I have heard that all these different battery brands really come from (primarily) two manufacturers, Exide and Johnson Controls.

You want to avoid Exide-made batteries at all costs.

Can't tell you how to tell who made a particular brand, but I know the Sears DieHard is currently made by Johnson Controls. They once were bribed (yes, really) into giving their contract to Exide - that was a very bad year for Sears batteries.

I always go to Sears for a DieHard. Other brands are good of course - but Sears is convenient and they do back up their product well.

My opinion of course.

Ken300D