Before this, I used my dad's 12A Crapsman saw.  This one puts it to shame.  It's lightweight for its power, well balanced and solid as can be.  The kit is nice.  The hard plastic case holds 2 extra blades, the saw and the  wrench.  I like the arbor lock and blade wrench that are included, and the  Makita thin-kerf rip blade that's included is second to none.  My first  impulse was that the Milwaukee equivalent is probably more durable, but  probably not worth the money for someone who's not going to use it daily.  Also, if you've ever watched Norm Abram, this is his saw.  He uses it for  framing, general carpentry and even in his woodworking shop.  This is  probably the best saw for the money.  I do feel the slightest bit guilty  for not buying American (DeWalt, Milwaukee) though.