Snow Joe 24V 5Ah Cordless Snow Shovel Kit for Car Driveway Winter Snow Removal, Blue

I live in Castle Rock, Colorado. It snows a lot here. Although I have a pretty powerful snow blower, like me, it is getting old and sometimes hard to start and to keep running. On those occasions, I have been relying on my good old snow shovel and personal stamina.At 69 years old this task is not getting any easier; however, it does help me stay in shape and gives me some exercise time burning calories that I monitor on my iWatch program when I feel the need to brag.The other day, I noticed a young man using a battery operated snow shovel that looked pretty neat and struck up a conversation with him. He said he loved the machine, but wish he would have bought an extra battery because he sometimes forgets to charge the battery and ends up pulling out the trusty shovel.I took his advice to heart and bought both this snow shovel and the extra battery in an effort to eliminate the trusty old shovel when the powerhouse snow blower in on the blink. I am glad I did because the battery pooped out before I finished the job on my first use before the second battery arrived and it takes 3.4 hours to recharge the battery.At only 11 pounds and a 7-inch path, this product makes it easy to remove snow from steps, porches, patios, decks and walkways, but it is not a snow blower. It works like a snow blower; however, in deep snow, you have to remove the snow in layers. It will stop if the blades get more than about 7 inches in the blade.It does blow the snow quite a distance and is much faster and easier than a regular shovel. I got a pretty good workout in my arms and shoulders the last time I used it because I had to shave off several layers of deep snow.Reading the safety instructions are a must before using this product. Rocks can become lodged in blades. In those cases, users must be mindful to remove the battery and wait for several seconds before putting fingers or tools to remove whatever is stuck in the blades. This is a powerful product that could easily amputate fingers of careless users.Additionally, the blade is made of durable plastic; however, unlike a steel blade snow blower, the concrete could eventually grind down the blade.Further, this product does not remove ice and does leave a little bit of remnant snow on the driveway and sidewalks that quickly melts in the sun. Unfortunately, I live on the south side (shaded) of the street where it takes longer to melt.Overall, I am very pleased with the utility of this product and it is well worth the price for me.Please use it safely and do yourself a favor and buy a second battery.Enjoy!