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Silva Terra Scout H Review
Basics
If you’re keen on a brand with history, look no further. In 1933 the brand’s founders launched the first-ever liquid-filled compass. Just two years later came the brand’s first head torch.
Technology may have moved on a lot since then, but those two product lines still form a core part of the brand’s offering.
On test here is the Terra Scout H, which won an award at European outdoor trade show ISPO, as well as the Scandinavian Outdoor Sustainability Award.
The torch unit itself is made from hemp fibres and recycled plastics, resulting in a 90% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to standard plastics.
First impressions
Visually it’s a classy torch to look at, it’s lightweight and is on par with dozens of competitors in terms of size and packability.
One area I’d say it performs above average, though, is the comfort, with the wide, soft band proving comfortable when in use.
How we tested
Before testing anything, we weighed each head torch on our own scales and measured the light’s size to give an accurate understanding of how light it was and how well it packed away.
Each head torch was worn multiple times on walks in open terrain and on trails with closer features, such as hedges or woodland.
Much of the testing took place after dusk on the Cotswold Way and we conducted a controlled test in the same spot in an attempt to assess the distance and width of each light’s beams.
Comfort, weight distribution and ease of use was rated throughout testing, while we also tried using each torch when wearing thick mountaineering-style gloves, plus thinner gloves.
Brightness
Where this head torch excels, apart from the aforementioned comfort, is with its flood lighting.
The Terra Scout H illuminates your surroundings expertly well, giving you a fantastic range of vision that feels akin to a floodlight coming on.
There’s a decent distance in that top mode, too, but it does start to struggle beyond 50m, which can’t be said for the likes of the Petzl Swift RL, Tikka Core or the Black Diamond Spot 400.
In the lower of the two modes, you still get good illumination of your immediate surroundings, but the reach of the beam doesn’t go much further than that.
Lighting modes
The Terra Scout H can be operated in the following modes:
- Max mode: 350 lumens, 65m distance, 3 hours burn time
- Min mode: 50 lumens, 30m distance, 25 hours burn time
- Continuous red
Is it easy to use?
Pretty much. Again, there’s one single button and a single press will toggle you through the two white modes, while a long press from off will turn on the red light.
Tilting is also incredibly easy and all of the above is perfectly doable in gloves, too.
Batteries
One of the best aspects of this head torch, apart from the sustainability, is the fact that you can choose to use it with a rechargeable battery (provided) or AAA batteries.
This means you can carry the latter with you on adventures or when working outdoors, safe in the knowledge that you can get more lighting when the standard battery runs dry.
Resilience
An IPX5 rating should mean significant resistance to low-pressure water streams, which is a step above many others in this test.
Otherwise, we’ve seen no reason to doubt the long-term durability of this head torch.
Is it good value?
Yes and no. What it does, the Terra Scout H does very well. It’s a quality head torch, is comfortable and it’s always great to see brands try to be more sustainable. Oh and the dual battery options are also a big plus.
However, the limited lighting modes see it lose points for versatility.
Best used for...
Due to the comfort, excellent flood lighting but limited battery performance, this head torch would suit fast paced adventures, such as running.
It would also be great for camping when used in the lower power mode, otherwise it’d be far too blinding.
Verdict
Very comfortable and excellent flood lighting, but limited modes and battery life see it lose points.
Facts at a glance: Silva Terra Scout H
- Weight: 73g
- Size: 5.5cm (w) x 4cm (h) x 4cm (d)
- Waterproof rating: IPX5
- Brightness rating in lumens: 350
- Lighting modes: 3
- Beam pattern: Mixed
- Red light function: Yes
- Red rear light: No
- Automatic beam adjustment: No
- Battery type: Rechargeable Silva Hybrid Battery 1.25 Ah included; also compatible with three AAA batteries
- Battery life: 3-25 hours
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Also consider...
Ledlenser NEO 9R Review
The Ledlenser NEO 9R head torch excels in light performance with an impressive battery life, but its thin band may affect comfort, and the lack of red light up front is a drawback.
Geared towards runners, it offers excellent lighting for running, walking, and working, but users should consider their preferences regarding weight and headband comfort. Despite these considerations, the NEO 9R is a valuable option with a score of 4 out of 5, particularly for those seeking exceptional lighting performance.
Read our full review of the Ledlenser NEO 9R.
Looking for more options? Check out our guide to the best head torches on the market in 2023.
