Hedge Trimmer & String Trimmer Buying Guide
There are several different kinds of string and hedge trimmers to choose from, each with their own unique set of features. Before you buy, ask yourself a few important questions:
How large is my property? |
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| Gas trimmers and hedgers offer great power and mobility, making them ideal for larger trimming jobs. Electric and rechargeable trimmers work better in smaller yards, where portability may not be as important. |
What type of tasks will I be using my trimmer for? |
| If your lawn requires heavy-duty trimming, look to a gas trimmer or hedger to measure up well. Otherwise, an electric or rechargeable model should do the job for a lower initial purchase price. |
Should I look for a trimmer with a straight or curved shaft?
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| Straight shaft trimmers make it easy to reach under fences and bushes, while a curved trimmer makes it easy to trim up close objects and may be more comfortable to use due to its well-balanced design. |
Choosing the Right String Trimmer
String Trimmers & Hedge Trimmers: At a Glance
Type |
String Trimmer |
Hedge Trimmer |
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| Gas |
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| Electric |
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| Rechargeable |
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Trimmer Shanks
When it comes to your trimmer's shank, or shaft, you really only have two options — curved or straight. Straight shank trimmers are longer and make it easier to reach under fences and bushes. The extra length of these models will be better for taller users when reaching beneath bushes and shrubs, and also put more distance between the operator and debris near the cutting area, making them somewhat safer. Curved shank trimmers are easier to handle when trimming objects up close, and may be more comfortable to use over long periods of time due to their curved, more well-balanced design.
Features to Look For:
Features |
Description |
|---|---|
| Bump-feed Line Heads |
Gives quick, easy line advancement without having to turn off the engine or cut power. |
| 4-cycle Engines |
A 4-cycle engine will run quieter than a 2-cycle engine, and requires only gasoline so you don't have to spend time mixing oil and gas. |
| Push Button Start |
A push button start will help you easily power-up your trimmer without the use of a pull-starter. |
| Translucent Fuel Tanks |
Gas trimmers with a translucent fuel tank let you closely monitor fuel levels to make sure you don't run out in the middle of a job. |
| Rotating Head | Trimmer heads that convert 180 degrees allow you to easily edge along borders, sidewalks and driveways. |
Choosing the Right Hedge Trimmer
If you only have one or two hedges in your yard, then a good manual hedge trimmer might do the trick. But if you have intricate landscaping, you'll likely need a gas or electric hedge trimmer to help keep things under control. With a host of options available, you can be sure to find a hedger designed to tackle the toughest jobs.
Features to Look For:
Features |
Description |
|---|---|
| High-Carbon Steel Blades |
High-carbon steel blades last longer and provide more effective cutting, and can be sharpened to prolong life. |
| Lock-on |
If you're working on long and difficult tasks, a lock-on feature can help reduce fatigue by letting you keep cutting without depressing the trigger. |
| Telescopic Shaft and Pivoting Head |
A hedger with a pole extension and pivoting head allows you to trim hard-to-reach areas easily. |
| Extra Battery Packs |
If you purchase a cordless electric hedger, an extra battery pack will extend your hedger's runtime during larger jobs. |
Hedge Trimmer Blades
Take into account the size of hedges you'll be cutting in order to purchase a trimmer with the right length blade. Generally, the longer the blade length the more area it can cover, and the quicker you'll finish the job. Trimmer blades vary in size, with the range generally running from around 13" to 40". However, longer blades may be more difficult to handle with precision. The distance between the teeth, known as the blade gap, will determine the size of the branch the tool can handle. Professional or commercial grade trimmers tend to have a blade gap of 1" or more, but trimmers for residential use will work fine with a gap of 3/8" to 3/4".
Blades can also be single or doubled-sided. Single-sided blades — where only the top blade oscillates — are relatively safer because you can always make sure to trim away from your body. However, double-side blades are more common and will cut in both directions, helping you to work more efficiently.
A Word About Safety |
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As with any power tool, proper operation is the key to safety when using a trimmer. In addition to reading the user's manual, always remember the following safety tips before operating:
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