When it comes to tactical headlamps, the Princeton Tec Vizz Tactical is a solid contender with a lot of promise, but also a few drawbacks that are worth considering. As someone who frequently finds themselves in low-light environments, I needed a reliable headlamp that could keep up with the demanding needs. After some extensive use, I have a lot to say about its performance, features, and shortcomings.
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Princeton Tec is a well-regarded American company specializing in the design and manufacture of high-performance lighting products, particularly for outdoor, industrial, and tactical applications. Founded in 1975, the company began with a focus on innovative dive lights, catering to the needs of the underwater diving community. Over the years, Princeton Tec expanded its product range to include headlamps, flashlights, and lanterns, gaining a reputation for durability, reliability, and cutting-edge technology.
The Princeton Vizz Tactical Headlamp was provided by Princeton Tec for this review and while I am allowed to keep this team at the conclusion of this review, it will not change my opinion on any of their current or future offerings. The Vizz Tactical was my go-to headlamp for all of my nighttime flying for the past 2 months in the Blackhawk Helicopter. I used it for getting to the bird, preflight and while in the cockpit. I also used it on a couple of nighttime runs here in humid Alabama.
Specs – Princeton Tec Vizz Tactical Headlamp
Specifications
Light Output
- Maximum Brightness: 550 lumens
- Lighting Modes
- White Light: High and low settings (Dimmable)
- Red Ultrabright LED
- Green Ultrabright LED
- Blue Ultrabright LED
- Infrared (IR) Ultrabright LED
Run Time
- White Spot High (550 lumens): Approximately 4 hours
- White Spot Low (50 lumens): Up to 66 hours
- Red (3 lumens): Around 27 hours
- Green (6.5 lumens): Approximately 44 hours
- Blue (2 lumens): Up to 56 hours
- IR High: Approximately 44 hours
Battery
- Three AAA alkaline batteries (included)
Weight
- 92 grams (3.2 ounces) including batteries
Other
- Programmable order for specialty color LEDs (red, blue, green, IR)
- Made in the USA with foreign and domestic components
- Comes with NVG Shroud Helmet Mount, MOLLE Mount and Headband
- MSRP – $75.00
Lighting Options & Versatility
Definitely a standout feature of the Vizz Tactical is its multiple lighting modes, which allow for adaptability in various tactical scenarios. The light boasts a 550-lumen white spotlight, which is more than enough for navigation in total darkness. The beam has a decent throw and flood, making it effective for both short-range and medium-range illumination.
The inclusion of colored LEDs—red, blue, and green—adds a layer of stealth and versatility. The red light is great for maintaining night vision, while the blue and green lights have their place in map reading and blood tracking. These options are critical in tactical situations where preserving night adaptation or reducing visible signatures is necessary. While I appreciate the IR light, I found it to be of little use to me personally but its still a nice thing to have in this package. The Light also comes with a few mounting options like a helmet shroud and a Plate carrier. I did find the shroud to be very difficult to remove from my helmet.
Performance Inside a Blackhawk Helicopter
Using the Vizz Tactical inside a Blackhawk helicopter revealed both strengths and weaknesses. The red LED mode was particularly useful when reading checklists or handling gear without blinding crew members or interfering with night vision equipment. The headlamp’s high white mode was excellent for pre-flight checks in low-light conditions, allowing me to inspect equipment clearly before taking off.
However, one major issue I encountered was the hinge mechanism. The light housing feels somewhat flimsy, and over time, it tends to lose tension. This is problematic in a dynamic environment like a helicopter, where constant vibrations or movements can cause the light to shift out of position.
The hinge is one of the biggest drawbacks of the Vizz Tactical. While the overall build quality is solid, the hinge just doesn’t inspire confidence. It lacks the firm, positive detents needed to keep the light securely in place when running or moving quickly. Over time, the hinge starts to feel looser, and if you rely on a specific angle for illumination, this can become a persistent annoyance.
Accidental Activation Issue
Another problem I encountered with the Vizz Tactical is how easily it can be turned on inside a backpack. The button, while not overly sensitive, lacks a recessed design that would prevent accidental activation. More than once, I’ve reached into my pack only to find that the headlamp had been on for hours, draining the battery significantly. This is a real concern when operating in the field, where every bit of battery life counts. Tactical operators and field personnel need a light that stays off until deliberately activated. A lockout feature or a more recessed button design would be a welcome improvement.
Battery Life & Power Source
The Vizz Tactical runs on three AAA batteries, which makes it easy to replace power sources in the field without needing a proprietary charger. Battery life is respectable, especially when using the lower-intensity modes. However, using the high-output white light drains the batteries quickly, which is something to keep in mind if you rely on this setting frequently.
Comfort & Wearability
The adjustable head strap is comfortable and secure, even when worn for extended periods. The lightweight design ensures that you barely notice it’s there, which is essential for long missions or operations where headgear needs to stay as unobtrusive as possible. The headlamp also fits well to helmets and night vision mounts. The multiple lighting options, waterproof design, and decent battery life make it a strong choice for military members as this is who its marketed to after all.
Wrap Up- Princeton Tec Vizz Tactical Headlamp
It sounds like I have been beating this headlamp up but I do honestly enjoy using it, the flaws in the hinge mechanism and the accidental activation issue inside a backpack are drawbacks. If you plan to use this headlamp in high-movement environments like helicopters or active operations, be prepared to deal with frequent readjustments. Additionally, if battery conservation is a top priority, you’ll need to be extra careful about how you store the headlamp. Would I recommend it? With some reservations. If you need a lightweight, multi-mode tactical headlamp with strong waterproofing the Vizz Tactical is a solid option. But if you require a rock-solid hinge and a foolproof power button design, you might want to look at other options or wait for an upgraded model with these issues addressed.
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