Craftsmen power tools ARE NOT gaurenteed for life...last time I checked. Only hand tools and some of those are even excluded.
I ~used~ to be a big fan of craftsmen tools until they put a few US companies out of business outsourcing alot of their production to the far east.
Home Depot carries a brand of power tools called RIGID. Pretty good stuff from what I've seen. Solid construction, and excellent warranties and follow-up of service. What I REALLY like is that RIGID is a former US craftsmen power tool producer which the HOME Depot resurrected after SEARS went asian.
From my experience Milwaukee and Porter Cable make the best power tools available. They last forever and are repairable. Most of that cheap ass, light duty, home owners grade crap by ryobi (7 tools plus a plastic dolly for 250.00 bucks???) or black and decker (hedge hog, firestorm...??? come on now)...is just that: light duty, home owners grade crap. Throw away stuff.
You definately get what you pay for.
Black and Decker IS Dewalt btw...more commercial in color, and often more heavy duty (especially the price), but usually just another b&d tool all dressed up for that contractor look.
Most independant dealers...i.e. real local hard ware stores, will match giant super store prices if you ask. Plus you get the knowledge and advice of a pro.
Now if you your budget permits and you must have absolutely positively the best. Check to see if Hilti makes what you need.
BTW...Wait a while before you think about getting a router. Plunge or fixed base. It's a pretty complicated tool with lots and lots of potential. Work on your basic carpentry skills first...circular saw, hammer or screw gun and sanding block.
enjoy,
-bear
Oh and Bob Villa is a sell out, washed up do goodnick with a bad flannel shirt collection, and ironed in creases down the front of his 'work jeans.' ;-)
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