Thanks Les, chaos, AFLM and teslin. Great information. I appreciate the pics and links. Will definitely be referring back to this post as I accumulate my gear and as it comes to fruition.

Les, the GoalZero Guide 10, I believe that's what's in the pic, I looked it up. It seems legit for charging batteries. I may have to add that to my solar array for that reason. I also see the Nomad 7 panel. I have a few questions about that. The 12v outlet is what interests me. Am I wrong in guessing it could trickle charge a car battery? Would it take forever (> 1-2 days) if it had the ability?

I like the portability of the Nomad 7 (handled one at REI). How long does it take to charge the double A's?

The QRP station...Here's what I've virtually assembled so far to power it. Station specs: 9-13.8v, unknown amperage but it does send almost 5 watts to the antenna.

Solar Panel: Nature Power 18 watt (may change to Nomad 7 if it can charge the SLA's below)
Charge Controller: Sunforce 60120
Battery (x2): 12v 7ah

I don't want the station to take up a whole backpack. Let's try to get it into a backpack compartment or a BOB compartment. I also may be thinking wishfully with having 2 of the SLA batteries. I'll probably have to trim back to one. Advice? Experience? All welcome.

As a matter of fact, I wonder since the Nomad has a DC out, could I use it to charge, not only the AA powerpack but also the SLA's I linked to. That would be awesome. I'm going to go read Teslin's links. AFLM, awesome product. I will bookmark for when it comes time to Pelicanize the IC-7000. Thank you.

.--. .../For anybody else in the QRP radio market, check out these CW paddles.