Petrol trimmers (brushcutters): rating of the best models and tips for choosing

Mowing by hand is hopelessly outdated. Motorized counterparts are replacing the conventional scythe. But the choice of the same petrol cutter raises a number of problems and difficulties. It's time to dig deeper into this topic and determine which device is best.

A popular online encyclopedia says that a trimmer is a type of lawn mower that is driven exclusively by an electric motor. However, familiarity with the catalogs of online stores and manufacturers shows that the phrase "petrol trimmer" is still quite real. We are talking about devices that have another name - benzokos. Like many other inventions, this thing, according to the same Wikipedia, appeared largely by accident. It was created by J. Bollas, a resident of the American city of Houston, who was impressed by the spinning brushes.

By analogy, the idea appeared to use this principle already for mowing grass. The first version of the gasoline scythe, which appeared in 1971, was still very primitive. Its component parts turned out to be an old tin can, a fishing line and an electric drill. Of course, such a product was only suitable for the very first experiment, and later it was significantly improved. The first commercially viable version, called the Weed Eater, was able to mow grass without harming trees and shrubs.

Gas streamers are designed not so much to replace large lawn mowers as to help where large equipment cannot cope, where it is not maneuverable enough. Thanks to the petrol cutter, it is more comfortable to harvest the grass:

• near shrubs or trees;

• by the pillars;

• along fences and other artificial, natural barriers;

• on uneven areas.

The petrol trimmer is very popular. This device, in comparison with battery and electric network counterparts, is much easier to maintain and use. The fact is that they are arranged very simply, any person who graduated from high school can understand the scheme. The gasoline engine is capable of running for up to 24 hours in a row. It is very reliable and practically does not heat up, it allows you to perfectly perform the assigned tasks in any acceptable conditions.

The petrol trimmer is more powerful and more efficient than the electric trimmer. These characteristics allow you to mow lawns even in the most inaccessible places, and very efficiently. Moving the device from one place to another is not difficult. It is not tied to an outlet, which is very convenient. But we must remember about certain disadvantages of such trimmers.

They make a lot of noise and vibrate violently. It is unlikely that a lot of people will like it. In addition, a gasoline engine invariably pollutes the environment and is a source of toxic and foul-smelling smoke. ICE trimmers are more expensive than electric trimmers because manufacturers want to justify their investment in powerful, efficient equipment. The difference between specific models is due to a set of knives, attachments, and other components included in the kit.

But you can safely buy a petrol cutter, even if the power supply on the site is extremely unstable or completely absent. For tidying up a relatively large area, they are better suited to electrical counterparts.A car with an internal combustion engine will make it easier to work in wet weather and in very wet areas. The gasoline scythe poses an increased fire hazard.

Having dealt with gasoline and electrified brushcutters, you still need to figure out the difference between a brushcutter and a trimmer. In everyday speech, these words are often used synonymously - but there are still certain engineering differences. A trimmer, even the best one, can only cut grass and short bushes. These devices can do their job in hard-to-reach places where larger equipment cannot be deployed. Motorized braids will handle:

• dense tall grass;

• shrubs;

• small trees.

A motocross will help to put things in order even on a fairly large area. However, it is not capable of leveling the grass to the state of an English lawn. But it can mow 6-8 hours a day without any problems. If trimmers are equipped mainly with cord line, then brushcutters can cut the grass with circular knives. The difference also applies to the appearance of the handles: they are closed on the trimmers, and on the petrol cutter they are made in the same type as on a bicycle.

Of course, brushcutters are more powerful than trimmers, because otherwise they would not be able to work as efficiently. Typically, the working capacity of the motor at the scythe reaches 46-48 cubic meters. cm. Given the significant amount of exhaust gases, petrol cutters should not be used in closed greenhouses, conservatories and other premises. Trimmers generate less toxic gases, so they can be used in such places.

It is very important for many people that the trimmer is lighter than brushcutters. In the process of daily work in the garden, vegetable garden, in the local area and in the meadow, a lot of energy is already spent. Moving a heavy petrol cutter is not convenient for everyone; women and adolescents face particular problems. On the other hand, brushcutters may have more attachments that allow you to perform a variety of operations. The final choice between the two options must be made, taking into account:

• the size of the cultivated area;

• the frequency of cleaning from the grass;

• the type of plant to be harvested (soft or hard vegetation).

Petrol trimmers are available in a wide range of modifications. But their general scheme is always the same. The motor unit is usually located at the top. In addition to it, a fuel tank and a manual starter are provided. To transmit the impulse to the working tool, a barbell or belt is used.

A flexible or rigid shaft is hidden in the rod. Some booms are made from separate sections and can be disassembled into pieces. Differences between individual designs often relate to the shape of the handle containing the controls. A special cable runs from them to the drive. The lower part of the trimmer is equipped with a gearbox, which is responsible for transferring energy from the shaft to the spindle.

The cutting tool itself is already attached to the spindle. Depending on the choice of the designers, it can be represented by a reel with a fishing line or a special knife. To ensure safe use, the cutting attachment is covered with a shield from above. Engines are supplemented with switches that allow you to adjust the position of the air damper. Thanks to the switch, you can easily start the trimmer even at low temperatures.

It is also necessary to pay attention to how the typical handle is arranged. In the most convenient and clearly visible place, a button is placed that closes the ignition circuit or breaks it. The carburetor flaps are manipulated with the throttle trigger. All modern petrol trimmers are equipped with safety buttons that prevent accidental starting of the device.

Cutting parts are mostly included in the scope of delivery or purchased separately.A typical petrol trimmer includes a bobbin (i.e., a spool) that winds the cord. Quality bobbins help to adjust the cord length in a semi-automatic mode. The blocking is released by lightly hitting the stopper on the ground. The centrifugal force allows the line from the rotating spool to come out, and a special knife in the protective cover cuts off the excess part of the line.

Most often, a line with a thickness of 0.2-0.3 cm is used. This is enough to cut off grass and thin bushes. However, you should always find out more detailed information in the instructions. To mow sedge, developed shrubs, you will have to equip the trimmer with steel knives and cutters. These additional parts differ in geometrical shape and the number of cutting petals.

Some cutters are more like circular saws. Such accessories are more often used on powerful equipment. Trimmers with discs are needed if you need to trim young trees.

When the device is assembled, you can start it immediately. First, the engine is started with a starter. When the crankshaft starts to turn, under the influence of an impulse through the clutch, the gearbox is set in motion. Following it, the spindle spins. This spindle rotates very quickly, and therefore the cutting parts can remove grass, bushes; pressing the throttle button allows you to adjust the spindle speed.

Professional trimmer will help to improve the territory of an apartment building, industrial facility, garden and lawns around a large private house. Serious equipment is large in size and equipped with powerful motors. The semi-professional braid class is designed to put things in order in a large country house or in a garden. These devices usually have a medium power level. Household appliances are compact and not as powerful; thanks to the removal of the hose in a number of models, it is possible to simplify transportation by car, on the bus.

Household class device should not be used too intensively. Breaks are made after every 20-25 minutes of work. This disadvantage will not be fundamental with a rare mowing of the lawn or the front lawn. Professional versions of trimmers are equipped with anti-vibration components. But they also need breaks, albeit every 30 minutes of operation.

A close examination of the range of petrol cutters and trimmers shows that even inexpensive models can perform very well. Proven technology and engineering schools help make decent equipment, regardless of price group. Both world giants and little-known companies from Asian countries are engaged in the release of shearing machines. But, of course, the products of large factories deserve more trust.

Even those versions that are similar in cost and appearance can show themselves in work in very different ways. Noteworthy model Champion T433-2... As stated in a number of reviews, the quality of this trimmer is far ahead of its price and more than justifies every ruble invested. Comfortable and lightweight device helps to mow both lawns and shrubs. Consumers can complete it with cords with a 0.3 cm line or a knife with a diameter of 0.255 m.

Other parameters are as follows:

• cutting strip - 0.4 m;

• engine power - 1.7 liters. with.;

• gas tank capacity - 0.95 liters;

• standard version;

• engine placement - top.

Champion T433-2 is reliable and weighs no more than 8.3 kg. Due to the disassembly of the boom, transportation in transport is greatly simplified. Fuel is consumed economically. However, there are also disadvantages: very loud noise and insufficient equipment. Sometimes there are complaints about the design of the casing.

A pleasant alternative would be Patriot T 545 Pro... This device is characterized by good quality and reliability.The one-piece transmission shaft of the rigid type works as stable as possible. The power reserve is ample and the bike handle can be easily adjusted. If you put a steel disc instead of a fishing line, you can cope with:

• dry wood;

• weeds;

• shrubs;

• small trees.

The design is well balanced with a vibration-damping clutch. The device is very hardy for tidying up a large area. It works stably. The noise is low, as well as vibration, the package bundle is sufficient for everyday needs.

Top garden trimmers include a model Sturm BT8926D.

It is a versatile device designed to:

• take care of the lawn;

• mowing grass along roads;

• tidy up parks and squares.

The design is designed to work with both line and disc cutter. The productivity is sufficient to mow the middle section in one step. When installing the knife, you can remove wormwood, burdocks and other large weeds. The controls are designed in such a way that the arms are minimally loaded. The cutting strip is 0.42 m, and the fuel supply to the motor with a volume of 25.4 cubic meters. see is carried out from a tank with a capacity of 0.7 liters.

The model of the Korean brand also deserves attention. Daewoo Power Products DA BC 520... This is one of the most powerful modifications of inexpensive trimmers. The device has proven its effectiveness on large, uneven areas many times. The boom is not disassembled and works very reliably. The trimmer can handle bushes and trees up to 0.1 m in diameter; ordinary lawn grass for him is not an obstacle at all.

However, one must understand that this model is poorly protected from vibration. In addition, the build quality is not always up to par.

Continuing the review, it is appropriate to move on to models with an optimal ratio of cost and quality. For the most part, these are semi-professional devices capable of working both at home and (for a short time) in a professional mode. A striking example is Hans Konner HBT8952D.

The trimmer of this model is equipped with a two-stroke motor. The manufacturer guarantees the mowing of a strip with a width of 0.415 m. The semi-automatic reel is equipped with a line with a diameter of 0.25 cm.

From Japanese samples it is worth taking a closer look at Maruyama BC233H... The line allows you to mow the grass in strips of 0.41 m wide, and the knife - 0.25 m each. The T-shaped straight handle is very convenient. The petrol cutter must be filled with a mixture of gasoline and oil. The basic set includes a disc and shoulder strap.

Another Japanese version - Echo SRM-2305SI... Thanks to the reliable two-stroke motor, the trimmer can cut grass in strips of 0.4 m (when using a line) or 0.25 m (after replacing it with a disc). The manufacturer declares that SRM-2305SI makes a noise of 92 decibels. The motor must be started strictly manually.

The German trimmer also deserves attention. Solo by AL-KO 116 B... Important: only the main enterprise is registered in Germany, and production facilities are located in the PRC. Two-stroke engine with a volume of 25.4 cubic meters. see develops an effort of 1.02 liters. with., net weight is 5.6 kg.

An attractive choice can be Huter GGT-2500S 70/2/13... The device is equipped with a 3.3 liter two-stroke engine. with. The U-shaped bicycle handle is quite comfortable. Net weight is 9.7 kg. Since a partially transparent fuel tank is provided, monitoring the fuel consumption is not difficult.

The next item on the list will be Oleo-Mac Sparta 25... The device is designed for mowing grass with small areas of small bushes. The power is low - only 1 liter. with. Thanks to a 0.75 liter fuel tank and an excellent anti-vibration system, ease and convenience in operation are provided. The equipment is very reliable; judging by the reviews, it does not fail even after 5 years of use.

A good choice, according to professionals, would be Stihl FS 55... This device is perfect for both household and personal gardening. The designers provided an excellent stable launch. Electronic ignition works very reliably.

The advantages of the design are:

• low vibration;

• ease;

• maneuverability;

• fuel economy.

Shows very good results and Makita EBH253U... This device is equipped with a rather rare four-stroke engine. The working volume is 25 cm³. Consumers note the excellent assembly and excellent connection of parts. No significant shortcomings were found.

As for professional gasoline trimmers, they are reliable and trouble-free devices. Regular maintenance is the only condition for long-term operation. A striking example of such a technique is Stihl FS 250... A scythe with a two-handed handle can serve forestry. Of course, she will cope with reeds, and felted grass, and nettles.

If you put a knife on, the system will cut down young trees and gnarled bushes. The model is easy and guaranteed to start. A special compensator helps to eliminate excessive saturation of the mixture, ensuring the same power at all times. Ignition is produced by an electronic system. Fuel pumping will be done manually.

The shoulder strap is soft and distributes the load in an optimal way. Vibrations are completely excluded. However, the economy is not typical for this model. And since the bar cannot be disassembled, it is difficult to transport the product.

In the professional class, another trimmer attracts attention - Husqvarna 143R-II... As with other serious models, excellent build and reliability are characteristic. It has been repeatedly noted that the effectiveness of the anti-vibration system is close to 100%. Replacing the line and reel is easy. The manufacturer guarantees long-term continuous operation. However, the brushcutter of this model is quite heavy.

Another professional modification - Oleo-Mac Sparta 38... The trimmer is equipped with a high torque motor. Since the shaft is made of aluminum and the piston is divided into a pair of segments, reliable operation is guaranteed even in intensive operation. The flywheel is designed for efficient cooling of moving parts.

Power and mass are completely consistent with each other. The assembly is perfect. The device is quite unpretentious and works for a long time. There are no complaints about serious breakdowns.

When choosing a gasoline trimmer, you must first pay attention to the type of engine: with the 2nd or 4th stroke. A push-pull device is cheaper but also more difficult to maintain. Normal operation can only be guaranteed when refueling with a mixture of AI-92 gasoline and a special "two-stroke" oil. It is enough "just" to break the proportion when making up the mixture for problems to appear. Models with four-stroke engines are much more expensive, but they are easier to use - you just need to fill in fuel and oil in separate containers.

Next, it is important to decide whether to purchase a powerful or light trimmer. Devices developing up to 1 liter. with., are suitable mainly for domestic purposes. Power 1-3 hp with. allows you to perform more serious tasks, including mowing grass in a large dacha. If the power is more than 3 liters. with., it will be possible to mow the most harmful weeds, small bushes and even a thin tree. But with a power of 0.175 to 0.55 kW, it will only be possible to cut the lawn grass.

If the working part is made of fishing line, then it is cheaper and less dangerous for users. However, the knife will last longer, and it is more productive.As for the width of the swath covered by the hand-held mower, everything is very simple - the overall performance directly depends on it. However, for mowing grass near walls, near trees, bushes, fences, posts, it is advisable to choose units with a narrowed working part.

You also need to pay attention to the mass of a particular product. Lightweight simple brushcutters have a net weight of at least 1.6 kg. More advanced and functional devices can weigh 6 kg or more. A reasonable balance must be struck: the trimmer should be easy to move, but very frequent refills (with a small tank capacity) are also inconvenient. Strong adult men can choose the device for their height.

As mentioned above, you shouldn't pay much attention to the price. There are good and bad models in all price ranges. Therefore, when determining the cost, you can be guided by one personal budget.

A very important quality for a trimmer is the type of handle. Apparatuses with a T-shaped handle are advised to choose for processing a large area. The D-shaped grip is designed for two-handed grip. This solution is more complex, but provides increased maneuverability. For models with two-stroke engines, vibration protection is critical. The presence of a shoulder strap provides a tight fit on the body and reduces stress on the spine and joints.

Just buying a petrol cutter is not enough. Before mowing grass on the lawn, you must carefully read the instruction manual. However, such instructions are more or less of the same type, so you should first familiarize yourself with the universal requirements. Before starting work, you need to wear:

• glasses;

• gloves;

• protective cuffs for the legs.

Experienced people work in rubber boots and tight trousers. We must not forget about special headphones, especially when using a push-pull device. After mowing, it is imperative to collect all grass and foreign objects adhering to the internal parts of the device. If left there, the trimmer may not start next time.

A two-stroke device must be filled with an oil-gasoline mixture, a four-stroke one - with gasoline without impurities. Important: before mowing the grass, let the system run for 2-3 minutes in idle mode. If possible, the area should be cleared of stumps, boulders, wire and other foreign objects in advance. Lubrication, of course, is used only the one that is recommended according to the instructions.

Usually they work with a trimmer in the same way as with the old "Lithuanian" scythe: lead from right to left 1-2 times, smoothly moving forward by 0.15-0.3 m. This technique allows you to leave all the grass on the left side of the treated strip. Movement speed and grip are selected individually each time. This is because the tip of the line cuts better than the main part.

Moving too fast will overload the motor and entangle the head with grass. On a large flat area with soft vegetation, you should mow along conditional squares, into which the entire territory is mentally divided. When everything is mowed along the perimeter of the first square, they go in a spiral, clockwise, until the site is cleared. With this method of processing, the accumulation of grass is guaranteed to the left of the place where the work was carried out. Important: if you need to mow greens at the root, the cutting tool is held at an angle of 30 degrees, while the tip of the line is as close to the ground as possible, but does not touch it closely.

It is advisable to mow tall grass thickets in both directions. First, the tops are removed from left to right.In the second pass, the trimmer is lowered and the rest of the grass is cut back. It is advisable to cut through very tall weeds in several cycles.

The trimmer can also be used to remove trees; a line is better for this than a disc. It is recommended that you first mow all the grass around the tree or bush. Air filters are cleaned by brushcutters every 10 hours.

You also need to know how to clean the radiator on a specific trimmer model. Before winter storage, all the fuel that is possible is drained and the remains are burned out until the engine stops completely.

To work with the trimmer, it is advisable to use a backpack-type strap. This useful accessory allows you to mow the grass for 2-3 hours in a row without any discomfort. The brushcutter, thanks to a well-thought-out fastening, will hold itself - it will not need to be supported by hands. It will only be necessary to give the mower an unambiguous direction. Shoulders with soft cloth overlays are very useful.

At the very beginning of work, the belt should be adjusted so that the trimmer is at the required height. A very high anchorage limits the grip of the grass, a very low anchorage starts touching the ground.

You also need to know how to solve technical problems. Sometimes the trimmers start to lose power. Then, even with a slight increase in the load, the revolutions are sharply reduced, and the clearing efficiency also decreases. In such cases, it is necessary to consistently check and troubleshoot:

• air filter;

• fuel filter;

• drain hole of the gas tank;

• ignition;

• carburetor;

• cooler;

• outlet channel;

• muffler.

Of the accessories, the drill is very useful. It is more reliable, more powerful and lasts longer than the most advanced electric drills. As for the travel wheel attachment, it is usually used in conjunction with a blower. With the help of a lopper, you can cut off twigs and even small branches at a height of up to 4.5 m. If you plan to trim bushes figuratively or form a hedge, "garden shears" will come in handy.

Additionally, you can use:

• lawn aerators;

• cultivators;

• poles;

• reducers;

• water pumps.

Not everyone is limited to the choice of the models mentioned earlier. Very good marks are given to the petrol trimmer Husqvarna 128R... This device does not lose power after 2 years of operation. Even after winter, the engine starts flawlessly. Hitachi CG 27 EC differs in lightness and small dimensions, during the work hands do not shake.

The line reel has also received positive feedback. Only the appearance may not be solid enough. But the brushcutter Hitachi CG 22 EAS-NB has conflicting ratings. This is a lightweight and well-assembled model. However, efficiency is achieved by unnecessarily reducing power.

Stihl FS 250 allows you to mow grass and hay without any problems. The only difficulties - periodically you need to change the candles and adjust the carburetor. DDE GBS260RD allows you to change the line almost without difficulty. However, it just falls short of the ideal for vibration protection. And the severity can cause serious problems.

You can find out how to choose a petrol trimmer in the video below.