First Impressions of Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700
The Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700 is, at first glance, a seemingly simple but potentially essential piece of kit for anyone serious about preparedness or outdoor adventures. Coming from Maratac, a brand known for its no-nonsense, functional designs, it promises secure and waterproof storage for a single 21700 battery. This isn’t just another accessory; it’s a potential lifeline when your flashlight, GPS, or other critical devices are on the brink of dying in the field.
I was on the hunt for a reliable way to protect spare batteries from the elements while backpacking and kayaking. Standard ziplock bags just weren’t cutting it. The Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700 immediately caught my eye with its promise of waterproof protection and durable construction, and it seemed like a worthwhile investment to give me peace of mind.
Unboxing the Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700, my initial impression was one of solid, purposeful design. The Delrin material feels robust and reassuringly dense, and the cap threads smoothly, inspiring confidence in its waterproof seal. The overall build quality feels significantly more premium than similarly priced plastic containers; it feels like it could survive being tossed around in a pack for years.
Compared to cheaper battery cases made from brittle plastic, or even repurposed pill containers, the Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700 felt like a significant upgrade. I considered a metal case, but the Delrin promises to be non-conductive, which is crucial in preventing accidental discharge in a pack filled with other electronics. I also looked at smaller cases designed for AA or AAA batteries, but I’ve standardized on 21700 batteries for many of my devices.
My first impression was definitely excitement, tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism. Can something this simple really be that effective at protecting a vital power source in harsh conditions? Only real-world testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700 came during a weekend backpacking trip in the Adirondack Mountains. The weather forecast predicted rain, providing an ideal opportunity to assess the waterproof capabilities. I stored a fully charged 21700 battery inside and stashed the locker in an outer pocket of my pack, where it was exposed to intermittent rain and abrasion.
The locker performed flawlessly; even after hours of exposure to rain and mud, the battery inside remained perfectly dry. The ease of opening and closing the locker, even with slightly damp hands, was also a plus. It was easy to grab and swap batteries for my flashlight when dusk came.
There were no issues after the first use. The Delrin showed no signs of scratching or wear, and the o-ring seal appeared to be functioning perfectly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use across various outdoor activities, the Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. It’s been kayaking (where it endured splashes and brief submersions), hiking in dusty conditions, and even survived being accidentally dropped on a rocky trail. The Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700 has continued to perform flawlessly.
Durability has been excellent. There are no visible signs of wear and tear beyond some minor cosmetic scuffs on the Delrin surface. The threads still operate smoothly, and the o-ring remains supple and intact.
Maintenance is minimal. After muddy or dusty outings, I simply rinse the locker with water and allow it to air dry. I’ve also inspected the o-ring occasionally and applied a small amount of silicone grease to ensure a proper seal. The Delrin material appears to be resistant to most common solvents.
Compared to my previous reliance on makeshift battery storage solutions, the Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700 is a significant improvement. It offers superior protection, ease of use, and peace of mind knowing that my spare batteries are safe from the elements. It significantly outperforms other storage methods.
Breaking Down the Features of Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700
Specifications
- Overall Length: 3.63 inches. This compact size makes it easy to stow in a pack, pocket, or gear bag without taking up excessive space.
- Material: Delrin Construction. Delrin is a high-strength, low-friction thermoplastic that offers excellent resistance to moisture, chemicals, and abrasion.
- Waterproof: Flange to cap seal (internal o-ring). The o-ring creates a tight, waterproof seal that protects the battery from moisture damage.
- Capacity: Holds one 21700 battery (not included). The 21700 battery size is becoming increasingly common in high-performance flashlights and other portable devices.
- Weight: 0.06 lb. Lightweight construction minimizes added bulk in your pack or gear.
- Additional Features: Lanyard Hole. A lanyard hole allows for easy attachment to a keychain, carabiner, or other gear.
- Color: Black. The black color is discreet and practical for outdoor use.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the locker’s ability to protect and transport a 21700 battery safely and reliably. The Delrin construction provides durability, while the waterproof seal ensures the battery remains dry in harsh conditions. The lanyard hole adds a practical attachment option.
Performance & Functionality
The Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700 excels at its primary function: protecting a 21700 battery from damage and the elements. The waterproof seal inspires confidence, and the robust construction ensures the battery won’t be crushed or otherwise damaged during transport.
The strength is its simple and effective design. A minor weakness is the single battery capacity; a double-battery version would be welcome for longer trips.
It meets and exceeds my expectations. It provides a secure, waterproof, and durable storage solution that I can rely on in the field.
Design & Ergonomics
The Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700 boasts a minimalist and functional design. The Delrin material feels comfortable in hand, and the smooth threads make opening and closing the locker effortless.
It’s very user-friendly with no learning curve; it’s simply a matter of screwing and unscrewing the cap. The lanyard hole is a thoughtful addition, allowing for easy attachment to gear.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the robust Delrin construction, the Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700 should last for many years with proper care. The o-ring seal may eventually require replacement, but replacements are readily available.
Maintenance is straightforward, as detailed previously. The durable construction is resistant to most common chemicals and cleaning agents.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700 is a standalone product and does not come with any additional accessories. It doesn’t really need any.
There are no customization options, but the simplicity of the design makes it compatible with a wide range of lanyards and attachment clips.
Pros and Cons of Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700
Pros
- Exceptional Waterproofing: The flange to cap seal with internal o-ring provides reliable protection against water damage.
- Durable Delrin Construction: The Delrin material is highly resistant to impacts, abrasion, and chemicals.
- Lightweight and Compact: The locker adds minimal weight and bulk to your gear.
- Simple and Easy to Use: The smooth threads and intuitive design make it effortless to open and close.
- Peace of Mind: Provides confidence that your spare battery is protected and ready for use when needed.
Cons
- Single Battery Capacity: Only holds one 21700 battery.
- Price: Slightly more expensive than basic plastic battery cases.
Who Should Buy Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700?
The Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700 is perfect for:
- Hikers and backpackers who need to protect spare batteries from the elements.
- Kayakers and other water sports enthusiasts who require waterproof storage for electronics.
- Survivalists and preppers who prioritize reliable backup power sources.
- Anyone who uses 21700 batteries in their flashlights, GPS units, or other portable devices.
Those who only occasionally use 21700 batteries, or only need minimal protection, might find a cheaper alternative sufficient.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality lanyard for attaching the locker to your gear.
Conclusion on Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700
The Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700 is a well-designed and durable product that effectively protects a 21700 battery from damage and the elements. It is a simple, yet essential piece of kit.
The price is justified given the quality of materials and construction, as well as the peace of mind it provides. For anyone who relies on 21700 batteries in their outdoor adventures or emergency preparedness plans, this locker is a worthwhile investment.
I would highly recommend it. If you are tired of worrying about your spare batteries getting wet, crushed, or damaged, the Maratac Battery Locker Delrin 21700 is the solution you’ve been looking for. Get yours today and ensure you always have a reliable power source when you need it most!