Never can tell how long it'll be before they are out of stock for good. I just had my second DRR delivered last thursday. I love these things. I've been experimenting with motors, pinions, and such. Seems like the possibilities are many. Anyway back on the subject, I ordered my last one from
www.ehobbies.com and it was packed very carefully with nice foam peanuts. They were on time with the order. Hobby-warehouse, however, i won't mention about that order
To answer your question about the batteries, the packs are going to give you much more speed and run time. Go for a 7.2v.