Thanks to other reviewers for the tips on running hot water around the seal - which did work. Otherwise, this was the worst choice for a torch that is near impossible to open. Unfortunately often the only choice in a store, and unlikely that anyone will read reviews before grabbing a new torch at the supermarket. So probably best to speak with the managers of the store.

The torch is nye on impossible to open to add battery. If older women on they’re own bought this they would have “NO” chance of using it. Should be taken if the shelves until a new design is completed and it isn’t cheap

Black face cover is nearly impossible to unscrew. My wife had no chance, I ended up using some hot water and only then could I get led off. I normally get job to take lids off at home but this was nearly impossible

Impossible to open - despite running hot water on the mechanism. It is very poor design. For something that is a safety item to be so difficult to use is unnecessary.

Writing from NZ. When trying to open the torch the seals cause it to stick. Place base in a vice or somewhere where it cannot move like in a drawer opening (held in position) while you apply opening pressure with both hands on the opening black front. It could still require some effort until released. For flickering have noticed battery does not completely sit flat at bottom of torch. There are 2 sprung connections which sometimes do not quite touch to complete the circuit. You can pull these out a bit say 2-4mm with a screwdriver and battery is no longer loose when torch shaken. Flickering stops. Agree Dolphin could easily fix this & are slack in not doing so.

dolphin Eveready torch it’s very hard to open the torch to change the battery so to make it easier just run hot water around the front seal for 30 seconds this will make it easier to open trust me guarantees make sure You apply hot water thoroughly Around front seal where it screws onto the torch

I bought the $25 version thinking it would work longer than the $9 version but even my big, very strong husband couldn't open our new $25 Dolphin torch to put the battery in! I am taking it back to Bunnings.

Bought two new batteries for torch marked them 22/6/19 havent been used stored away and guess what wont work one for old torch and bought a new torch was disappointed

Having the same problem as everyone else - can't open it to put the battery in. Will have to ask a strong man to do this which is a shame as I bought the item at coles thinking it would be easy to use.

As most viewers have stated, the front lense is ridiculously difficult to remove in order to perform the very first function to allow the unit to work. (Have one person to hold down and a second to twist. ) A vice would go well too. Lets hope it keeps the moisture out.
The 6v batteries are arguably the worst value for $ battery going. The LED bulb was well overdue. On a more positive note, the size is handy. They are still about the best boating torch going. Floats well, water and rain proof, easy to find on the boat, in car or in camp.

Gives a very poor light despite it's imposing size. Sure there are much better options for the price. It is also takes super human strength to open the case for battery installation. Best left alone and am considering return to Bunnings for refund.

Bought this yesterday and still trying to take the cover off to insert the battery. Not sure why they have made it so hard. Also can’t remove the sticker at the front.

The light provided by this torch is well below the standard expected of Dolphin Torch's, can not recommend at all, if possible keep your old one it is 10 times better!

Has always been a handy torch. Certainly stiff to open. I think stores should be aware of this and test open it before selling the product, especially to the elderly or young (weak grip). The smaller size, yellow colour (safety) and LED lights are a big improvement on the older product.

I purchased this torch and a new battery at my local Coles store yesterday,on returning home i attempted to insert the new battery,well, i could not believe how difficult it was,and i am a strong man. I then thought try a Google search and it was suggested to place the torch between the knees, and with my almighty strength it turned, Wow, i did it.. Once removed it now turns more freely,i have also lubricated the lens thread with a light smear of Tap Grease, and it now turns more easily..

I have bought 2 Dolphins in the last year. The first failed after 9 months, a fluke-no. The second failed after 2 weeks. Service response non existent. Rubbish product! Would not offer safety when needed.

Man this torch is just so good! Had the same battery for near on 3 months. 21 days camping, including underwater at night (hehe). Still going great! Haven't put the next battery in yet. Awesome!! Hope Eveready don't read this!!
Mark

2 main problems with this thing

1) They need to change the label on the torch to have instructions to teach people that the only way to unscrew the top is to hold it between your knees.

2) Then I had lots of trouble getting it working. Tested battery its fine, bulb not blown. Swapping parts between 2 of these same models swapping out bulbs, switch clip, housing, tried every combination but something was not right. Again it's probably something simple that could be mentioned on the label, or even better fix the design.

I used to think the dolphin was a great Aussie thing, but now I'm joining the ranks of sailors who have given up on them. Its a reliability issue therefore a safety issue.

Long, wide beam, led globes, tough as & is made to last longer than other torches. Perfect for the boat, camping, blackouts & spotting nocturnal wildlife. Reasonably priced too with battery included & the simple button is super easy to use.