I started with a cheap cheap sears ( not Craftsman) Ii Worked with it for about 3 years and then went and bought a good 21 in craft man. It was a good saw I used-it for about 15 years and wore out, so I bought a De Walt and it is the best I ever had Paid abut $500, I just bought the second saw it is also a DEwalt 788 I love both. when you buy learn what blades to use and where that will make a big difference of how you feel about your purchases.LOL IKE