Most of the current crop seem fairly reliable across the major makes. Try picking some up to compare their balance for your hands and stature. I found some of the triggers/switches are awful when I have borrowed other people's machines.
I have lots of Makita here because they are good to use and reliable. All my mini grinders (6 or 7no.) are Makita most are 110volt. 9volt (2no.) and 18v Makita Cordless combo drills have just gone on and on. I have the pre-lithium versions and have just had some batteries rebuilt because I reckoned the machines were so well balanced and comfortable to use.
The only Dewalt tool I have bought was a 110volt planer and I could never true up the sole plate enough to get it to plane flat...awful thing. Put me off.
I do have a few big old Bosch tools 9" grinder, 8" sander, jig saw and pneumatic hammer drills but they are big..well made and robust but big....the Makita tools seem slightly less chunky and come to my hand more readily than the Bosch.
Google is your friend to search for best offers...make sure you search on the same model code...Parkertools, Axminster powertools, Screwfix, Machine mart, Lawson HIS ltd....
I have a very good local welding supplies dealer ESC in Gloucester who I have been dealing with all my working life. I would often research the best price and then give them a ring and if they could match or get close to the price, buy from them, which meant I had a local backup...win win for both of us.
Alan
