I've been using one for over a year without a problem. I don't have to charge it frequently, so maybe it is just a function of how many times the battery is cycled.
I too am curious if Surefire will offer a battery replacement option for a reasonable fee.
I switch key chain lights between a Sufefire Sidekick and a Fenix EO1. I may pocket a Olight S1, rechargeable version, or a Surefire EB1, depending on what I am wearing or doing.
The one I miss the most is the Surefire E1B Backup I lost in a restaurant about a year ago. Went back as soon as I noticed it missing a few hours later. Of course, nobody knew anything about it.
Lost an Olight S10 helping my mom replace a dryer. She found it about a month later, but by that...
Got my S10R about a week ago. No problems at all. I have only carried it a couple of days. So far it is as reliable as the regular S10 it will replace.
When I'm lurking on CPF, I usually avoid the Flashlight Reviews Forum. That's because I end up finding a review of a torch I just have to get. That's what happened about three weeks ago. I read selfbuilt's review of the Olight S10 Baton and decided it was time for a new EDC. It fit all the...
Arc AAA for about three years now. Dependable and bright enough that I probably use it more than my EDCs. It's a battery crusher though, so no rechargables in it.
Essential Gear has lanterns that hand crank, and are rechargeable from a 12 volt source. Don't know if they are tough enough for Africa though.
http://www.essentialgear.com/store/c/28-Rechargeable-LED-Lighting.html
I EDC the D10-R2 and love it. Simple UI and reliable. Another light you might want to consider that hasn't gotten much attention lately is the Rexlight. Same price range, AA, somewhat more complicated UI, but still relatively simple.
http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?t=171982