Originally Posted by
dougmc
Try measuring the voltage at the battery pack rather than the light -- if the voltage is higher there, then the problem is your long wires.
That said, while I admire your DIY attitude, I have to point out that a single cell 18650 flashlight would probably beat your system in most ways, and can be had with batteries, charger and light for around $30 or maybe less. It would be a lot smaller and more convenient, put out more light (on high), and last longer (on medium, which would still put out about the same amount of light as your system.)
Actually, the Amazon light mentioned recently is an even better choice.
And to answer your question, 18650 is a size, like AA or AAA is rather than a rechargeable or not-rechargeable designation, but I've never seen one that wasn't rechargeable.
That was where I measured the voltage, right at the battery pack. I do think the one cell was bad. The wires are only about 3ft tops.
The Amazon light looks tempting, but there are a LOT of bad reviews all revolving around the batteries. I looked up the batteries and they run around 10 bucks for a 2200 cell, that's $40 worth of batteries in a $28 light. Something has to give, right? I really can't afford to play amazon roulette and get a bad seller (one of the complaints in the review is that this item can come from a number of different sellers, some of whom are giving really bad customer service, some of whom are giving good cs). As we move into spring, the light will become less and less of an issue as it's light until almost 9:00pm at 40 degrees lat (which is where I am) during late spring and early summer.
Chris