Fake Dynamo Flashlights

I LOVE LED flashlights. I particularly like the dynamo variety for when there ain't no power and there ain't no batteries. However, there is a huge scam of fake "Dynamo" or "Crank" or "Squeeze" flashlights coming in from Hong Kong. I am sure that there are many American distributors as well. (I only capitalize American out of respect for the rest of us, not the scammers). So far, I have purchased one 10 LED "Squeeze" LED flashlight and one 5 LED "Squeeze" LED flashlight. Another of the 5 LED variety is on the way. BOTH received flashlights contained hidden button cells that work when you push the switch in the second position. The batteries are absolutely not rechargeable. Yes, the flashlights do "flash" when the button is in the "Dynamo" position, but it is virtually useless. The light stops in a second or so after each squeeze.

This is a shame. I have bought MANY very good quality Cree based and battery driven flashlights from Hong Kong. I carry one at my side at all times. However, DO NOT PURCHASE any flashlight listed as "Squeeze" from Hong Kong without questioning the vendor first.. A few vendors are honest and admit that the flashlight does not charge the batteries. Do Not Purchase unless you have confirmed that the flashlight meets your expectations (charges the batteries).

Always ask the vendor if the so called "Dynamo" charges the batteries. Honest vendors will tell you. Hey, what do you want for three bucks? B.T.W. I say so called "Dynamo" because none of the flashlights I have seen incorporate a true dynamo. A true dynamo feeds electricity back to electromagnets as it is produced to drastically increase electric output. For a couple of bucks, some of these are a good value for educational purposes. Caveat Emptor.