Line an 8x8 pan with tinfoil, leaving some extra on both sides so you can use them like handles to pull the bars out later.

In a food processor, grind the nuts and 3/4 cup oats until they are in fine crumbs. Add the dates and process until you have what looks like coarse wet sand. Add the peanut butter and blend some more. I've found you cannot overblend these - the tinier the crumbs, the better your bars will hold together. Add the water, about 1/2 a tablespoon at a time until the mixture is just slightly damp (I usually use all 3 T).

With a spatula stir in the chocolate chips and the remaining oats until evenly distributed.

Pour the mixture into your pan and press them firmly and evenly into all corners. Pack it in as tightly as possible. Oh, really? You think that was as tightly as you can pack it? No, do a little more. I promise you won't regret it.

Refrigerate for at least an hour. Remove foil and bars from pan and slice into bars or squares. Store in the fridge or freezer.