Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder Review

Let’s Dive into Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder

The Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder is a simple yet crucial accessory designed by Nightstick for users of their TAC-500 series flashlights. This unassuming black carrier allows you to swap out the rechargeable battery pack of the TAC-500 with two readily available CR-123 lithium batteries in a pinch.

I’ve been caught out in the field too many times with a dead flashlight battery. The problem wasn’t the light itself, but the limited runtime of the rechargeable power source, especially in colder weather. I needed a reliable backup power solution for my tactical lights, something that wouldn’t require a wall outlet or specialized charger.

My initial impression of the Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder was one of practical simplicity. It’s lightweight, feels durable enough for its intended purpose, and immediately conveys its straightforward function. It’s not flashy, but it is designed to work.

I considered other options, like carrying a spare rechargeable battery pack or a completely separate CR-123 powered flashlight. The spare rechargeable battery required keeping it charged and introducing another battery to manage. A second flashlight meant more weight and bulk. The Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder provided a compact, lightweight solution, utilizing common CR-123 batteries that I could easily store and trust to have a long shelf life.

My first thought was, “finally, a practical way to keep my light running without relying solely on a rechargeable battery pack”. I was excited by the potential peace of mind and extended runtime this little accessory offered.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder during a weekend backcountry camping trip in the Ozark Mountains. The temperatures dipped into the low 40s at night, a known drain on battery performance.

I intentionally drained the TAC-500’s rechargeable battery during the day, using it for various camp tasks. Once the light started to dim significantly, I swapped in the CR-123 Backup Battery Holder loaded with two fresh batteries. The flashlight instantly regained full brightness, performing flawlessly for the rest of the evening and through a late-night hike back to camp in pitch-black conditions.

The swap was incredibly easy and took less than a minute, even in the dark. There were no hiccups, and the light felt secure with the backup carrier installed.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of periodic use, the Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder continues to perform as expected. I’ve kept it in my go-bag, pulling it out during power outages and other situations where a reliable flashlight is essential.

There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear, even after being jostled around in my bag. The plastic construction seems durable enough to withstand normal use.

Maintenance is non-existent; there’s nothing to clean or lubricate. I simply check the expiration dates of the CR-123 batteries periodically. Comparing it to relying solely on the rechargeable battery, the Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder offers significantly greater peace of mind and extends the usable runtime of my TAC-500 in critical situations. It has consistently outperformed the ‘hope’ of remembering to charge the battery.

Breaking Down the Features of Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder

Specifications

• The Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder is specifically designed to be compatible with the Nightstick TAC-500 series flashlights. This ensures a perfect fit and reliable electrical contact.
• It uses two CR-123 batteries, which are not included with the holder. This allows users to choose their preferred brand and type of CR-123 batteries.
• The holder adapts the TAC-500 series to CR-123 battery power. This provides a readily available backup power source when the rechargeable battery is depleted.
• It is made of durable black plastic. This makes it lightweight and resistant to impacts.
• This Nightstick product is specifically not compatible with the TAC-400 Series. This is a crucial limitation that users should be aware of before purchasing.

The use of CR-123 batteries means the flashlight can operate in a wider range of temperatures compared to some rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. The simple design ensures ease of use, even in stressful situations.

Performance & Functionality

The Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder performs its job flawlessly: it allows you to power your TAC-500 series flashlight with CR-123 batteries when the rechargeable battery is dead. This provides instant power with no fuss.

Its greatest strength is its simplicity and reliability. There are no moving parts to fail, and the electrical contacts are solid. The only potential weakness is that it requires you to have CR-123 batteries on hand, but this is easily mitigated by keeping a few spares in your bag or vehicle. It absolutely meets expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is surprisingly good for a relatively inexpensive accessory. The plastic feels sturdy, and the battery compartment is well-designed. The weight is negligible.

It’s incredibly user-friendly; simply insert the batteries and replace the rechargeable battery pack in the flashlight. No learning curve exists.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its simple construction, the Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder should last for years with normal use. The plastic is resistant to cracking and fading.

Maintenance is virtually non-existent. There are no parts that require regular cleaning or lubrication.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder doesn’t come with any accessories, nor does it require any. It is a standalone power solution.

There are no customization options for this product. It is designed solely to hold two CR-123 batteries and interface with the TAC-500 series flashlight. The compatibility with standard CR-123 batteries is the ‘customization’ in this case.

Pros and Cons of Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder

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Who Should Buy Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder?

The Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, hunters, campers, survivalists, and anyone who relies on a Nightstick TAC-500 series flashlight and needs a dependable backup power source. If you are in situations where a dead flashlight battery could be a serious problem, this is an essential accessory.

If you don’t own a TAC-500 series flashlight, or prefer to rely solely on rechargeable batteries, you should skip this product. Furthermore, those owning the TAC-400 series should look elsewhere as this product is not compatible.

The only must-have accessory is a supply of high-quality CR-123 batteries.

Conclusion on Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder

The Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder is a simple, effective, and inexpensive solution for extending the runtime of your TAC-500 series flashlight. It provides peace of mind by ensuring you always have a readily available backup power source.

At a price of $12.49, the value proposition is excellent. It’s a small price to pay for the added reliability and convenience.

I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone who owns a Nightstick TAC-500 series flashlight. If you rely on your flashlight, this is a must-have accessory. Don’t get caught in the dark; grab a Nightstick CR-123 Backup Battery Holder and a few extra CR-123 batteries, and be prepared for anything.