Can I carry on a surefire flashlight onto a flight in the US?

[steven_w_vance]

From my TSA experiences, the flashlight is OK, but Lithium batteries are a no-no. I have had security remove the batteries before. Li batts release flammable gas, which is an obvious risk. Also, I have heard several first hand accounts of flashlights exploding w/Li batts installed...think expanding gas in a watertight enviornment.
md

This is based on a DOT law that ONLY applies to rechargeable, larger lithium batteries like laptop batteries, etc. I called the DOT and spoke with a very nice man who was the public information officer. He said that CR-123s are fine and if a TSA officer tries to confiscate them, ask for a supervisor. I regularly travel with MULTIPLE lithium-powered LED flashlights and have never had a problem. BTW FAA regs REQUIRE at least one working flashlight on board every aircraft.
FYI the fire/explosion issue with lithium batteries occurs when they're short-circuited against something metal, or against each other. Most modern CR-123s are short-circuit protected.