Daily temperatures for the field tests ranged between 55 - 95 F (13 - 35 C).  The test series began in the winter, although long term testing occurred throughout the summer months.  It's been a very dry summer for this part of the world, although we did have rain on occasion.

The Glorb Itself

After six months of testing, I like this little lantern more than when I started!  First, it's very well made.  I was concerned at the onset of the test series that the flow regulator, adjustable by twisting the body of the lantern, would be problematic, but that hasn't been the case.  Also, the glass globe is tougher than I originally considered it to be.  It derives its strength from its shape and small dimensions.   I never broke it throughout the test series.  The spreadable feet show no signs of wear and tear after six months.  They work very well and greatly improve the stability of the Glorb when I deployed them.  The shut off valve works as good as the day I turned the Glorb on for the first time.  All-in-all, I'm very happy with the Glorb's durability.

The only weak link on the Glorb turned out to be the mantles.  They are very delicate and break easily, even when the lantern is secured in the travel case and packed securely in the back of my pack.  Every broken mantle I experienced on this test occurred sometime during transport.   I would discover it when I would remove the Glorb from the travel case to use it.  Altogether, I went through six mantles during long term testing.   But, I must clarify that the lantern was actually used many more nights than I listed in the Field Information.   The events listed were active backpacking/traveling trips.  Many times, the lantern illuminated my backyard picnic table for a game of cards, Scrabble or just sitting around.  It also proved itself useful when I took my kids out car camping.

Today, there are so many lighting alternatives available to the backpacker.  Most of my favorites incorporate the use of high intensity LED technology.  But, there's a certain ambiance provided by a lantern that the new products fail to reproduce.  I place that atmosphere right up there with S'mores around the campfire.  The Glorb captures that feeling in a small, lightweight package.  The Glorb does not replace my need to still carry a small LED light or headlamp.  It's definitely for general luminance only, like around camp.  Plus, the unreliability of the mantles makes it an "extra" in my pack.  But, when I'm not in "ultralight" mode, counting every ounce to be as light as I can be, I'll throw the Glorb in my pack.  When I'm out with my kids, I'm not counting ounces.  Therefore, the extra weight the Glorb represents is more than offset by the sense of security it provides for my little ones on a cloud-filled, dark night.  With the help of the Glorb, they settle down when it's time for bed, which allows me a better night's sleep.  So, not only does the Glorb create an atmosphere that helps my S'mores taste better, it also ensures me a better night sleep!  I make out all the way around!

What I like best about the Glorb:

- it's small enough for backpacking
- creates a wonderful ambiance that LEDs cannot
- it works either as a candle lantern, or mantle lantern.

What I like least about the Glorb:

- the mantles
- the mantles
- the mantles.  They are very fragile, and I was unable to find a decent replacement except from Brunton.  They are too expensive, in my opinion.  This mantle technology has been around for years and years.  To really consider the Glorb affordable, Brunton should practically give them away.