BT-3100 Down Under

[TP1]

I have been reading (on this forum) about how the BT-3100 is no longer available, other than the Sears 21829.

You may be aware that the BT-3100 is certainly alive and well in Australia and New Zealand and is selling very strongly, despite the very high price ($899 or around USD 700 ), although this is for the complete system with all the bells and whistles. See:

http://www.ryobi.com.au/Products/Pow...ng-System.aspx

When it was sold in the USA I understand the price was around $300. Well, I am amazed at that, even after taking into account the greater economies of scale and competitive environment in the USA. In fact I would think that one of the reasons it was pulled from the market was that it was simply not profitable enough for Ryobi, due to the very low price.

In Australia, Ryobi has done an exclusive deal with a national retail chain (Bunnings) which enables them to maintain the high pricing - just like they have done with Sears.

Still, I think its good value, all things considered. The thing I would change if it was possible, would be the universal motor for an induction type. I guess we can't have everything!

[LCHIEN]

you might be interested in my FAQ. It does note that a Aussie version is currently available.

The induction motor has some advantages, no brushes and a more or less continuous duty rating usually - also quieter.
The FAQ notes some advantages of the universal motor - that give the saw some of its "moxy" the smaller size and weight were used to advantage in the size and weight of the saw, and in the depth of cut. As a "hobbiest" saw instead of a production saw, maybe the limited duty cycle is of little concern. And it allows some flexibility in line frequency.

Curious, how much are replacement BT3 motors in Australia? THis might be a source of 220V BT3x motors people are always looking for.

In the US Ryobi has an exclusive with Home Depot, a large chain hardware store. Many think that relationship killed the BT3100, HD had it for many years and probably sold hundreds of thousands at $300 - The thinking is that HD just got tired of carrying them maybe to a saturation point and felt they wanted some other products.

[TP1]

I'll check the pricing and report back.