Jim Elbrecht wrote:

I don't want to spend more than about $70 bucks. Should I just get
another 3/8 variable speed or is a crew gun a real plus?

A drill really doesn't have the torque for deck screws.

The last project I did that involved a lot of screwing I used an
air-gun, but it was pretty heavy. Next time I do a lot of screwing I'll
buy an air-screwdriver from Harbor Freight.