American Science and surplus (http://www.sciplus.com/) lots of ni-cad rechargeables surplus and take-outs. then you need some recharging equipment-check out their solar panels and project kits. Then you can experiment with building a low cost PSK from their multi-tool, space blanket, and flashlight selections-or get the lab glassware to distill industrial quantities of water...great place.
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Dance like you have never been hurt, work like no one is watching,love like you don't need the money.