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CR123 Batteries
CR123 batteries are small lithium cells that power a lot of hunting gear, from red dots and lights to some thermal and night vision optics. We carry two kinds: disposable cells for backup and storage, and a rechargeable cell for gear you use often.
Disposable or rechargeable
- Tenergy CR123A Lithium Battery, 4 pack: non-rechargeable, with protection. These 3V CR123 lithium batteries hold their charge well in storage, so they're a good spare to keep in your pack or truck.
- 16340 KeepPower 950mAh RCR123A: a protected, button top rechargeable cell. The 16340 is the lithium-ion version of the same size.
The tradeoff is voltage. A disposable CR123A is a 3V cell. A rechargeable 16340 runs at 3.6 to 3.7 volts nominal and about 4.2 volts fresh off the charger. Many devices handle both, but some don't, so check your manual before you swap a rechargeable into a device built for 3V cells.
When to pick which: if you use the device every week, the rechargeable saves you buying cells. If it sits in a safe for months and has to work when you grab it, a disposable cell is the safer bet. Lithium cells, including CR123 lithium batteries, also handle cold better than alkaline, which counts in a late-season stand.
Charge 16340s on a lithium-ion charger from our chargers page. For other sizes, see batteries and external battery kits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a CR123 and a CR123A battery?
For practical purposes, nothing. CR123 and CR123A refer to the same 3V lithium cell size, and makers label it either way. Our Tenergy cells are sold as CR123A. The one to watch is the rechargeable RCR123A or 16340, which runs at a higher voltage.
Why do CR123 batteries cost more than AA batteries?
They use lithium chemistry and are made in smaller numbers than AA or AAA cells. You get a lot for it: high power in a small cell, a long shelf life and good cold weather performance. If you go through them quickly, a rechargeable 16340 like our KeepPower cell cuts the ongoing cost.
How long do lithium CR123 batteries last?
In storage, a quality lithium CR123A keeps most of its charge for years, which is why they make good spares. In use, runtime depends on how much power your device draws. A light on high drains one much faster than a red dot sitting on a low setting.
Which CR123 batteries should I buy?
Buy protected cells from a maker you know. We carry Tenergy CR123A cells with PTC protection, which limits current if something shorts, and KeepPower 16340 protected rechargeables. Pick disposable for gear in storage and rechargeable for gear you use every week.
What is the longest lasting CR123 option?
Per charge, a disposable lithium CR123A usually runs longer than a 950mAh rechargeable 16340. Over time, the rechargeable lasts longer because you reuse it many times. For a scope you use often, keep a pair of 16340s on the charger and a Tenergy 4 pack as backup.
