1million percent false! That rumor is definitely outthere, but the absolute truth is that with DeWALT tools, if it has the same model number, it is made the same regardless of what distributor you find it. Imagine the logistics involved if a company where to try and make a crappy model and a quality model, with no distinguishing features between them. They would never be able to track shipments, warranties, etc. I can't speak to other products sold at big box stores, but DeWALT does not do this. If the guys at the store try to tell you that again, feel free to correct them, and if they argue the point, let me know and I will call them myself!
