speaking about tools: this seems like a great deal, Ridgid 5-Tool Combo from $500 down to $300

[bazookaman]

That set definitely does not suck. I had to buy the vacuum separately. And the saw does have a brake. In my experience, homeowner skill varies. You can give this set to any shmoe and they will make the same mistakes they would with a top of the line Festool kit. Or you could give it to a pro and they could easily do the same precise and exacting work they could with a much higher dollar set. It's a tool. The user is what determines it's maximum potential.

[datbeme]

You guys are killing me with these threads. Some very attractive kits, but I'm terrified about buying into the wrong ecosystem. I pretty much have it narrowed down to Milwaukee M12, Milwaukee M18, DeWalt, Rigid and Ryobi. Thanks everyone. miley-gen081:

My needs are pretty modest, but the more I read, the more I think of the what ifs. Seems like it would be hard to go wrong with this M12 combo for $199, but it depends on what other tools I might want to add. I know I want a multitool at least.

[Pat]

As for Bernie's comments, be a good neighbor and take the tools away from yours.
Your average homeowner would be better off with some lightweight DeWalt or Makita set.
These tools are HEAVY. They have metal gears, metal nose cones, all metal Chuck on the hammer drill. My old set has built planters, but as a commercial/industrial HVAC/sheet metal installer the set has also built hospitals, supermarkets, office buildings, etc. The circular saw has saw almost zero use. The few times I need to cut wood on a job I pull out a cord and use the worm drive.

I've used the following systems: Makita 7.2, 9.6, 14.4 x2, 18v x2, DeWalt 18v, Ridgid 18v x2.

The Ridgid system has been the most durable, best batteries.
The 18v Makita was the lightest, comfortable to use all day.
If I were to start all over for my trade, I'd invest in the Hilti line of cordless tools.