BLACK+DECKER BV2500 200 MPH at 400 CFM Corded Electric Leaf Blower & Vacuum, 10:1 Mulch Ratio

Worked fantastic for about a minute, then motor started burning up. Seems louder than 65 dB. I returned mine - likely a lemon - will probably get a replacement.

This blower does not have any speed control. Because there is only one speed it can be difficult to use for specific things.

The blower-vac came on time. Rain was coming, so I took it out of the package hoping suck up some leaves to clean out the garden as dark was setting in. First noticed the suction started to drop off, then noticed the motor armature was arcing more than expected. The device jammed with a wood chip; I cleared it and continued to work. The suction kept falling off, the arcing increased, and finally the sparks started shooting out the side of the device and dark smoke was rolling out of the case. I shut it off, repackaged it and took it back. I went to Home Depot after getting my money back and bought a Toro, which works well, although the 10:1 mulching capability is over-stated.

The leaf vacuum attachment works VERY well. It is so strong that it will suction itself to the ground if held too close! Wet leaves can cause some clogging at times but mostly it chews right through them. Dry leaves are NO PROBLEM though. I was able to mulch a massive pile of leaves from our large oak tree in the back yard into two yard bags with no problem. My only complaints are that the bag that comes with the vacuum attachment is a little small and requires frequent emptying (I'm thinking about buying a few spares to cut down on the number of times I have to stop to empty it) and the bag hangs at a slightly awkward angle. The blower attachment is great and is a HUGE time saver, you will never need to rake your leaves again. It has adjustable air flow and is very powerful. I wish it had an adjustable angle attachment though since it is tough to get into tight places or along fences. Overall it is a great product.

My husband absolutely loves this product. He has cleaned the leaves up every day since he got it. The only thing he complains about is the size of the bag, he says it should be bigger.