Trimmer Comparison- Need to upgrade to a gas one

[DPuro329]

Is there much of a weight difference between the stihl and the echo? I remember thinking that the echo might get heavy after a while of using it. Also is that Stihls lowest entry level model or do they have a cheaper one? Even with a potential 10% savings itscstill more than I'd like to spend for something ill use for a half hour once a week.

 

[Ric]

Is there much of a weight difference between the stihl and the echo? I remember thinking that the echo might get heavy after a while of using it. Also is that Stihls lowest entry level model or do they have a cheaper one? Even with a potential 10% savings it's still more than I'd like to spend for something ill use for a half hour once a week.

Actually The Stihl weighs 10.6 lbs and the Echo is 10.7Lbs. The Stihl is not an entry level or the Home Scaper series Trimmer, It is however the Low end or first inline Professional Grade trimmer, something that you'll only have to buy once so it has saved me money in the long run. The Echo was something that I personally used but it just didn't last but unlike you I use trimmers 6 and sometimes 7 days a week and I can't afford to have throw away equipment and or down time and the Stihl has never failed me in any way. As I said in my first post The Echo at Home Depot is fine, not the best out there but would probably work for what you need.

It's nice to be able to get some facts but keep in mind that what people are saying here maybe true or right about equipment it's all there opinion. You know what you comfortable spending and buying and you need to do what's right for you so you are happy.

 

[Parkmower]

Stihl had the fs45 curved shaft $179ish and the fs55 strait shaft for 220ish. I think they've been replaced by similar models. We use fs55's commercially and they are homeowner trimmers. I've watched these trimmers take years of abuse and keep going. I would think one would last a long time for a homeowner. Either would do you fine. I and most people prefer the strait shaft.

 

[lawn mower fanatic]

I remember thinking that the echo might get heavy after a while of using it.

The Echo is not heavier than other trimmers--it's not heavy at all. :thumbsup:

 

[Ric]

Stihl had the fs45 curved shaft $179ish and the fs55 strait shaft for 220ish. I think they've been replaced by similar models. We use fs55's commercially and they are homeowner trimmers. I've watched these trimmers take years of abuse and keep going. I would think one would last a long time for a homeowner. Either would do you fine. I and most people prefer the strait shaft.

There now the FS 56 RC-E straight shaft Trimmer and it's $219.95 it also is a 27.2cc engine and weighs the same 10.6lbs and as Parkmower said are an excellent trimmer and Imo be as good if not better than the Echo.

 

[smitts961]

With the strap on my Stihl, I actually find it to feel much lighter than my old smaller engined craftsman with no strap. The strap makes all the difference. Basically puts all the weight on your shoulder and all your arms have to do is move the machine.

 

[suzuki-rider444]

Echo trimmers are very good. We use Echo trimmers to clean up dirt biking trails. It can cut through the thickest grass and even small saplings. As to a straight or curved shaft I think it depends on personal preference and height. I like the straight shaft because it has a farther reach and you don't have to twist your body as much to move it, but my brother who is shorter than me likes the curved shaft because it is easier to maneuver for someone who is shorter.
John

 

[motoman]

Calling from the bargain basement again. There were (are) Ryobis of various pedigrees. My 791 was a tiger for 10 years. The lowly sears is a clone at 1/2 the price I paid in 2002.
Just to give you a choice :laughing:

 

[possum]

If you are going to buy a Stihl get a good one like Ric is saying. The cheapo Stihl homeowner series is to hard for folks to keep running and cost to much to get them serviced. Everyone around here hates them. They just do not use them enough. You can always get a real cheap one at Walmart and just finish the season with it while you make up your mind and look around. Or buy another electric.

 

[JSB33]

You can always get a real cheap one at Walmart and just finish the season with it while you make up your mind and look around.

7 or 8 years ago I did exactly this at Sears. End of season needing a trimmer, they had some ridiculous price on a trimmer that I bought figuring to replace it with a better one over the winter. Problem is I never got to implement part 2 of that plan. The Sears trimmer just keeps going. I thought when I moved to a bigger place, I would quickly kill it but its been 5 years. I trim and edge close to 1000 feet a week.