While strolling around Walmart I saw these in the digital camera section:

I almost didn't give it a second glance since I have plenty of rechargeable cells, but picked one up anyway to see what was inside. Made by Sakar, the package includes four 2000mAh NiMH cells. These are a bit behind the times because Energizer is selling 2600mAh cells now, and higher capacity cells are available. This probably explains why there are so many of them on the shelves.

However, the rechargeable cells isn't what I was interested in. Open the package and this is what you get:

There are four D-Cell adapters and four C-Cell adapters for AA size batteries, in addition to the mediocre NiMH cells in the pack. These adapters will allow you to use AA sized cells in C and D cell appliances. The adapters accept NiMH, Alkaline, Lithium, and probably just about any other type of AA cell.

Keep in mind, I don't know how some appliances may react to using AA cells in them if they are made to use C or D cells, so understand that you are using these adapters AT YOUR OWN RISK if you choose to use them.

Along with the adapters comes one D cell base plate. Some appliances (Maglite for example) have a spring in the base which is too large to touch the AA cell contact. If that's the case, you can attach this plate to the bottom of the cell adapter to increase the size of the contact area. Only one is included.

The AA cell fits in the C adapter and just protrudes through both ends, so the plastic adapter is really just a spacer to keep the AA cell centered. The D cell adapter has a little button on the top. When you push the cell into the bottom of the adapter the button pops up. To remove the cell, push the button down again.

The price? $8.97 for the package at WalMart, Aug., 2006. www.sakar.com