| The XRP battery is pretty much the standard nowdays- almost every Dewalt tool comes with them. They are an improvement over their old batteries, which you don't see much of anymore.
They have a 1 yr warranty, if that tells you anything. I've used those tools for probably the last 12 years or more, and I've gone through two pair of batteries. So 5 years is probably the average lifetime, I would estimate. IMO, you will get more life out of them if you use them frequently, as opposed to something you use once a month. They will also last longer if you can keep them out of the heat (not inside a hot car) don't charge them in direct sunlight (you don't get a good charge if you do that) and also keep them out of the freezing cold as much as possible in the winter.
Not sure which model of 18V circular saw you are looking at, but there are several. Don't waste your time with the 5 1/2", go for the 6 1/2". And one has more of a curve to the handle, with a heavier base plate. That's the one to get if you are choosing Dewalt.
I have a reciprocating saw too, and like it for occasional sawing. If there is a lot of cutting to do, I get out my corded reciprocating saw. No sense wearing batteries down. The same goes for the skilsaw, really.  |