As for the flashlight, any light source is better than none. Darkness can have a huge effect on morale. However, when I was undertaking CERT training in Los Angeles one of the exercises we performed was Search and Rescue in a smoke house at the firefighters academy. In the complete darkness therein, I quickly found out that LED flashlights (in general) just don’t cut it in that kind of darkness. They don’t penetrate the darkness at all. I would say all they are good for is making sure your next step isn’t off a cliff.

If you are depending on a flashlight for survival, like any tool, it is probably best to obtain the best you can afford. Surefire flashlights are expensive, but for a reason. They REALLY work well. Now, that being said, I have used Surefire flashlights but don’t own one, mostly due to price. I do however have two iNova flashlights. They are LED lights, and as such do have some of the problems I mentioned above. But, being a better quality light they are a better choice. I also carry with me a keychain LED light, a clip on LED light on my Murse/mini-BOB and a laser pointer with a gooseneck LED light.

Maybe one of these Christmases I will receive (or more likely treat myself) to a better penetrating light like a Surefire or other comparable brand.