Got a new garden magazine yesterday and noted a leaf shredder like my Craftsman Leaf Whacker, looked identical except for color. Sears - $129 (max), $90 on continous sale, in the mag - $189. And they further stated about the quiet motor - MISLEADING!!!! It might be quiet with nothing attached but when operating I would suggest hearing protection. And then they had a canvas bag underneath for collecting the goodies for about $30. I would recommend the hard plastic 16 gallon "bucket" for $6 on sale at your favorite retailer. IN CASE YOU DIDN"T HEAR ME - ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY NINE DOLLARS AMERICAN!

Dirt

Thanks!

I always appreciate info ahead of the game. I have been and still am looking for a good one.

BG

Dirtpit, I know [u]just[/u] the other brand you're talking about. I'm pretty sure its the Flowtron. It's identical to the Craftsman (which I've had for about 6 years now and I LOVE it). Considering I got mine at Sears $99 ....that'd make my savings (over the Flowtron) nearly $90!!! :O

I'd also second the elcheapo rubbermaid or it's equivalent bucket for catching the shredded leaves and add:
-earplugs (a necessity for ANY type shredder/chipper)
-safety goggles
-good, sturdy gloves
-bandana or disposable face mask
-extra string line (get a reel of it at Homey for $8.)
When filling up the hopper of the "Wacker" don't overload it....it may jam and/or overheat and dull the string trimmer too soon. And to aid in picking up an "armful" of leaves to dump into the hopper...I find these little gizmos an essential:

http://www.gardexusa.com/scoops.htm

gardenz

I guess it was dumb luck I got my Flotron from a home store for about $100 including tax. I've also seen them in cataloges for the much higher price. Been using it for about 6yr now and really like it. I sit it on a trash can and with lots of extension cord drag it around to where the leaves are. I do want to look into leaf picker upppers.