Hello, I converted a 6D Maglite awhile ago to use the Malkoff LED conversion. The light is awesome however I think it is time to do away with the standard batteries. What rechargeable D size batteries should I go with? Is Lithium Ion the way to go? Does anyone make rechargeable Lithium batteries in D cell format? Low discharge better than high discharge and still provide good light? I have been sifting through some forums (some of which are pretty old) and so decided to post a new thread to sort it out. Thanks for your help!
Best Rechargeable D-Cell batteries for 6D Maglite with Malkoff LED conversion
- Thread starter wakesnowb
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ChrisGarrett
Flashlight Enthusiast
I've got two 6D MLs with the single TerraLux modules and while I keep them empty, I've been looking at the Tenergy Centuras, or their Premiums. I've been saying that 3+ years, so who knows? I even keep them in my Ebay cue, so I'm a dreamer.
They're probably the best bang for our bucks.
Chris
I've heard the Tenergy ones are ok also. Centura's are low discharge and Premiums are standard discharge? Which is better for our application? Do the Centura low discharge mean the light will be less bright?
ChrisGarrett
Flashlight Enthusiast
I believe the Centuras are approximately 8500mAh and somewhat low self discharge, but not Eneloop type LSD, so keep that in mind.
The Premiums are closer to 10,000mAh, IIRC, but will discharge faster.
Then there is the light blue basic Tenergy D/C NiMH, but I don't think I'd go that route, just from anecdotes I've read here over the years.
If you're using your light a lot, everyday, the Premiums might be the ticket. If you're letting the light sit in anticipation of the zombie apocalypse, then the Centuras should be OK.
Personally, I never use my 6D MLs and I almost wish I hadn't spent the $37 on the two TerraLux modules, but I have them and I'll use them as loaners. I ran movie theatres in sketchy parts of town in the mid 90s and having one of those 6D was a visible deterrent and a useful tool in the business, but heck they're just too big and heavy.
Back then, I did a quick cost/benefit analysis and determined that I could buy 20 alkaleaks, for a third of the price of NiMH, which is what I did. I really should get the NiMH Ds, because I have a couple of 02 Cool 12vdc/9vdc fans that take D batteries, or run off of a 120vac wall wart. I have a couple/few SLA/AGM 12vdc lead batteries for them, so it's still a moot point for me.
Anyhow, you just need to figure out what works for you and whether you want to use your 6D often, necessitating 'a' decision as illustrated above, in my case.
I even bought two C/D cradles that work with my Maha C9000 and Opus BT-3400, but I never got the batteries, lol.
Chris
Thanks for the input, I think the Tenergy Premium might be the way to go. I use the big flashlight when I walk at night to serve as a light and to fend off any animals if the case arises that might be out and about when I walk. I would probably use it maybe 5 times a month about an hour each time.
Does nobody make rechargeable D cell lithium ions?
I think I answered my own question regarding the D cell lithium ion batteries. I do not think they are available because they would carry a higher voltage and may ignite if they were put in the wrong charging base. Now that I think about it more, perhaps the low discharge centuras would be best, I really do not want the batteries to lose up to 5% each day.
etc
Flashlight Enthusiast
It is called an 18650. Get two of them. While at it, get the Malkoff Hound Dog. Then install the cells. You are done.
You can spend a lot of time trying to improve the 6D Mag but if you want to take the performance to the next level, you need 18650 cells.
Keep the 6D mag loaded with Alkaline cells in case for emergencies. If you still want to use it daily, well, what I used when I had the 4D mag with malkoff, was NiMH 10,000 mAh cells. I think it was Tenergy but not completely sure.
there is really nothing wrong for alkalines for emergency use.
You can spend a lot of time trying to improve the 6D Mag but if you want to take the performance to the next level, you need 18650 cells.
Keep the 6D mag loaded with Alkaline cells in case for emergencies. If you still want to use it daily, well, what I used when I had the 4D mag with malkoff, was NiMH 10,000 mAh cells. I think it was Tenergy but not completely sure.
there is really nothing wrong for alkalines for emergency use.
