...old question i know, but i'm lookin' to get the usual tools (circular, jig, reciprocating, drill, etc) and wondered if anyone had any insight or preference or any bad experiences that might help me decide...any help would be appreciated...thnx

watch out for the 10 inch milwakee circular saw
i have one i'm trying to resell as i customized it but it is not built well enough for my timberframing.
you should consider makita as well.
the 7 inch makita circular saw is a good saw for reasonable dollars and the makita chain mortiser is a good machine.
-M.