Reactor-style collapsible lantern: a lamp that looks like it survived something

A weathered metallic canister, a radioactivity pictogram, a carrying handle: this LED lantern borrows its look from post-apocalyptic worlds. You pull the cap up to switch it on and push it back down to switch it off — the body extends from 12.7 to 17.8 cm. On a shelf it's a decorative object; under a tent, it's a real backup lamp.

What it does

• Switches on as it unfolds: the pop-up mechanism acts as the switch, so there's no button to hunt for in the dark.
• Really does light up: the ring of LEDs spreads a wide light, white or green depending on the version you choose.
• Travels with you: 8 cm across, a metal handle and a hook — it hangs under a tent or from a branch.
• Holds its own as decor: the painted weathering and the hazard pictogram make the object, even switched off.

What it doesn't do

• It isn't a torch: the light is diffuse and doesn't throw a beam ahead of you.
• There is nothing radioactive or nuclear about it: the pictogram is a printed motif, the object is purely decorative.
• The body is painted plastic, not metal, despite the look. It won't take knocks the way a real work light would.
• It isn't waterproof: keep it sheltered if it rains.
• The power source — batteries or built-in cell — and the run time were not provided to us by the manufacturer. We would rather state nothing than state something false.

Dimensions

Around 8 cm in diameter, 12.7 cm tall collapsed and 17.8 cm extended, according to the manufacturer's figures. Small enough for one hand or a backpack side pocket.

Skill level required

None. Nothing to assemble, nothing to adjust: you pull, it lights up.

In the box

• 1 collapsible LED lantern, in the light colour you chose

See also: Retro-geek decor