What I meant by carbide is now dead, is that a newbie getting into caving, should just be loaned a rock-solid LED headlamp for their first trip, like the new Energizer, or something certainly under $ 40.
Pelican sells an excellent LED headlamp that is very water-resistant for $ 25. And Gander Mountain has an excellent LED headlamp that is water-resistant for $ 20. Any new caving book, should mention the most recent models of LED headlamps, and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each, such as the crappy that plastic many are constructed in. Carbide lamps still work well for cold caves as they provide warmth. They work well for cavers who have easy access to carbide. They work best on expedition trips where water is plentiful. Who wants to run out of batteries at 1 or 2 kilometers underground. I believe alpine cavers in high altitudes prefer carbide. Right ? Many caves require scuba to push them. Carbide does not work underwater. Many of the newest LED lights are now water-proof. I don't believe newbies need to be taught about carbide on their first trip. Many of them may never go caving again. If we could give a date to the death of carbide, I would propose having a Carbide Death party very soon and having lots of margaritas. I wonder where we could find an event soon with hundreds of cavers to celebrate the occasion ?? Carbide smells and is not a naturally occurring gas in the cave. If 5 of 6 cavers are electric, why should one be still using carbide ? It would be better if everybody had interchangeable batteries, meaning if 6 cavers are on a trip, and one is using a lithium-ion Stenlight, then he or she won't be able to loan someone some AA's. There have been carbide related accidents in caving. Have there been in LED related accidents in caving ? I propose a motion that we have an official "Carbide is Dead Party." Attendees will be encouraged to come wearing a helmet with a functioning carbide headlamp. At the striking of a gong or some other symbolic instrument, we would all simultaneously blow out the flame. And then have toast with a margarita in semi-total darkness. Then we would put on our LED headlamp, turn on the light, cheer and finish the Margarita. Then we would dance and listen to a caver rock band, and have lots of Shiner Beer. Anybody 2nd the motion ? David Locklear caver in Fort Bend County --------------------------------------------------------------------- Visit our website: http://texascavers.com To unsubscribe, e-mail: [email protected] For additional commands, e-mail: [email protected]
