rechargeables for dummies ?'s

olddogrib

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Okay, I'll admit it...the more I read the less I know and I always end up taking the easy route and just ask! I have a Surefire 6P that I have upgraded with an aftermarket Malkoff emitter and switched to a Keeppower 16650 2500 mAh charged with a XTAR ANT-MC1 Plus. I also have a stock Eagtac D25C2 Clicky that I use standard Surefire CR123's with. I was gifted quite a few of those batteries but they're getting past their "best by" date and I'll probably use them up and just keep a few around as back-up primaries for both lights. My first dummie question is if I want to go to a rechargeable in the Eagtac(which will handle 3.7V fine), is that same 16650 cell compatible? Second dummie question is if answer to DQ#1 is no, what cell could I use that I could still charge on the ANT? Thanks in advance... I know that ignorance, unlikely stupidity, is curable but I'm getting to be a "longbeard" and probably don't have sufficient time left nor the patience!
 

thermal guy

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More with WAY more knowledge will chime in but yet they will work think that will fit a 17650 so the 16650 will work might be a little lose as different batteries manufacturers have different size batteries both the 17650 and 16650 are 3.7 volts although they charge to 4.0-4.2
 

MX421

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My first dummie question is if I want to go to a rechargeable in the Eagtac(which will handle 3.7V fine), is that same 16650 cell compatible?

If the DX25C2 accepts CR123s and 18650s (according to their website), then it wil also take the 16650s. A 18650 would probably have more capacity though.

Second dummie question is if answer to DQ#1 is no, what cell could I use that I could still charge on the ANT? Thanks in advance... I know that ignorance, unlikely stupidity, is curable but I'm getting to be a "longbeard" and probably don't have sufficient time left nor the patience!

the answer isn't no, but as mentiond, for higher capacities (and cheaper) 18650s, your XTAR ANT-MC1 will work for those as well. The XTAR charger specs say it will charge up to 26650, or 26mm diameter.
 

olddogrib

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Thanks TG. Now that you've convinced me that I would do no harm, I switched the 16650 to the D25C2 and wow...that Turbo mode is a thing of beauty. And I have an occasional mechanical troubleshooting issue at work where I need every bit of it. So the rechargeable has found a new home in the D25C2. In looking for a 2-123a cell replacement in 17 diameter it appears nothing touches the 2500 mAh of the 16650. Although maximum runtime isn't an issue and I suppose I could go with a 17650, it's time for dummie (and final) question #3. Is there anything inherently wrong with merely applying a piece of something like electrical tape on the 16650 to eliminate the slight rattle? Or will that lead to sudden death from negatively impacting heat dispersion...I won't be in Turbo mode long. Looks like the 17650's are not widely offered but Eagtac has one...any other favorites?
 

fmc1

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It's somewhat common for 16650 batteries to have a maximum charge voltage of 4.35V. Any cell based on the Sanyo 16650ZTA needs to be charged to 4.35V for maximum capacity. If you buy those and charge them in the Xtar MC1 it will treat them as 4.20V maximum charge batteries and you will not get the full capacity. The Xtar VP2 is an example of a charger that you can set for 4.2V or 4.35V maximum.

Frank
 

olddogrib

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fmc1, when I went to their website it specs the diameter @ 16-17mm and recommends 2-123A's or 1-17650. I didn't scroll to the bottom of the page where I just noticed is does list the 18650 under Accessories. I know those are the ultimate in regards to capacity. Anybody run the 18650 in a D25C2 clicky without having to bore it?
Thanks
 

fmc1

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My application for 16650's is a 6P non bored with a Malkoff drop in. For sure 18650's don't fit. I have never tried a 17650 mainly because they are so hard to find. 16650's are way more common. I don't own a DX25C2 so I can't comment.

Frank
 

thermal guy

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Nope wrap away you won't hurt anything. Lots here use paper or have even heard of some wrapping with dollar bills. Or if your pretty well off use 5's😄
 
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