I have been looking at you comparing results from HKJ’s testing. I have narrowed my search down to three batteries based on availability and performance.
Two of these flashlights have onboard charging so it is unlikely the batteries will be removed unless there is a need for immediate replacement and another flashlight isn’t available. I Have a few backup batteries to use for this purpose. I’m looking for a cell with with decent capacity and low resistance that will not heat up very quickly comparative to other batteries.
The 3 flashlights are the Wowtac A6, Wuben C3 and Convoy S2+ SST40
The three batteries are as follows in the order I’m considering them
Sony VCT6
Hohm Tech life V4
Panasonic NCR 18650GA
I’m considering the Panasonic mostly for the extra capacity and it still seems to handle Flashlight level currents really well.
The Convoy S2+ runs at max 5A and only for a few minutes, the other two about the same and will step down at about the same time. The main source of heat to the battery at that current will be heat conduction the driver and the LED, not the IR from battery itself. I’d go for the GA.
I’d vote the Sony from that list but the Panasonic would be fine. At low currents you’ll see all of the Sony’s rated capacity and possibly a little bit more. Compared with the 3500mAh 35E which will lose some capacity at moderate currents, sometimes it’s a washout for actual in-use capacity. The only thing I do not like about the Sony cells is that the wrap is more easily torn. Aloft Hobbies has the VCT6 at a very fair price still and last I looked they had a bunch in stock, plus super cheap and fast shipping. Now might be a good time to stock up on cells if you think you’ll want or need more later - prices do not appear to be coming back down after the shortage-markups earlier this year, and the future of lithium pricing sounds like it will only increase steadily, soon.
I have a couple of protected NCR18650b batteries I don’t use much. They are not rated for very much amperage but since they are protected they may be a safe option in the C3. I could always hunt for a protected cell with a little less internal resistance for better performance. I certainly don’t want to overcharge a cell then carry the flashlight with me.
The Sanyo/Panasonic 18650GA batteries are my number 1 choice for my EDCs. Lots of capacity and rated up to 10 amps. Never had an issue with them.
The Panasonic NCR18650B batteries are good too if you don’t need that many amps. I’ve had some now that are 7 years old that still have great capacity.