Hi Kirk, The batteries (2x 1.5v Pencil AA) last for ages in the Icom IC-R5, the other scanner for bty long life (and I've nearly had them all) was the Yeasu VR-500. The other good thing about Pencil batteries is that you can get them anywhere so you should'nt get cought out!
They low battery indicator system in the R5 is also very good!
Hope this helps, Steve
PS: have a look on eBay as there are some good bargains to be had! you should not be paying over £160 for the R5!