Night Vision Which rechargeable batteries for Hogster 35mm

IDbound

Private
Supporter
Full Member
Minuteman
Nov 17, 2011
238
65
Central Kansas
I have a new Hogster model arriving shortly and can't find any real good opinions on the best rechargeable batteries. I have seen the CR123 versions suggested and also the 3.7 volt units that equal two (2) CRE123's. No real consensus on best brands to purchase either. Thoughts??
 
With the TNVC out of stock everywhere I came across this. It showed up this week but I have not been able to go out and given it a try. I was going through a set of rechargable batteries about every hour.

 
  • Like
Reactions: WALLYBOB
I talked to someone at Bering direct about this and they discouraged me from using rechargeable cells in the scope, despite the fact that it’s listed as a capability in the published specs. Reason was an unstable RCR blowing up. I didn’t get the impression that they wouldn’t fix it under warranty, but didn’t ask directly. Not a risk I’m willing to take.

Might as well just get yourself a 5k Anker external battery. They’re dirt cheap, run the scope forever, and are low profile and easy to mount just about anywhere.
 
Last edited:
Sykes.... what are the dimensions of that battery. Not listed on site. Have a TRB on order but this may fot the rails better(limited space). I see they're backordered too. Thanks.
 
4.75"x2.25" and with the picatinny mount it sits 1.75" away from the handguard
20210115_081957.jpg
20210115_081952.jpg
 
  • Like
Reactions: WALLYBOB
I have used the rechargeable CR123s that DirtyTough mentioned and they worked OK for me as well. For those mentioning Bering doesn't recommend rechargeable 123s, the answer is they do not recommend rechargeable CR123s in thermal or night vision devices. Yes, the Hogsters are rated to handle the 3.7V power provided by most rechargeable 123 batteries. However, it is a concern of over-charging batteries, batteries providing inconsistent voltage, plus adding recoil to the mixture.

I have used rechargeable 123s on a R35 when used as a scanner. However, I would highly recommend using a voltage meter and making sure the rechargeable batteries you are using are not providing a higher voltage than expected (3.7V). When using it as a rifle scope, I would recommend a 5v battery pack. I personally like the Anker style batteries. They are tested to extreme low temps. Many other brands seem to have difficulties in colder weather.
 
I have used the 5000 mAh Ankers you have mentioned. They are good but depending on how cold it is and the power consumed, they don't always last an entire night. I typically use the 6700 mAh or 10000 mAh. Of course, Anker makes much larger packs but you don't need to be lugging around a boat anchor on your guns. The 6700 mAh is what is in the Night Goggles/TNVC TRB. The 6700 mAh have been available on Amazon forever, but they don't seem to be at the moment. I have never used an Anker battery that hasn't been good.

As for what you are asking on voltage, the Hogsters use either standard CR123s which should be 3.0v. They also accept rechargeable CR123s which are 3.7v. There is a setting in the Hogster menu to set which internal style battery you are using. However, they also allow a 5V battery pack. The pack is connected to the Hogsters via the USB C port. It recognizes there is a 5V battery pack, and it switches over to battery pack power when connected. It doesn't have to be an Anker. However, as I mentioned earlier I have seen some power supply issues in cold weather with other brands/
 
Last edited:
When using the TNVC/TRB Anker with the Superhogster, is there a battery drain if left attached? I haven't had a chance to get out with mine yet.... just got a new knee and can't do a thing with it.... so batteries are out and TRB unhooked.
 
When using the TNVC/TRB Anker with the Superhogster, is there a battery drain if left attached? I haven't had a chance to get out with mine yet.... just got a new knee and can't do a thing with it.... so batteries are out and TRB unhooked.
With the Super Hogster, no there is no battery drain as long as the scope is turned off, not on standby. After the scope is off for a little bit of time, the battery senses there is no draw, and the lights go off on the pack. With the Hogster 25/35, it doesn't work this way. You have to physically disconnect the scope from the pack to turn it off. I recommend disconnecting at the battery, so you don't have a lot of wear on the port of the scope.
 
  • Like
Reactions: WALLYBOB