As a former ‘FIRSTian’ and once a president of a team, i know that saving money is important. My team spent ridiculous amounts at home depot, lowes, radioshack, etc. for common items. Now i work at a surplus store (APEX Electronics and Surplus in Sun Valley (los angeles area)) and see what they charge for the same stuff (some stuff is 70% less)!!! What mostly made me think to post this was the amount of BIMBA pistons i had to break my back to get in the store (5-7 big boxes). They only want $40.00 and they resale for near $150. They have a lot of other electrical items, some stuff that is one of a kind. Their website is http://apexelectronic.com and if you’re in the Los Angeles area, and if you’re out of area, you can place orders too. If you go in, just say you heard it from Matt on the robotics forum, and i can set you up.
Matt