Thread: Looking to invest in a quality handheld torch that runs on 18650s.

Originally Posted by zimmer

Wouldn’t quite agree with the Chinese made bit although mine is a Hong Kong torch not mainland. Have had for several years a ThruNite Catapult V3 which I would class as a “tactical” torch. It has a front bezel you could shave on and a heft and strength that suggests you could whack (mmm should the need ever arise) an intruder over the head with it and it wouldn’t fall apart. Will run on two or a single 18650 without diminished brightness. And it is still competitive for throw against the latest offerings. My next torch though should I ever need to replace the V3 will be a Maxtoch and that is balancing cost versus performance.

My understanding of LED tech is that the more batteries, the longer the run time with no change in brightness / performance. I have a couple of cheaper ones that came in a 1 and a 2 battery format and both are exactly as bright as the other, but one lasts much longer between charges. (No prizes for guessing which one....) It's something to do withthe way the LED circuit controls voltage / amperage flowing through the LED.

Mudgripz and Gadgetman would have to be the two torch Guru's here to answer your question...