led mini maglite problem

I just purchased a new LED Mini Maglite Flashlight, the PRO Model.
I tried to install the batteries and noticed there wasn't a spring in the base cap.
I borrowed a base cap from another mini Maglite, install the batteries and screwed on the cap.
It didn't work at all.
I have a couple of the older maglites that work fine, but I wanted the high intensity (272 Lumens) flashlight.
I removed the batteries and a chunk of metal fell out.
I put the batteries back in and it still didn't illuminate.
So does this indicate one slipped thru the quality control check?
I threw it away into the junk, but kept the batteries (apparently the only thing that was usable).
Anybody else seen this with their new mini maglite?
Mike

Welcome to the site.

Mag has very good QC, but nobody is perfect.

Contact Maglite, they'll make it right.

Oh, and welcome to CPF.

I have the Mini Pro+, should have a spring. Where did you get this Maglite and was it was still in the original unopened blister pack?