Trimmer recommendation? Stihl? Echo? something else....

[Tangoddess]

Hi,

How is everyone enjoying the summer? Today I finally got tired of my trimmer, it was one I got from a Sears stor, 30cc, 4 cycle, uses gas, Craftsman brand I think.

It is barely used, but has given me a lot of issues. The fan broke, and I think the pull string got loose etc.

The problem is that it is really hard to start, and takes a lot of yanking.

I am thinking of getting a better/easier to turn on unit, which has a better warranty.

We have pretty thick native weeds and a large plot of land, so quality, and durability is important. We need it to cut around the edges and in narrow spaces where the mowers do not fit.

Which brand/model do you recommend? Echo? Stihl?

And what is a good sweet spot in terms of size, capacity, the Craftsman is 30cc...but I noticed that is on the higher end of the Echo trimmers?

Easy to start and not an earthquake on the body when operating is important

Thank you

 

[ArlyA]

We've had reasonably good luck with Echo's. We suggest getting whatever brand your best dealer sells of those two.

 

[TractorGuy]

I have owned and used a Homelite ST275 since 1988. Have replaced the primer bulb and fuel lines a few times and the line head once. It's very similar to the one they still show at Home Depot. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Homelite-2-Cycle-26-cc-Straight-Shaft-Gas-Trimmer-UT33650A/203681792

For heavy stuff I have a Craftsman push string trimmer with a 6 HP Briggs. I made an adapter to bolt a saw blade to that and can mow down small saplings with it. Looks like it is no longer available but there are many similar models. Welcome to Sears.com - Sears

 

[Industrial Toys]

Owned several Stihl, all garbage. Pull your guts out! Then, throw out your back as you try and hurl the piece of junk as far as possible!

Have a Toro that I got at the RESTORE, for next to nothing, had to put a reel on it. Starts and runs great after maybe ten years!

But I love my 18 Volt Oregon. Quiet, start and stop as you please.

 

[bcp]

Most if the landscaper trailers I see have Echo.

Bruce

 

[laurencen]

my gas one was getting a pain pulling and then stalling when i hit the gas, for the heck i picked up a Milwaukee trimmer, runs off the M18 volt platform, came with charger and 12Amp battery, dealer said if i was not happy return it

well it impressed the heck out of me, it takes the standard .090 wire and in high power beats my gas one hands down

decent battery life and quiet, give it a try or check the videos out

 

[deserteagle71]

Nothing beats a Honda!

After fighting 2-stroke trimmers for years I had enough and bought a Honda 4 stroke string trimmer 20+ years ago. Light, strong, and like any Honda engine, absolutely dependable. Never had to do anything to it in the years I've owned it but pour in some gas and change the oil once a year. Come late October I'll put it up in its rack and next spring I'll pour some fresh gas in it; two pulls on the cord and it will fire up and runs smoothly.

It was more expensive than the 2-stroke trimmers but now I know it was well worth it!

 

[4570Man]

Shindiawa is the best I’ve had. 4 stroke trimmers are heavy.

 

[Morning Wood]

Get a Stihl Kombi head. I’ve had a stihl trimmer since 06 and haven’t done a thing to it but put in gas. It’s runs great.

 

[corl]

I have had 2 husqvarna trimmers. Both good. Ran over the first one with the tractor after 10 year of hard service when it bounced out of the FEL. Starts on the 3rd pull every time with the choke. 2 stroke is lighter if you work it all day. No maintenance required just replace the string when needed. Trimming is not my favorite job but I don't shy away from it because of the trimmer.