Question about C8 variants

I am considering purchasing brighter XM-L emitter flashlight as a Christmas gift for a more technically-competent family member and am strongly considering the C8. This is largely due to the overwhelmingly positive reviews, but also the lower cost as I'm going to have to add cells and a charger to make a kit for him. His previous experience with a bright LED flashlight is a WalMart-purchased AA XRE light and I would like to get him something that will be substantially brighter while also having enough throw for spotting varmints while hunting and for carrying while working on the railroad at night.

My question is regarding the wide variety of the C8 lights available. I know the KD C8 is the one that is constantly referred to as being both a great value and extremely good light. I would rather purchase from Manafont though if possible. In checking Manafont, I found that they have a number of C8 lamps in the $20-$25 range. Is it safe to assume that they will have similar performance to the KD C8 that is so popular? What should I look for to ensure that I purchase a quality product? I know that more expensive doesn't always equal better, but if I can get a markedly better light for a couple of dollars more, I'm willing to pay the extra.

A second related question:

As this will be as a gift, I will be purchasing new cells and a charger to go with this. They will need to be protected cells and a charger that will shut off automatically to prevent overcharging. It will not need to be a universal charger, as it will only be used to charge the 18650 cells I provide with it. Can anyone comment on the suitability of the cheap MF SKU.6184 charger to include with a such a kit? Would I be better off by spending a bit more and waiting longer and ordering the TR-002 or similar from DX?

Hi

The KD C8 xml is a good light. Good C8. I would recommend it

For the batteries, I have these http://www.dealextreme.com/p/trustfire-protected-18650-3-7v-true-2400mah-rechargeable-lithium-batteries-2-pack-20392?r=43033281 and many people have them. Except some bad batches, they are good and the ones I have allow a xml light to draw 3,03 amps.... I received my last pack of 2 last week...

About the charger, again, I have this http://www.dealextreme.com/p/trustfire-tr-001-multi-purpose-lithium-battery-charger-12594?r=43033281 and many other users. Good charger, it seems to stop at 4,20 volts...

That is my opinion, mate.

I agree with fran and I have the same setup. TR001 charger protected Trustfire 18650s from DX and the KD C8 can't go wrong.

I have bought 5 TR001 chargers for friends all were good. I have over 20 protected Trustfire 18650s from DX I did get 2 bad batteries when they sent them out with the bad protection circuits back in April they work fine if you don't pull over 1 amp, but I haven't heard of any more bad cells coming out of DX.