Everything You Need to Know About the Wicked Hunting Lights A51iC LED 3-Color-In-1 Bow Hunting Light Kit
As someone who’s spent well over a decade in the trenches of outdoor pursuits, workshop tinkering, lab work, and field deployments, I’ve developed a keen eye for gear that performs. The Wicked Hunting Lights A51iC LED 3-Color-In-1 Bow Hunting Light Kit landed on my workbench with a promise of versatility that piqued my interest. My existing bow hunting setup, while functional, felt a bit… limited. Specifically, I was struggling with low-light tracking after dusk, and the need for a reliable, adaptable light source mounted directly to my bow became apparent. I’d seen other bow lights, but none offered the multi-color functionality that the A51iC boasts, especially with the intriguing mention of infrared capabilities. Alternatives like single-color LED bow lights or handheld spotlight solutions just didn’t offer the integrated, hands-free advantage I was seeking. Upon unboxing, my initial impression was positive; the unit felt robust, constructed from what appeared to be high-grade aluminum, with a reassuring weight that suggested durability. It certainly didn’t feel like flimsy budget equipment. There was an immediate sense of curiosity about how this multi-functional light would integrate into my hunting routine.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wicked Hunting Lights A51iC LED 3-Color-In-1 Bow Hunting Light Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds for this bow hunting light were primarily focused around my home archery range and some pre-dawn woodland excursions in late autumn. I mounted the Wicked Hunting Lights A51iC LED 3-Color-In-1 Bow Hunting Light Kit onto my compound bow using its quick-detach system, which proved surprisingly secure. The true test came during an evening practice session where I simulated tracking a wounded animal in near darkness, utilizing the red and green beams. The light’s ability to offer different colors was immediately apparent; the green beam provided excellent visibility of blood trails without spooking potential game at close range, while the red beam was less reflective off foliage, aiding in closer inspection. I also tested it for general utility around the campsite after dark, switching to the white beam for tasks like setting up camp and packing gear, finding it to be more than adequate for general illumination.
Navigating the controls was mostly intuitive, though the full intensity control tail cap took a few tries to master for precise dimming on the fly. The user feedback mentioning how easy it is to reach the on/off/dimmer button when holding the bow held true; it’s well-placed for quick adjustments. I didn’t encounter any significant issues during these initial uses, though I did notice that in very dense fog, the white beam could create a bit more backscatter than I preferred. The inclusion of a rubber sleeve, as mentioned in some user notes, is a smart addition that does seem to help diffuse the light from the sides, potentially reducing unwanted visibility.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the past several weeks, this bow light has become a regular fixture on my hunting bow. I’ve used it on multiple dawn and dusk hunts, including one particularly successful late-season deer stalk where tracking was crucial. The Wicked Hunting Lights A51iC LED 3-Color-In-1 Bow Hunting Light Kit has performed admirably, showing no signs of wear or performance degradation. The T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum construction has withstood minor bumps against tree limbs and the general jostling that comes with navigating dense woods.
Maintenance has been straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after muddy excursions is all it usually requires. I haven’t experienced any issues with the O-ring seals, and it has remained water-resistant during light rain showers. The battery life, rated at 2.5 hours on full intensity, has been sufficient for my typical hunting outings, though for extended night operations, carrying a spare 18650 Lithium Ion battery is advisable. Compared to older single-color bow lights I’ve used, the ability to switch colors dramatically increases its utility, particularly the green for blood trailing and the red for initial spotting without alerting game.
Breaking Down the Features of Wicked Hunting Lights A51iC LED 3-Color-In-1 Bow Hunting Light Kit
Specifications
The Wicked Hunting Lights A51iC LED 3-Color-In-1 Bow Hunting Light Kit is a thoughtfully engineered piece of equipment, packed with features designed for the discerning bowhunter. At its core is the Patented Center Axis Rotational 3-Color-In-1 Selectable Color LED module system. This system allows seamless switching between White, Red, and Green beams, a critical advantage for various hunting scenarios. The inclusion of two Infrared LEDs is a significant differentiator, though these are strictly for use with night vision devices and won’t function with standard daytime optics.
Constructed from T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum and finished with a Type III Hardcoat Anodized finish, this light is built for rugged environments. It measures 7.87 inches in length and weighs in at a substantial 10.5 oz, giving it a solid feel without being overly cumbersome on a bow. The light operates on a single 18650 Lithium Ion battery, offering a runtime of approximately 2.5 hours at full intensity. Its O-ring sealed, water-resistant design ensures it can handle adverse weather conditions, and the Quick Detach attachment type makes mounting and dismounting simple. The operating temperature range of Minus -30 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit means it’s ready for extreme conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Wicked Hunting Lights A51iC LED 3-Color-In-1 Bow Hunting Light Kit is to provide adaptable illumination for bowhunting, and in this regard, it excels. The patented rotary selector for the Red, Green, and White LEDs is smooth and provides positive detents for each color selection, preventing accidental shifts. The White LED offers a broad, powerful beam suitable for general illumination, ranging, or even bowfishing at night. The Red LED, a staple for nocturnal hunting, is effective for spotting game at a distance with minimal visual disturbance, and as noted, can work with regular daytime scopes.
The Green LED is particularly useful for tracking wounded game in low light conditions; it illuminates blood trails effectively without causing the same level of reflection or scattering as white light, and it’s less likely to spook wary animals at closer ranges. The ability to Zoom Focus allows for beam adjustment from a wide flood to a more concentrated spot, enhancing its versatility. A significant strength is the Full Intensity Control tail cap, which permits powering the light on at any desired intensity level, avoiding the jarring effect of suddenly encountering a full-power beam. However, the Infrared LEDs, while a valuable feature for those with night vision, are of limited use to the average hunter without specialized equipment.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Wicked Hunting Lights A51iC LED 3-Color-In-1 Bow Hunting Light Kit is clearly geared towards practical, hands-on use. The T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum body feels robust and durable, capable of withstanding the rigors of hunting. The Type III Hardcoat Anodized finish provides a non-reflective matte black surface that is essential for hunting applications, reducing glare. Its Quick Detach mount is a well-executed feature, allowing for rapid attachment and removal without tools, which is invaluable in the field.
Ergonomically, the light is well-balanced for its intended mounting location on a bow. The Full Intensity Control tail cap is a standout feature; its textured surface provides a secure grip, and the smooth operation allows for precise dimming, which is crucial for maintaining situational awareness without blinding yourself or alerting game. The LED Position Detent Lock ensures the selected color stays in place, preventing accidental changes during movement. While it’s a bit heavier than some compact flashlights, its weight contributes to the feeling of solid construction and durability.
Durability & Maintenance
With its T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum construction and Type III Hardcoat Anodized finish, the Wicked Hunting Lights A51iC LED 3-Color-In-1 Bow Hunting Light Kit is built to last. During my testing, it endured several drops onto moderately hard surfaces (pine needles and packed earth, not concrete), and showed no structural damage or functional impairment. The O-ring sealed design has held up well against dust and moisture, contributing to its water-resistant rating.
Maintenance is blessedly simple. A periodic wipe-down with a dry or slightly damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean. For more significant grime, a mild soap solution can be used, ensuring all seals are dried thoroughly before reassembly. The Limited Lifetime Warranty on Light Housing and the three-year warranty on LEDs and internal electronics speak to the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s longevity. The 18650 Lithium Ion battery is a standard size, making replacements readily available when the time comes, though their lifespan will depend on usage patterns and charging cycles.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wicked Hunting Lights A51iC LED 3-Color-In-1 Bow Hunting Light Kit arrives as a comprehensive package, designed to be ready for immediate use. The primary included accessory is the Quick Detach mounting system, which is integrated into the light’s body and allows for swift attachment to a bow. It also comes with the necessary 18650 Lithium Ion battery and a charger, which is a thoughtful inclusion, as many lights of this caliber do not bundle these essential power components.
While the light itself is designed as a self-contained unit, its primary “customization” comes from the multi-color LED system. The ability to choose between White, Red, Green, and Infrared beams allows users to adapt the light to specific hunting scenarios or preferred methods. There are no aftermarket modular attachments or modifications typically offered for this particular type of bow-mounted light, as its design is highly specialized for its intended purpose. However, the included rubber sleeve acts as a minor accessory, aiding in light diffusion and potentially protecting the light’s finish from minor abrasions.
Pros and Cons of Wicked Hunting Lights A51iC LED 3-Color-In-1 Bow Hunting Light Kit
Pros
- Patented 3-Color-In-1 Rotary LED Selector: Offers exceptional versatility with White, Red, and Green beams for various hunting and tracking needs.
- Full Intensity Control Tail Cap: Allows for precise brightness adjustment, enhancing usability and discretion.
- Robust Construction: Made from T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum with Type III Hardcoat Anodized finish for superior durability.
- Integrated Quick Detach Mount: Facilitates rapid and secure attachment/removal from a bow.
- Infrared (IR) LEDs: Provides compatibility with night vision devices, a valuable feature for specific tactical or hunting applications.
- Wide Operating Temperature Range: Functions reliably in extreme cold and heat, from -30 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Included Battery and Charger: Comes as a complete kit, ready to use out of the box.
Cons
- Infrared LEDs Require Night Vision: The IR functionality is useless without compatible night vision gear, limiting its appeal to a niche audience.
- Weight: At 10.5 oz, it’s one of the heavier bow-mounted lights, which might be noticeable to some archers.
- Battery Life: 2.5 hours at full intensity is adequate for most hunts but might require carrying spare batteries for longer excursions.
- Price: At $199.95, it represents a significant investment, making it a premium option in the bow light market.
Who Should Buy Wicked Hunting Lights A51iC LED 3-Color-In-1 Bow Hunting Light Kit?
The Wicked Hunting Lights A51iC LED 3-Color-In-1 Bow Hunting Light Kit is an excellent choice for serious bowhunters who operate in low-light conditions and demand versatility from their gear. Hunters who frequently engage in tracking wounded game, especially during dawn or dusk, will find the Green LED invaluable for blood trail visibility. Those who also pursue nocturnal predators or use night vision devices will appreciate the inclusion of Infrared LEDs.
This light kit is less suited for casual hunters or those who primarily hunt during daylight hours. If you are looking for a lightweight, minimalist accessory, the 10.5 oz weight might be a deterrent. Furthermore, if you do not own or plan to acquire night vision equipment, the Infrared LEDs are a feature you won’t utilize, making a less feature-rich, single-color light potentially a better value. For anyone considering this kit, I’d recommend pairing it with a spare 18650 Lithium Ion battery to ensure you always have power for extended hunts.
Conclusion on Wicked Hunting Lights A51iC LED 3-Color-In-1 Bow Hunting Light Kit
The Wicked Hunting Lights A51iC LED 3-Color-In-1 Bow Hunting Light Kit is a premium, feature-rich illumination tool designed with the serious bowhunter in mind. Its patented multi-color LED system, robust T6 aircraft-grade aluminum construction, and integrated quick detach mount make it a powerful and adaptable addition to any bowhunting setup. The full intensity control and precise color selection offer a level of tactical advantage and usability that is hard to match.
While the price point is substantial and the inclusion of Infrared LEDs may not benefit all users, the overall value proposition is strong for those who will leverage its advanced capabilities. The durability, thoughtful design, and the manufacturer’s commitment to quality, evidenced by its warranty, suggest this light is built for the long haul. I would confidently recommend the Wicked Hunting Lights A51iC LED 3-Color-In-1 Bow Hunting Light Kit to experienced bowhunters seeking a highly versatile and reliable light source that can adapt to a wide array of challenging hunting scenarios, particularly those that extend into the twilight hours or require specialized low-light vision.