I was given this as a gift and used during Power Outage from Hurricane Irene. It is great for emergencies, because you don't have to worry about failing batteries. The crank turns easily and it charges up in about 30 seconds. I just bought 3 more and gave as gifts, just in time for the power outage from the October Nor-easter. I got the yellow color--easier to find in the semi-dark. Fairly water resistent construction.
I got this as a present when my mom went for the buy three and save deal. I love it!!! It lives in the glove compartment normally, but recently I have used it twice and it served me well. Cold weather camping: excellent hand held light. October snowstorm that took us by surprise: excellent. Best features for me: I have small hands and it is very lightweight and comfortable, no aching. The cranking is simple and effortless, though relatively frequent. (Or I'm too lazy to crank fully?) Less annoying than dim batteries on classic flashlights though. No surprises if you pick it up dead, just crank some more and you are good as new. I have bright yellow and still think it's the best color. When you need it, you want to find it fast; yellow is the way to go. PLus: During the power outage when EVERYthing was dark, I discovered that I like to take it in my handbag (remember the lightweight part?) when I step out so that when I come back home after dark... I have light. Minus: It's not superduper bright, but it is good for most purposes. For reading under the covers... I prefer the Eton radio plus flashlight (slightly bigger) also sold by Bean.
