One cell is more efficient using a buck driver than it is with a FET driver, especially on lower modes. A majority of higher-priced factory lights using 1x18650 and a 3 volt LED use buck drivers.
It will result in a significant improvement when I get one and put a dedomed Nichia 219D in it, which has much lower forward voltage than the XP-L HI.
I have zero intention of using the GT Mini on any mode below 3.5A. Lol This seems like a long distance only light. There are other lights for use at lower levels, ones with bigger hot spots. There’s no need to mod this light in my opinion. (Unless it’s to increase output)
Sorry, I pulled that from theanual M4D M4X just posted. One cell is enough for a buck driver, but it will eventually drop out of regulation when the battery drops below the forward voltage of the LED. But at least you get stable output for part of the runtime, unlike a FET where output constantly decreases.
Not that the convoy holster isn’t nice but the GT mini deserves it’s own holster.
I think that most lights should come with a specific made holster or at least have a option to have a holster included.
Many lights that you can buy from the big brands have holsters included specially designed and made for that light.
I know it will push the price up but for a nice quality holster it’s well worth it I think.
18350 cells are already way down on power. A protected version doesn’t make sense to use in my opinion. I think the Aspire is the best, but I don’t know if it’s made with protection circuitry.
Thanks. New to 18350's and know nothing about them. Too bad they are low on power. Really liked the idea of the short tube, but doesn't sound likes it's very practical at all.
Sorry, the Aspires are discontinued. They could do 10A, but are only 1100mA in capacity. I think the Vapcell 18350 is pretty similar, though.
Nitecore, Efest and KeepPower all sale protected 18350. Due to their small size (900 mah to 1100mah) and protection circuitry (tends to reduce voltage a couple of 10ths of a volt) they may go right past the buck section of the driver on turbo. It might not be able to maintain 4.5A. If it can, it won’t be for very long.
I think the short tube is basically just a novelty to make it match the GT with short tube. It’s cute. For a couple bucks more, I will be buying it.