I think Surefire only recently started to include AAs in its line-up, although I don't see any 1xAA lights, and HDS, who's big on single cells, offers nothing in AAs (any more) at all. And even the higher-end Chinese companies seem to premier their new lights in 123 well before following up with a AA version.
I can appreciate that 3V can provide roughly double the lumens output, but even that increase is only perceived as a 40% increase to our eyes. Outside of that, there doesn't seem to be any real advantages in terms of capacity/runtimes, or the use of rechargeable Li-ions, and no options for NiMh. Furthermore, 123 primaries are more expensive than L91s, harder to find, and generally incompatible with most other portable electronics - meaning much more limited back-up options.
I can't believe the increased lumens are that much more important to these companies since I do see 123 products in their line-ups that have max lumens well within reach the reach of a AA.
So what am I missing? Why do they shun the AA market?
I can appreciate that 3V can provide roughly double the lumens output, but even that increase is only perceived as a 40% increase to our eyes. Outside of that, there doesn't seem to be any real advantages in terms of capacity/runtimes, or the use of rechargeable Li-ions, and no options for NiMh. Furthermore, 123 primaries are more expensive than L91s, harder to find, and generally incompatible with most other portable electronics - meaning much more limited back-up options.
I can't believe the increased lumens are that much more important to these companies since I do see 123 products in their line-ups that have max lumens well within reach the reach of a AA.
So what am I missing? Why do they shun the AA market?