In the world of scuba diving, reliable dive lights are essential for ensuring underwater visibility and effective communication. Over the years, divers have transitioned from traditional HID lights to more advanced LED lights, seeking improvements in brightness, battery life, and durability. The Halcyon Focus 2.0 Dive Light is a shining example of these advancements, blending the best of both HID and LED technologies.

Initial Impressions and Background

This is the full set for the Halcyon Focus 2.0

For several years, I relied on the Dive Rite MR 11 canister light, which served me well for diving in murky lake Ontario and during night dives. The Dive Rite MR 11 was primarily used for communication when visibility was low, acting as a reliable signaling tool. However, once i decided to start my Intro to Tech and Cavern trainning and experiencing dimming issues with the MR 11, I decided it was time for an upgrade.

The Halcyon Focus 2.0 was a significant investment compared to the Dive Rite MR 11, but it promised greater brightness and functionality, especially for potential cave-diving adventures. While I had always considered the 21W HID canister light as the gold standard, I was eager to see how the Halcyon Focus 2.0 would perform.

Features and Specifications

Build and Design:

This loop is made of bungee cord and is a great addition to your Focus light. In this location, if you use a double-ended bold snap on your chest D ring, the light will point down, allowing you to use both hands while still lighting a slate or the path directly in front of you while not blinding your dive buddy. Photo credit:@seri_BCN

The Halcyon Focus 2.0 is expertly machined from aluminum for the light head and Delrin for the canister. The adjustable Goodman handle, which fits both left and right hands comfortably, adds to its versatility. Despite its robust construction, the Focus 2.0 remains compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry and handle underwater.

-difficult to get used too

Pro tip– add bolt stap to the handle and the base of the light

Light Output and Beam:

One of the standout features of the Focus 2.0 is its focusable beam, controlled by a rotating knob on the top of the light head. This allows divers to switch between a tight, concentrated beam and a wide floodlight, depending on their needs. The light’s performance is impressive, delivering 39,000 lux at 1 meter, ensuring excellent visibility even in the darkest conditions.

Battery and Burn Time:

The Focus 2.0’s battery design integrates seamlessly with other Halcyon lights, such as the mini EOS. With the OEM battery, the light offers a burn time of 6 hours on high power and up to 12 hours on low power. The charging mechanism is straightforward, with LED indicators to show the charging status. The compact battery and charger are travel-friendly, eliminating the bulkiness associated with older HID chargers.

Performance in Water

Diving Experience:

Underwater, the Halcyon Focus 2.0 truly shines. In murky Humber Bay waters, it outperformed my buddies’ 21W HID and other LED lights, providing a brighter and more focused beam. The light’s ability to signal effectively over long distances and illuminate large areas made it invaluable during dives.

Want to learn more about diving in Humber Bay? Click Here.

Adjustability and Versatility:

Adjusting the beam underwater is quick and easy, allowing for seamless transitions between focused and wide-angle lighting. This feature is particularly beneficial for videographers, as it provides consistent and even brightness across the beam pattern, eliminating hotspots and dark areas.

A- this nob will change the focus of the light from a wide angle to a very narrow focused angle. B- this will dim the light or bring it to full strength. C- This bolt snap is great for stowing the light on a D-ring when it is not in use anymore. This location will shine the light on your buddy’s face but is a good place for when the light is not in use and stored away.

Pros and Cons

Advantages:

– Durability and Robustness: The Focus 2.0 is built to last, with a solid construction that can withstand the rigours of diving.

– Excellent Battery Life: The light offers extended burn times, reducing the need for frequent recharging.

– High Brightness and Efficient Beam Focus: The adjustable beam ensures optimal visibility in various conditions.

– Versatile Use: Suitable for a range of diving activities, from signalling to videography.

Disadvantages:

– Magnetic Switch Durability: The small screw on the magnetic switch can be a potential weak point, especially in cold water conditions with bulky gloves.

User Experiences and Testimonials

Personal Reviews:

Many divers, including myself, have found the Halcyon Focus 2.0 to be a game-changer. Its build quality and performance exceed expectations, making it a worthwhile investment. I’ve named my Focus 2.0 “Nova,” the bigger sister to my mini EOS, reflecting my confidence in its capabilities.

Conclusion

The Halcyon Focus 2.0 Dive Light is a standout product in the realm of diving gear. Its blend of durability, brightness, and versatility makes it an essential tool for serious divers. Whether you’re exploring murky lakes, diving at night, or venturing into caves, the Focus 2.0 delivers reliable performance and superior lighting. For those seeking a long-lasting and effective dive light, the Halcyon Focus 2.0 is a top recommendation.

The Halcyon Focus 2.0 Dive Light: A Comprehensive Review