Well... I spent $20 on a RadioShack pocket DMM, works fine, and had one battery
change. Also use a Vellman DMM--same thing, cheap, wouldn't trust too much,
but you know, it does the job. I, like everyone else, am surprised that you'd
be having so many problems with Fluke meters. I mean... can I have one? :P
If you're looking for something to just USE and get a quick test for
diagnostics or something... yeah, go to a RadioShack or other electronics
store, and don't expect to spend more than $10-20. I know both of mine are
under $20 apiece. Just remember, you get what you pay for.... they may not be
the most accurate things you can get.