I need it for lawn edging, some clearing of non-grassed areas and cutting down hundreds of small saplings (metal saw blade attachment?) in order to thin out the undergrowth in the woods immediately surrounding the yard. I've been looking at straight shaft commercial grade models by Stihl that use a real heavy gauge string but I know Shindaiwa and Echo make serious gear as well. Anyone have good - or bad - experiences with any of these, or others? I can only lay down no more than $500 according to The Budget Director. I just don't want to get "X" now and wish I had gotten "Y" later.