New to flashlights, best batteries for Convoy C8 and S2+?

I just helped a friend get into flashlights, started him off with a Convoy C8 and an S2+

It has been at least 2 years since I bought 18650s…all button tops, I own Orbtronic 3100, Panasonic NCR18650A and B.

What are the good quality batteries on the market these days for the C8 and S2+? And, is there a preference between button and flat top? (I’m thinking flat top these days)…I’ve had some excessive length problems in older chargers, and with 1 of my lights using the button top NCR18650A. I like the Orbtronics, the black shrink wrap seems a bit more robust and impact resistant than clear wrap on the Panasonics…less prone to cracking when dropped.

What say ye for quality, robustness, and price-to-performance (which is really what this forum is all about)? And thanks in advance.

Samsung INR18650-30Q with double clear shrink tube over the original one
decent capacity and can be used for FET drivers to get up to 6A from an XPL or XML2

Depends on the driver but normal Convoy drivers do not need a lot of amps, so your trusty Panasonic protected 3400 are good if they fit (some Convoys don’t like m :wink: )

3A or less (you didn’t mention if the lights were “rodded” in any way), either Panny-Bs or Sanny-As are best, with 3400mAH capacity. Higher amps should go better with 30Qs, albeit only 3000mAH capacity.

I’ve used pulls from battery packs just fine, though, so I’m not terribly fussy. As long as they’re in good condition and work, I’ll use ’em.