For the majority of people getting a flashlight is easy. Just pick up whatever seems appropriate at the hardware shop!
While that will do the trick in an emergency, if you work in a job or engage in activities that require you to use a flashlight for prolonged periods, besides a good model, you will need the right accessories to enhance the flashlight's performance and usability.
Flashlight Accessories Checklist
To make the most of your torch light look for functional flashlight accessories made of selected materials. However, not all flashlights accessories are created equal-there are tons of different options and brands. So, how do you find the right ones to improve your flashlight’s use? The following checklist breaks down the accessories that proved to be the best and most usable ones.
Batteries
Therefore, if you are currently using alkaline batteries, simply switching to better rechargeable batteries will probably increase brightness. Only low-current devices like clocks and remote controls can be powered by alkaline batteries. They are not able to supply enough energy for bright flashlights.
However, if your flashlight only uses one AA battery, using 1.8V lithium batteries instead will improve brightness the fastest. These lithium cells are not rechargeable. They are 1.8V and not 1.5V, so use caution as they could harm your flashlight. So, only try this if you don't mind damaging the flashlight or are certain that the maximum voltage it can withstand is greater than 1.8V.
On the other hand, affordable LED flashlights with 3AAA battery holders are very common. But, only from a specific voltage and with enough energy can high-power LEDs operate. So, the best, quickest and safest change, in this instance, is upgrading to a 18650 battery. A fully charged 18650 batteries has 4.2 Volts of rechargeable lithium-ion power.
So, you already use 18650 batteries, and you still have a weak flashlight? You might have purchased a subpar battery that cannot supply enough power. Oftentimes, more affordable flashlights are delivered with one of these poor-quality 18650 batteries. Beware if yours resembles any of these.
Depending on how bad your old battery is, simply switching to a higher-quality battery can improve the brightness by 20–50%.
Chargers
These batteries are for you if you want to bring less or if you want to use a flashlight that doesn't have a built-in charging port. You only need to put these batteries in to charge them because they are compatible with most USB power sources, including laptops, power banks, solar panels, and even conventional chargers. An indicator light beneath the positive side changes from red to green to show how well the battery is charging.
However, the same charger rule doesn’t apply when the more powerful 21700 batteries are in question as some earlier chargers won't work with 21700 batteries due to the larger length and diameter of these batteries. So, you need to get the appropriate charger.
Since there are single, dual, four or six-slot USB chargers, you will have no difficulties finding the ideal one that best meets your requirements.
Another great way to improve the performance of your rechargeable batteries is to opt for the latest magnetic battery chargers. Top-notch options include even four magnetic charging ports, connect through a USB charger with a widely available USB Type-C cable, and are made of a high-quality aluminium bottom board, durable PC+ABS body, and anti-slip base mat.
Battery Organizers
The terminals of loose batteries could short-circuit if they come into contact with one another or other metal items. That’s why using an organizer designed especially for batteries is the most secure and efficient way to store them.
Some of these flashlight accessories are bigger and come with testers which is useful if you use a lot of batteries. However, if you don't own many batteries, think about choosing a smaller and typically more attractive choice. The majority of battery organizers have sections with labels, so you always know where to put your AA, AAA, D, and 9-volt batteries.
Mounts
When narrowing down your choices there are mounts with two powerful neodymium magnets and rubberized surfaces so that you don’t have to worry about scratching your weapon. On the other hand, some mounting systems even come with adjustable diameters from 23 to 26 mm and a built-in locking device for easier installation.
There are also mounts specifically made for long guns only. These flashlights accessories normally fit guns with barrel diameters 12–21 mm and flashlights with body diameters 25, 4 mm. They also have a stronger and more stable grip.
Holsters
When not in use, flashlights are kept in flashlight holsters and cases, so they are available for security patrols, search and rescue missions, upkeep tasks, and inspections. They are worn by individuals who regularly use flashlights, such as law enforcement officials, military personnel, construction workers, and others.
Holsters for flashlights can be attached to belts, helmets, or other equipment to move them without having to carry them by hand. When purchasing keep in mind that holsters aren’t universal, and they suit particular brands and models of a flashlight. So, check out with the manufacturer whether they have holsters for that particular type of flashlight you’re about to buy.
