Originally Posted by Stretch

Whatever you buy don't spend too much money on it! Those batteries are crap - that's where the value is - and the cost of replacement often outstrips the cost of a new machine...

...if the machine lasts more than 3 years you are doing well. For most people - gone are the days when you had to save up for your power tools and they would then last you 20 years; they are cheaper but they don't last as long. Even the really good stuff is getting shoddy (in my opinion).