Joby Gorillatorch Blade

Product: Joby Gorillatorch Blade
Provided By: Joby
Price: $59.99 MSRP

Introduction:

Most of the stuff we review here at BCCHardware is directly related to computers.  A few of our reviews center around other consumer electronics, but we don't review too many accessories such as flashlights - in fact the Joby Gorillatorch Blade marks only our second review of a "torch".  Today we are once again taking a break from the normal routine and taking a quick look at the Gorillatorch Blade from Joby.  Joby is the company that makes the infamous "Gorillapod" flexible tripod and they've adapted this idea for a handy light (torch) that will help shed light on your next project.  Their torch is a little different from the average light.  It uses a Cree LED Emitter that claims to offer up to 130 lumens of brightness.  This rates as a pretty decent light according to the specifications and we'll see how handy it is as we go along.

First Look:

The Joby Gorillatorch Blade comes in an attractive package that looks like it would fit nicely on the shelves of many retail department stores or even your local RadioShack.  It appears to be quite durable and comes with the torch itself, a detachable tripod with magnetic feet a USB-to-microUSB cable and a wall 110v wall adapter that allows you to plug in the USB cable to your wall for easy charging.  The bundle also includes a brief manual that helps you figure out how to turn in from normal to "boost".  Other than that, it's a fairly basic arrangement.

Box

Bundle

The Blade is a lot heftier that I expected after looking at the original Joby Gorillatorch back in December of last year.  The body is made of heavy-weight aluminum and the new rail system that attaches to the tripod is a nice touch.  This way you can use the Blade as a stand-alone light or strap it to a tripod for easy hands-free operation.  The glass is quite magnified and the head rotates so you can turn it from a moderate spotlight to a floodlight at the twist of a wrist.

Close Side

Emitter

Specifications:

On the next page we'll take a closer look at the Blade and find out how bright this really is.