String Trimmer | Choose the Right One

A string trimmer, also known as a weed whacker or weed eater, provides the finishing touches to a lawn by cutting tall grass and weeds on steep edges or in areas that a lawn mower cannot reach. String trimmers are used commonly to cut grass, brush, and tall weeds around trees, flower beds, steps, fence lines and driveways.

There are three types of string trimmers- gas, electric, and battery. So how do you know which is the best for you? The best place to start is to identify the type of landscape in which you will use the equipment, said Cody Hartley of Reynolds Farm Equipment.

Here ‘s a quick look at the top 3 types of string timmers:

1. Gas-Powered String Trimmer

Gas-powered string trimmers are the most powerful of the three and are widely used by homeowners, landscapers, and farmers. Gas-powered trimmers are able to cut through high weeds, tall grass, and areas with thick stocks, but are also the heaviest at an average of 12 lbs.

2. Electric-Powered Trimmer

Electric-powered string trimmers are light weight and less expensive than gas, but are limited to the length of cord and distance from the outlet. Electric is a good option for homeowners cutting around trees and edging driveways and walkways.

3. Battery-Powered String Trimmer

A battery-powered trimmer is best for maintaining small grass areas that need to be trimmed and edged. Battery is not a good option for tall grass and weeds due to power and battery life. A battery- powered trimmer is ideal for an environmentally conscious homeowner with a small yard to manage.

I own a STIHL FS 56 RC-E gas-powered string trimmer that I purchased in 2013. It is great for trimming grass around our patio, underneath pine trees and around our hot tub in areas that our mower cannot reach. We use it after every mow and have been pleased with it.

Whether you are a homeowner maintaining a picturesque lawn or a landscaper tackling thick brush, there is a trimmer to meet your needs. It is best to seek the advice of an expert when making a decision on a piece of handheld power equipment. Contact one of our product experts help you select the best string trimmer today.