For guys using devices requiring CR123a batteries

[hunt0168]

I see where some folks are running devices that require the use of CR123a batteries. I’m going to assume that these devices require 2 CR123a batteries in most cases? I’m sure some of you know this, but I just thought I would throw this out there for those that may not know.

I have an old Surefire flashlight that used 2 CR123a batteries that I used as a shooting light on my shotgun. It originally had an incandescent bulb that I converted to a red LED. The 123’s not being rechargeable was an issue for me. I got to digging and found that I could get a single rechargeable 16650 Li-ion battery as a replacement for the two CR123’s. They’re not nearly as common as the 18650 size most are familiar with, but they’re out there. I’ve had excellent performance with Orbtronic batteries.

16650 Protected Li-ion Orbtronic Rechargeable Battery - Replacement for 2x CR123A - Battery case included

16650 Battery Protected Rechargeable Li-ion Replacement for 2x CR123 2500mAh | Orbtronic 3.7V cell.

www.orbtronic.com

 

[Spurchaser]

I have about 12 rechargeables. 2 in the thermal and 6 in my pocket. I’ve gotten really fast and proficient at changing them in the dark. Off the scope no more than 30 seconds.

 

[rlsmith1]

Just be careful that the 16650's have the same discharge voltage as the CR123's or you could fry your unit

 

[hunt0168]

Just be careful that the 16650's have the same discharge voltage as the CR123's or you could fry your unit

I may be misinterpreting what you’re saying? The way I understand it is that 2 CR123a batteries in series (+ to -) will put out 6 volts whereas the single 16650 will top out at 4.3 volts with an optimum voltage at 3.7 volts. The battery I linked above has a 2.5 volt cutoff which I believe is because of the built in protection circuit.

I know some LED flashlights can get fried using 2 cr123 batteries if the circuit isn’t made to handle the higher voltage. An example would be light designed for 18650 and someone throws in 2 cr123’s with spacer wrap. I wasn’t aware of damage going the other way.

Disclaimer… I guess for the sake of safety to your devices guys, either do your due diligence in research or just go with the manufacturer’s suggested batteries.

 

[The Mad Trapper]

there are rechargable cr123 batterys out there. designated rcr123. quit a few on amazon. they generally charge 3.7 to 4.0 volts. generally the device will have over voltage protection that protects device from damage from the extra 1 to 1.5 volts you gain with rechargables,BUT proceed with cabout ution. ive been running the rcr123 for about 2 years in a hogster 36 w/o problems. there was a lot discussed on this subject when kirsch was with bearing. i think it was hashed out yhe higher voltage wasnt the issue to fear, but more chance of damage from leaking batteries of dubious manu. ebl is a faurly deceint quality battery and ive seem them ln amazon. ive ran several brands pucked by ratings. its common to lose 1 or 2 going dead but not leaking in under a year and run times are a 3rd of what the better 123 will do, id say 2 hrs toos tun time on a pair. if my battery indicator shows much under 1/2 charge lefy i just swap them out. with 4 socket charger and 3 pr batterys i can run forever.

 

[bohunr]

i use a bering optics super yoter thermal scope, it takes CR123 batteries, they also have an extended battery cap for using other longer batteries like the 3.7 volt rechargeable AA style.

luckily the super yoter has a USB port which allows me to use the JL metal worx rechargeable battery kit, which allows me to get 3 good nights of hunting before i recharge it.

JL MetalWorx Rechargeable Battery Kit

The JL MetalWorx Rechargeable Battery Kit is a collaboration with Thermal Optics Plus to bring customers a lite weight, extremely strong, durable and easy to use solution for running optics all night long without the clutter of pouches and strange attachments running all over the gun. The...

thermalopticsplus.com

 

[The Mad Trapper]

i used to do the usb port and used any phone battery bank . i snagged thr cord one night and pull was more against the scope end and it screwed up the usb socket which then ceased to word....2nd device ive had usb socket damage. using cords with right angle plug helps tucking cord in so not snagged so easy. laying rig with cord against seat is hard on them too. usb outlets and cords arent exactly nitehunter grade ive found