Chargers, Batteries, R123 vs. R123A and a lot more

[crockett]

I did some research and found plenty of information but I still have some unanswered questions and things I'm confused about.

1. What is the difference between a R123 and R123A?
2. Are both these batteries rechargeable?
3. It appears the PILA charger is the best value but the most recent info I could find is over a year old and I know technology changes. It has a reputation for stopping the charging at the correct value.
4. Can the PILA charger charge a R123 battery as shipped or do additional adapters need to be purchased?
5. Can the PILA charger charge a R123A battery as shipped or do additional adapters need to be purchased?
6. Who currently has the best price for a PILA charger? (last I found was Flashlightz)
7. I'm familiar with LSD AAs (Eneloops). Are these batteries (R123, R123A and 18650) similiar or do they lose their charge quickly? How quickly? As an example, if I leave a light in a drawer for a month without use with a 18650/R123/R123A, will it be FULLY functional when I try to use it?
8. If a light says it will take a R123 battery. Will it take a R123A battery and vice versa?

Thanks for any and all information.

 

[Oddjob]

Welcome!
R123A's are also called RCR123's or 16340's. They are rechargeable litium ion cells.
CR123's are also called lithium primaries and are not rechargeable.
The Pila charger does terminate the charge before 4.2volts which is the maximum voltage the cell should be charged to. It also needs spacers to charge RCR123's. You can improvise spacers or you can purchase the spacers as well as the cells form AW on the CPF Marketplace. AW cells are popular here.
Lithium Ion rechargeables have very low self discharge and can hold their charge up to a year or more IIRC.
Some lights can take both RCR123's and CR123's. RCR123 nominal voltage is 3.7 volts whereas CR123 is 3 volts so it is important to know what a light can handle. Putting in an RCR123 in a light that can only take CR123 primaries can cause damage to the light.
If you are planning on using lithium ion rechargeable make sure to research the proper use. They are safe if you use them properly but if you are not then they can be dangerous. Check out the Welcome Mat for starters.

 

[crockett]

Thanks,

That post should be a sticky. You cleared up just about everything.