DIY LED torch

[Cambo]

Hi there, new to this forum.
Trying to bounce some ideas off some knowledgeable dudes.
I've got a rechargeable impact driver that has stuffed the hammer, so I am thinking of using the housing (and the battery of course) as a torch.
It's an 18v battery.
I'm hoping to use it for a bit of spot lighting for when I go bunny/possum shooting. I'm hoping to get a good beam/throw from this rather than spread.

I've found a couple of (I hope) compatible LED modules to suit the voltage from Deal Extreme (SKU 5848, SKU 32954).
But I am now thinking - should I regulate the voltage to say 10-12v, so the battery will last longer etc, and choose another type of LED module.
Also should I go for a LED module on it's own and get a driver etc to suit or get a "drop-in" module, and then fit either into a decent reflector/lense.

I'm hoping someone has done something similar so could point me in the right direction.
Any ideas much appreciated.
Cheers.

 

[jason 77]

You mean something like this?

http://candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?t=218092

 

[AlexLED]

Hi Combo, :welcome: !!

If you regulate the voltage to 12V you will loose efficiency, so I wouldn't suggest that. Rather use a driver capable of handling the higher voltage directly. The SKU 32954 is a good example. (And, btw, will only draw about 0.3 amps from your battery !)

The SKU 5848 is quite different, for this you will need a driver-circuit. But since the LED voltage is similar to your battery voltage, that's not going to be easy.

Rather, pick any standard CREE LED and use SKU 26110, if you're sure the voltage will never be higher than 18V.

 

[nein166]

If its a Makita you've got there is the Makita Dock and Cree Bar system.
Building off these Ideas could help you, the creebar is not a spot though.
CreeBar Makita Dock
More of McGizmo's Makita Dock

Your only problem with using the impact driver handle is lack of metal to heatsink. SKU.32954 would make a great spotlight if you have a Aluminum tube/frame to mount it in.

 

[Cambo]

Cheers for that guys.

Yeah those examples are OK for work lights but I'm hoping for something a bit more powerful. Suitable for a bit of spotlighting.