What is the NAR Headlamp used for in tactical medicine?
The NAR Headlamp (SKU: ZZ-106) is used to provide hands-free illumination during point-of-injury medical care. Medical interventions such as tourniquet application, wound packing, airway management, and IV access require full use of both hands. A head-mounted light directs illumination along the responder's line of sight without tying up a hand, allowing complete bilateral dexterity throughout the procedure.
Who manufactures the NAR Headlamp?
The headlamp is manufactured and sourced through North American Rescue (NAR), based in Greer, South Carolina. NAR is the U.S. military's primary supplier of tactical trauma medical equipment and has equipped Special Operations Forces, the Army, Marine Corps, and numerous federal law enforcement agencies with life-saving medical products.
How heavy is the NAR Headlamp?
The NAR Headlamp weighs 8 ounces (227 grams). This lightweight profile makes it easy to add to any IFAK kit, medical backpack, or vehicle response bag without significant weight penalty. It is compact enough to slot into most bag pockets or accessory organizers.
Is the NAR Headlamp suitable for nighttime tactical medical operations?
Yes. The NAR Headlamp is specifically selected by North American Rescue for use in operational and medical environments, including nighttime and low-light conditions. For users who need to maintain night vision or reduce light signature during tactical operations, consider pairing with the First Light Tomahawk MC Series (also available from MED-TAC), which offers red and IR modes in a hands-free tactical format.
Can I add a headlamp to my IFAK or trauma kit?
Yes. The NAR Headlamp is an excellent accessory to include in any IFAK, medic bag, or vehicle medical kit. Its sub-$50 price point and compact 227 g weight make it a practical addition to both personal and institutional kits. For IFAK builds, it stows in standard accessory pockets or can be secured with a rubber band or hook-and-loop strap inside the kit.
Is the NAR Headlamp CoTCCC-recommended?
Illumination devices are included in CoTCCC and TCCC equipment lists as supporting equipment for medical procedures. While individual headlamp products are not individually designated by CoTCCC, the NAR Headlamp is the standard headlamp included in NAR's own kit configurations and recommended as the headlamp component in CoTCCC-aligned trauma kit builds.
What battery does the NAR Headlamp use?
The NAR Headlamp uses a CR123A lithium battery — the same format used by the QUANTUM Blood & Fluid Warming System, enabling consolidated battery logistics across electronic kit components. CR123A batteries provide superior cold-weather performance versus alkaline batteries, making the headlamp reliable in cold-environment operations.
Does the NAR Headlamp have a red light mode?
Yes. The NAR Headlamp includes a red light mode for tactical light discipline and night vision preservation. Red mode is used for tactical environments, night operations, and any situation where maintaining the dark adaptation of nearby personnel is required.
Can the NAR Headlamp be worn over a helmet?
The NAR Headlamp is designed for direct head carry and may be compatible with standard military helmets via the universal elastic head strap. Confirm compatibility with your specific helmet and retention system before field deployment. Helmet-mount adapters are available from third-party suppliers for ACH/MICH and FAST helmet families.
Is the NAR Headlamp available via government procurement?
Yes. The NAR Headlamp is available through North American Rescue federal supply channels. Contact MED-TAC International for government procurement, NSN data, and unit pricing for bulk orders.
