newbie with rechargeables question

[chukar]

I just started using a 14500 rechargeable with my zebralight sc52 (Wanting the extra power and brightness). The batteries are ultrafire, I have checked the volts and they are at 4.12 after charging. I am wondering what my expectations should be as far as how long the batteries should last when in use? I get less than an hour total with the light left on and the brightest setting lasts only about 3 minutes. My alkaline batteries perform much better??? is this normal??? If I should try another battery for better results which one is the best as far as performance/longevity? Are the zebralight batteries quality??

 

[chukar]

the battery is also a 900mah 3.7v. Is it common for these to discharge so quickly, or faster than an alkaline?

 

[greeny1]

I have no direct experience of this myself so take this as hearsay but the Ultrafire batteries are not highly regarded here and it's probable that they just don't have the capacity that they should. If you really want the extra brightness that the Li-Ion gives in this then try a higher quality battery (which will cost more than the Ultrafire). I suspect however that most people use NiMh rechargables in this torch.

Note although an Alkaline may last as long (or longer) it's unlikely to have been giving the same peak output.

 

[chukar]

Thanks for the info, I did order 2 AW's hoping I will get better results. I bought the ultrafires before I had read anything on them.
trying to find a thread on charging procedures of new batteries, saftey etc. There seems to be a lot to know.