"I really hate devices that depend on proprietary batteries."

Originally I picked up the Icom OEM 4AA pack for my HT, but the output is lower than I was used to. (lithiums would help here).

A while back I found a site selling 6AA packs for my radio. That means a substantial increase in TX output for my HT. They had a nice selection of aftermarket AA packs for other HTs as well. Unfortunately after a computer upgrade I lost the link.

When I get a chance, I'll try to track it down again.

Also, not all radios have the same output on small battery packs. My original Yeasu did much better on the small pack than my Icom for wattage output. On the other side of the coin, the Icom would last much longer in an emergency (both RX and TX) due to it's lower output and miserly RX current drain.

If the low wattage output will consistantly get into several local repeaters, the TX may not be your biggest concern. Most HTs spend the vast majority of their life in RX mode. Getting an HT that sips, not gulps, current could be a big issue.

Good luck, TR