Can FourSevens Maelstrom MM-X Gen 1 use protected 18650?

I searched through the forum but didn't run across anything regarding my question so hopefully someone has experience with this.

I have a 480 lumen FourSevens Maelstrom MM-X Gen 1 (CREE XM-L I think) that I purchased back in 2013. I have always run CR123 batteries in it but recently made the move to using 18650 cells in my lights. I put in a Panasonic NCR18650B protected 18650 cell rated at 3400 mAh. My other 2 x CR123 lights all work fine with the 18650 cells but the FourSevens doesn't function.

Does anyone else have this light and uses an 18650 cell in it? I don't have any specs on the light other than what I've posted so I don't know if it is supposed to work with an 18650 cell or not. Any information would be appreciated.

TIA

An old post for the FOURSEVENS Maelstrom MM-X Gen 1 480 Lumen on goinggear.com gives the specs as: "Voltage range 2.7V-8.4V, COMPATIBLE BATTERIES 2 x CR123, 1 x 18650".

EDIT: Does the 18650 have a button tip positive?

Yes, it is a protected cell with button top. Sounds like it "should" work.

It's possible that the protected 18650 is too long, and preventing the tailcap from seating properly. Remove the tailcap and use a jumper from battery negative to flashlight body.

EDIT: 2 x CR123A = 69 mm, protected 18650 can be over 70 mm