Life Of CR-123 Batteries ??

[billt]

How long will CR-123 batteries last before they start leaking? I've had Duracell type Alkaline batteries start to leak in as little as 2 years. I'm told CR-123 batteries will go as long as 10 years on shelf life, and even longer before leaking. I'm skeptical of such claims.

What's the longest any of you have left CR-123 batteries in a device without problems. I'm talking about such things as weapon lights and EO-Tech Holographic Sights. I'm interested in real world knowledge on this matter, and not manufacturer claims. Thanks in advance.

[gatordev]

I have a box of Surefire 123 batteries (well, there's only 2 or 3 left) that I bought back in 2009 and they're fine and still have a charge when I use them. I also have a E-2D light that's on me every work day and gets used a little bit every week or two and have had zero issues (again, since 2009) with leakage.

Historically, I've had really bad luck with name brand Alkaliine batteries (Energizer/Duracell) leaking, all the way back to when I was twelve and had a RC car, but haven't had a single issue with my -123 batteries.

I can't remember if it was here or somewhere else, but I recently read a description of how the 123 battery is designed, as opposed to an Alkaline. Chemically speaking, it doesn't really get activated until a charge is put through it, which is why it last so long, compared to normal batteries, which will die just sitting there. Once a 123 battery is charged, even for a moment, then it starts is slow (but I've found much slower than an Alkaline) loss of power over time.

[velocity2006]

I have a set of 2 surefire 123's in a M951 surefire mounted on one of my rifles that have been in the light for 5 years, have not had any issues. They don't hardly get used, I pull that gun out a few times a year for shooting but never use the light.

The lights I run hard or use regularly the batteries usually die before they ever get a chance to think about leaking.

[MoxyDave]

I have CR123s that are over 10 years old. Never had one leak and they still work fine. Previous poster is correct, battery is activated once you use it so leave them alone and they will last 10-15 years no problem. Alkalines are junk, I've had them leak in as little as a couple weeks.

[billt]

Thanks guys. This is good to know.

[GOST]

At my work on the DOE reservation we're only allowed to use Surefire brand CR123 batteries. They had some catch fire.

[MoxyDave]

Yeah you should stick to the name brands. Batteries are easily forged, just look at all the "legitimate" brand batteries coming from China via Ebay ... buyer beware. I usually buy them in bulk from a reputable source.