Last winter I took a chance and bought a 5 pack of these lights on Amazon for $15. They turned out to be much better than I'd expected. They're heavy aluminum, 1 AA battery, adjust from flood to spot. 3 settings - bright, dim, strobe. The dim isn't much dimmer than bright. Under 4" long. I can't suggest them for a primary light but for extras to have in a pocket or pack, lying around home or camp, or in a car, you can't beat them, especially at only $3 each. I have one in each 1st Aid kit. They're a nice size when you need to hold one in your mouth, too. Sure they're Chinese but what isn't? I can't see how they can make and ship them for that price. LIGHTS
A cheap light that works is far better than an expensive one that doesn't work when you want it to because it got pissed off at you for ignoring it and decided to get back at you by corroding the batteries (IE Maglite).
A cheap light that works is far better than an expensive one that doesn't work when you want it to because it got pissed off at you for ignoring it and decided to get back at you by corroding the batteries (IE Maglite).
I have several lights that wont work any more from corrosin and every one had duracell batt in them. I pulled all 10 of my game cams last year due to clear cutting and 5 are toast from duracell batts. Before we go on a track at night I always have 2 get me out of the woods lights just in case, I will deff look at getting those,light is a good thing.
I have several lights that wont work any more from corrosin and every one had duracell batt in them. I pulled all 10 of my game cams last year due to clear cutting and 5 are toast from duracell batts. Before we go on a track at night I always have 2 get me out of the woods lights just in case, I will deff look at getting those,light is a good thing.
Energizer Lithiums are sealed better and usually are way less prone to all that aluminum corrosion on these lights.
Keeping lithium batts in a couple el cheapo flashlights might be a decent recipe for reliability, sounds contradictory but...myself I am done buying good lights. I either lose them, get smashed or the crappy battery deal.
Energizer lithiums or duracell procell. Although I lean more back towards the energizers. I have not had a procell leak.
Rayovac are garbage, I have had them leak inside the unopened package still 2 years under the expiration date.
Crap. Just ebay bulbhead atomic beam flashlight. 5 functions including off. 12 to 20 bucks.
Here you go. Take the 3 battery cradle out and replace it with one of those single 1850 or WTF ever single rechargeable batterys and burn Antifa pukes eyes out.
I have several lights that wont work any more from corrosin and every one had duracell batt in them. I pulled all 10 of my game cams last year due to clear cutting and 5 are toast from duracell batts. Before we go on a track at night I always have 2 get me out of the woods lights just in case, I will deff look at getting those,light is a good thing.
If you send Duracell a letter or email about corroded batteries they will not only send you fresh batteries they will also reimburse you the cost of the light as a store credit... gift card at Home Depot or Walmart I think...
I say I think because it's been over a year since I got a credit for one. Pretty sure it was a Home Depot credit but I could be mistaken. It's not worth it with a cheap light, but if you have a fouled up Maglite you might get $25 towards something else.
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.
I’ve had better luck out of Duracell than anything. I have a electronic locking safe that says use ONLY Duracell 9v batteries, and they mean it. It won’t run on brand new energizers but runs over a year on the Duracell. Go figure.
That's a great deal. Always good to have back ups or extras to share.
I've been surprised at how many batteries that I've had leak. Even name brand in the package and under expiration. All brands. But some better shelf life than others. 123s, what are those, lithiums? Best for storage, but costly for big draw daily drivers. My problem is that when there's been a sale, I stock up so there's a reserve when I need them. They are put in the closet. When I need them, they have leaked and even with the receipt there with them, its past the 30 day return date.
Rechargeables that are quality seem ok. For experts on the subject, there's a Candlepower forum on everything flashlight.....mods. Sources of cheap batteries and reviews.
I picked up one of these rechargeable LED flashlights a couple of weeks ago on clearance for $10 at Walmart. Besides a flashlight it can used to recharge cell phones, tablets, etc. So far -- so good...
I like a Fenix that takes a single AAA disposable battery. It will run the 1.5 Volt battery all the way down to 1.0 Volt getting all the energy possible.
Single AAA batteries are going to leak if you leave them long enough.... so a new flashlight ever year or two.
I bought those cheap 300 lumens flashlights and just put them everywhere, workshop, glove compartment, backpacks. I bet I have bought 20 of them and in 3 years only one has failed - and it works if I screw the cap on just right. Since they only take 1 AA battery and it lasts a long time, they are a great bargain.
Gave one to my Mom and then she bought them for everyone she knew.
I bought those cheap 300 lumens flashlights and just put them everywhere, workshop, glove compartment, backpacks. I bet I have bought 20 of them and in 3 years only one has failed - and it works if I screw the cap on just right. Since they only take 1 AA battery and it lasts a long time, they are a great bargain.
Gave one to my Mom and then she bought them for everyone she knew.
That's exactly my point. A $40 light doesn't help if it's at home and you aren't. These cheap ones last a long time and at that price, you can have one anywhere you might possibly need one.
Back to the batteries...who makes Costco's Kirklands? I've used quite a few of them and have no corrosion problems at all.
I picked up one of these rechargeable LED flashlights a couple of weeks ago on clearance for $10 at Walmart. Besides a flashlight it can used to recharge cell phones, tablets, etc. So far -- so good...
A cheap light that works is far better than an expensive one that doesn't work when you want it to because it got pissed off at you for ignoring it and decided to get back at you by corroding the batteries (IE Maglite).
I have several lights that wont work any more from corrosin and every one had duracell batt in them. I pulled all 10 of my game cams last year due to clear cutting and 5 are toast from duracell batts. Before we go on a track at night I always have 2 get me out of the woods lights just in case, I will deff look at getting those,light is a good thing.
If you look about on the web you will find It's not uncommon, Duracell has a problem.
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.
LED Lenser TT model flashlight. Less than 30 bucks (closer to 25). Compact and bright. I have 3 and will be getting more. One of them is 3 years old and still works flawlessly.
Something has changed at Duracell. I always bought them because they never leaked, but now they do. I’m not risking an expensive game cam, flashlight or radio leaving them in for very long. Walmart has $1.00 little plastic ones that take three AAA batteries that are included.
For situations where I do not use a flash light immediately, I carry the batteries in a separate container. Seems I always forget to change out the batteries.
I've got one G2x Pro with dual output 600 lumen Max, and one G2X Tactical single output 600 lumen Max (I believe).
I'm a flashlight nerd and these are awesome flashlights. I use them all the time and probably dropped the first one 5 or 6 times.
Me too. At least I used to be. But now finding myself wanting to upgrade again. A bright lightweight reliable torch like that sounds ideal for backpacking and self defense. There's big ones that are good impact weapons too, but it's better to have a little bright one in hand than a big one back at the car. I might get one.
I've got one G2x Pro with dual output 600 lumen Max, and one G2X Tactical single output 600 lumen Max (I believe).
I'm a flashlight nerd and these are awesome flashlights. I use them all the time and probably dropped the first one 5 or 6 times.
Me too. At least I used to be. But now finding myself wanting to upgrade again. A bright lightweight reliable torch like that sounds ideal for backpacking and self defense. There's big ones that are good impact weapons too, but it's better to have a little bright one in hand than a big one back at the car. I might get one.
LIke I said in the OP, these won't replace your primary light. They're to have a light anywhere you're likely to be if you need it. If nothing else, have you ever tried to change batteries or a bulb in the dark on a mountain side with cold wet hands without having a small extra light to see what you're doing?
I bought those cheap 300 lumens flashlights and just put them everywhere, workshop, glove compartment, backpacks. I bet I have bought 20 of them and in 3 years only one has failed - and it works if I screw the cap on just right. Since they only take 1 AA battery and it lasts a long time, they are a great bargain.
Gave one to my Mom and then she bought them for everyone she knew.
That's exactly my point. A $40 light doesn't help if it's at home and you aren't. These cheap ones last a long time and at that price, you can have one anywhere you might possibly need one.
Back to the batteries...who makes Costco's Kirklands? I've used quite a few of them and have no corrosion problems at all.
[Reader's Digest] Morgan Cutolo Reader's DigestJune 17, 2019
Costco is the perfect one-stop shop for most of the items on your grocery list. One of the tips frequent Costco shoppers will give you is that the stores signature brand, Kirkland, is one of the best and is pretty much always a great deal. A Kirkland item you should definitely stock up on the next time you’re there is the Kirkland batteries.
Many people are hesitant to buy knock-off or store brand batteries because they never seem to last as long as the big-name brands like Energizer or Duracell. Well, that won’t be the case with Kirkland batteries, because they’re actually made by Duracell. Costco’s CEO, Craig Jelinek, revealed that little-known secret in an interview.
They’re a pretty good deal too. A 72-pack of AA Kirkland batteries is $19.99 (or 28 cents a battery), whereas a 40 pack of AA Duracell batteries at Costco is $16.99 (or 42 cents a battery). While you’re at the store, make sure you also buy these other reliable Kirkland brand items you should always buy at Costco.
You can get the name brand, but at a wholesale price and your flashlights, toys, or wireless mouse will have long battery life.
I've got one G2x Pro with dual output 600 lumen Max, and one G2X Tactical single output 600 lumen Max (I believe).
I'm a flashlight nerd and these are awesome flashlights. I use them all the time and probably dropped the first one 5 or 6 times.
Me too. At least I used to be. But now finding myself wanting to upgrade again. A bright lightweight reliable torch like that sounds ideal for backpacking and self defense. There's big ones that are good impact weapons too, but it's better to have a little bright one in hand than a big one back at the car. I might get one.
LIke I said in the OP, these won't replace your primary light. They're to have a light anywhere you're likely to be if you need it. If nothing else, have you ever tried to change batteries or a bulb in the dark on a mountain side with cold wet hands without having a small extra light to see what you're doing?
I've never had to change a bulb. That would be a challenge. Today's leds are fortunately more forgiving to drops. Caves are a fun place to change batteries.
Nothing against your new set. I'm with you there. I got sidetracked on the primary. They're both essential and have their roles. I've got a handful of tiny Big lots specials that should be replaced with the kootek if I get around to finding a debit card that doesn't require SS # or bank account.
My speculation is that 100% of all alkaline batteries are made in China or some other third world s******
Guess what country has the world's lithium supply locked up.
I hear you...
I read an article about a year ago about some new age battery to replace lithium-ion. Apparently it was some type of salt water battery. High technology but low resource acquisition.
Mostly I was chasing it as a stock investment and did not pursue it much more beyond that.
Nothing would make me happier then to see China suck hind tit acquiring lithium-ion and then watching all of that effort become obsolete with something as basic as a saltwater battery.
China is a huge enemy to America and very few people even know it.
I've got a handful of tiny Big lots specials that should be replaced with the kootek if I get around to finding a debit card that doesn't require SS # or bank account.
Um, that's the purpose of a debit card - to make access to your bank account easier. It's like carrying a plastic check book. If you don't have a bank account, where would the money come from?
I've got a handful of tiny Big lots specials that should be replaced with the kootek if I get around to finding a debit card that doesn't require SS # or bank account.
Um, that's the purpose of a debit card - to make access to your bank account easier. It's like carrying a plastic check book. If you don't have a bank account, where would the money come from?
Prepaid.
I had my identity stolen and a whole bank account wiped out. No recourse. That's why I no longer do credit cards. The new debits require too much personal info. I'd have to buy one for a small amount transaction. Last time it was a bad experience. Used it and was told funds not available. Wait one month and try again
I bought those cheap 300 lumens flashlights and just put them everywhere, workshop, glove compartment, backpacks. I bet I have bought 20 of them and in 3 years only one has failed - and it works if I screw the cap on just right. Since they only take 1 AA battery and it lasts a long time, they are a great bargain.
Gave one to my Mom and then she bought them for everyone she knew.
That's exactly my point. A $40 light doesn't help if it's at home and you aren't. These cheap ones last a long time and at that price, you can have one anywhere you might possibly need one.
Back to the batteries...who makes Costco's Kirklands? I've used quite a few of them and have no corrosion problems at all.
harbor freight sells AAA -AA and others plus rechargable of the same. they are cheap and are excellent got them for years
I have several lights that wont work any more from corrosin and every one had duracell batt in them. I pulled all 10 of my game cams last year due to clear cutting and 5 are toast from duracell batts. Before we go on a track at night I always have 2 get me out of the woods lights just in case, I will deff look at getting those,light is a good thing.
Energizer Lithiums are sealed better and usually are way less prone to all that aluminum corrosion on these lights.
Keeping lithium batts in a couple el cheapo flashlights might be a decent recipe for reliability, sounds contradictory but...myself I am done buying good lights. I either lose them, get smashed or the crappy battery deal.
Energizer lithiums or duracell procell. Although I lean more back towards the energizers. I have not had a procell leak.
Rayovac are garbage, I have had them leak inside the unopened package still 2 years under the expiration date.
Coast makes good cheap flashlights also. I have several, anywhere from 300 Lumen up to 1200 Lumen output. The most expensive one was still only about $40, with the smaller ones being about $15.
Just recently had a real good LED flashlight get totally ruined by Duracell "Copper Top" batteries.
duracells used to be the best but what I dont understand is it takes less then a minute to check the batteries for leakage
Never had issues with top name brand Duracell,"Copper Tops'" or Energizer before so this was an unexpected surprise. Like most everyone else batteries usually only get removed and checked for voltage when whatever they power starts to weaken or fail. This flashlight took 6 AA -- 2 rows - 3 high end to end. Was able to remove three nearest to the end cap and they showed obvious leakage but the other three were so swollen they were froze up solid inside.
Coast makes good cheap flashlights also. I have several, anywhere from 300 Lumen up to 1200 Lumen output. The most expensive one was still only about $40, with the smaller ones being about $15.
Several years ago, Costco had 2 packs of Coast headlamps for $20. I don't know what the lumens are but they'll light up trees 100 yds away. They've been really good. The problem with Costco is that they'll offer a really good item but when it's gone, they never have it again. I've bought a number of things from them that I'd like to have more of but they're gone.
A cheap light that works is far better than an expensive one that doesn't work when you want it to because it got pissed off at you for ignoring it and decided to get back at you by corroding the batteries (IE Maglite).
I cashed in my hoard of Autozone reward points once and told the dude that I would take that whole display of those mini- one-AA led lights by the register.
I got about 9 or dozen whatever. Handed them out to several of my hillbilly inlaws. They were quite smitten with them.
The others got distributed throughout our fleet of ghetto cruisers in the driveway. Put a lithium batt in them and let em roll around.
The inlaws, I left those cheap Sun Brand, Chinasian batteries in their’s.
Tractor Supply makes a small alloy flashlight in black, blue, or pink that takes 4 AAA batteries. $5.99 if I recall and it is brighter than some of the $20-30 lights of that size that I've been using in years past. I bought 10 or so of them last year. I was using one last night with fresh Duracells and it lights up my mailbox pretty well, 120 yards from my porch. I take two with me in my backpack during hunting season.
JPro, I do same. Couple in pack, couple in door pocket couple in my inside pockets on my hunting jacket. In my boats... they just work and I have yet to buy those hot rod flashlights or coolers! But, that day is coming soon I’m afraid.
20 years ago I got a contract to design backlight on night vision for attack helicopters. I spent a lot of time in a light lab, which looks like a welding table, but lasers and mirrors are bolted to the table. The human eye with rods and cones has 120 db of dynamic range. To match that I had to have a "gear shift" too, a big converer and tiny one.
![[Linked Image from images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com]](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71pLfCEM8CL._AC_SL1001_.jpg)
![[Linked Image from images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com]](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71qNp0PIruL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)