known for building tools for first responders and military use, are worth a look if you’re in the market for something small, tough, and rechargeable.

Wedge XT: Compact and Waterproof

The Wedge XT is a slim, pocket-sized flashlight with a tail switch that allows for one-handed operation — helpful when your other hand is steadying yourself or holding gear. It has two modes:

• High: 500 lumens for up to 2 hours
• Low: 50 lumens for up to 11 hours

The housing is anodized aluminum with a waterproof USB-C charging port and a lockout feature to prevent it from switching on in your pocket or bag. A charge indicator tells you when it’s ready to go. Total weight is about 2.6 oz.

The Wedge flashlight includes a rotating thumb switch and burst mode for added brightness when you need it most. Courtesy Streamlight Wedge: Slightly Larger with Burst Mode

The original Wedge model is similar in design but uses a rotating switch instead of a push-button. It has:

• Constant mode: 300 lumens, 3-hour runtime
• THRO® mode: A temporary 1,000-lumen burst for up to 35 seconds

The larger form factor adds a bit more weight (3.3 oz) and grip, and the new bright color options make it easier to spot among other tools or in the bilge. Like the XT, it’s USB-C rechargeable, waterproof, and rated to survive a one-meter drop.

Aboard or Ashore

Both lights are designed to be easy to use, rechargeable with the same cable as many phones and tablets, and durable enough to be tossed into a gear bag or mounted near the helm. While they’re not purpose-built for marine use, their rugged construction and sealed ports make them practical additions to any cruiser’s kit.

One Less Thing to Fumble With in the Dark

Whether you’re poking around in a lazarette, dinghying back from shore, or doing the “where’d I put the headlamp?” shuffle, a flashlight that just works makes all the difference. The Wedge and Wedge XT won’t replace your spreader lights or nav lamps, but they’ll earn their keep — probably right when you need them most.

More info: streamlight.com

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