You all made good points. I honesty don't know what is cost effective hence posting this. ;-) It's funny reading the replies because before the brushless models, weren't the brushed model really good tools? I know now there are bigger and better things but as somoene stated the brushed models were no slugs. I was just wondering whether the brushed models with 3 tools were a good deal because before brushless, getting 3 tools sounded like a good deal. For the poster that asked about what the 3rd tool would be, it's essentially your choice, another 12v non brushless tool (right angle drill, battery, radio, light, etc. etc.) Another question, 12v vs 18v, it seems like everyone says to go with 18v, 12v not enough. I'm not a contractor or anything but I rather purchase something outright so I'm covered for years to come...without breaking the bank.