Originally Posted by
ItsJustMe
RE batteries dying: if you're waiting for them to die, you're waiting far too long. In my experience they get dim way before they die.
The right answer is to use rechargable batteries and recharge them once a month or so. Ideally use low-self-discharge NiMH cells. By charging them when they're not dead yet you'll not only make them last longer but your lights will be brighter.
I use alkaline only because I get them free at work. On my PBSF 1/2 watt model, they do get dim enough that I can change the battery before they go dead. However, on my PDW1000, they are fine even to the point where I turn them off. Then the next day when I turn them back on, they are super dim. I get get no warning with the PDW. Good thing those have bult in reflector on them.
I have yet to try the PBSF or the PDW1000 with rechargable.