When I read the review for this spotlight, I could see that it was tailored for boating. While I used to do a good bit of boating, I was more interested in a light that I could use on our small horse farm: something that could pick out details at the far end of a three acre horse paddock. This light fits the bill. I've purchased a number of spotlights and searchlights over the years, and what I was looking for was a portable light that I didn't have to worry about recharging with a transformer type charging cord. I had previously purchased a spotlight that could be recharged with AC power, but it was a good bit heavier and stopped working after just a few months. I was unable to determine if it was the battery or the bulb because it didn't appear that a replacement for either was easily obtainable (if at all). I bought a similar light made by Stanley, that did require a dedicated DC cord for recharging, but unfortunately that light stopped working within just a few weeks for no apparent reason. I decided to try this light even though it isn't rechargeable. While this light can't be recharged at all (you either have to use the 12V power cord or four C batteries), the light output is tremendous. The main light is pretty tightly focused, but there's no problem illuminating an object 400' away. There's enough ambient spill to make it useful for chores around the place at night, but it shouldn't be confused with a searchlight or general use flashlight. I've also used the lower intensity setting and would compare it to a good 4 D cell Maglite at that setting. I also own one of the larger (and heavier) Streamlight "Litebox" units, but I find myself grabbing this light more often because it's so lightweight yet powerful. Even with the C batteries loaded, it's no strain to carry and the lanyard is convenient for when you don't need to aim the light, but need both hands. It appears to be well built and I'll update this review in the future to provide feedback on durability. For now, for the price, I recommend this spotlight. UPDATE September 17, 2013: I've had this spotlight for going on ten months now and, as the sun sets earlier each day, thought I'd update my review. I continue to be satisfied with the light. Of course, I didn't use it as much during the summer with longer daylight hours, but I did use it some. Last winter and spring I'd estimate that I used if for a few minutes (checking on horses, etc.) two or three times a week and I continue to be pleased by the light weight, excellent illumination at a distance, and durability. I've installed the holder next to the garage door, just on the inside wall, where it's handy for me to grab on my way out. Battery Life: While I haven't used it for hours on end, I have used it enough to compare it to the rechargeable models I've used in the past. With those models I would have needed to recharge the unit at least three or four times since last December. With this little spotlight, I'm still operating on the 4 C Batteries I installed when I first purchased the light (batteries sold separately). UPDATE December 3, 2014: This past year I've used this spotlight for longer periods of time and performance and battery life continue to be outstanding. It's lightweight, powerful and just what is needed when you're concerned about clarity at a distance of 100 to 300 yards. UPDATE January 10, 2022. Put new C batteries in last night. We use the light just about every night (more in the winters obviously). Based on that use, the batteries last a year or two before needing to be replaced. The switch is a little harder to squeeze to have the light on continuously, but still works. The keep the flashlight in its base on a wall of our garage, or sitting on a table in the house when we use it more often. It's still going strong and so I thought I'd update my original review. Excellent spotlight - highly recommended.
