@killick and any one else who is unsure about the Zion battery situation.
It's been discussed previously about running a pair of 18650's in series and IMO it can't be discussed enough especially for the 'n00b' and I see no harm in a little reminders for all users.
You should receive the batteries in a plastic case I strongly urge it's use.
At no time should these batteries be thrown into a bag or pocket where they may short circuit thru a bunch of keys or loose change.
The XTAR is a good charger and the digital display keeps you informed on the state of charge. As RBT mentioned a multi/voltmeter is a handy thing if anyone owns a charger without a display.
If you own more than one pair then mark them as pairs. Heat shrink sleeve available in a variety of colors or a permanent marker are both options so you know which battery goes with which.
They should always be used and charged as a matched pair. It is recommended that they are used and charged in rotation in both the charger and your Zion.
For example if you mark each cell individually then battery number one should be placed in slot one then slot two when next charged/used. This will help to keep you safe and also extend the overall battery life.
There is nothing to fear about Li-ion batteries they just need to be treated with respect.
Once you have used them for a while it will become second nature. Even when highly medicated.
The only thing I've found which sometimes isn't learned as quickly is putting the damn things in the charger and switching it on. Luckily a back up pair coupled with the embarrassment of running out of power when showing off your new toy to friends will help.
@TheDudeNextDoor started a thread dedicated to battery safety maybe it would be worth putting said thread somewhere on the site where it is more easily found. Perhaps in with the new resources.
@pakalolo what do you think? That way the info is on the main page of the site and it gives people the option to discuss chargers and batteries other than on the thread itself.
@killick really looking forward to hearing from you when your new block of maple arrives. If it was me I would have set up an early warning system in my post box. Perhaps a laser break beam or a shotgun trip wires type affair. Saves the twice daily run. Enjoy.
Sorry to waffle on but just an after thought. The FC community by and large is fantastic. The Zion thread has a great bunch of people on it and no one wants to see anyone fail. If any body is in doubt about anything to do with the safe running of their new Zion then please don't be too proud to ask for advice no matter how stupid the question may seem. We are all here to help each other get the best out of what is turning out to be a fantastic device.