Gearnalysis

Coast FL97R vs. Ledlenser HF6R Signature

A close look at two headlamps buyers cross-shop. The FL97R takes a modest overall edge, led by brightness, but the HF6R Signature has its own case.

Coast
FL97R
73GearScore
1250 lm · Hybrid
wins 5 specs
Ledlenser
HF6R Signature
67GearScore
1000 lm · Rechargeable
wins 0 specs
Coast FL97RLedlenser HF6R Signature
GearScore73✓67
Max lumens1250 lm✓1000 lm
Weight4.2 oz✓4.8 oz
Beam distance225 m✓170 m
Max runtime15 h60 h
Price$60✓$90
BatteryHybridRechargeable
Water ratingn/sIP68

Highlighted cells mark the better spec: FL97R in blue, HF6R Signature in amber. A blank spec is never counted as a win. Runtime is shown for context and is not scored, since makers publish it at different brightness levels. GearScore is the overall rating (0 to 100); re-weight it on the full headlamp comparison. Prices are current MSRP.

Put the Coast FL97R next to the Ledlenser HF6R Signature and the trade-offs are clear. The FL97R wins on brightness and low weight, and the HF6R Signature pushes back on value.

The FL97R is brighter (1250 vs 1000 lm), 17 g lighter, and a longer beam (225 vs 170 m). On the default GearScore the FL97R leads 73 to 67.

Pick the FL97R if you care most about brightness and low weight, which makes it the better call for your priorities. Pick the HF6R Signature if you would rather save the difference.

Common questions

Which is brighter?

The Coast FL97R. It is brighter (1250 vs 1000 lm) than the HF6R Signature.

Which is lighter?

The Coast FL97R. It is 17 g lighter than the HF6R Signature.

Which has the higher GearScore?

The Coast FL97R, 73 to 67 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.

FL97R or HF6R Signature, which should you buy?

It depends on your priorities. Go with the FL97R for brightness, or the HF6R Signature for the price. The spec table above shows exactly where each wins.