If your yard is large or hilly, a self propelled mower may be for you. Choose a self propelled that is right for your lawn by picking the proper horse power, deck size, and features such as speed control. Although push mowers have become increasingly easy to operate, a large or slopped yard could require an excessive workout. Most of the trimmer mower reviews listed below are for gas-powered tools. Battery-powered weed eaters are ideal for small to medium-sized yards, but definitely not for large yards, as they're limited by the energy capacity of their batteries. String Trimmer superstore. Huge selection of Weed Wackers. Buy Weed Trimmer Direct and save. Maximum Slope 20° Cut Width 24' Cut Height 3 3/4' Weight 269 lbs. Length 82.5' Height 43' Deck Width 27.5'.
When you have a lot of ground to cover regularly, it's smart to upgrade to one of the best commercial weed eaters. What's the difference between a professional string trimmer and one made for homeowners? The pro weed whackers are built to withstand long hours of use and much more abuse than a homeowner model.
Companies that make commercial line trimmers are moving to four-stroke engines because of EPA requirements regarding pollution. This is advantageous for home users because four-stroke engines don't require you to mix gas and oil. They are also quieter.
If you're new to shopping for weed eaters, there are three things to remember. The first is to consider the weight and balance. If there is a way you can experience how the trimmer feels in your hands before you purchase it, that's very helpful for ensuring that you'll be comfortable using it.
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Second, you'll need to choose between straight shaft or curved. If you trim underneath bushes or along fences, a straight shaft is convenient. But if you need to navigate a lot of structures like flowerbeds, you might appreciate a curved shaft. (Plus, remember that some weed whackers are made for right-hand control only.)
Third, for your long-term health, consider how much the trimmer vibrates. Strong vibrations over time can damage the nerves in your hands and arms. Opt for one with low vibration and plenty of padding if you'll be trimming frequently.
Contents
- 1 Top Commercial Weed Eaters
Top Commercial Weed Eaters
Now let's look at reviews of top commercial weed eaters. We hope to help you discover the perfect one for the job you need to do.
Husqvarna 324L Straight Shaft String Trimmer
Husqvarna's 324L straight shaft string trimmer features a four-stroke 25cc gas engine. That's 1.07 hp with a top speed of 7000 RPM.
Unlike a two-stroke engine, you'll never have to mix fuel and oil for it. Also important, it's made to start on the first pull. It has a Smart Start motor plus an air purge for the carburetor. But you'll still want to wear hearing protection.
The 17-inch base helps you cover a lot of ground quickly. And the loop handle allows you to hold it however is most comfortable for you. That's essential when it weighs 11 ¼ pounds and measures 58.4 inches long.
Husqvarna also provides information about the vibration. The front handle was tested to have 9.1 m/s2 and the rear handle 8.2 m/s2. Double-check that against OSHA regulations for your job.
Husqvarna 967175201 322L Straight Shaft Gas String Trimmer
The Husqvarna 322L is slightly less powerful than the 324L weed eater above. It has a 23cc X-Torq engine with easy start technology and low emissions. Fans of this model like how easy it is to refill and use Tap ‘N Go trimmer line. Moreover, the controls are so straightforward that anyone with limited experience can pick it up and go. The heavy-duty gearbox ensures that it will stand up to years of use.
Tanaka Commercial-Grade Straight Shaft Trimmer TBC-340PF
Tanaka's commercial-grade trimmer doubles as a brush cutter because it's compatible with attachments. The 32cc two-stroke engine offers 1.6 hp, enough to slice through the toughest weeds and young saplings. It's noisy, but it's a PureFire with CARB-compliant Tier 2 low emissions. Also, it starts quickly because of the Walbro carburetor with primer.
Overall, this weed eater weighs 13.2 pounds. Part of that heft is due to the 59-inch solid steel shaft that comes with a lifetime warranty.
Echo GT-225 Curved Shaft Gas Trimmer
Echo's GT-225 had a glowing review from Popular Mechanics that highlighted two benefits. The first is that the 48-inch curved shaft balances the weight well. And the second is that the two-stroke 21.2cc engine starts quickly and has the power.
We also noticed the two-line Rapid Loader head. But if you're not a fan, try the EZ Feed attachment instead. And lefties beware: this trimmer has the throttle mounted for the right hand.
Hitachi CG23ECPSL String Trimmer
If you're tall, take a look at Hitachi's CG23ECPSL weed whacker. It has a 69.6-inch length so that you can stop bending over to get the work done. The 22.5cc PureFire two-stroke engine keeps emissions down. Furthermore, users say it always starts by the second pull when it's cold, or the first when it's warm.
Other vital features include an anti-vibration system and a solid steel drive shaft. You can also make it easier on yourself by purchasing premixed fuel/oil.
Tanaka TCG27EBSP 2-Cycle Gas String Commercial Grade Trimmer
Our other pick from Tanaka's lineup weighs only 11.2 pounds. But it still has a solid steel drive shaft with vibration-reducing technology and padded handle. It's powered by a commercial-grade 26.9cc two-cycle engine. The engine is CARB-compliant and has a Walbro carburetor with purge primer .
You won't need tools to change the attachment since it has a built-in spindle lock. And every part is built for durability. For example, even the fuel tank has a protective housing. Tanaka offers a two-year commercial or 7-year consumer warranty. Should you purchase it to loan as a rental, they offer one year's coverage.
Toro 2-Cycle 25.4cc Gas Commercial Straight Shaft String Trimmer
Would you like to save a little money? Then try a refurbished model. Toro's 25.4cc engine is commercial-grade for long life and quick starts. The string trimmer has a 60-inch straight shaft and a bump-feed head.
Blue Max 52623 Extreme Duty 2-Cycle Dual Line Trimmer and Brush Cutter
Blue Max's Extreme Duty trimmer and cutter is powered by a two-stroke 42.7cc Blue Max engine that runs on a 40:1 fuel to oil ratio. It weighs 17 pounds and has a straight shaft with anti-vibration handles. Users say that the three-prong brush cutter blade slices through 2-inch saplings with no problem even though the manufacturer states that the maximum is only one-inch thickness.
Southland Outdoor Power Equipment SWFT15022 150cc Field Trimmer
Save yourself from an aching back and arms with this professional weed eater. It's a field trimmer that you push similar to a lawnmower. You don't have to balance and sweep a string trimmer to edge your driveway with this tool.
Notice that it has a150cc engine that can tackle overgrown spots in a flash. The 22-inch cutting swath and 12-inch wheels help you cover a lot of rough ground quickly.
The folding handle is coated with anti-vibration foam. Additionally, the trimmer comes with a two-year limited warranty and it's both CARB and EPA-certified.
Poulan Pro PR22WT Walk Behind String Trimmer
Poulan Pro also makes a back-saving line trimmer that you walk behind. The 190cc Briggs & Stratton 675 EXI engine and 22-inch cutting width slices through rough terrain with weeds and brush. The 12-inch diameter wheels make sure you don't get slowed down by ruts and rocks. Best of all, you can throttle down to tackle difficult spots.
Remington 25A-26J7783 22″ Hi-Wheel Trimmer
Remington's walk-behind line trimmer makes a lot of customers happy. That's because it's trouble-free for non-professionals to use. It has a 22-inch cutting width and uses standard 0.155 trimmer line. You can adjust it to three different cutting heights to keep everything neatly manicured. And users appreciate that it doesn't throw debris at them the same way a conventional weed eater does.
It has a 159cc four-stroke OHV engine with plenty of power to slice weeds and tall grass. The off-set trimmer head makes it simple to reach awkward places. Finally, it's covered by a two-year limited warranty.
Swisher STP4422HO Self-Propelled String Trimmer
The only thing lacking in Swisher's self-propelled string trimmer is a robot brain to operate it unattended. It has a 4.4 hp 160cc Honda engine that moves it forward at 2 mph. The 22-inch cutting width resembles a lawnmower's work since it provides precision cuts with eight effective cutting lines. You can also adjust the height between 1.5 to 3.5 inches.
Since the trimmer head is off-set, it allows you to reach into nooks and crannies. And you can turn the trimmer head on or off from the handlebar. This allows you to drive it without cutting anything.
Husqvarna 128LD Straight Shaft Gas String Trimmer
Yes, we know this is not a commercial-grade weed whacker. But there are pros who love to use it. That's because Husqvarna's 128LD string trimmer is compatible with attachments. This fact alone gives this one tool the ability to replace six others. You can match it with Husqvarna's (or Poulan Pro's) brush cutter, pole saw, hedge trimmer, tree pruner, sweeper, and tiller accessories.
It's powered by a 28cc two-stroke engine and has a 17-inch cutting width. It uses 0.095 trimmer line and has a straight shaft. Husqvarna's Smart Start technology ensures that one pool has it ready to go. Finally, it weighs only 10.8 pounds.
Tips for effective weed trimming
Chances are, you're an old pro at weed whacking. If not, try these tips to make the job go easier.
To get rid of weeds growing in the cracks of the pavement, tilt your string trimmer so that the tip of the string is just brushing the pavement. Then move into the base of the weed to cut it flush. This takes a little practice as tilting too much or too little won't get the job done right.
Next, you can achieve a perfect edge between the grass and the sidewalk. Turn your trimmer till the string is vertical. Pass it along the edge. If you've never neatened up the grass in that spot before, you'll probably dig up debris. But after you do this for a few weeks, you'll train it to stay tidy.
To wrap up, there's one spot in your yard that you need to avoid. Never use a string trimmer right up against a tree. That's because the string will cut into the bark and expose the tree to disease and pests. Instead, save yourself from future problems by laying down mulch around the base of the tree. Then you can edge around the mulch and never touch the tree.
Conclusion
Which commercial line trimmer did you choose? We'd love to know which tool we helped you find. That's because we're always on the lookout for the best home and garden products.
A wheeled string trimmer is one of the most underrated yard tools out there.
Most homeowners, and even many professional landscapers don't even know that wheeled, walk behind string trimmers exist. Yet, it's a tool that can save a lot of time and back ache.
As the name implies, wheeled string trimmers are basically a weed eater on wheels that make edging your lawn, trimming around obstacles, and cutting high grass incredibly easy. Are you one of those people that have a ton of edge on your lawn? A wheeled weed eater is a must have!
Based on my experience of 20 years in the landscaping industry and extensive research, I've put together a list of the best walk behind string trimmers on the market in 2019.
Quick Summary: The 5 Best Wheeled String Trimmers of 2019
This is the trimmer that I own and use personally.
The Remington High Wheel Trimmer has a strong engine that you can use for a prolonged period without it losing any strength. This trimmer features a forged steel crankshaft, cast-iron cylinder, and forged steel ball bearings for added durability.
The handle folds, letting you store the trimmer easily. The handle is also comfortable to hold onto when you are trimming brush and greenery.
The wide 22-inch cutting path takes care of big jobs in no time at all. This trimmer uses heavy-duty line so that you can take on rigorous jobs without having to constantly be replacing line.
This trimmer has a guard so that you are not hit with debris when you are using the tool. The high wheels allow you to maneuver rough terrain without having to exert a lot of effort.
All in all, there aren't many bad things about this trimmer, which is why I look forward to using it every weekend.
- Engine: 4-cycle OHV, 159 cc engine
- Trimmer line: 0.155-inch trimmer line
- Cutting path: 22 inches
Pros
- The large wheels power through rough terrain easily
- You can use it for very tall weeds, even those that exceed five feet tall
- This trimmer is easy to handle
- It is very fuel efficient for its power
Cons
- The bolts and nuts need tightening every year, but that's pretty typical. I added lock washers to mine to fix that.
The Husqvarna High Wheel Trimmer is ideal for rough terrain due to its 12-inch tires. You can also adjust the cutting height from 1.6 to three inches to accommodate taller greenery and brush.
This trimmer uses a push drive system. This makes it easy to start and operate. The heavy-duty string that you use with this trimmer makes it possible to tackle multiple types of terrain at once.
This trimmer features throttle control for more efficiency when you are using it. Kaspersky internet security lifetime license key. You can also adjust the height of the handle.
All in all, if you need to cut big brush regularly, go with the Husqvarna High Wheel trimmer.
- Engine: Briggs and Stratton 163 cc engine
- Trimmer line: 0.155-inch trimmer line
- Cutting path: 22 inches
Pros
- The engine is strong and durable
- You can use it on plants and greenery that exceeds three feet tall
- The string is easy to replace
The Southland Outdoor Field Trimmer uses manual recoil to start the engine. It also has easy start fuel delivery so that it starts are soon as you pull the rope properly.
The 12-inch rear wheels let you use this trimmer on rough terrain. You can easily maneuver this trimmer without it sticking on uneven ground.
On the handle, there is foam to reduce the vibration when you are using the trimmer. The handle also folds down so that it is easier to put away when you are not using it.
- Engine: 5.75 foot-pounds, 150 cc engine
- Trimmer line: It uses 0.155-inch trimmer line
- Cutting path: The cutting path is 22 inches
Pros
- The instructions are very clear
- You can use this trimmer for major jobs
- It is powerful enough to get through woody stems
- Changing the string is easy
Cons
- It may lose efficiency when weeds are several feet tall
- Very tall weeds may jam in the string
The Cub Cadet String Trimmer has a 22-inch cutting path so that you can tackle big jobs in a relatively short period. You can adjust the cutting height to match the environment that you are working in. The adjustments range from 1.75 inches up to four inches. This feature allows for added flexibility when you are cutting terrain that requires different cutting heights.
This engine provides enough power for just about any job. The auto choke system allows you to start the engine quickly without needing to do any priming first.
On the deck of the trimmer is a debris shield to protect you when you are pulling it. The design of the deck also allows you to get right up to buildings or fences.
- Engine: OHV 150 cc engine
- Trimmer line: It uses 0.155-inch trimmer line
- Cutting path: The cutting path is 22 inches
Pros
- This machine works hard and can plow through thick greenery and brush
- You can use it on slopes with ease
- This trimmer is easy to push even on rough terrain
Weed Eater 22 Lawn Mower
The Ariens Company Walk Behind Trimmer has an auto choke feature. This prevents the need to prime it before you start the engine. For added durability, there are cast-iron cylinder liners on the engine. Office 2003 download with product key.
This trimmer uses four strings to cut when you are pushing it. You can adjust the cutting height to better suit the environment that you are working in. The adjustments range from 1.25 to 4.25 inches.
The handles folds, making this trimmer easier to store when you are not using it. The tires are 14 inches, and they are the run flat type. This allows you to work on bad terrain without having to stop to replace punctured tires.
- Engine: 4-cycle OHV, 173 cc engine
- Trimmer line: It uses 0.155-inch trimmer line
- Cutting path: The cutting path is 22 inches
Pros
- It has a choke feature
- The engine is strong
- It uses heavy-duty string
Cons
- It is sometimes hard to push, but that's the price you pay with all this power
Wheeled String Trimmer Buyer's Guide
Need more than trimmer reviews? No problem! Here are some of the common terms to know as they pertain to these string-trimmer-mower machines, and what you should think about when purchasing a walk behind trimmer.Cutting Swath
The cutting swatch refers to the diameter that the walk-behind trimmer will cut. Think of it the same as a push mower (after all, a walk behind trimmer is basically a string mower). Most walk-behind eaters have a cutting swath of 22 inches, which is significantly larger than your average hand held trimmer. However, there are some wheeled trimmers with a 17 inch cutting swatch. The cutting line on a walk behind trimmer reaches across the bottom of the tool so that it can remove brush and greenery in a large area at one time. Think of how theWeed Eater Lawn Mower Blade
blade on a lawnmower works to get an idea about how the string works on this type of trimmer.The Wheels
Walk behinds usually have large tires to make it easy to push through thick greenery and rough terrain. On average, the wheels range from 12 to 16 inches in diameter. This size range makes it easier for you to maneuver on surfaces that are uneven.The rougher the terrain, the bigger the tires you want to have on your trimmer. This will ensure that you can pull it through with less effort.The wheels on these tools are usually a never-flat type or a hardened plastic. No need to worry about rocks or other sharp debris puncturing your tires.Engine Options
These trimmers come with a 2-cycle engine or a 4-cycle engine, usually the latter (and I almost always prefer four-stroke engines on weed eaters).A 4-cycle engine is always going to be more efficient, cleaner, and less noisy than a 2-cycle engine. As is the case with any gas-powered tool, make sure you perform proper maintenance and store the tool properly. Do not forget to change the oil every 30 uses or so.Less common on these types of tool is the 2 stroke engine, which is lighter in weight, but they are usually louder and use more fuel compared to a 4-cycle engine. Since these have wheels, weight is less of a concern than power and reliability, so go with a 4 stroke.Starting the Trimmer
AWeed Eater We18xp Self-propelled Lawn Mower
recoil starter is the most common type of starter on this type of tool. You will pull the rope to start the engine. When you pull the rope, it forces the engine to turn over so that it will start running. This is similar to the pull-starts that you see on lawnmowers. There are a few that have an electric start, but generally speaking that isn't worth it.Replacing the Line
The owner's manual for your trimmer will have the specifications you need to look for when you are buying replacement string for your trimmer. It is imperative that you follow these specifications to ensure that the string fits and that it provides optimal efficiency when you are using the trimmer.Here's a great video showing how to replace string trimmer line.
Since the trimmer head is off-set, it allows you to reach into nooks and crannies. And you can turn the trimmer head on or off from the handlebar. This allows you to drive it without cutting anything.
Husqvarna 128LD Straight Shaft Gas String Trimmer
Yes, we know this is not a commercial-grade weed whacker. But there are pros who love to use it. That's because Husqvarna's 128LD string trimmer is compatible with attachments. This fact alone gives this one tool the ability to replace six others. You can match it with Husqvarna's (or Poulan Pro's) brush cutter, pole saw, hedge trimmer, tree pruner, sweeper, and tiller accessories.
It's powered by a 28cc two-stroke engine and has a 17-inch cutting width. It uses 0.095 trimmer line and has a straight shaft. Husqvarna's Smart Start technology ensures that one pool has it ready to go. Finally, it weighs only 10.8 pounds.
Tips for effective weed trimming
Chances are, you're an old pro at weed whacking. If not, try these tips to make the job go easier.
To get rid of weeds growing in the cracks of the pavement, tilt your string trimmer so that the tip of the string is just brushing the pavement. Then move into the base of the weed to cut it flush. This takes a little practice as tilting too much or too little won't get the job done right.
Next, you can achieve a perfect edge between the grass and the sidewalk. Turn your trimmer till the string is vertical. Pass it along the edge. If you've never neatened up the grass in that spot before, you'll probably dig up debris. But after you do this for a few weeks, you'll train it to stay tidy.
To wrap up, there's one spot in your yard that you need to avoid. Never use a string trimmer right up against a tree. That's because the string will cut into the bark and expose the tree to disease and pests. Instead, save yourself from future problems by laying down mulch around the base of the tree. Then you can edge around the mulch and never touch the tree.
Conclusion
Which commercial line trimmer did you choose? We'd love to know which tool we helped you find. That's because we're always on the lookout for the best home and garden products.
A wheeled string trimmer is one of the most underrated yard tools out there.
Most homeowners, and even many professional landscapers don't even know that wheeled, walk behind string trimmers exist. Yet, it's a tool that can save a lot of time and back ache.
As the name implies, wheeled string trimmers are basically a weed eater on wheels that make edging your lawn, trimming around obstacles, and cutting high grass incredibly easy. Are you one of those people that have a ton of edge on your lawn? A wheeled weed eater is a must have!
Based on my experience of 20 years in the landscaping industry and extensive research, I've put together a list of the best walk behind string trimmers on the market in 2019.
Quick Summary: The 5 Best Wheeled String Trimmers of 2019
This is the trimmer that I own and use personally.
The Remington High Wheel Trimmer has a strong engine that you can use for a prolonged period without it losing any strength. This trimmer features a forged steel crankshaft, cast-iron cylinder, and forged steel ball bearings for added durability.
The handle folds, letting you store the trimmer easily. The handle is also comfortable to hold onto when you are trimming brush and greenery.
The wide 22-inch cutting path takes care of big jobs in no time at all. This trimmer uses heavy-duty line so that you can take on rigorous jobs without having to constantly be replacing line.
This trimmer has a guard so that you are not hit with debris when you are using the tool. The high wheels allow you to maneuver rough terrain without having to exert a lot of effort.
All in all, there aren't many bad things about this trimmer, which is why I look forward to using it every weekend.
- Engine: 4-cycle OHV, 159 cc engine
- Trimmer line: 0.155-inch trimmer line
- Cutting path: 22 inches
Pros
- The large wheels power through rough terrain easily
- You can use it for very tall weeds, even those that exceed five feet tall
- This trimmer is easy to handle
- It is very fuel efficient for its power
Cons
- The bolts and nuts need tightening every year, but that's pretty typical. I added lock washers to mine to fix that.
The Husqvarna High Wheel Trimmer is ideal for rough terrain due to its 12-inch tires. You can also adjust the cutting height from 1.6 to three inches to accommodate taller greenery and brush.
This trimmer uses a push drive system. This makes it easy to start and operate. The heavy-duty string that you use with this trimmer makes it possible to tackle multiple types of terrain at once.
This trimmer features throttle control for more efficiency when you are using it. Kaspersky internet security lifetime license key. You can also adjust the height of the handle.
All in all, if you need to cut big brush regularly, go with the Husqvarna High Wheel trimmer.
- Engine: Briggs and Stratton 163 cc engine
- Trimmer line: 0.155-inch trimmer line
- Cutting path: 22 inches
Pros
- The engine is strong and durable
- You can use it on plants and greenery that exceeds three feet tall
- The string is easy to replace
The Southland Outdoor Field Trimmer uses manual recoil to start the engine. It also has easy start fuel delivery so that it starts are soon as you pull the rope properly.
The 12-inch rear wheels let you use this trimmer on rough terrain. You can easily maneuver this trimmer without it sticking on uneven ground.
On the handle, there is foam to reduce the vibration when you are using the trimmer. The handle also folds down so that it is easier to put away when you are not using it.
- Engine: 5.75 foot-pounds, 150 cc engine
- Trimmer line: It uses 0.155-inch trimmer line
- Cutting path: The cutting path is 22 inches
Pros
- The instructions are very clear
- You can use this trimmer for major jobs
- It is powerful enough to get through woody stems
- Changing the string is easy
Cons
- It may lose efficiency when weeds are several feet tall
- Very tall weeds may jam in the string
The Cub Cadet String Trimmer has a 22-inch cutting path so that you can tackle big jobs in a relatively short period. You can adjust the cutting height to match the environment that you are working in. The adjustments range from 1.75 inches up to four inches. This feature allows for added flexibility when you are cutting terrain that requires different cutting heights.
This engine provides enough power for just about any job. The auto choke system allows you to start the engine quickly without needing to do any priming first.
On the deck of the trimmer is a debris shield to protect you when you are pulling it. The design of the deck also allows you to get right up to buildings or fences.
- Engine: OHV 150 cc engine
- Trimmer line: It uses 0.155-inch trimmer line
- Cutting path: The cutting path is 22 inches
Pros
- This machine works hard and can plow through thick greenery and brush
- You can use it on slopes with ease
- This trimmer is easy to push even on rough terrain
Weed Eater 22 Lawn Mower
The Ariens Company Walk Behind Trimmer has an auto choke feature. This prevents the need to prime it before you start the engine. For added durability, there are cast-iron cylinder liners on the engine. Office 2003 download with product key.
This trimmer uses four strings to cut when you are pushing it. You can adjust the cutting height to better suit the environment that you are working in. The adjustments range from 1.25 to 4.25 inches.
The handles folds, making this trimmer easier to store when you are not using it. The tires are 14 inches, and they are the run flat type. This allows you to work on bad terrain without having to stop to replace punctured tires.
- Engine: 4-cycle OHV, 173 cc engine
- Trimmer line: It uses 0.155-inch trimmer line
- Cutting path: The cutting path is 22 inches
Pros
- It has a choke feature
- The engine is strong
- It uses heavy-duty string
Cons
- It is sometimes hard to push, but that's the price you pay with all this power
Wheeled String Trimmer Buyer's Guide
Need more than trimmer reviews? No problem! Here are some of the common terms to know as they pertain to these string-trimmer-mower machines, and what you should think about when purchasing a walk behind trimmer.Cutting Swath
The cutting swatch refers to the diameter that the walk-behind trimmer will cut. Think of it the same as a push mower (after all, a walk behind trimmer is basically a string mower). Most walk-behind eaters have a cutting swath of 22 inches, which is significantly larger than your average hand held trimmer. However, there are some wheeled trimmers with a 17 inch cutting swatch. The cutting line on a walk behind trimmer reaches across the bottom of the tool so that it can remove brush and greenery in a large area at one time. Think of how theWeed Eater Lawn Mower Blade
blade on a lawnmower works to get an idea about how the string works on this type of trimmer.The Wheels
Walk behinds usually have large tires to make it easy to push through thick greenery and rough terrain. On average, the wheels range from 12 to 16 inches in diameter. This size range makes it easier for you to maneuver on surfaces that are uneven.The rougher the terrain, the bigger the tires you want to have on your trimmer. This will ensure that you can pull it through with less effort.The wheels on these tools are usually a never-flat type or a hardened plastic. No need to worry about rocks or other sharp debris puncturing your tires.Engine Options
These trimmers come with a 2-cycle engine or a 4-cycle engine, usually the latter (and I almost always prefer four-stroke engines on weed eaters).A 4-cycle engine is always going to be more efficient, cleaner, and less noisy than a 2-cycle engine. As is the case with any gas-powered tool, make sure you perform proper maintenance and store the tool properly. Do not forget to change the oil every 30 uses or so.Less common on these types of tool is the 2 stroke engine, which is lighter in weight, but they are usually louder and use more fuel compared to a 4-cycle engine. Since these have wheels, weight is less of a concern than power and reliability, so go with a 4 stroke.Starting the Trimmer
AWeed Eater We18xp Self-propelled Lawn Mower
recoil starter is the most common type of starter on this type of tool. You will pull the rope to start the engine. When you pull the rope, it forces the engine to turn over so that it will start running. This is similar to the pull-starts that you see on lawnmowers. There are a few that have an electric start, but generally speaking that isn't worth it.Replacing the Line
The owner's manual for your trimmer will have the specifications you need to look for when you are buying replacement string for your trimmer. It is imperative that you follow these specifications to ensure that the string fits and that it provides optimal efficiency when you are using the trimmer.Here's a great video showing how to replace string trimmer line.You can choose different lengths, diameters, and shapes for the string that you use. The best type depends on the rigor of the job. For example, if you are performing a tough job, you want to have a thicker string.For more info, see our top picks for string trimmer line.
Walk Behind Trimmer vs Hand Held String Trimmers
Do you need a walk-behind or a hand held? Well, for a lawn nut like me, the answer is simple: both. But for most people, a hand-held trimmer is a necessity, whereas a walk-behind is a luxury. Hand Held TrimmersA hand-held trimmer is going to have far more maneuverability and versatility. You can rotate the trimmer head all three dimensions, which is handy if you have nooks and crannies or uneven terrain that you need to cut. Hand held strimmers can also double as an edger (though a pole edger is always preferred). Typically the cutting width is going to be smaller, and because you need to carry them, hand-held trimmers are going to be harder to use no matter how ergonomic they are. Additionally, some hand-held gas string trimmers have attachments that can turn it into a blower, vacuum, or pole saw.Walk-behind TrimmersA walk-behind trimmer cuts horizontally and is on wheels. Because they are mounted on ball bearing wheels, they have more powerful motors and larger cutting swath. The enhanced power makes them ideal for tackling tall grass, thick brush, and tough weeds. Using one is sort of like mowing the lawn with a push mower.Weed Eater Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
Walk behind string trimmers are best for highly predictable edges that you have to do every weekend such as trimming around the house or fence lines. For example, I live on a corner lot with a sidewalk and have a lot of house to trim around, and my walk behind takes me maybe 20 minutes max, whereas a hand held would take north of an hour.Conclusion
Weed Eater Self Propelled Lawn Mowers
Though it's not an essential yard tool like a push mower or hand-held trimmer, a walk behind string trimmer can help you tackle overgrowth and make cutting routine, even areas much less painful. I hope that you buy a string trimmer and love it as much as I do. Have questions? Let me know in the comments below and I'd be happy to help out!