Outdoors enthusiasts can rejoice in the genius of Joby's GorillaTorch Switchback.

From the same company that brought us the original GorillaTorch, the Switchback is designed as a two-in-one that eliminates the need for separate lights at the campsite.

It's a lantern with hands-free tripod that converts to a headlamp for both convenience and portability, using the same "LED engine" to power both.

As a lantern, it can rest on the adjustable tripod, attach to a tree branch or even hang on a tent pole. As a headlamp, the LED engine connects to a smaller light source with an ergonomic, adjustable headband that can illuminate up to 60 feet in front of the wearer. The tripod also functions as a camera holder.

The entire product is water resistant (IPX-4). It has five LED lights, including an XP-G spotlight, two flood lights and two red lights for nighttime vision. It has a holographic lens that creates strong, consistent light.

Brightness is adjustable, from 5 to 130 lumens. Battery lasts up to 72 hours. Fully assembled (headlamp, lantern, batteries and tripod), the Switchback weighs only 8.8 ounces. Lantern and headlamp are plastic (ABS, nylon, and polycarbonate), headlamp housing is aluminum and tripod is ABS plastic with TPE feet.

Its price is $59.95. To purchase or find a list of retailers, go to Joby's website, www.joby.com.

Compact, durable SOG knife is light and safe

The compact and durable SOG Flash TINI II Knife ($87) weighs a mere 3.1 ounces. The 3.5-inch blade is half-serrated, plus an additional safety lock gives added security when the blade is closed.

The SOG Mini Sharpener and Fire starter ($20.75) is the perfect sidekick for your knife. Available at sogknives.com

-- Mark Yuasa, Seattle Times