Irish,
Let me be the first to jump on your wagon. But the really old days had something that I recall was even better than Radio Shack: Lafayette Radio. I still have and use the drafting set with the green felt cut-out trays that housed the compasses, pens and the metal tubes with extra hardware. That was the 60s. Lafayette had anything and everything. And none of it came in clam shells or shrink wrap. I'd be surprised if your essential 200 or 37K ohm resistor cost more than a couple cents. And I think you could buy ONE!
There MAY be something up your alley. Kinda like an electrical version of your LHS. I'd think Milwaukee should have at least something. Do you know any "ham" radio operators? I think there are still a few around - still see an occasional vanity plates with their unique call letters. One of those guys might be able to clue you in. Oh no! They bring up memories of the old build-your-own radios like Heathkit and Hallicrafters sets!
Let's see if Mel jumps in here. . . .
John
I miss Radio Shack. I live outside of Milwaukee and I used to be able to go there for all my small electrical needs. I could get small gauge wire (in every color), solder, flux, shrink tubing, resistors, capacitors, transistors, power adapters, terminal blocks and jumpers, LED lights as well as many other needs all in one stop shopping. Now the stores are gone (at least where I live) and all that are left are big box home improvement and electronic stores that don't have much of anything for these projects, and if they do, its ridiculously overpriced... Today I needed a 12 volt power adapter and no one had one. All I saw was a multi volt adjustable adapter that was so big, it would take up 3 plug outlets on my power strip. I can find everything online, but then I have to order it, pay for shipping and wait a week to get the items. Does anyone else know of any good resources for my small electrical project needs? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.