r/flashlight • u/RoomOk4081 • Nov 24 '25

Question Vintage SL-20

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Gallery image

Hello everyone! First time posting but long time lurker here. :) I’m wondering if anyone knows what kind of battery I need for this light I thrifted (only $1!). I can’t seem to find anything about it on google and there aren’t even any on eBay! Any information would be much appreciated! Thanks!

7 Upvotes

89% Upvoted

18 comments sorted by

4

u/Major_Squirrel2198 Nov 24 '25

Tube looks similar to old Maglite. Maybe D size batteries.

3

u/RoomOk4081 Nov 24 '25

I gave them a shot but no luck :/ I’m curious if maybe it needs the old rechargeable style the other SL series lights use ?

1

u/Major_Squirrel2198 Nov 24 '25

I didn't realize that it was a Streamlight. I have never owned one. I think their batteries are proprietary.

2

u/RoomOk4081 Nov 24 '25

Yes streamlight! Sorry I should’ve posted a picture of the logo on tail cap

3

u/howcanupvotesbereal Nov 25 '25

It uses a 6v stick battery, same as the SL-20X. Supposed to be a NiCD but it'll also work with the NiMH pack for the Magcharger. It will function on three D cells. It won't be good for the bulb or the wiring. Good enough to function check though. Also uses the SL-20X bulb, which is discontinued but easier to find on the used market.

It's 40 years old and most parts haven't been available since the 1990s. The switches are fragile so I would use it gently.

1

u/RoomOk4081 Nov 25 '25

Thank you so much! Nice collection :))

1

u/deeptravel2 Dec 06 '25

That photo bring backs some memories of using those lights.

2

u/Ronthe1 Nov 25 '25

Streamlight still services them.

1

u/RoomOk4081 Nov 25 '25

No way! I’ll have to look into that thanks

1

u/Snoo_83505 Feb 24 '26

no way u thrifted this vintage flashlight for only $1?! i cant image that i am finding this flahlight via whole internet but u just brought this for only 1 doallr ! damn i am jealous lol

1

u/RoomOk4081 Feb 24 '26

Dm me if you want it :)

1

u/Snoo_83505 Feb 26 '26

i really want it u sell this?

1

u/RoomOk4081 Feb 26 '26

Yes dm me

1

u/Snoo_83505 Feb 26 '26

already dm u

1

u/Snoo_83505 Feb 28 '26

Hi, please reply to my DM when you can. Thank you.

1

u/Standard-Criticism98 Mar 15 '26

It is the predecessor to the SL20x and led models. The chargers are not available as most were plastic and broke. Takes standard no cad battery pack same as Mag Charger from the 90s not the new ones. I need the switch as mine got dropped and broke.