I sell Die grinders as part of my business. The newer models of the GEO600 made in Brazil are just as good as the old Japanese ones. In fact I'd buy a newer Brazil model before I bought a USED Japanese model. I imagine they stopped making them as a CYA. It is/was very easy to harm yourself with the older model that required you to reach the off switch at the rear in case of a problem. The newer model is IMO a better model especially for beginners. A bit more bulky than the nice "big Dremel" shape of the older one but MUCH safer! The newer GDO600 with the paddle 'Deadman' switch is a fine tool and could save you, or your tree, from injury. Also, the newer GDO601 has a slide switch towards the front.
MORE THAN THE MAKITA I like the DeWalt DW887 or DW887N. Both have the deadman switch and the "N" model it cannot be locked on. I sell a lot of DW887. They have a nice grippy rubber snout that is narrower than the Makita. They also have a collet that can be used with 1/4" or 1/8" ( But I don't recommend using 1/8" shank bits with a die grinder. They can bend or snap off easily and would be a problem when removing them from your forehead :>)
The DeWalts are a bit more than Makitas but I think worth it. BTW, I have the old model Makita that my wife bought me about 30 years ago! Still works great! BUT if it ever craps out I'll replace it with one of my stock DEWALT DW887.
Now, If you are rich and don't mind a bigger model, the variable speed GDO800C Makita is a good buy for various tools. Or you can buy a router speed adjust peddle or dial plug in to variy your regular model speed. They are nice for sanding flap wheels and wire wheels.
One last WARNING: DO NOT EVER buy one of the cheap Chinese Makita look-alike knockoffs at a flea market or cheap tool place. You are wasting the $20-$30 they cost. They have crap motors that sound like they have square bearings and 20% won't work out of the box. But mostly, they have 6mm collets not 1/4" collets as models made for, and sold in the USA by Makita or DeWalt ( or any of the other good ones). I did a lot of research on these over the years as I used to know a vendor who sold them for $20. MANY 1/4" bits you see for sale will not fit in them and DO NOT try filing your collet to make them work ( or the shaft on the tool). Many look JUST LIKE the Makita so if you can't tell, well, the price will tell you.
Always wear AT LEAST eye protection.
NEVER talk to anyone while grinding.
NEVER allow anyone to talk to you while grinding.
If they insist, stop the machine until the conversation is over.
http://bonsainut.com/forums/showthread.php?993-Power-Wood-Carving-Tools
LOL
I really need help. 
I think I have 3 different sizes on that profile alone...and more than 1 on each. 
