Quick Summary

The Vortex Strikefire uses a standard CR123A lithium battery. Replacing it is simple and ensures your optic stays powered for optimal performance. This guide covers everything you need to know to keep your Strikefire ready for action.

Battery for Vortex Strikefire: Essential Power for Your Aiming Device

Your Vortex Strikefire optic is a vital piece of gear, and just like any electronic device, it needs power. When the dreaded dim or dead sight pops up, you need a reliable way to get it back online. Many users wonder about the specific battery required for the Vortex Strikefire. The good news is, it’s a straightforward process, and understanding the right battery means less downtime and more confidence in the field.

This guide is here to make things simple. We’ll walk you through exactly which battery you need, how to change it safely, and some handy tips to keep your Strikefire shining bright. No confusing tech talk, just clear, easy steps for anyone to follow.

Understanding the Vortex Strikefire Battery Needs

The Vortex Strikefire red dot sight series is designed for reliability and user-friendliness. A key part of this is its power source. Most models of the Strikefire, including the Strikefire II and its predecessors, use a single, common type of battery.

The Dominant Battery: CR123A Lithium

The workhorse battery for the Vortex Strikefire is the CR123A. These are 3-volt, non-rechargeable lithium batteries. You’ll probably see them listed as CR123, CR17345, or K123A. They are widely available and known for their long shelf life and consistent performance, even in varying temperatures. This makes them a dependable choice for optics that might be stored for a while or used in demanding environments.

Why this particular battery? The CR123A offers a good balance of size, voltage, and energy density. This means it can provide enough power for the LED emitter of the Strikefire to function brightly for a considerable amount of time, all within a compact battery compartment.

Battery Life Expectations

How long will a CR123A battery last in your Strikefire? This can vary quite a bit based on a few factors:

Brightness Setting: Running your Strikefire on the highest brightness setting will drain the battery faster than using a lower setting.
Usage: Continuous use will naturally consume power more quickly than intermittent use.
Battery Quality: Higher-quality batteries from reputable brands generally offer longer runtimes.
Temperature: Extreme cold can reduce battery performance temporarily, while extreme heat can degrade it over time.

Vortex Optics states that with typical use, a CR123A battery can last for thousands of hours on lower settings and hundreds of hours on higher settings for the Strikefire II. Always refer to your specific Strikefire model’s manual for the most accurate battery life estimates.

How to Safely Replace the Battery in Your Vortex Strikefire

Replacing the battery in your Vortex Strikefire is a simple, essential maintenance task. Doing it correctly ensures you don’t damage your optic or the battery compartment. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have everything you need:

New CR123A Battery: Ensure you have a fresh, high-quality CR123A lithium battery. It’s a good idea to keep a spare on hand.
Small Flathead Screwdriver or Coin: This is usually needed to loosen the battery cap. Check your specific Strikefire manual or inspect the cap itself.
Soft Cloth: To wipe down the battery and compartment if needed.

Step 2: Locate and Open the Battery Cap

The battery compartment on most Strikefire models is located on the underside or side of the main body of the optic. You’ll see a screw-on cap or a plate with a slot for a tool.

For screw-on caps: Use your coin or flathead screwdriver to turn the cap counter-clockwise (lefty-loosey) until it comes off. Be gentle and don’t force it. You might feel a slight click or resistance as threads disengage.

For plate-style caps: You might need to use a flathead screwdriver or a coin inserted into a specific slot to loosen a screw or locking mechanism. Again, turn counter-clockwise.

Step 3: Remove the Old Battery

Once the cap is off, you’ll see the old CR123A battery inside. Note the way the battery is oriented: the positive (+) end usually faces outwards or upwards. Batteries are often held in place by a spring or a snug fit.

Gently tip the optic or use your finger to ease the old battery out. If it’s stuck, a light tap on the optic might help, or you can carefully use a non-metallic tool (like a plastic pick) to free it. Avoid using anything sharp or metal that could scratch the battery contacts.

Step 4: Inspect and Clean Contacts

Take a moment to look at the battery contacts inside the compartment and on the battery cap. If you see any grime, dust, or corrosion (which is rare with these batteries but possible), gently clean them with a dry, soft cloth. Ensure the contacts are shiny and clean for good electrical connection.

This is also a good time to inspect the threads of the battery cap and compartment for any debris. Wipe them clean if necessary.

Step 5: Insert the New Battery

Take your fresh CR123A battery. Pay close attention to the polarity markings (+ and -).

Insert the new battery into the compartment, ensuring the positive (+) end is facing the correct direction. Most optics have a diagram or will only allow the battery to be inserted one way. Usually, the positive (+) terminal of the battery should face the direction that the cap screws onto. For many Strikefire models, this means the positive (+) end of the battery will be facing outwards (away from the inside of the optic).

Double-check that the battery is seated properly and sits flush. If it feels like it’s at an angle, remove it and reinsert it correctly.

Step 6: Reattach the Battery Cap

Carefully screw the battery cap back onto the compartment. Make sure the threads are aligned properly to avoid cross-threading. You should be able to turn it clockwise (righty-tighty) smoothly.

Tighten the cap until it is snug. You don’t need to overtighten it, as this can damage the threads or the O-ring seal. If your cap has a slot for a coin or screwdriver, tighten it until it stops, but again, avoid excessive force.

Step 7: Test Your Strikefire

Turn on your Vortex Strikefire optic. The red dot (or green dot, depending on your model and settings) should appear brightly. Test the different brightness settings to ensure everything is working perfectly.

If the dot doesn’t come on, double-check the battery orientation and ensure the cap is securely tightened. If you’re still experiencing issues, review the steps or consult your Vortex manual.

Choosing the Right CR123A Batteries: What to Look For

Not all CR123A batteries are created equal. While they all fit the same compartment, quality can impact performance and longevity. As Roy Walker, your battery guide, I recommend keeping these points in mind:

Top Brands and Quality

For critical applications like your firearms optic, sticking with reputable brands is wise. Companies like:

Energizer
SureFire
Streamlight
Panasonic
Sanyo

are known for producing reliable, high-performance CR123A batteries. These brands often offer better consistency, longer shelf life, and superior performance in extreme temperatures compared to unbranded or generic options.

Lithium vs. Lithium-ion

It’s crucial to understand that the CR123A is a lithium battery, not a lithium-ion battery. They are different chemistries. CR123A batteries are primary cells, meaning they are non-rechargeable. Do not attempt to recharge standard CR123A batteries, as this can be extremely dangerous and lead to fire or explosion.

While rechargeable CR123A variants exist (often labeled RCR123A or 16340), they operate at a different voltage (typically 3.7V when fully charged) and are not recommended for optics like the Strikefire unless explicitly stated in the manual that they are supported. Using the wrong type of rechargeable battery can damage your optic.

Shelf Life

One of the advantages of CR123A lithium batteries is their long shelf life, often 10 years or more. When buying in bulk, check the expiration date stamped on the battery. Storing them in a cool, dry place will maximize their lifespan.

A good rule of thumb is to buy batteries that have at least 5-7 years of shelf life remaining. This ensures they’ll be ready when you need them, even if they’ve been in your kit for a while.

For more information on battery types and safety, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Better Buildings initiative offers insights into different battery technologies for consumers.

Where to Buy

You can find CR123A batteries at:

Sporting goods stores
Online retailers (Amazon, BatteryMart, etc.)
Electronics stores
Some pharmacies and supermarkets

Buying from reputable sources ensures authenticity and quality.

Troubleshooting Common Battery Issues

Even with the right battery, you might encounter occasional issues. Here are a few common problems and their simple solutions:

Problem: Red Dot Not Turning On

Check Battery Orientation: This is the most common culprit. Ensure the positive (+) end is correctly facing outwards.
Battery is Dead: Even new batteries can sometimes be faulty. Try a different, known-good battery.
Corroded/Dirty Contacts: Gently clean the battery and cap contacts with a soft, dry cloth.
Cap Not Tight Enough: Ensure the battery cap is screwed on snugly.

Problem: Red Dot is Dim or Flickering

Low Battery: The battery is likely nearing the end of its life. Replace it.
Poor Contact: Check that the battery is seated correctly and the contacts are clean.
Temperature Extremes: Very cold temperatures can temporarily reduce brightness. Allow the optic to warm up.

Problem: Battery Drains Too Quickly

Brightness Setting: You might be leaving it on a high setting. Dial it down when not actively aiming.
Accidental Activation: Ensure the optic is turned off when not in use. Some models have auto-shutoff features, but it’s always good practice to manually power down.
Battery Age/Quality: Older batteries or lower-quality batteries may not hold a charge as well.

Problem: Difficulty Opening/Closing Battery Cap

Cross-Threaded: If the cap won’t screw on easily, back it off and try again, making sure the threads align perfectly.
Debris: Clean the threads on both the cap and the optic body.
Over-tightened: If it’s hard to open, you might have overtightened it last time. Use a coin or screwdriver to get a better grip, but apply steady, even pressure rather than brute force.

If you continue to have persistent issues, don’t hesitate to contact Vortex Optics customer support. They are known for their excellent warranty and helpful service. You can find their support information on their official website.

Battery Care and Storage Tips

Treating your batteries and optic right ensures longevity and reliability.

Storing Spare Batteries

When you buy spare CR123A batteries, especially in bulk packs, proper storage is key:

Keep them in their original packaging: This prevents accidental short-circuiting and protects them from dirt.
Store in a cool, dry place: Avoid extreme heat or humidity, which can degrade battery performance over time. A drawer or a well-organized tool bag is ideal.
Avoid metal objects: Don’t store loose batteries in pockets with keys or coins, as this can cause them to short-circuit and become a fire hazard.

Battery Recycling

CR123A lithium batteries, like all batteries, should be disposed of responsibly. Do not throw them in your regular household trash. Many electronic stores, hardware stores, and local recycling centers have battery drop-off locations.

Check with your local waste management authority or resources like Call2Recycle to find battery recycling points near you.

Optic Care Related to Battery

When changing the battery, take a moment to ensure the O-ring seal on the cap is intact and clean. This seal is crucial for maintaining the Strikefire’s water-resistance. If the O-ring is damaged or missing, the optic may not be waterproof. If you notice any damage, contact Vortex for a replacement part.

Comparing CR123A to Other Common Batteries

It’s helpful to understand how the CR123A compares to other batteries you might encounter, especially for personal electronics.

Here’s a quick look:

Feature	CR123A Lithium	AA Alkaline	AA NiMH Rechargeable	Phone Battery (Li-ion)
Voltage	3V	1.5V	1.2V	3.7V (nominal)
Rechargeable	No (Primary Cell)	No (Primary Cell)	Yes	Yes
Typical Use	Flashlights, optics, cameras	Remotes, toys, clocks	High-drain electronics, toys	Smartphones, tablets
Energy Density	High	Moderate	Moderate-High	Very High
Shelf Life	Excellent (10+ years)	Good (5-10 years)	Moderate (varies)	Moderate (varies)
Temperature Tolerance	Good	Fair	Fair	Fair (sensitive to extremes)

As you can see, the CR123A is specifically designed for applications requiring a higher voltage, long shelf life, and good performance in varied conditions. This is why it’s a standard for many tactical flashlights and optics. Your phone battery, while also lithium-based (lithium-ion), is optimized for frequent charging and discharging in a portable electronic device.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What type of battery does the Vortex Strikefire use?

A1: The Vortex Strikefire typically uses one CR123A lithium battery. This is a 3-volt, non-rechargeable battery commonly found in flashlights and cameras.

Q2: How long does a CR123A battery last in a Strikefire?

A2: Battery life varies, but expect thousands of hours on lower brightness settings and hundreds on higher settings. Factors like brightness, usage, and battery quality play a role.

Q3: Can I use a rechargeable battery in my Strikefire?

A3: Standard CR123A batteries are not rechargeable. While rechargeable CR123A-sized batteries (RCR123A or 17340) exist, verify with your Strikefire model’s manual if they are compatible, as they can operate at a different voltage and may damage the optic.

Q4: Where is the battery located on the Vortex Strikefire?

A4: The battery compartment is usually found on the underside or side of the optic, secured by a screw-on cap or a small plate.

Q5: How do I know which way the battery goes in?

A5: Always check for the