RE: do any online stores have cheap shipping for small items?
If you are talking about nuts, bolts, screws and washers, you might try your local Ace Hardware. I have found them to carry them in sizes that include 2-56, 4-40 and larger. The price is normally lower than what you see in the hobby shop, or even on Tower, and there is no shipping charge. I purchase most of my fastners from them now, when I run low on my large supply. Give them a try.
Oh and they normally have a good display of K&S tubing and sheet metal. Michaels Craft stores also has a Midwest Balsa and Ply display.
Bill, Waco Brother #1
ps. I go over to Graves Hobbies about once a month, and if you want something from there, let me know, and I'll be happy to pick it up for you. Shipping will be actual USPS flat rate.