Tools for deck construction

For our deck, we used a chop saw (non-sliding) and a circular saw. The chop saw is used for the frame, and the circular saw is used for the decking (trim the decking to length *after* you install it - you'll get a nice straight line along the edges that way).  IIRC we also used a router to round over the square edges where it was cut.

FWIW, I'd run (not walk, run) to the Borg and get a magnesium Skil wormdrive

and the highest voltage cordless drill/driver you can find (I've had several

DeWalts, and I've no complaints).  I've no other suggestions at the moment, but

I'm sure others will help you spend the remaining $500 or so.

I would definitely buy the following, in order of importance:

- Sliding dual compound 12" Miter Saw

- 7-1/4 Circular Saw

- 2HP Variable speed Plunge Router

- Straightener bar to help straighten boards while screwing

- Variable 3/8 Cordless Drill

- Drill attachment to apply deck screws w/o you bending

If I had to redo my deck, the one thing I would do differently, is use

those retaining clips which allows one to screw the deck boards from underneath

so there is no visible screws on the deck surface.  

But alas they did not have them then :(

And I can guarantee you'll keep using them after the deck is built!

But that is going to put a good dent in that $800 budget.  If any is

left, then buy SWMBO a dozen roses and enjoy your new deck!

Good Luck

Do i realy need it? Crow Bar,wrecking bar,etc $25

i use black and decker for that

As long as you own the drill, a hammer, a good level (laser is very helpful) and a couple of extra hands, you are set... all but one tool! 

You absolutely have to have a compound mitre saw preferably 12" and sliding so that it delivers in the future.  For fine carpentry, the Hitachi is top of the heap, followed by Makita.  Dewalt does OK for construction grade projects but will fail to deliver tight mitre joints required for furniture grade joints after a few years use.