Running Mag85 off 18650?

Saul M

Newly Enlightened
Joined
Mar 30, 2017
Messages
7
Got a Mag85 in mint cond that runs on 9x aa eneloops which give poor runtimes imo.
iirc about 18mins constant on before major dimming & up to 27-33mins
total when running on 10min then 10min off repeat.


Is the 18650 option going to extended runtimes much?


Would the nominal voltage be too high giving short bulb life?


What holder do I get for 3 18650's?




I have protected 3400mah 18650 with my own external 4 bay charger if that helps.

Thanks
 

fivemega

Flashlight Enthusiast
Joined
Jan 28, 2003
Messages
5,522
Location
California
Got a Mag85
Is the 18650 option going to extended runtimes much?
3400~3500mAh 18650 cells will increase run time. 26650 cells have even higher capacity of 5200~5500 mAh
Problem is that (some) protected cells may not be able to power up this bulb with first click. IMR cells may flash this bulb because of too low internal resistance.



Would the nominal voltage be too high giving short bulb life?
Using 3 protected cells won't likely kill the bulb but IMR cells will severely overdrive the bulb if not flash it.


What holder do I get for 3 18650's?
This type of 33 to 27mm battery adapter with proper length will work for 26650 cells.

I have protected 3400mah 18650 with my own external 4 bay charger if that helps.
Keep in mind, only some protected cells may power up this bulb with first click.
I have good experience with Redylast and KeepPower brands.
 

StudFreeman

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Sep 20, 2011
Messages
205
Location
Maine
You could also get a charger with selectable termination voltages for Li-ion. These termination voltages can commonly be 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, & 4.35V. Some chargers let you pick it manually. Setting it to charge to 4.1 would reduce chances of flashing a bulb with unprotected cells.
 
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