Abstract: A spotlight powered using either an internal power source such as dry cell batteries or an external power source such as a 12-volt power supply. The spotlight adapted to be held by a person's hand or attached to a hook or tripod for directing a beam of light from the spotlight to a specific location. The spotlight having a battery by-pass circuit that enables the spotlight to operate independent of whether or not batteries are installed in the spotlight. This feature enhances the convenience and reduces the weight of the spotlight so that it may be operated without batteries.