New tool recommendations

[part time]

How about a forum for those recommending new tools?
I know that whenever i look to purchase a tool, I go on a trusted friends or pros
thoughts since i can't "road test" the tool for a project and make my own mind
about the plus and minus for this investment.
Seems that my upbringing from dad "just get all Porter Cable or Dewalt" really
doesn't wash anymore since most tools are very close but still some manufacturers
do better at certain types of tools than others. The little touches like better grip or
even switch types.

Thanks for letting me rant!
JT

[Mike]

There are specific tools that are traditionally considered "the best" and I think you can't go wrong with those. Examples are the Bosch 1587 jigsaws, Skil HD77 circular saws, Porter-Cable 690 routers, Delta Unisaws, Dewalt Cordless Drills, and Milwaukee Hole Hawgs. I agree that sometimes competing manufacturers build tools equal to or perhaps even better than these tools. Still, the traditional "best" tools are going to be near the top of the heap, especially when it comes to reliability.

But speaking about specific tools, and this is just my own subjective opinion, I think Makita builds the best miter saw line. You just can't go wrong with an LS1013 or LS1214 sliding saw. To me they feel rock solid, with none of the little rattles or shakes that some of the other brands have. They're a little short on flashy features like movable handles or aerodynamic housings, but I actually like that from a repair perspective because there's less to break when the saw falls off your tailgate. It's just an opinion of course.

[part time]

Mike,

Thanks for the hints. Yes, just the kinda stuff I was hoping that the pros like yourself
would have opinions about, especially the reliability and repair aspects many good things
to consider.
I'm in the market for a new cordless drill and angle grinder myself so I'll check out the
DeWalt line for these.

Much Thanks,
JT