I had a pair of Rennsteig pliers, which I used for many years. They were a little pricier than the Klein tools I used to have, but the quality is awesome. They cut up to 450MGM copper and I used them on aluminum as well.
http://www.rennsteig.us/products/cutting/73-cable-shears-d27.html
Tool and die makers are truely artists!!! Is the school part of the National Tooling and Machining Association? A machinist work book, a couple micrometers, and a square set, a 7- or 11-drawer machinists toolbox. I used to have one from Sears (Craftsman); they were brown in color and had a rough...
Hi, you could probably use rechargable batteries, but here is what I have:
http://www.conrad.com/ce/en/product/868498/LiteXpress-X-Glow-2-LXL438001-CREE-high-power-LED-Flashlight-Torch-Black
They also offer a 5 year warranty....