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Fellas
These 18650 batteries... don't really know a thing about them. I only have the ones that have come with my Maxtoch torch.
I want to buy some more to carry for long night sessions. But I'm very wary of the chinese crap on TradeMe. I've read about recycled this, wrapped that, poor rating the other.
Which brand(s) should I focus on and why? Proven experience only please!
Thanks.
Green panasonics
Someone like @gadgetman would most likely know ?
OK @matto1234, so why do we have green panasonics that cost $40 each (like how much???) and green panasonics that cost $11 each?Quote:
Originally Posted by matto1234
Is there a possibility that some of these TradeMe batteries are counterfeit?
Sorry, disregard that last post @matto1234. I need to put my glasses on.
Err, yes. Indeed TM has fake listings everywhere (or rather listings for fake shit)
The giveaway is if a 'shop' lists selling 18650's either way too cheap (proper quality ones come at $25-$35ish range), or way over capacity (technology limitations mean anything listing a capacity over 3500mahrs is bullshit).
A quality one will last a recreational hunter's lifetime, or a professional shooter 5 ish years. They are worth it.
There are different capacities for 18650s anywhere from 1200 of ma/h to 3600 ma/h price varies accordingly. Obviously for hunting buy the biggest capacity you can find.Quote:
Originally Posted by Flyblown
I've used the nitecores and can't fault them. If they are for a grunty head torch or torch use the unprotected versions
+1 for nitecore ones (come with the last few torch purchases) have some green Panasonic's lying round that must be 4-5years, still use them and they work fine.
Key thing is to keep an eye on them charging, they produce a lot of heat as does the charger
Cool, well I can get a two 4-packs of green Panasonics for $86 inc postage, so for my occassional usage that should be fine then.
Not really too keen on individual batteries at $25-40 each.
A MOST IMPORTANT point you raise. If they fail under charge, they do so quite spectacularly, which i why I always place my charger in the metal kitchen sink and add a solid oven tray as a loose cover.Quote:
Originally Posted by 223nut
Make sure you get button top, protected cells. I like Panasonics.
you can also check the mAh rating per dollar.
you should be paying around $4.30 - $4.50 per 500mAh (give or take a few cents) for protected cells.
So if you're paying $86 for 8 then they should be around 1200mAh, 1500 max.
That said, I don't know the pricing of Panasonics but I can't imagine them being that much cheaper if they're genuine protected cells.
I am however, wondering why you would need 8 x 18650's?
Oh dear. I got flat tops. Because that's what the ones I already have are.
Why do I need button tops @gadgetman?
I got some for this guys store, helped me out with the right kind for my vape machine. Im sure he will sort you.Quote:
Originally Posted by terryf
A lot of the flat tops cannot make contact between the positive and negative when stacked in a 2 cell torch.Quote:
Originally Posted by Flyblown
I bought these for my Maxtoch: https://www.trademe.co.nz/electronic...2870603790.htm
Whether they will go the distance or are the best option I am not sure. I have put them in and they work though so a good start!
https://www.mrpositive.co.nz/18650-l...ion-batteries/
I get them from these guys. Seem good
That's the ones.
As with good batteries it pays to have a good charger too. I use a Nitecore. Treat the batteries with care and avoid dropping or bashing them and there shouldn't be any nasty flame ups.
You want at least 3400mAh ones to power the Maxtochs with any decent runtime.
Quote:
Originally Posted by stagstalker
Check website for Northland based 'Piercing the Darkness'...modifies torches for hunting and has a wide range of batteries....I use his Samsungs with a Xtar VC2 charger. Good kit.
I've got 18650s from the same outfit, along with the wee plastic carry cases to put spares in. Over the last couple of months they seem to have been working well.Quote:
Originally Posted by stevodog
That would be me. Every batch that I bring in is tested on my computerized battery analyzer to ensure everything is authentic, I'm the only seller/store in NZ to go to this length to ensure customer safety.Quote:
Originally Posted by stagstalker
I've pointed many buyers your way.Quote:
Originally Posted by Night_Into_Day
Just purchased a little torch off you today :)Quote:
Originally Posted by Night_Into_Day
Cheers, I'll have it sent out tomorrow.Quote:
Originally Posted by Gibo
I appreciate that. I'll pm you about possibly reviewing a hunting light of mine if interested.Quote:
Originally Posted by gadgetman