Rechargeables really work a lot better than non-rechargeables in high powered lights. They can supply much higher current, and (for NiMH anyway) their output voltage is more stable. If you insist on non-rechargeables and high current, that probably means a lithium powered light, which defeats what sounds like your purpose, of being able to pick up spare batteries at the corner 7-11.

I agree with whoever suggested the UK Light Cannon. It's very bright and has a narrow beam for long reach. The UK SL6C is another possibility. Both of these run on C cells. Note that the Light Cannon is a HID light, which means it takes 10 sec or so to come to full brightness after you turn it on. It's no good for surprising assailants, if that's what you had in mind.

See www.ledmuseum.org for reviews of these lights, or candlepowerforums.com for discussion.