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Some flashlights sized to take 16340 sized cells (16mm diameter x 34mm long) are actually designed to run on CR123a, which is a 3V lithium primary (non-rechargable) cell.
Most lasers sized to take 16340 sized cells have electronics that are expecting a 3.7V lithium secondary (rechargable) cell. Rechargeables can provide a whole volt more of potential energy than the 3V lithium primary.
On the topic of CR123a, never mix old and new. Primarys especially, contain metallic lithium which, much like sodium, reacts violently with oxygen. Instead of leaking battery acid, these will pop a vent and spew fire and noxious, toxic chemicals.
Lithium ions will do the same, but it is less common to require lithium ions in series.
Most lasers sized to take 16340 sized cells have electronics that are expecting a 3.7V lithium secondary (rechargable) cell. Rechargeables can provide a whole volt more of potential energy than the 3V lithium primary.
On the topic of CR123a, never mix old and new. Primarys especially, contain metallic lithium which, much like sodium, reacts violently with oxygen. Instead of leaking battery acid, these will pop a vent and spew fire and noxious, toxic chemicals.
Lithium ions will do the same, but it is less common to require lithium ions in series.
