The work will take a while, and a paladin's strength would be a handy shortcut. Not that Nick is particularly weak for a non-paladin.

Batteries are furnished and explained. A dozen radios are produced. "If you want any more I'll need two silver apiece for them, the materials are expensive. The radios will operate properly anywhere within 400 miles of the compound, or within 50 miles of each other elsewise. I make no guarantees for greater distances."