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The problems folks seem to be worried about is recoil damaging the protection circuit on the batteries. Is that something to be concerned about? Currently I have Panasonic protected 18650 cells with button tops in a Fenix PD 35 Tac. The PD35 has dual internal battery springs and seems to be well built. With all of the new flashlight brands flooding the market, I went with one that seemed to be a good value. Any thoughts on the light? What are some things that I would need to be concerned about regarding unprotected cells? What would you use unprotected cells for? I wanted 18650s because I'm trying to A) get the most performance out of the light and B) I don't want to be constantly buying cr123s. My streamlight TLR uses the CR123s, but I like the long-term use rechargeable batteries provide.
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The PD35 is a good light. Also, consider the Klarus XT series and Nitecore TM03 and P20. Besides the go to Surefire and Streamlight brands; Fenix, Thrunite, Nitecore, Armytek and Klarus are always great choices.
There's alot of negative talk with the 18650. Which demonized it a bit. It's now looked at as a stick of dynamite, lol. Li batteries work well overall and have many benefits, they just tend to be sensitive. The flashlight industry has been nice to us to put safeguards in place to take the science out for the user. The use of the 18650 is now standard for many manufacturers and safety is assured.
Unprotected batts are known to have better performance. They allow higher drainage and in some lights allow for higher lumen output than protected batteries (see: klarus XT11GT and Nitecore TM03). Protected batteries, with the protection circuits can theoretically have more go wrong. It's that good old "more moving parts..." saying. There are other factors like amperages, and ambient drainage, but the circuitry on light account for the battery being used.
And with the dual springs you won't have to worry bout the battery terminals taking a beating, with flat-tops...
I use Orbtronic H-IMR 3500mah batts. You can get a pair with case on Amazon for, $27. If you require a charger, look to Nitecore. They make good safe chargers.