Brush/Weed Trimmers?

Buster57 · Jun 4, 2002

I used the TBN forum to get all the information I needed to purchase my CUT so I thought I would ask everyone’s advice on grass trimmers?

I burnt up a John Deere 030S and have just about killed the Echo 24 so I am looking at purchasing a heavy duty commercial grade trimmer for overgrown vetch, grass, and what ever is around Doug firs, blackberry bushes and pear trees.

Shindaiwa T2500, Honda UMK431UNBA, and Stihl PW28921-002 are the finalists.

I am leaning towards the Sthil.

Anyone have experience they can share about the three I have chosen? What ever model I get it will have a tough life!

Thank you!

mswanson · Jun 5, 2002

I had a Stihl FS-81 which ran great for years. then I got a DR Trimmer. It works so much better because now I have a 6.5 hp engine powering the cord. It makes a world of difference in how fast you can cut weeds. They also make a blade with teeth like a chain saw which can cut brush. Its great not to have to carry a heavy trimmer.

rdln · Jun 5, 2002

I see the shindaiwa t2500 is a whole different animal from my t270.

So I cant comment.

but I would strongly recommend the t270 and it seems to be the choice of maintenance people at Lawnsite.com

smthng2do · Jun 5, 2002

I would personnaly consider a lerger model Echo. I think Echo is making the best 2-cycle equipment today. Their CARB requirements are years ahead of the competition, and their reliability gets stringer with every change. I would consider a 300 series echo, possibly with bike bars for comfort. I have been unhappy with Stihl for a while now. They are having harder times with their machines, and are having other compnies make their engines now just to stay within EPA regualtions, and make CARB standards.

Hillbilly · Jun 6, 2002

Stihl is what I have in chainsaws and brushcutters.No complaints here.

Solo · Jun 6, 2002

Two Stihls love them both.
Solo

rmorgan · Jun 6, 2002

We use a <A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.stihlusa.com/brushcutters/FS-85.html>Stihl FS85</A> brushcutter with bicycle handlebars and a vest that holds the weight of the trimmer, and are well-pleased with it. We usually use the nylon blades instead of the monofilament, although I'm planning to switch back for most uses because the blades cut a narrower swath. The DR trimmers and knockoffs are great for relatively level use and a stick trimmer can't compare for even cutting over a larger area, but the DRs aren't self-propelled--you've got to be able to roll up to what you want and then get the machine back out. The Stihl harness lets me walk down the pond bank, etc. without too much imbalace in order to trim up to the water.

IndianaPaul · Jun 6, 2002

I've used a Stihl FS200 (now FS250) with the shoulder harness for about 18 months now. Does everything I need it to as most of my trimming is uneven ground where something like DR Trimmer would be tough to get in/out. Also use a Stihl blower vac as well. Love them both, no problems with either in hot or cold weather. Had an Echo trimmer for years (13+) and never had trouble with it either.

IndianaPaul

Hillbilly · Jun 6, 2002

I failed to mention I have the O26 chainsaw and the FS 88 brushcutter (with bicycle handlebars)One thing that impresses me is for the years I have had the FS-88 and my Stihl Saws they been so easy to start for me,regardless.There are a lot of good brands out there but Stihl is what I have almost always owned.

paccorti · Jun 6, 2002

Buster,

I have the Honda UMK431UNBA. I'm moderately happy but not completely.

1. It always starts easily.
2. The bicycle handle bar is great
3. The cutting head seems to jam with long grass if I'm not too careful. For example, wander into a patch of 3' high grass and go for it. Before long it will be wrapped around the cutting head. Maybe others do this too...
4. The brush cutting blade dulls easily; why don't they make carbide tips for these things? Does anyone else... echo, stihl?

Peter