Mark Baker looks into the new magnifying long reach light from Warco
The hinged magnifier is superb for highlighting detail
Mark Baker looks into the new magnifying long reach light from Warco
Carving small-scale work presents a couple of problems: one is holding it while it is being carved; the other is seeing what is being carved, especially with things like Netsuke, as well as fine detail required for feathering etc. Glasses are okay to hep us read and maybe adjust our close-up vision a little when carving, but we may need more help than this. One solution is this long reach light with magnifying lenses from Warco.
In use
The light is fixed to the workbench or table via a clamp and has a 1168mm (46in) reach with the arms. The magnifying lamp section has an articulated joint that allows it to be manipulated into a variety of positions. The main lens features a cover so it can be used as a lamp only, with a 26W fluorescent energy bulb, or for the clever bit, flip the cover up and you have yourself 1.75x magnification through the large main lens. For finer work still, there is a hinged magnifying lens that will offer 4x magnification.
The large lens enables you to get up close and personal to the work and is large enough so that both eyes can look through the lens � this is ideal for long-term usage and concentration on a piece of work.
The smaller lens is for ultra-fine detail only but is nonetheless a superb addition, but you have a smaller viewing area to look through.
The light is bright, the jointing arms are sturdy and hold their position, the casing reassuringly robust, and the head is easily manoeuvred into an appropriate or desired position.
Verdict
With care there is no reason why this product will not last many years. Okay, so you might have to change the bulb at some point, but I am sure it is an option well worth exploring. I found it to be a great help on carvings and turnings already and you may find that it will provide a solution to some problems you may currently be encountering.