UCO Gear, established in Redmond, WA, in 1971, boasts a rich history in the industry. The acronym UCO stands for Utility, Comfort, and Originality, and the company is renowned for products like the Original Candle Lantern, known for its functionality and simplicity, and the Stormproof Matches, which are essential for surviving the elements. The brand has solidified its position as a leading provider of lighting and fire-starting solutions for outdoor, home, and emergency preparedness needs. With nearly 50 years of experience and expertise in innovation and manufacturing, UCO Gear designs each product with practical features that enhance safety and comfort during outdoor activities.
Lighting Solution #1: UCO Sprout
The Sprout Hangout Mini Lantern is a small yet powerful light source suitable for illuminating a tent, picnic table, hotel room, or campsite. Its user-friendly push-button control allows for easy adjustment of brightness (up to 100 lumens) and also features a calming blue Moonlight Mode. Its patented MAGNA-LOOP magnetic lanyard system can be conveniently hung from a tent, tree, or camper or placed on a table, nightstand, or the ground. This versatile lantern can be powered by the included lithium rechargeable battery pack or three AAA batteries (not included), ensuring long-lasting illumination on the go. It’s compact and lightweight, measuring just 1.8 inches tall with a base width of 2.5 inches and weighing 2.75 ounces (with the lithium rechargeable battery pack).
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The Sprout Mini Lantern boasts an impressive IPX4 water-resistance rating, signifying its robust defense against moisture. “IP” refers to “Ingress Protection,” a standard that gauges a device’s shield against solids like dust and liquids. A product earns this designation after rigorous evaluation by an independent, certified body. The scale begins at IPX1, where the item withstands vertical dripping water. Progressing to IPX2, it can handle water hitting it at an angle of 15 degrees or less. At IPX3, it’s capable of withstanding sprays up to a 60-degree angle. Finally, IPX4 ensures protection from splashes coming from all directions.
Hands-On With The Sprout
The battery is rated 4 hours at high settings and 50 hours at low. For peak brightness in regular white mode, keep the button pressed. Dimming is achieved by holding the button until the light softens. The blue Moonlight Mode is a personal favorite, offering a unique ambiance for various settings. However, real-world usage yielded 2 hours of high-intensity light, falling short of the advertised 4 hours. On low, the light consistently shone for 17 hours and 30 minutes. It’s an ideal light for outdoor dining or as a comforting nightlight in new environments.
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Survive Outdoors Longer (SOL)
SOL, also known as Survive Outdoors Longer, is a company that specializes in providing innovative outdoor gear and accessories to keep you safe and comfortable during your outdoor escapades. Their products are designed to help you survive and thrive in the great outdoors, offering practical solutions for various outdoor challenges. Whether it’s lighting, shelter, or survival tools, SOL has got you covered with reliable and well-designed gear for your outdoor adventures.
Lighting Solution #2: Water Bottle Lantern
Meet the Venture Solar Water Bottle Lantern, the ultimate multi-functional outdoor accessory. This 24-ounce (700mL) BPA-FREE Eastman Tritan water bottle is not your average hydration companion. With a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery and LED light in the cap, it transforms into a powerful lantern, lighting up your campsite, picnic table, or the trail ahead.
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The Solar Water Bottle Lantern offers versatile recharging options, allowing you to replenish its power via USB or sunlight. Whether in a hurry or enjoying the great outdoors, you can fully recharge it in just 2.5 hours using the integrated USB cord or let it soak up the sun for approximately 25 hours.
Different Lighting Modes
Equipped with three lighting modes, you can effortlessly adjust the brightness from 20 to 100 lumens to suit your needs. Enjoy up to 10 hours of continuous illumination on a single charge, providing reliable light wherever your adventures take you.
Crafted from BPA-free and 1-meter shatter-resistant Tritan™ material, the water bottle ensures safe and durable hydration. For added convenience, the bottle is dishwasher safe (bottle only) and features a comfortable carrying handle separate from the lid, making it easy to transport and use as a lantern.
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Experience the perfect blend of functionality and innovation with the Venture Solar Water Bottle Lantern, your essential companion for staying hydrated and illuminated on all your outdoor escapades.
Verdict
As a super minimalist, I always seek gear with several uses. However, I never considered hydration and illumination sharing the same host body. It’s pretty genius. When the bottle has liquid, the light transforms the bottle into a lantern. It’s even cooler when you have an orange or blue drink.
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I used this as a bedside lamp while traveling, which can easily be used as an emergency light if the power is out. However, finding the ON button in the dark isn’t easy.
The rubber handle is attached under the lid, allowing the bottle to be lowered into a scarce, hard-to-reach water source or hung in the rain to collect water without the lid. Also, when the lid is removed, it can enhance the brightness of the light, making it more direct.
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As a water bottle, I haven’t noticed any residual taste after switching from powdered flavored drinks to water. The actual test will be the long-term test. Besides, the 700mL can almost carry the capacity of a wine bottle—so camp responsibly!
Don’t just light the way—make a statement while you hydrate!
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