I need a new leaf blower, vacuum and mulcher. I would prefer a gas as apposed to a electric. The thing I am really looking for is one that will pick up pine cones and mulch them as they are falling off the trees all spring summer and fall (mostly spring). Is there any machine that is capable of doing this within a normal budget .

I was faced with a similar problem. I have lots of Oak leaves and some very large leaves to pick up. I was advised to get a lawn vacuum, but I purchased an Echo handheld blower/vac. I used it for about 2 years and kept blowing them up. Echo offered to replace it with a less powerful model or refund my money. Turns out that the leaves pulverize and the resulting dust is able to clog the cooling fins, such that the engine overheats and the piston gets stuck.

I purchased a Stihl (SH 85)? And haven't regretted it, although it could be designed better in certain areas.

Pine needles are going to be tough. Pine cones even tougher. You are probably in lawn vac territory, but you'll need a separate leaf blower.

Here, Stihl is highly recommended.

DR® Power Equipment - DR® Leaf and Lawn Vacuum informational video (http://www.drleafvac.com) has some walk behind models that specifically mention that it will do pine cones and needles. Pricey.