Shannan,
If I were you I would not buy from a department store as they are not trained on product. I would suggest that you go to a local lawn mower shop for advise.
Myself I have and use the ECHO brand blower as they are still made in Japan and I get a very good life out of them.
The retail is around the $400 mark but you can get them for about $300 and they have a 5 year warranty.

Regards,

Bruce [Linked Image]

Regards,
[Linked Image]

Bruce


Please do not PM me asking for support. Post on the forums as it helps all members not just the individual.