Mag 3D bulb lifespan

[Cman219]

Hey all im about to get a Magnum-Star Xenon bulb for the 3D maglite, but i'm going to be driving it with 3x Nizn cells (1.6v each) which makes a total of 4.8 volts. Will this flash the bulb or significantly shorten the bulb's lifespan? I know the Xenon bulbs are already pushed harder than the Kryptons.

 

[jaundice]

You should be fine. One of the first "mods" to do to a maglite is to put a 3 cell bulb in a 4 cell light. While this will shorten the life, the actual difference will be small, like maybe 10% less life. In your case, you're basically still within the operating spec of the bulb.

-John

 

[apete2]

The xenons dont like it, I used 3 L91s with a 3 cell xenon and it lasted maybe 30 minutes

 

[UserName]

Just once? Are you sure you didn't just get a bad bulb? 3 L91's is driving that bulb right within spec.

 

[Cman219]

Hmm interesting...

 

[andyw513]

I've got more than it's fair share of hours on a stock incand. bulb for my 3c, my father has had the same bulb for repair/power outage use for several years now on his 3d.

Keep in mind it's not on constantly, lol, but for fixing water leaks it's a nice choice. I think Mags are supposed to take a beating anyways, I kinda have three that have been through some rough times and drops and are still on the same stock bulb.

We use sometimes the el cheapo batteries you find on sale, but we've not even had trouble when the extremely cheap ones begin to corrode from moisture.

While i'm not exactly sure of the voltage compared from the cheap to the premium batteries, if the bulb life has been compromised a lot we have not been able to tell so far. Good thing is we still keep the spare in the tailspring well. Yet another good thing about Mags!

 

[Cman219]

Ahh, i was just concerned since i want to overdrive these bulbs. I wanted to know if it would significantly shorten the lifespan and i guess it does =\.