DeWALT 60V Universal Attachment System | Trimming, Sawing, Blowing. STIHL trimmer…

Husqvarna Vs STIHL Trimmer: What’s The Difference?

Which to get, Husqvarna or STIHL trimmer? They are very similar. Both are reliable, strong, and easy to operate. The Husqvarna detachable trimmer 128 LD is more versatile because it is compatible with accessories. The STIHL FS 56 RC-E is more comfortable since it has a 360° adjustable handle.

Would you like to give your lawn the perfect haircut? Can’t reach the corners of your yard with your lawnmower?

I think it is time you buy yourself a lawn trimmer to get your landscaping game on a whole new level.

There are a lot of different lawn trimmers on the market, but Husqvarna and STIHL are among the most trusted names. They make a whole range of electricity, battery, and gas-powered lawn trimmers, so you are assured to find a perfect match!

But today I will FOCUS on two of their most iconic models: the Husqvarna 128LD and the STIHL FS 56 RC-E. I will compare them and determine which is better – the Husqvarna vs STIHL trimmer?

I have found that the Husqvarna 128LD is overall better for most people since it is more versatile and offers better value. But there is more you should know. Let’s take a look.

• 1 Husqvarna Vs STIHL Trimmer – Up Close

• 1.1 Review: Husqvarna Trimmer

• 1.1.1 Design And Ease Of Use
• 1.1.2 Engine And Power
• 1.1.3 Pros
• 1.1.4 Cons

• 1.2.1 Design And Ease Of Use
• 1.2.2 Engine And Power
• 1.2.3 Pros
• 1.2.4 Cons

• 2.1 Engine Power
• 2.2 Cutting Capacity
• 2.3 Fuel Tank
• 2.4 Comfort
• 2.5 Versatility

• 3.1 Are Husqvarna trimmers any good?
• 3.2 Are STIHL trimmers worth the money?
• 3.3 What does the R mean on STIHL trimmers?

Husqvarna Vs STIHL Trimmer – Up Close

Review: Husqvarna Trimmer

You have probably heard of Husqvarna. You may even have one of their tools in your garage already. This wouldn’t come as a surprise, as Husqvarna is a global company that started in 1689.

They make all kinds of outdoor power tools and equipment, from chainsaws and snowblowers to lawn or garden tractors and string trimmers with either a straight shaft or curved shaft.

I have decided to introduce you to Husqvarna trimmers through one of their best models, the Husqvarna 128LD.

Design And Ease Of Use

Husqvarna is known for making lawn trimmers that feel good in your hands. They are user-friendly and lightweight, which are the key features you want in any lawn trimmer.

The Husqvarna 128LD weighs 12.7 lbs without the cutting attachment. The unit is easy to hold and maneuver around the yard, even after you put on the cutting head.

Husqvarna trimmers are not only easy to carry but also easy to operate and start. The controls for every machine are located on the handle. How convenient is that!

Husqvarna is proud to own a copyrighted technology called Smart Start /strong> that makes starting their gas-powered trimmers so much easier. It features an automatic return stop switch, which ensures a quick start for each use.

It takes only two to three pulls to fire up the engine, thanks to the air purge system. Both Husqvarna and STIHL trimmers are equipped with air purges, which remove air from the carburetor and fuel system.

Last but not least, I must mention that Husqvarna combination trimmers are compatible with different attachments. Their detachable shaft can be replaced with accessories that are sold separately. So, if you want a trimmer that can act as an edger, too, opt for the Husqvarna 128LD. Don’t know the difference between an edger vs trimmer? Find out here!

It is safe to say that Husqvarna’s detachable trimmers are more versatile than STIHL’s trimmers because they can be used for other lawn jobs. If you buy one, you won’t have to buy other bulky tools and you’ll end up saving storage space in your garage.

Engine And Power

Husqvarna manufactures battery and gas-powered trimmers. Their gas-powered trimmers are equipped with strong engines that vary in power, depending on the model. The Husqvarna 128LD is one of their better models. It features a 2-stroke 28 cc motor with a power output of 1 horsepower.

Luckily, Husqvarna trimmers have built-in vibration dampeners to make sure the engine doesn’t shake you out of your gardening boots. The Husqvarna 128LD delivers power with reduced vibration and noise.

Battery-powered trimmers are even quieter and they don’t emit any gaseous emissions either! They are very easy to use and are lightweight, weighing up to 7 pounds. All models work on 40V batteries and don’t require expensive fuel. They are not only economical but also friendly to the environment.

Watch this video to see the Husqvarna 128LD in action:

Pros

• Trusted company
• Easy to use and control
• Powerful 2-stroke 28 cc engine
• Big fuel tank
• Smart Start technology
• Compatible with attachments
• Reduced vibration and noise
• Lightweight
• 2-year warranty

Review: STIHL Trimmer

STIHL is a company that doesn’t need a detailed introduction. It is one of the leading brands in the outdoor power tool and equipment industry.

It is a German company founded in 1926. This may come to you as a surprise since STIHL has a major global headquarters in Virginia, employing more than 1,900 locals. STIHL also manufactures chainsaws, tillers, garden shredders, trimmers, and the list goes on.

Today, I will FOCUS on the STIHL FS 56 RC-E trimmer. I chose this model because it is very similar to the Husqvarna 128LD. This way, comparing the Husqvarna vs STIHL trimmer is fair.

Design And Ease Of Use

Just by looking at STIHL trimmers, you can immediately tell that the company put a lot of thought into their design. They sell trimmers with different handle types – loop handles, length shaft, and straight shaft variations.

Their innovative 360° adjustable handle is what sets them apart from the competition. This handle adapts to all body types and working postures, ensuring maximum comfort during work.

STIHL trimmers are extremely lightweight. The STIHL FS 56 RC-E trimmer is in fact lighter than the Husqvarna 128LD. It weighs only 10.6 lbs without cutting attachment and the added shoulder strap distributes its weight evenly.

The strap is an excellent feature that only increases comfort. The trimmer won’t strip you of your energy just by carrying it from one corner of the yard to the other.

STIHL trimmers are quick to start, thanks to the Easy2Start system. It doesn’t take a lot to get the engine up and running. Two to three pulls on the starter rope are enough and you don’t have to pull hard! You can tug the starter rope about two-thirds slower than usual, and the engine will fire up.

STIHL trimmers also have all controls housed in the comfortable handle for easy access. You can mow your lawn without ever letting go of the handle. Working with such a design is not only easy but also safe and stress-free.

STIHL trimmers have a swappable head and blade but are not compatible with a whole line of accessories, like Husqvarna trimmers with detachable shaft. If you wish to own a multipurpose tool, you can buy a KombiEngine instead and pair it with these KombiTools.

This KombiSystem allows you to turn one machine into a curved shaft grass trimmer, lawn edge trimmer, bristle brush sweeper, blower, and more.

Engine And Power

STIHL makes battery and gas-powered trimmers, just like Husqvarna. Their gas-powered units have different outputs, so it is difficult to generalize them. Their FS 56 RC-E trimmer has a fuel-efficient 2-stroke 27.2 cc engine with excellent performance.

STIHL is known for making gas-powered trimmers with low emissions. Their FS 56 RC-E trimmer is rated as “low exhaust,” which STIHL defines as being cleaner as EPA emissions standards.

If you want to cut out emissions completely, opt for one of their battery-powered units. They are very quiet and user-friendly.

Watch this video for a complete review of the STIHL FS 56 RC-E:

Pros

• Reputable company
• Reliable quick start
• Easy to operate
• 360° adjustable handle
• Maximum comfort
• Lightweight
• Reduced emissions
• 2-year warranty

Husqvarna STIHL Features – Face To Face

Engine Power

In terms of engine power, Husqvarna and STIHL trimmers are almost the same. There aren’t any major differences in the power output when comparing trimmers in the same class.

The Husqvarna 128LD has a 2-stroke 28cc engine while a STIHL FS 56 RC-E trimmer carries a 2-stroke 27.2 cc engine. Their power and performance are almost identical.

What’s important is that both trimmers have reduced vibration and are quieter than your typical gas-powered trimmer.

It is a toss-up between Husqvarna vs STIHL trimmer. They are both winners in this case.

Cutting Capacity

The cutting width of a trimmer is determined by the length of the string trimmer line. The cutting width of the Husqvarna 128LD is 17 inches. The STIHL FS 56 RC-E cuts 16.5 inches wide.

So, the Husqvarna trimmer cuts slightly wider and faster than STIHL due to the slightly longer trimmer string. The difference in cutting capacity may seem insignificant, but it sure adds up when you are mowing a large area.

The clear winner of this round is the Husqvarna 128LD. It cuts faster than its competitor.

Fuel Tank

The size of the fuel tank is more important than people think. The bigger the fuel tank is, the better, so you won’t have to make as many stops and refills.

The STIHL FS 56 RC-E trimmer has a 11.5 fl oz tank. The Husqvarna 128LD trimmer features a bigger reservoir. It stores 13.53 fl oz of fuel. Both tanks are transparent, so you will know exactly how much fuel you have left and how high you have to refill.

The clear winner of this versus battle is the Husqvarna 128LD. It has a bigger fuel tank.

Comfort

You don’t want a lawn trimmer that feels bulky and heavy in your hands. It will expend your energy before you are finished with your landscaping.

The STIHL FS 56 RC-E trimmer was designed with comfortability in mind. It weighs only 10.6 lbs compared to the Husqvarna trimmer that stands at 12.7 lbs. The STIHL trimmer also features a 360° adjustable rotating handle which can’t be seen on the Husqvarna trimmer.

The STIHL FS 56 RC-E trimmer is more comfortable and is a clear winner of this battle.

Versatility

Landscaping isn’t a one-tool job. It requires a whole assortment of tools and gadgets. Having a multipurpose trimmer that can do more than trimming is a huge advantage.

All of the Husqvarna detachable trimmers, including the 128 LD, are compatible with other Husqvarna attachments, so you can transform your trimmer into a blower, edger, pole saw, hedge trimmer, bristle brush, sweeper, and other handy tools.

STIHL trimmers can’t be accessorized. They are not as versatile as Husqvarna trimmers, so the clear winner of this round is the Husqvarna trimmer. It can take on many roles with the use of attachments.

FAQs

Are Husqvarna trimmers any good?

Husqvarna trimmers are good for personal use around the yard. They have a solid engine on them and are lightweight and easy to operate. Husqvarna trimmers perform best when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

DeWalt’s New 60v MAX [DCST972] Cordless Brushless String Trimmer Multi-Tool (Multiple ATTACHMENTS)

Are STIHL trimmers worth the money?

STIHL trimmers are worth the money because they are reliable and easy to use. STIHL trimmers are known for their quality and good performance and they are a good investment if you plan on using your trimmer often and for demanding landscaping jobs.

What does the R mean on STIHL trimmers?

The R on STIHL trimmers means Loop Handle. It lets you know that a particular model has a loop handle in the design. This is not the only symbol you will see on STIHL trimmers. The C stands for Comfort Feature, E for Easy2Start and X for Lightweight Version.

Get The Best Of The Best

After the in-depth research, I have come to a clear conclusion. No matter which trimmer you end up buying, you are guaranteed to get the best of the best if it’s one of these two brands. Both make high-grade trimmers that don’t dissapoint.

Take a look at these last tips if you still can’t decide between Husqvarna vs STIHL trimmer.

Buy Husqvarna 128LD trimmer if:

Buy STIHL FS 56 RC-E trimmer if:

Brett’s the kind of guy you’d never peg as having such an amazing yard. He’s shy and private, avoiding social media and the spotlight. By day, Brett works quietly as an electrician technician, helping folks with wiring and repairs. But get Brett home to his place in Raleigh, where Nadya’s always dreaming up new landscaping ideas, and you see another side of him. Brett happily rolls up his sleeves to transform their modest backyard into a lush, cozy oasis. The yard’s really a labor of love for them, a place to unwind on weekends, entertain friends, and make cherished memories together. Nadya might come up with all the creative concepts, but Brett’s the one ensuring each vision comes to stunning life. They make a great team, even if Brett’s content to operate behind the scenes. At heart, Brett’s a simple man who finds purpose and joy in small things. Puttering in their garden under the sun or cooking out back in the evenings. these are the things that fulfill him. Brett cares deeply for crafting a space ideal for intimacy, nurturing a life well-lived away from fanfare. Follow him on

About me

My name is Nadya and I live in Raleigh, NC. I am a wife, a writer, and an enthusiastic designer! In my blog, I write about home and backyard design and the products that inspire me.

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DeWALT 60V Universal Attachment System | Trimming, Sawing, Blowing

Just in time for spring, DeWALT has added the Universal Attachment System to its growing line of cordless OPE tools. The new power head system operates on the DeWALT 60V platform and includes all the basic tools you need for lawn maintenance this growing season.

10-Second Summary

• Models: DeWALT DCST972B (String Trimmer Kit) and DCED472B (Edger Kit)
• Base unit can convert to string trimmer, edger, brush cutter, pole saw, hedge trimmer, or blower
• Kitted with DeWALT FlexVolt 9.0Ah battery and charger or as bare tool
• Up to 47 minutes runtime (with 9.0Ah battery and operating as string trimmer)
• Available early 2021
• Kit price: 299

Tackle All Your Yard Chores on One Tool

The DeWALT Universal Attachment System operates on the same principles as other power head systems on the market. Basically, DeWALT has designed a rear-oriented motor that drives a shaft. The split shaft then connects to any number of swappable tool attachments. Since the attachments cost a fraction of what you pay for an entirely different lawn tool, this potentially saves you storage space as well as money.

The concept/design has become popular in the OPE world, and DeWALT has joined in the fun. Theirs runs on the 60V Max battery platform and, at the time of this writing, includes 6 different tool attachments: a string trimmer, edger, brush cutter, pole saw, hedge trimmer, and blower.

What Brands are Compatible with the DeWALT Universal Attachment System?

I’m glad you asked! Lots of brands are compatible with the DeWALT Universal Attachment System. IN fact, more brands are compatible than are incompatible. Check out this list of what we know so far to be compatible brands in the Universal Attachment System:

• Craftsman
• DeWALT
• Greenworks
• Husqvarna
• Poulan
• Remington
• Ryobi Expand-it
• TrimmerPlus
• Troybilt

The following brands are NOT compatible with the DeWALT Universal Attachment System as far as we can tell:

DeWALT Universal Attachment System Tools

For the power itself, the DeWALT Universal Attachment Capable System uses a brushless motor to supply efficient power to the tool. It features a variable trigger and two speeds to give you control over whatever application you’re working on.

DeWALT designed the 60V Max Attachment Capable String Trimmer with a 15-in./17-in. cutting swath using either 0.080-in. or 0.095-in. line. It features a QuickLoad spool head, which lets you load more line into the head without having to take it apart.

DeWALT Edger Attachment (DWOAS4ED)

The DeWALT DWOAS4ED edger attachment features a 7-1/2-inch hardened steel blade with an adjustable blade depth adjustment of up to 2-1/2 inches. A large guide wheel gives you better mobility while working.

DeWALT Brush Cutter Attachment (DWOAS5BC)

The Brush Cutter attachment tackles the woody and dense overgrowth in your yard with four 8-inch steel blades. It features a die-cast gearbox for consistently high output and durability.

Universal Pole Saw Attachment (DWOAS5BC)

The DeWALT Universal Attachment System includes a pole saw option as well. It includes an extension pole to get its cutting power up into hard-to-reach areas. The 8-in. bar and chain features an auto oiler to keep the saw lubed up during operation.

DeWALT FlexVolt Articulating Hedge Trimmer Attachment (DWOAS8HT)

DeWALT’s system also includes an articulating hedge trimmer attachment. With a 22″ hardened steel dual-action blade, this hedge trimmer can tackle branches up to 3/4″ thick. The head swivels up to 135º to trim hedges at a variety of angles.

DeWALT Axial Blower Attachment (DWOAS7BL)

Finally, the DeWALT Universal Attachment System includes a high-performance axial blower to clean up your clippings and yard debris. By the numbers, it should deliver as much as 500 CFM of air volume—no slouch.

We like the concentrator nozzle that curves out to increase airflow to the ground. That axial fan design pulls air in from directly behind and lets the blower efficiently move a high volume of air.

Pricing

DeWALT has packaged the Universal Attachment System into a few different starter kit and bare tool options. The Universal Attachment Capable System power head comes with either the string trimmer or edger which DeWALT will package either as a kit or as a bare tool.

Kitted with a 9.0Ah FlexVolt battery and charger, either of these options will run you 299. The bare tool options both run 249.

The attachments are sold separately and range between 99 and 149 apiece. Those details are further outlined below.

STIHL trimmer attachment compatibility

Please check out our compatibility list for this product found HERE.

The EDGIT PRO /strong> is a trimming edging guide for straight shaft trimmers. It indicates where the trimmer’s string is cutting and holds the trimmer’s spinning string in the groove. The EDGIT PRO s 14” disk rolls down the edge like a measuring wheel guiding the string as it cuts a half-inch wide groove. The EDGIT PRO /strong> allows a trimmer operator to produce perfect vertical edges on mulch beds, curbs and sidewalks. as fast as he can walk. It stays on the trimmer all the time.

If you use your trimmers to edge you know how difficult it is to get operators to produce straight, vertical edges at any reasonable rate. The EDGIT PRO /strong> solves this problem. Now anyone can produce perfect vertical edges with their trimmers as fast they can walk.

When used for trimming it stands the grass up as it’s being cut while at the same time helping the operator hold the trimmer level. This allows operators to mow with their trimmers. It prevents string breakage against chain link fences and is great for cutting under the fence. The EDGIT PRO /strong> make your string cut through weeds like a blade while preventing debris from wrapping around the head. The EDGIT PRO /strong> is also a superior debris shield for the operator and reduces the chances of broken Windows.

Blade edgers require you to cover the property twice, once to trim, then to edge. This is called “backtracking”. The EDGIT PRO /strong> allows operators to trim and edge as one process thus covering the property only once. Your edges will be more distinctive and last longer between mowings.

While trimming, the cutting is taking place below the EDGIT PRO /strong> ‘s disk. This reduces the debris thrown at the operator’s face while also reducing broken Windows and other collateral property damage. During the edging process, the EDGIT PRO /strong> also acts as a barrier between the operator and the debris production.

Try training operators to use trimmers left-handed as illustrated. Notice that his arms are straight down in front of him and he’s walking straight ahead. This is, by far, a more productive, as well as safer method of using a trimmer.

New Honda VersAttach System of Modular Outdoor Power Tools

By now you might have heard about the Troy-Bilt Flex system of interchangeable lawn garden tools, where there is a gas engine base unit and different tool attachments. Honda just came out with something similar, the VersAttach system, which features 2 small engine options and handheld power tool attachments.

Both have a belt-driven overhead cam (OHC) engine design, for less noise and maintenance, and allow the tools to be used in any position. They also feature an oil-immersed timing belt, easily accessible spark plug, and easy access for draining and refilling oil.

Honda VersAttach powerhead engines seem to be based on a single engine design, which Honda says meets all 50 states’ emission regulations.

Powerheads

Honda UMC425: powered by GX25 mini 4-stroke engine

Honda UMC435: powered by GX35 mini 4-stroke engine

Both powerheads are said to feature best-in-class lightweight gas engines, with the UMC425 delivering clean, powerful, and quiet performance of a larger engine in a compact package, and the UMC435 being equipped with Honda’s most powerful engine for handheld applications.

Both powerhead models appear to be quite compact, and so the main difference looks to be that the UMC435 is more powerful.

Tool Attachments

Each VersAttach attachment connects to a powerhead by means of a SureLoc joint locking system, which is operated tool-free.

Information is limited right now, but expect for pricing and other details to be more available starting next spring when the Honda VersAttach outdoor power tool lineup launches.

First Thoughts

I find myself hoping that Honda partners with a power tool brand to offer a cordless powerhead unit as well – don’t you?

Interchangeable and modular tool attachments aren’t new, and this isn’t the first handheld outdoor power tool system. Other modular tool systems include interchangeable hand tools, Troy-Bilt’s Flex large equipment system, and of course several power tool systems such as Ridgid JobMax, Black Decker Matrix, and Craftsman Bolt-On.

The benefit for Honda is the simplicity in only having to design one main engine. Their One Engine for All description in press materials suggests that both engines used in the two powerheads are similar enough that they share much of the same design.

The benefit for users is the cost savings and convenience of having just one engine and multiple tool attachments.

Honda is a reputable name in gas engines and gas engined outdoor power equipment, and so it will be interesting to see how well the VersAttach system works and whether consumers are drawn to it or not.

Modular and interchangeable power tools often comes with compromises. What do you think are the tradeoffs in this Honda VersAttach system?

25 Комментарии и мнения владельцев

Is this compatible with MTD’s trimmer plus system that has been on the market for quite a few years now? The eager looks a lot like the one from the STIHL Kombisystem.

I would say it looks alot like the Echo/STIHL/Husqvarna system – which like the trimmer plus like is a bit more professional oriented. IE stronger, more power etc. the connection look very similar – but again that’s picture not in hand. Would not surprise me if they were cross compatible since often the Honda equipment is sold next to one of those others. if it was standalone though – that also wouldn’t surprise me much but if they were to marry up to anyone I’d suspect it would be Echo. meanwhile – curious how their motor sure sounds exactly like everyone elses.

I was just thinking “These resemble STIHL’s modular tools” minus some of the attachments like the sweeper. Seeing how it’s Honda-branded, I suspect the price will be comparable as well.

I have the Echo PAS system with a trimmer and edger attachment, and I’m a fan of the power. I probably would have picked up the blower attachment off ebay or something if I hadn’t been gifted a 12amp electric craftsman model that works pretty well.

DeWALT proves me wrong on cordless trimmers/edgers

Confused by (or misinterpreting) your comment, ” I believe this is the first handheld outdoor power tool system.”. There are many of these handheld yard tool systems available, both pro and consumer level, from STIHL Kombi, Troy-bilt Trimmer Plus, Ryobi One Plus, Echo Pro Attach, etc. Some are even interchangeable between companies. They’ve been around for a long time – probably 10 years. I started with Troy-Bilt, switched to Echo a couple years ago. I use the edger, string trimmer, and blower. They work very well, and I love having only one powerhead to maintain. Want to add the pole pruner mini-chainsaw. Regarding the 4 cycle motor, I had one on my first multi-system, and while it was smoother and quieter than a 2-cycle, it was very heavy. Way too heavy unless you have a really small yard. I’ve since switched to a 2 cycle power head using the same attachments.

You’re right, and I’ve seen some of the other systems before too. Don’t know what I was thinking when I wrote that. I just looked at Troy-Bilt TrimmerPlus this morning to see how many attachments they offered. I’m not familiar with Ryobi’s, and can’t seem to find info on it either.

they are the same. Ryobi’s version and the MTD/TroyBuit system is the same. I have parts from each in my kit – works pretty well. not professional daily hard work duty though.

Ryobi’s system is called Expand It (not One plus) https://www.YouTube.com/watch?v=HsBCPQF8eQ8 Seems that there may be some sort of universal standard as Ryobi say their attachments may fit other manufactures power heads?

I agree. I think “STIHL Kombi, Troy-bilt Trimmer Plus, Ryobi One Plus, Echo Pro Attach, etc.” is a better comparison reference than “Troy-Bilt’s Flex large equipment system, and of course several power tool systems such as Ridgid JobMax, Black Decker Matrix, and Craftsman Bolt-On.”

Honda GX25T 25cc 4-stroke 0.72KW Dry weight (kg) 5,1KG = 11.24lbs STIHL KM 94 R 24.1cc 2-stroke 0.90KW Dry weight (kg) 4,0KG = 8.8lbs

Makita Ex2650 lh 25.4cc 4 stroke. 0.77 kW power. Dry weight 4.6 kg. power, less Weight with all the 4 stroke benefits

Don’t forget mine… KM110 R Kombi Motor DISPLACEMENT 31.4cc (1.9 cu. in.) ENGINE POWER 1.05 kW (1.4 bhp) WEIGHT 4.5 kg (9.9 lbs.) FUEL CAPACITY 530 cc (18 oz.) Even more power.

These look to be mostly identical to the common “homeowner” attachments, which are actually ALL identical. Do a couple tear-downs and you will see. The blower even looks like the old homeowner style rather than the newer versions that go straight down the shaft (see STIHL and Echo, and even the “pro” homeowner owns.) I can’t tell if the shaft is articulating, but I would hope that it is. It’s very difficult to gauge from the pictures whether this is the homeowner China clone stuff or some slightly better system like STIHL and Echo. While it is Honda, I’m not sure if this is news-worthy considering that these systems (with the exact attachments pictures plus many more) have existed for many, many years. I remember my dad using them probably 15 years ago. Without having tested the Honda system (of course), I’m still willing to bet that STIHL’s system is better. Even Echo’s is pretty damn good. Honda does make excellent motors, but I find it odd that they went with a 4-cycle, which increases costs, reduces noise, and doesn’t do anything extra power-wise. Also, there are several, limited options out there for cordless powerheads that are attachment-capable. There are even a couple electric ones. Ryobi, Greenworks, and maybe one or two others make electric and cordless. It was a category I was very interested in recently. I researched the crap out of this last summer, but I eventually concluded that a STIHL gas motor was better in every way. Cordless power tools will probably continue exploding over the next few years, but right now a high-quality cordless attachment-capable trimmer does not exist and that’s what I wanted. I bought into the Ego 56V system (well, just the blower), and I’m completely pissed that they still haven’t offered an attachment-capable trimmer. Until they do, no more Ego tools for me. Instead, the motor is in the head, so it can’t be done without serious modification (one guy did it and made some YouTube videos…kind of interesting.) There are currently some great options for cordless trimmers, but they are not attachment-capable. (Ego, DeWALT, etc.) I eventually settled for cordless blower and gas trimmer with attachments. The next tool I’d be interested in is a chainsaw, and I would probably go cordless with that. I finally settled on the STIHL Kombi motor. The STIHL, unlike the Echo, will accept the homeowner attachments right out of the box despite not being officially promoted. I wouldn’t recommend it, but it works just fine if you make sure the drive cable is securely mounted. The Echo has the same size drive cable but they created a shaft that is about 1mm narrower. There is a YouTube video where a guy shows that you can simply use a die grinder to shave a little bit off the outside of your attachment and it will fit. Compatibility between attachment systems is a topic with VERY little information available on the internet. It seems like most people don’t know or don’t care. However, the advantage of being able to use homeowner attachments is obvious: they’re cheap and plentiful. Hop on Craigslist and you can find them for 10-20. I bought a brush cutter, edger, and blower for 30. If I had purchased all of the attachments I have now at the STIHL store, I’d be about 1,000 in. Instead, I invested 200 in the motor and spent about 100 gathering 6-7 attachments. The STIHL trimmer head is about 100 and the one people likely use the most, and I will replace the crappy one I have now with a STIHL. Beyond that, I’m not sure I’d be willing to replace any of the ones I have by spending 100-200 on the STIHL version. Don’t get me wrong, the STIHL (and Echo attachments) are better than the homeowner stuff, but 4x to 10x the price better? Not to me. I love the STIHL motor I bought (KM-56C, I believe). The motor screams and will likely last me many years. If I’d purchased one of the homeowner motors (again, they are ALL the same) I would literally be replacing it every single year. Those of you who have dealt with these motors know exactly what I’m talking about. Now I have the best of both worlds… After you’ve spent a couple years mowing lawns with high-quality equipment it’s hard to go back to dealing with a Ryobi motor.

Ummm, I think I accidentally cut a sentence out. That articulating shaft comment was supposed to be referencing the hedge trimmer. Many of them (even the cheap ones) have 135 degree articulating shafts now, which are nice.

The attachment capable cordless trimmers out there, including.Ryobi’s 40V-X Expand-It.Greenworks’ G-MAX 40V and.Greenworks’ 80V Pro are pretty good for light work, but cannot really replace a gas power head. Moving on to the topic of gas trimmers, while STIHL motors are fantastically powerful and reliable, there are some people, like myself, who cannot stand 2 cycle motors. My Ryobi experience was probably similar to yours, but it played out with their 4-cycle model. One day, my Ryobi S430 sprung a nasty oil leak. After taking it apart in an attempt to sort out the issues, I found myself appalled by the half-crank, plastic cam construction. It was time to trade up to a commercial grade motor. I retrofitted my old Ryobi split boom (attachment-capable) with a new Honda GX35, and it has been the most reliable, powerful and smooth running small motor I’ve ever owned. Honda’s strategy in the small engine world seems to be to FOCUS on making premium 4-cycle motors, so we’re not likely to ever see a 2-cycle offered by them.

I have the same experience with Ryobi. So I bought a Honda UMC 435 power head. However, I cannot fit my Ryobi attachments to the Honda UMC 435. How were you able to retrofit your Ryobi attachments to your Honda GX35? Ryobi attachments have square peg while Honda UMC 435 has a spline peg, I believe. If you could share what you have done, I would appreciate it very much

Stuart, Do both blades reciprocate on that hedge trimmer? They do on my STIHL KombiSystem, and it goes through hedges like a light saber.

They should, isn’t that how most hedge trimmers operate? (I’m not asking tongue in cheek, I just assumed that all hedge trimmers have dual blade reciprocating action.)

Cheaper ones dont. We have a Bosch green mains powered engine unit here in belgium and its hedge trimmer attachlebt had only 1 moving blade

Bravo Honda! What took so long? The GX series is one of the most reliable 4.stroke small engines on the market, and it was a shame that Honda previously didn’t offer an attachment capable trimmer. I bet they did some market research and found out that a while a whole lot of people wanted a Honda motor, even more of them wanted attachment capability and Honda was missing a lot of potential sales.

I just bought it. It’s really great. Kind of heavy. Noticeably heavier than the STIHL with similar (slightly less power). I like that I don’t have to mess with mixed fuel. That was the main selling point, and that it was probably as reliable as a STIHL yet cheaper. I’m trying to find the kit for installing the cutting blade but I can’t seem to find it online anywhere. I guess I’ll have to call around to some of the dealers. If anyone has some informaiton about that I’d be glad to hear it. This thing is noticeably heavy (I run the GX 35). I used to run an older Echo. Man that thing really ripped. powerful than this Honda, though the Honda is a bit easier to control especially in the lower RPMs. I miss my Echo a bit (got stolen) but man that thing was finnicky. This Honda starts up right away everytime. Sometimes on the first pull even being completely cold. Nice.

So having bought into Echo now and looking at who’s attachments are compatible vs how they are made and I have to say other than a minor difference in their attachment the Echo PAS, the STIHL Kombi, the Husquavarna, and the Honda/Hitachi systems are the same pieces of kit. With a few minimal exceptions – and they are made simlar but of better design better parts than the MTD-TroyBuilt-Ryobi system. IE thicker metal tubes – better shafts – actual ball bearings – stiffer gear cases – better cut gears etc. And no you can’t directly put a STIHL Kombi on an Echo or a Husquvarna – but if you changed up the end a touch – I could fit. Either way – on the side I bought one of the Echo 58 Volt Cordless jobs and I have to say it has plenty of power to run and runs long enough for my needs. Yes if I had to I’d buy another battery – easy peasy but the 4ah battery is enough to edge my drive, sidewalk, and back patio – then trim around the house and trees – and not be empty when I’d done. Trimmer cuts well and clean – like you’d expect an pro level machine to do and the edger does solid work.