Best bang for the buck 123 3V Lithium batteries?

[Geode]

Hi,

My use of numerous flashlights using 123 3V lithium batteries is fairly infrequent, and I like the shelf life of the lithium batteries (otherwise I would use rechargables)

There are tons of 3V 123 batteries out there - I would appreciate some opinions about the best bang for the buck batteries that give good quality for the money spent.

Thanks!

 

[kboy25]

DX has a 5 pack of the WF cr123's for $4.30

 

[dano]

Stay away from the overseas cells, they're too dangerous.

I'd recommend either Streamlight or Surefire branded cells bought from a reputable retailer, I.E. not from Ebay (there's too many counterfeits being sold on there).

--dan

 

[gunga]

What about the Tenergy's from Battery Junction?

People also talk about the Titanium branded cells, but I'm unsure who is a good dealer...

 

[knot]

Where should I get rechargeable 123's and why can't I buy them at a local store. I don't see any Streamlight or Surefire rechargeable batteries at their site.

Radioshack's price is ridiculous and it's only 3V.

$12.99

CR123 Lithium Photo Battery
Model: 2300695 | Catalog #: 2300695
• Lithium-Ion CR123 3V 600mAh (For use with KITCR123 Charger)

 

[DM51]

Where should I get rechargeable 123's and why can't I buy them at a local store. I don't see any Streamlight or Surefire rechargeable batteries at their site.

Radioshack's price is ridiculous and it's only 3V.

There is a big difference between Lithium primary (non-rechargeable) CR123A cells (3.0v) and Li-Ion rechargeable R123s (3.7v). In the majority of applications they are NOT interchangeable and it is dangerous to get them confused.

Surefire make primary (disposable) cells. Their quality control is very good. Their designation for this cell is the SF123. They do not make rechargeable R123s.

For rechargeables, AW's_Li-Ion_Batteries are recommended.

And as Dano says, do NOT buy any cells on eBay.

 

[knot]

There is a big difference between Lithium primary (non-rechargeable) CR123A cells (3.0v) and Li-Ion rechargeable R123s (3.7v). In the majority of applications they are NOT interchangeable and it is dangerous to get them confused.

Surefire make primary (disposable) cells. Their quality control is very good. Their designation for this cell is the SF123. They do not make rechargeable R123s.

For rechargeables, AW's_Li-Ion_Batteries are recommended.

And as Dano says, do NOT buy any cells on eBay.

Thank you. I hope it's ok to use this thread OP. You asked a simple question and I want to know more regarding 123 batteries and my current EDC.

I bought a single cell Nano charger and 3.6 123 from DX for [ Ultrafire Cree XR-E WF-602D 1xCR123A Flashlight HA-III Gray] What would you recommend I use - protected, unprotected, LiFePO4 R123? This light does get hot fast but it's incredibly bright with 4.2 but at 3.6 it becomes dim (well, I measured voltage a couple hours after removing it). It almost appears like it switches to a lower level

 

[carrot]

I presently use Surefire cells exclusively, though I will soon be buying some Energizers. I wouldn't trust no-name cells.

 

[BSBG]

I bought a bunch of the Titaniumbrand from Ammondotech.com for a buck each. So far so good in a variety of SF lights (6P, M3, M6)

 

[Ace12]

I just bought some from Battery Station(the blue ones). No problems Yet. They are $1.00 ea. to CPF members.

See also.....http://www.flashlightreviews.com/reviews/titanium_123a.htm

 

[knot]

Stay away from the overseas cells, they're too dangerous.

AW is in Hong Kong

 

[carrot]

Wait, I just reread the title. If you want the best BANG for the buck get the cheapest imported cells you can find. You just might get that BANG! you're looking for.

 

[Geode]

Wait, I just reread the title. If you want the best BANG for the buck get the cheapest imported cells you can find. You just might get that BANG! you're looking for.

Lookin for value, not explosive qualities

 

[Grox]

Batterystation have a good deal on rayovac 123s - 50 for $75 (USD). Rayovacs are US made. I haven't ever seen a report of rayovacs venting, although it is of course a possibility with any lithium chemistry cell. I can say that I've only had good experiences with these rayovacs. If you feel that you are an infrequent user, 50 might be too much for you... but they have a 10 year shelf life. Besides, it's always nice to have spares in case of emergency, or to throw in a few when you sell a light, or to include when you give away a light.

http://www.batterystation.com/cr123a.htm

Like others have said, I would stick to US made cells, at least for primary cells. Surefire are reliable and good. Panasonics are good but there are a lot of fake panasonic cells floating around.

Rechargeables are NOT, repeat NOT direct replacement for primary (non-rechargeable cells). If you go rechargeable, go for protected AW cells unless you know what you're doing. Pila cells are also very good.

 

[Grox]

You might also want to take a look at http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?t=67078

 

[THE_dAY]

i get streamlight 123's here:

http://www.dlsenterprises.citymax.com/page/page/1728840.htm

used to be $16 for 12 now its $17 for 12.