The only response Ive seen from Festool on this subject is that there is a low number of failures to the amount of units sold , so I guess my derogatory remark comes from the fact that if only 1/2 the units sold are daily or professionally used work tools , that failure rate is much higher , assuming the tool is actually intended for professional use . (No disrespect intended to the casual users ,who didn't know what was in the green cool-aid) . I have personally only ever seen one other professional tradesman with a Festool product in my life , its a shame really .
The same week it left me stranded out of town ( No there are no flashing red lights before it blows , and yes we all know what gauge extensions to use , cutting 1/2" mdf with a very sharp blade ) , I was just trying to persuade a young guy working with me why he should pony up the $4000 for a full Kapex set up (ct26 stand tax and all) rather than $650 for the Bosch , "save your lungs , improved efficiency" , even if only a few seconds per cut, it adds up in a 50hr week . In retrospect thats probably 20% of his after tax annual wage ,( pocket change to his divorce lawyer who wants to build a bird house or whatever ). Tough sell now . Hats off to the hobbyists its so cheap .. really ?
Personally the dust collection , lasers , compactness ,and out-feed supports are still worth it to me ,that ,and that the German workers who build them probably get more than $5 per week , I just feel the premium price should have some better durability.
Why there is not better protection circuitry is a very good question ...?