ScubaLab tested the Sherwood ST1000 dive light. It was our Testers Choice for compact dive lights.

We measured light output on a full and partially discharged battery at Wilger Testing Company in Sarasota, Florida. Lights were tested using an integrating sphere to measure the total light output in lumens, without regard to beam angle.

We also tested lights at Devil’s Den Spring in Williston, Florida with a team of test divers who scored them in several categories including ease of use, light output and beam size and shape.

The ST1000 literally outshined the competition. It produced the brightest lumen output in its category, and that output was almost 20 percent over the manufacturer’s claims. After burning for an hour, its light output had only decreased by 25 percent and was still the leader of the pack.

In the water, test divers were equally impressed by the 12-degree beam, scoring it very good for output and beam size and shape. “Beam was terrific. Very penetrating with good concentration of light and low glare. Beam angle was spot on,” was how one test diver described it. An intuitive one-button operation easily cycles between 100-percent and 50-percent power, SOS and off.

The power levels are distinctive, but testers felt the light could have benefited from another lower-level setting for up-close work. “Hot spot is blinding on slate, even on low,” one test diver noted. The rounded light head is integrated into the handle, which makes it easy to hold and suitable for extended use as a primary light. It scored very good for comfort/security of the grip. Taking the highest score in almost every category and overwhelmingly chosen as a favorite among test divers, the ST1000 is our testers choice for compact dive lights.