I really hope your platform and tools work out for you.
Im super interested in how it goes after 3,5 7 , 9 or more seasons and how parts actually work and who fixes them, or at what point do you just throw them away because they cost more to fix than to buy new.
Your stuff looks new and the 2 or 3 things that have been, are pretty lightly used at this point.
I'm watching to see how all the stuff on the market does across all disciplines compares to my Makita product some of which is still productive after 3 decades.
After multiple houses, decks, garages, and other, my stuff shows wear but isnt close to being worn out..
I got my money back out of these things 10X easily.
I've now got more hours on My Makita trimmer than my Stihl FS70 trimmer on a 1.5 acre plot.
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I completely understand your point.
I use my tools heavily. Daily. For automotive repairs, painting and farm chores. I do all my own carpentry, plumbing, electrical, painting etc. I cover my battery powered tools with fitted clear plastic bags when working on engines and grease.
But it's still private use and I'm the only one using them.
I use 2 stroke gas powered lawn tools a good bit too.
I understand cheap chinese tools are just that. So I use them accordingly. Electronics is my hobby. So I understand what destroys battery tools and handle them accordingly. Example...if I'm pulling a motor from a vehicle and using my battery socket driver, if it gets warm I'll grab the other and let the first cool down. I have two of many of the commonly used tools for that reason.
It's also likely your top tier battery tools were also made in China.
Another thing I like about HF tools is that they are pretty good about having replacement parts available. Sometimes you have to order the part and wait so on some tools I'll order the part or parts I feel will need replacing first and have it on hand.
I use the hell out of their orbital 6 inch sander when I'm painting a vehicle. But they're only $24.95 and I'm getting my moneys worth.
Observation....some of their Bauer tools are the same internals as their Hercules Premium brand. I also have some of their Hercules 20v tools. Their 20v tools really aren't bad. The Bauer and Hercules drills are stout.
Internally what separates the top tier from the cheap tools is the plastics used, the metals used and their plating process, motor windings (wire gauge and copper or aluminum for example) and of course, design. Top tier usually are better in all these categories.
But care for the tools and how they are handled can make a big difference too.
That said, spending a lot more does not always equate to getting something worth that difference.
If you're using your tools professionally in a business I would def go top tier.
I'll let you know if and when they fail if it's not just worn out brushes.
Just my 2 cents.
