So whats the most powerful, brightest incandescent flashlight under $150 now?

I wasnt sure what price range to use as the cutoff for asking which light is best/brightest, so I just chose $150. Maybe $100 would be better. There's a word that describes when you just randomly pick some number without really researching the subject, but I cant think of that word right now either(mental block today)

I haven't kept up with incandescent lights too much, so I have no idea how much they have advanced over 20 years or so. I've owned Maglights starting in the late 80's.

What is the brightest incandescent light you can get for $100-$150 or less?

Google ROP (Roar of the Pelican) & Mag 85. You'll find plenty of modifications. Also check with FIVEMEGA. There are also a number of modifications for Surefire flashlights. Lumens Factory sells high power incandescent bulb assemblies.

What kind of rechargeable batteries do you have / like to use?

I don't have the answer for you but I have two ROP-LEs that I built late '06 or early '07 not counting the batteries they were around a $100 each then throw in some lithiums ions and a charger you get close to $150.

The ROP is not the brightest but it's cheap and easy!