Need some advice/opinions on two issues:

My much beloved and much used (at least 15 years old) Makita 9.6volt drill is once again in need of new batteries. There are any number of sites offering replacements for prices ranging from $32 to $56- I'd buy 2. The drill itself is still a great performer, and I really hate the idea of tossing it just because the batteries are kaput. Any thoughts/recommendations will be appreciated.

Tomorrow I will start work on a new benchtop. The base already exists in the form of Birch ply cabinets. It is to be 96" X 30". I have a couple sheets of 3/4" ply that I'd like to use for the top (2 thicknesses), but they're only a grade or two above CXD, and neither has a surface that I'd call suitable for the finished top. I plan to frame out the top to hide the ply edges, so am thinking of making the frame a bit higher to accept a top-insert that could be easily replaced. I know that Masonite is a standard for this, but frankly I HATE MASONITE!!!!! Any alternative suggestions???