18500 Flashlights?

I do have one that uses 2. A Seraph SP9. As I was charging them, thought about searching for flashlights that use this kind of battery.

Found only 2x18500, and some custom tubes for Surefires, after an extensive google search.

Does anyone know if there are any single cell 18500 lights? And if there is a tube for the solarforce L2's?

Most 3xCR123 lights will take 2x17500. Keeps the voltages around the same place. Most of those probably won't take an 18500.

Some larger AA lights (The BLF special comes to mind) can be bored out to take a 17500. I don't think any AA light is "fat" enough to be bored out for an 18500.

I don't know of any single cell 18500 lights - it is not a common form factor.

I use an 18490 in a Solarforce L2M with a home made drop-in that does not have a centre spring.

I get a reasonable runtime witn an XPG running at 1.4 amps.

Tried that with my L2M, this XPG drop-in, and it almost fitted. The threads don't close by 1cm. Almost the diference between the 18500 and the 16340.

It got me thinking in legoing a XML EDC light. Searched a bit and found this: Solarforce L2m 3.7V Mini Cree XML.

Remove/reduce the springs, a bit of aluminium foil, coated lens, and it will be a nice EDC.


I have just had a closer look at mine and realise it is a Lego job. The tailcap is from one of the fake Solarforce bosies as sold by Lightake. Everything screw fully home with an 18490.

All zooming flashlights powered with 3xAAA can use 18500.

You only need a Neodimium magnet to extend to contacts and and a bit of folded paper to prevent movement into the body.



Peak LED Solutions makes some single cell 18500 models. Most models are available in brass, aluminum and stainless steel and some in titanium. Robyn and Curt make some lovely toys, but be warned that only the smaller models like the Matterhorn could be considered budget lights. Lots of flashlight porn to be had there though!

I think the Romnisen RC-N3 forward clicky shortens the switch internals enough on an L2m that a cut spring one will fit a 18500.

I'll stick to the KD one first. I'll see what goes from there.