You did not mention this blower, but I have had it for over 5 years and would recommend it to anyone. It is Makita BHX 2500. It has a 4 cycle engine, so there is no mixing of oil and gas. It is in the price range that you mentioned.

It is very easy to start, even when setting in the shed through the winter. That first start up of spring is usually done in no more that 3 pulls on the starter rope. In the season of use it usually starts on the first pull.

I had about 0.6 acre when we lived in Indianapolis. I had a about 8 mature Maples and Ash trees, which had plenty of leaves. It did a great job on them.

In Indianapolis and where we live now, it was used to clean the porches, and blow the grass clipping from the tractor when I am done mowing. While I do routine maintenance, like checking the old etc., it is a basically use and forget machine.

Thanks, I really want a backpack model. That looks like a decent blower and price is cheaper but I'll pay for the comfort with as many leaves as I get with about 10-15 75 year old oak/maples over our property. I do really like the idea of 4 cycle, I always end up spending to much time working on any 2 cycle at some point.

if you want to move material, bigger is always better, especially wet. 4 cyc is more handy but with more parts, more to go wrong. adjusting valves has to be done in a specified time period. are there any stihl, redmax dealers in you area.

Its all in the Budget and Serviceability , Two strokes used with Premium fuel and Syn oil will last well over 10 yrs . 4 cycle units are a little heavier , but with routine oli change and valve lash adjustment every 50-100 hrs will out last most 2 stroke units , however cost substantially more . Personally I like Echo , since I have one , along with a new Echo Chain Saw to go along with my Stihl , Husky and Dolmar , oh can,t forget the Pioneers lol !