Are you a survivalist looking for reliable and versatile tools to add to your emergency kit? Look no further than hand crank flashlights. These compact devices are essential in any preparedness plan as they provide light without needing batteries or electricity.
In this article, we will explore the top five best hand crank flashlights that every survivalist should consider adding to their arsenal.
From long-lasting battery life and durable construction to multiple charging options and additional features like radio receivers or USB ports, these flashlight models offer everything you need during emergencies or outdoor adventures.
Let’s dive in.
1. RunningSnail Emergency Solar Hand Crank Portable Radio and Flashlight
This flashlight is a reliable and versatile tool for emergency preparedness. With its 4000mAh rechargeable battery, it can charge multiple smartphones, ensuring you stay connected during power outages. The radio also features a super-bright 3-mode flashlight, providing ample lighting in the dark.
One of the standout features of this radio is its ability to receive weather broadcasts from 7 NOAA stations, giving you access to the latest weather and hazard information. This is crucial during severe weather events like hurricanes or tornadoes, allowing you to stay informed and make timely decisions.
The radio offers four charging modes, including solar charge, hand crank, micro USB charge, and the option to use traditional batteries. This ensures that you can power the radio in various situations, even when other power sources are unavailable.
Another great feature is the motion sensor reading lamp. This lamp automatically turns on when it detects movement, making it perfect for late-night reading without disturbing others. This functionality adds convenience and efficiency to your emergency preparedness.
Pros:
1. Powerful battery:4000mAh rechargeable battery for extended use
2. Multiple charging modes: ensure you are never without power
3. Bright 3-mode flashlight with a long lighting range
4. Motion sensor reading lamp: for hands-free use
5. Weather band capability: for up-to-date weather information
6. Durable: and reliable design
Cons:
1. Hard to use hand-crank: crank might require effort to generate sufficient power
In summary, the Emergency Crank Weather Radio offers a wide range of features that make it an essential tool for emergency preparedness. With its reliable power source, versatile charging options, and useful lighting functions, this radio is designed to keep you connected and informed during emergencies.
2. The Rocam Hand Crank Radio Flashlight
The Rocam Hand Crank Radio Flashlight is a versatile and reliable tool for emergencies and outdoor activities. It features an AM/FM radio that lets you stay updated with the latest news and weather forecasts. The built-in reading lamp provides a soft light for reading or navigating in the dark.
One of the standout features of this flashlight is its hand crank generator, which allows you to generate power when the battery runs out manually. This means that you’ll never have to worry about running out of battery power, making it an excellent choice for emergency situations.
Here are some pros and cons of the Rocam Hand Crank Radio Flashlight:
Pros:
1. Versatile functionality: It combines a flashlight, radio, and phone charger in one compact device.
2. Emergency charging: The hand crank can be used to charge your cell phone in case of power outages or when you’re on the go.
3. Multiple charging options: It can be charged via hand crank, solar power, or USB cable, providing flexibility in different situations.
4. Durable and portable: The sturdy construction and compact design make it suitable for outdoor activities and survival kits.
5. Long-lasting battery life: The built-in rechargeable battery has a decent capacity, ensuring extended use.
Cons:
1. Limited radio reception: Some users have reported that the radio reception may not be strong in certain areas or during unfavorable weather conditions.
2. Limited phone charging capacity: While the hand crank can charge your cell phone in emergencies, the charging capacity may be limited, and it may take some time to charge your device fully.
Overall, the Rocam Hand Crank Radio Flashlight is a reliable and versatile tool for emergencies and outdoor activities. With its multiple functionalities and charging options, it offers convenience and peace of mind when you need it most.
3. Eton RedCross Crank-Powered Flashlight & Smartphone Charger
The Crank-Powered Clipray by RedCross is a compact and reliable flashlight designed for emergency preparedness or outdoor adventures. This versatile device not only provides bright LED light but also functions as a smartphone charger, making it an essential tool to have on hand.
One of the standout features of this flashlight is its crank-powered functionality. Simply turn the hand crank for just one minute, and you’ll generate enough power to enjoy 10 minutes of useable light or charge your phone in case of emergencies when conventional charging options are unavailable.
The easy-to-use cranking mechanism ensures that you can always rely on this flashlight whenever you need it most.
In addition to its practicality, the clip-on design makes it highly portable and convenient to carry around. With a sturdy carabiner attachment included, simply clip it onto your backpack or belt loop so that you’re never caught without illumination during nighttime hikes or camping trips.
This handy device also boasts multiple charging options beyond manual cranking alone—it has both solar panels and USB compatibility—so even if sunlight isn’t readily available, rest assured knowing that alternative power sources won’t hinder its usability.
Pros:
1. Versatile functionality: The Crank-Powered Clipray combines the functions of a flashlight, phone charger, and radio in one compact device.
2. Emergency charging capability: With its hand crank mechanism and multiple charging options (solar power or USB), it provides an alternative power source for your smartphone or other USB-powered devices during emergencies or when on the go.
3. Portable design with carabiner clip: Its compact size and included carabiner clip make it easy to attach to backpacks, belts, or keychains for convenient carrying.
4. Reliable illumination: The LED light offers bright illumination that can be used for extended periods once charged through cranking or solar energy.
Cons:
1. Limited radio reception: Some users have reported weak radio reception in certain areas or unfavorable weather conditions due to limitations inherent within the device’s design. It may depend on your location and external factors affecting signal strength.
2. Potentially limited phone charging capacity: Although the Crank-Powered Clipray is capable of powering up smartphones via its hand crank mechanism,
the charge time may take longer compared to traditional outlets. The amount of charge generated from manual cranking depends upon how long you are able/willing
to generate.
4. Raddy SL10 Emergency Radio, Hand Crank Solar Camping Lantern
This radio flashlight is a one-of-a-kind device that remarkably condenses aid tools into a single compact, easy-to-use package. This product serves as an invaluable companion during times of emergencies or outdoor activities due to its multifunctional capabilities.
Designed with your convenience in mind, the Raddy SL10 combines four vital features into one: it acts as a reliable camping lantern providing essential lighting, the emergency radio for keeping you informed, and an updated Bluetooth speaker for entertainment needs.
It even acts as a power bank ready to recharge dying phone batteries when absolutely needed.
Pros:
1. Multifaceted Functionality: It includes several retrieval tools, including an emergency lantern light source which offers up to 25 hours of light with different settings like Daylight mode.
2. Reliable Power Source: The device boasts a 10000mAh battery, which provides substantial longevity. It can be recharged using a hand crank, solar power, or via USB cable, providing adaptability and a constant energy supply.
3. Stay Informed: The device includes an FM/AM radio that covers all the main frequencies needed to keep you updated in case of emergency situations, including NOAA channels for weather updates.
4. User-friendly design: Apart from its compact layout, it also has straightforward operational controls featuring eight accessible buttons and a highly visible LCD screen with clear display information such as mode status & frequency channel.
Cons:
1. Poor radio signal: reception might not always be at its most optimal, especially when used far away from urban areas, leading to possibly reduced tuning station options during crucial moments
2. Slow charging rate: could generally take longer compared to conventional phone chargers due to limited output, while less than ideal lighting conditions may reduce efficiency further despite having multiple alternative charging methods available
3. Poor Bluetooth Speaker Sound Quality: It is reported only suitable for day-to-day casual use but potentially unfitting during events requiring elevated acoustics intensity like parties or larger outdoor gatherings
5. Eton American Red Cross FRX3+ Emergency Flashlight
The Eton FRX3+ is a reliable hand-crank flashlight with built-in emergency features. It has an AM/FM/NOAA weather band radio that will keep you informed of any potential storms or emergencies in your area. The digital display and alarm clock are convenient additions, making it easy to read the time and stay aware of current conditions.
One of the standout features of this flashlight is its multiple charging options. You can charge it using the hand turbine power generator, solar panel, or USB cable when there’s access to power sources. This versatility ensures that you always have a way to recharge the device during extended periods without electricity.
Additionally, this flashlight doubles as a phone charger through its USB port; perfect for keeping your phone powered up during emergencies or outdoor adventures where electrical outlets may not be available.
Pros:
1. Versatile functionality: Functions as both a high-powered LED flashlight and portable radio.
2. Multiple charging options: Hand-cranked turbine generator, solar panel, and USB cable provide various ways to replenish battery life.
3. Emergency alerts: Automatically broadcast NOAA weather alerts specific to your location.
4. Reliable design: Made by an American Red Cross-approved manufacturer known for quality products.
5. Compact size: sturdy construction makes it suitable for travel
Cons:
1. Limited battery life: Some users have reported that the battery life of this flashlight may not be as long-lasting as expected.
2. Small solar panel: The size of the solar panel on this device is relatively small, which may require extended exposure to sunlight for a full charge.
Despite these limitations, the Eton FRX3+ Emergency NOAA Weather Radio is an excellent option for those looking for a reliable hand-crank flashlight with emergency features. Its multiple charging options and compact design make it ideal for outdoor adventures or keeping in your emergency preparedness kit at home.
Final Words
So, if you are a survivalist or someone who values being prepared for emergencies, investing in a hand-crank flashlight is vital, depending on the situation of your specific needs.
These flashlights offer versatile functionality and reliable lighting when traditional power sources may not be available.
After comparing the top 5 hand crank flashlights on the market, it becomes clear that each one has its own unique strengths and weaknesses that you must evaluate based on your unique budget and preferences.