Q: Will your Z-Line Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, or Bones flashlights accept rechargeable batteries?

A: Yes, rechargeable cells are safe to use in the lights mentioned above and we highly recommend the use of a protected Li-Ion/IMR cell capable of at least 5 amps of electrical current (minimum).  Protected cells are preferred as they contain a battery management circuit to protect the user and the cell itself against common hazards such as short circuit, over/under discharge, and high temperature.  Should you choose to use flat-top unprotected cells, do so at your own risk.  These will not harm our lights but should only be used by experienced users with extreme caution.  With a variety of rechargeable cells available on the market, it is impossible for us to test all of them.  Below are some suggestions known to be compatible:

  1. Alpha: The Elzetta 16340 we sell works well.  Keeppower 16340, Orbtronic 16340, and K2 Energy 3.2V LFP123A work as well.
  2. Bravo: Keeppower 16650 or Orbtronic 16650.  Do not use two 16340 cells if the cells are 3.7volts or greater.  K2 Energy 3.2V LFP123A cells work well.
  3. Charlie: K2 Energy 3.2V LFP123A cells work well. Other cells like the Elzetta 16340 we sell (including other brands) are too long to physically fit.
  4. Bones: Keeppower 18650 or Orbtronic 18650.

Q: Will an Elzetta Tactical LED Flashlight run on rechargeable RCR123 batteries?

A: Alpha and Bravo Models may be operated on RCR123 batteries for non-critical applications, but Charlie Models should not use these batteries in most cases, as the most common rechargeable cells are longer than primary CR123a cells and they will not fit properly.

We recommend the LFP123A, a lithium iron phosphate cell from K2 Energy. Each cell is the same length as a primary CR123 and the voltage is the same as well (3.2V 600mAhr). And, yes, the LFP123A from K2 is Made in the USA.

Q:  Which batteries do you recommend for Z-Line when used for critical applications such as weapon use or self-defense.

A:  CR123a cells are safe to use in Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, and Bones since these lights operate at safe current draw levels.  These cells are the preferred power source for Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, and Bones when used in critical applications.  Primaries have several advantages over the rechargeable cells.

  1. 10-year shelf-life; these cells do not need to be periodically recharged and are ready to go when you are at a moment’s notice.
  2. Excellent operation at extreme high and low temperatures
  3. Safe field proven battery chemistry (Lithium Manganese Dioxide)
  4. Gradually dims over time as the light is used. The circuitry in rechargeable cells will shutdown abruptly with protected cell when nearing depletion.

Q: Is the Battery Charging Kit included in the A-112 ALPHA GEN 3?

A: It is not included by default and is optional. We include a CR123 primary.  The rechargeable kit may be found here:    https://elzetta.com/product/16340-battery-kit/

Q: Does the Elzetta 16340 rechargeable cell have a protected circuit?

A: Yes. The Elzetta RCR123a (16340) rechargeable cell is a high-drain IMR RCR123 protected cell that will handle up to a 3.5 amp current draw for less than 30 second durations, and 1.5 amp continuous current draw. The internal protection circuit ensures safe operation.

Q: Does the Elzetta USB-AA rechargeable cell have a protected circuit?

A: Yes. The Elzetta rechargeable NiMH (nickel metal hydride) USB-AA battery with internal protection circuit produces 1.2V and 1000mAh, and uses any 5v/110 mA charging block or computer USB port to recharge. It may be operated safely when used for intended purpose.