I use 2, seven cell RC car packs on my starter. 14.4 volts gives it a little extra oomph without hurting it any.

I had one evening like the one you described. It was light enough when I took off, but the light had faded considerably by the time I went to land. WHen the plane dropped below the tree line on it's landing approach it was pure instinct and intuition that brought it down safely.

And yes Matt, it was my 80" CUb with a 52 four stroke putting around in nice calm evening air!
Dennis-