Went to the site and I know you can get varieties between 2 and 6 cells. Hey, I love the product, I have 2 myself.
Just curious why they offer so many options… just for size ranges… 2-cell granny checking the crawlspace… or 6-cell for someone wanting to put a beatdown on a crook if they are messing with their car?
I assume they use the same bulbs, but if so does it matter if you use 2 or 6 batteries? Since the batteries are in series, doesn’t the 2 model give you 3 volts, while the 6 gives you 9 volts?
According to this page each flashlight takes a different bulb. Yes you are correct that the different number of batteries give a different voltage. Again, according to the link, the candle power of the light varies with the number of batteries. 11,000 for a two cell all the way to 20,000 for the 6 cell.
Personally I only buy flashlights that take an even number of batteries. The reason for this is batteries always come packed in even numbers. If you buy a 3 cell flashlight and batteries come in packs of 8 you get into the hot dog bun lowest common denominator problem.
I carry a 6D Maglite in my car, right between the driver’s seat and emergency brake. It’s extremely bright, the batteries last for a couple years and if someone tries to carjack me, they’re going to get a cracked skull.
Note that they also make different bulbs for C and D cells since the larger cells can provide higher current at the same voltage. Ohm’s law applies as always but remember it applies to the battery too. A larger battery has less internal resistance. Add to that that there are two different kind of bulbs and a third for rechargable lights and there are quite a few combinations.
I prefer compact Surefire lights these days but the length and weight of a mag light can be very useful. I prefer the C-cell model for my truck as it affords a better grip.
I have a 3 (C) cell mag on my nightstand, which is close to a foot of solid aluminum. Its great for blackouts, and I like to think its also a good weapon if needed, rather then keeping a baseball bat next to it.