Topic: A good black light?

[quill]

Hi gang

I'm looking for a better black light than the el cheapo ones I've got and I'm wondering if anyone's got a good brand/make/model no. they're really happy with?  Favourite store that sells them?

Forgive me, but I did a search and got pages and pages, most of the threads just mentioned 'such and such glows under black light' and I gave up!

If it's not GMB etiquette to mention such things publicly, could anyone who knows send me a message?

Thanks!

Quill

[ju1i3]

I had exactly the same problem. I bought some that were quite poor and didn't work properly, inc from Maplins and Ryness and ebay.

A friend had one of the large ones and I borrowed it and it was great. I now have it on long term loan and I wouldn't bother with anything smaller. I believe he bought the bulb at Ryness although I don't think they sell them anymore.

Some of my results with it are at http://www.hyacinthvases.org.uk/uranium.htm

[Bernard C]

Quill — Mine's the same as Julie's but shorter, about 30cm (~12").   The advantage with mine is that it will stand on one end without support — disadvantage is that there's not so much light for larger objects.   I bought mine off the Internet, having tried our local photographic and lighting dealers without success.   Also I have a portable 6" battery powered version which works well for smaller objects.

Quicktest does the battery version together with smaller testers, and has an information page with a link into their catalogue here.   Quicktest will ship worldwide.

Photographic and lighting dealers are a struggle in my experience.   Here's the conversation (different subject, but don't expect any better) at our local Jessops about three years ago (yes, it's true):-

B.C. — "Do you sell light tents?"

Jessops — "No, Sir, try Millets."   :spls:

Good luck,

Bernard C.  

ps — in my experience lighting dealers will try to sell you a fluorescent tube fitting with a standard tube and then charge you extra for the blacklight tube.

[Lustrousstone]

What we need to know is what you need it for. In your pocket or for photography. My OH has just bought me a 21 LED torch one, which is small enough for my handbag but doesn't half give a good blast of light. I've yet to try it for photography. http://stores.ebay.co.uk/AlmostUnique. We also have a complete selection of UV lights from keyring to 6ft tube that he has acquired.

[quill]

What we need to know is what you need it for. Snip!

Er...would saying 'detecting crap' get me thrown off the forums?  Looking for something to take to shops and fairs.


One with a serious blast of light would be ideal.

Something good enough for photography is a luxury I can barely dream of....

Thanks for your answers, folks!

[Lustrousstone]

Actually it was the 12 LED one, I've got. Just the thing I would say.