I agree. I bought a Dewalt cordless saw once, and the thing was terrible. So underpowered, and the battery life was a joke. When I bought it I didn't really give it a proper testing till after the return period was over. Then it was too late. The thing is still in the garage in the original case, maybe used 3 times. I won't use it for anything.
I've pretty much used Makita for cordless tools for years. They've worked pretty well. The last nicads I used the clutch went out on two of them, but since I've been using the lithium ion for the past 2-3 years I haven't had any problems. I've seen others using the Ridgid cordless tools and I just didn't like them. Not balanced very well and too heavy. The only Ridgid tools I own are a framing nailer and a shop vac. I did have a Ridgid finish nailer, but took it back because it sucked. I used the crap out of it for a month too.
I don't really consider the Ridgid tools or Ryobi when I buy tools. I stick with Bosch, Makita, or Milwaukee depending on the tool. I occasionally buy Dewalt only because my wife works for Black and Decker and I get them at a discount.
The thing about HD is you've got to save the receipts. Make sure you test it and if anything is bothering you about a tool, take it back within 90 days. If the tool comes with a warranty that you need to register for, do it before it's too late.
I started with Makita and was very pleased. When it was time for a new set I thought Dewalt would work since Lowes has shelves of them. BIG mistake and after I resold the Dewalt junk and bought new Makita stuff I learned a lesson. And by the way I still use the original Makita stuff in the shop.
:thumbup: Sometimes Makita will replace batteries if they were short lived. Also you can buy new ones cheaper on ebay. :thumbsup: