An illumination device comprising, in combination an elongated housing, an elongated lamp or lamps extending in the housing, a magnetic ballast or ballasts carried in the housing to selectively energize the lamp or lamps, and switch means carried by the housing to control energization of said ballast or ballasts, the housing having a forward illumination portion, a rearward grip portion and an intermediate portion. A cushioning cover is receivable over two of said housing portions.