Interesting thread. The only batteries I've ever had leak are energizers- two incidences. Duracell has never been an issue. Energizer did reimburse me for tbe leakage. One was a high dollar black diamond headlamp.
As to lights, I have an Ozark Trail torch from the Walmart that has been outstanding. Don't remember the price, but it was cheap. It lives in the side tool pocket of my Carhartts.
l usually pick up a whole bunch of batteries every year or so. When I head out to go hunting or fishing or whatever I will change out to fresh batteries... and toss the used ones in a tupperware. Then sometime during the winter when I'm bored I will voltage check all of the batteries in the Tupperware. Anything below 1.58 I toss.
Anything above 1.63 I put back in the new pile.
Anything in between goes in TV remotes or whatever the kids might need batteries for.
I use new lithium batteries in my battery powered beard trimmer. They start out about 1.7 volts and the motor runs extra fast so I pull out less hair and therefore curse far less.
My speculation is that 100% of all alkaline batteries are made in China or some other third world s*******. I also speculate batteries cost about a dime apiece to make.
IMHO all batteries are virtually the same.
Surprisingly, Harbor Freight batteries have a slightly higher initial voltage.
The problem is if a Harbor Freight battery blows up in your $50 flashlight you are SOL, but if a Duracell battery blows up... Duracell will send you a voucher and free batteries.
So basically the only thing you're paying for with Duracell or Energizer is good will and a modicum of assurance to guarantee.
