From day to day, the summer season should begin - the time that most of us love. More and more owners of household plots give preference not to traditional fences, but to hedges. They look very beautiful, they well block the area from prying eyes and so on. However, the fence needs appropriate care - for this there is a special tool called a brush cutter.
Despite the fact that this product was invented a long time ago, it hit the shelves of Russian garden stores several years ago, so not all people know what a similar design is. It was for them that we wrote our today's review of the best brush cutters of 2019. But just before we begin to analyze the useful characteristics of the models included in our rating, let's understand the principle of operation of such a device, the existing varieties and the principle of choice.
Summary of the rating:
What do you pay attention to when buying a brush cutter?
In total, there are four main varieties of such products in stores: they are mechanical, electric, battery and gasoline. The simplest and, as a consequence, the cheapest product will be a mechanical brush cutter. Using them is very simple, the devices also do not require any complicated maintenance. Outwardly, they are very similar to the most ordinary garden shears, but their handles are longer, which can significantly increase the cutting force so that you can work with relatively thick branches of shrubs.
Electric products are equipped with a special engine, which makes such a brush cutter more powerful and productive than manual. You can use it for quite some time and regularly. The main thing that needs to be provided for it to work is the supply of electric current. The most productive, but also the most expensive, are gas brush cutters. They are equipped with an internal combustion engine, which is completely autonomous in operation. There are also cordless brush cutters, where instead of an electric motor there is a built-in battery. They are mobile and quite powerful.
Before buying, you will need to determine how often this product will be used. It is also very important to take into account the complexity of the work, the requirements for precision cropping. If a gasoline model is preferred, then it is imperative to check the presence of an anti-vibration system in the brush cutter that will directly affect the ergonomics of the work. If there is a minimal amount of vibration, then the productivity will be much higher, since the hands of the worker will not get tired. It is desirable that there is an exhaust filtration system. Engine size is also quite important - this indicator will directly affect the level of product power.
When choosing electric brush cutters, pay attention to the length of the power cord (in principle, this is not a very important criterion, since you can use an extension cord if necessary). The power level is also very important, but remember that it will be inversely proportional to efficiency.All other points related to the choice of this device, we will be analyzed directly during our review.
When choosing models for rating compilation, we took into account all the above factors, as well as taking into account the price-quality ratio of products and studied a lot of user reviews. We tried not to include expensive enough models here, so that each of our readers could find all products within their means.
Electric models
4. BLACK & DECKER BEHTS301
A fairly powerful design (500 W), developed by American engineers, but they are made in Chinese factories. This product is intended for the full care of the garden (fruit trees and shrubs), as well as for hedges. The product is equipped with a quality saw, which is able to cut branches whose thickness reaches 35 mm. The device has a convenient double-sided blade, the length of which is half a meter, between the teeth there is a distance of 22 mm. The handle is ergonomic rubberized, the hands on it will not slip. There is a very reliable protection against accidental startup. This protective system is not too original, but at the same time has a high level of reliability. The mass of the device is minimal, so you can trim foliage and branches even at high altitude.
According to users, this tool will be very convenient to work in an upright position and with raised hands. Even in this situation, you do not have to spend a lot of effort. In order to protect the operator’s hands from small branches, there is a special shield. The knife is double-sided, which ensures a high level of productivity.
Benefits:
- There is a hook for the power wire;
- You can cut branches whose thickness reaches 35 mm;
- A small step between the teeth of the saw;
- No exhaust fumes;
- Convenient power key, so it is comfortable to work even with gloves;
- A double-sided knife is installed.
Disadvantages:
- Not too long cable.
3. GRINDA PRO Line GBCP-53-22
A truly indispensable tool for people who prefer beauty and grooming at their summer cottage. The equipment is characterized by compact overall dimensions and a good level of maneuverability. The product can be used not only for trimming bushes and giving it a different shape, but also for sawing trees. The result will be immediately noticeable. The power of the device is 600 watts - a pretty decent indicator for a brush cutter. The highest speed is 1600 rpm. The diameter of the cut reaches 530 mm, the distance between the teeth is 22 mm. This is an affordable product with high quality workmanship and assembly.
The teeth of the saw are made of high-strength steel, which is distinguished by a special double-sided sharpening, so that the process occurs several times faster. The switch has a mechanical lock, and the saw teeth stop immediately after the device is turned off. As in the previous model, there is a special shield for protecting hands from chips. A decent tooth pitch and high motor power allow you to perform all the necessary work in a short time. The handle is rotatable, so it will provide a very comfortable grip during any work. The mass of the device is 3.7 kg, it is very convenient to hold in your hands, regardless of position.
Benefits:
- Quite acceptable cost;
- The case of the increased durability;
- The rotary mechanism helps to quickly carry out work even in the most inaccessible places;
- Several safety systems are available for safe operation.
Disadvantages:
- There may be slight backlash in the drive mechanism.
2. Makita UH4261
This device can be operated both vertically and horizontally, and the brush cutter can cope with branches up to 10 mm thick. The equipment is equipped with a double-sided blade and an electric motor of decent power, which is 400 watts.At first glance it may seem that this is not very much, but for such a product is quite enough. The device is quite noisy - the degree of sound power reaches 93 dB. At idle, the number of revolutions is 1600 per minute. The mass of the device is 3 kg - not too much for such a device, it is very convenient for them to work even at a considerable height. The overall dimensions of the product are 180x195x820 mm, reliable protection against accidental switching is provided.
This device is characterized by the highest quality workmanship. Summer residents and owners of country houses were able to appreciate the level of reliability of the product. You can work for hours with this brush cutter, and you won’t get tired of your hands at all. The handle is rubberized, it has an ergonomic shape, perfect for both large and small palms. The product is able to work for a long time without a break. The case is high-quality, made of metal. The assembly is reliable, no backlash and other manufacturing defects were found. The cable length is not too long, so you will have to use extension cords. There is a reliable guard for protecting hands. The manufacturer recommends working with safety glasses.
Benefits:
- High speed, decent performance;
- Attractive appearance and high quality assembly of products;
- Reliable knife sharpened on both sides;
- Long service life;
- Safe work.
Disadvantages:
- Decent cost.
1. Bosch AHS 45-16
The best among electric brush cutters was the production of German production. It is notable for its insignificant mass, which is 2.5 kg - this allows you to use the product for a long time, hands will hardly get tired. Optimum equipment for full work. This includes the device itself, and the knife is closed with a special plastic casing. The official warranty period is two years, but you can increase it by one more year if you register on the official website of the company. The length of the cutting part of the brush cutter is 45 cm - it is enough to quickly and efficiently process a decent surface area. The tooth pitch here is much smaller than in the previously considered models - this parameter here is 16 mm. In this case, 16 mm thick branches can be sawn. Engine power is 420 watts.
This product works very quickly and confidently, regardless of what position the device will be in. It does not vibrate at all during operation and emits a minimum amount of noise. The balancing is perfect, which allows you to trim shrubs and trees very precisely. The cable has a standard length for such equipment. When working with this device, you can create a hedge in the shortest possible time. This equipment has a long service life, to start you must simultaneously press two buttons. This is done in order to reliably protect your hands from falling under the knife.
Benefits:
- Insignificant mass of equipment;
- The presence of two handles reduces the probability of injury to almost zero;
- Perfect balancing device;
- Immediately after a power outage, the cutting surface stops;
- Compact overall dimensions.
Disadvantages:
- Afraid of moisture and moisture.
Gas brush cutters
3. CHAMPION HT625R
Very simple and efficient design that can withstand significant loads. The fuel tank is made of high-quality plastic with an antistatic coating and has a very wide neck. The fuel filling hole is decent enough, so pouring fuel in there is convenient and easy. On the surface of the case there is a rather large casing, which will reliably protect both the hands and the user during work from the occurrence of injuries.The handle can rotate a maximum of 90 degrees left and right, which makes the device very convenient to use, so the brush cutter can be used even in an upright position. The product has an internal combustion engine, the power of which is 1 horsepower, the blade length is 60 cm. It is quite a sufficient parameter to quickly form a hedge. It is quite possible to work with this tool for a long time. The maximum diameter of the cut branches is 12 mm. If desired, thicker can also be sawn, but there is a possibility of damage to the blades.
One gas tank refueling is enough for almost the entire day of work. The mass of the equipment is 5.4 kg. The walls of the engine cylinders are coated with a layer of chrome, which makes the engine more durable and high quality. The cost of the device is quite affordable, the assembly is of high quality, no backlash and other manufacturing defects were noticed.
Benefits:
- Quite affordable cost of the device;
- High quality workmanship, assembly and work;
- Plastic gas tank.
Disadvantages:
- Pretty heavy construction.
2. ECHO HCR-165ES
This Japanese product has a rather high cost, but this is not at all surprising, since it was originally developed for professional use. The product is characterized by a very high performance gasoline engine. It has a fairly long service life, is reliable and resistant to wear. The exhaust system is unique, as the exhaust gases are additionally used to blow off cut branches and grass. There is an original filtration system that removes almost all harmful impurities from the exhaust, so almost clean air enters the environment. It is allowed to start the motor at an air temperature of at least +5 degrees. The engine starts perfectly, the starter cord practically does not resist at the exit, it goes back as smoothly as possible.
Vibration is well suppressed using a special system, so that the device can be operated for a long time. The handle has several levels of adjustment, which is also very convenient. Its power is 580 watts - a high enough indicator for a brush cutter with a gasoline engine. Due to this power, the structure can cut through branches with a thickness of 35 mm. Overall dimensions of the product 270x1240x340 mm with a mass of 5.1 kg. The blade length of almost 65 cm is one of the longest knives in our review.
Benefits:
- Absolutely safe to use;
- Work comfortably;
- Very high performance;
- Good workmanship;
- Several positions for adjusting the handle.
Disadvantages:
- Pretty high cost.
1. Stihl HS 45
Fairly light products, which are perfect for beginners and gardeners. This model allows you to quickly and efficiently care for hedges, give them shape. With its help, you can perform streaming cuts, as well as curly haircuts. The engine has a high power level, which is 750 watts - a very significant indicator for devices of this type. It starts up quickly and easily, and also runs smoothly. The motor is equipped with a reliable system, the action of which is aimed at absorbing vibration. There is a double-sided knife, due to it you can work in various planes. As most users note, this model is universal, largely due to the presence of a rotary handle. Even lefties will not have to adapt to this device.
A built-in shock absorber is provided - it quickly and efficiently dampens jerks, lowers recoil in the event of overloads or when the motor starts. The brush cutter weighs only 4.7 kg, which allows you to use it without interruption for a long time. Professionals appreciate this model largely due to its quality such as maneuverability.
Benefits:
- Easy to use;
- There are no difficulties in terms of maintenance and repair;
- The length of the cutting edge is 60 cm;
- High engine power.
Disadvantages:
- The capacity of the gas tank could be made higher.
Cordless Brush Cutters
3. Greenworks G40PH51
It is an excellent alternative to gasoline or electric products. The device can easily cope with the pruning of trees, the formation of hedges at the required height. One of the main features of the product is the presence of a telescopic rod, due to which the maximum length of the device can reach 182 cm. This means that you do not have to turn up the stairs if you need to reach high sections. The model has a rotary cutting part with seven positions. The blade length is 61 cm, it is made of high-quality, carefully hardened steel, which also has diamond sharpening. The pitch between the teeth is 18 mm. The total weight of the structure is 4.92 kg. In the process, it practically does not make noise and does not vibrate. The handle design is carefully thought out, it has an ergonomic shape, in addition there is emphasis on the forearm.
It is worth noting that this device has a reliable system of protection against accidental startup, it also has a durable plastic shield that is designed to protect your hands from scratches and other injuries. The engine has reliable overload protection, which helps to extend its service life. A brush cutter based on the battery from the manufacturer that produced this device itself works. The battery is universal - suitable for various other products of the 40V line, which includes over 15 instruments.
Benefits:
- Insignificant mass of equipment;
- A telescopic rod is provided, thanks to which the brush cutter acquires a height of 182 cm;
- The pitch of the cut is 18 mm on the blade with diamond sharpening (its length is 51 cm);
- Battery life can reach 80 minutes;
- Long term warranty service - 2 years.
Disadvantages:
- The battery will have to be purchased separately.
2. Bosch Ahs 50-20 li
Another model developed by German engineers of the world famous company. When creating this brush cutter, the most advanced Quick-Cut technology was used, due to which instant cutting of branches and branches from the first time is provided. This technology is able to cope with even a rather high hedge in a matter of minutes, and the load on the back and arms will be minimal. There is also the latest anti-lock system, thanks to which it is possible to ensure continuous operation of the device where others cannot get. Energy is spent optimally - Syneon Clip technology is responsible for this, it intelligently distributes battery power. The mass of the brush cutter is only 2.5 kg, in addition, the model is perfectly balanced.
It is very convenient to work regardless of the position of the device. The rear handle has a soft coating, the front one changes its position in several positions at once, in addition, a special overlay of transparent plastic is provided, which allows you to reliably protect your hands. On the front of the knife are special carefully hardened teeth that can cope with branches up to 25 mm in diameter. The knives are made using laser technology, they have diamond sharpening, which ensures high precision and a perfectly smooth cutting surface. Knives have a special protective device that allows you to work along the foundation and walls. The model works on the basis of a lithium-ion battery, which provides long-term battery life. The kit comes with both the battery itself and the charger for it.
Benefits:
- Using this brush cutter you can work along the walls, foundation;
- It is very convenient to use this equipment;
- High build quality;
- Reliable battery;
- Long service life;
- In the manufacture of using only the most modern technology.
Disadvantages:
- Pretty high cost.
1. Makita UH200DWE
A very practical and mobile tool. It can be used not only to trim bushes or hedges, but also to develop unique shapes. The mass of this device is only a little more than 1 kg, all kinds of wires are missing, so the products are very convenient to work on a stepladder. The tire is short - its length is only 22 cm, therefore it will not cling to any branch in a row, the user will be able to accurately realize all his fantasies. The device operates on the basis of a lithium-ion battery, the capacity of which is 1.3 Ah, there is an LED indication on the surface of the case: it will inform the user of a relatively low battery level. The knife is one-sided, its length is 200 mm with a tooth length of 8 mm, a distance of 26 mm is maintained between them. The speed of the knife is about 1250 vibrations per minute. In offline mode, the brush cutter can work out about half an hour.
All foliage is collected in a special container, which can then be easily cleaned. The system of blocking from unplanned or spontaneous inclusion is provided. The handle is rubberized, ergonomic, does not slip out of hands even on the hottest days.
Benefits:
- There is a battery level indicator;
- Insignificant mass of the device;
- Mobility and practicality;
- Pretty easy to use and maintain.
Disadvantages:
- It can cut only thin enough branches, it will not work with thick ones.
Finally, a useful video
We hope that having studied our overview of the best brush cutters before the summer season begins, you will be able to choose the best quality products for your summer cottage that will serve you for many years. If you still have some questions about the model you are interested in, then ask us in the comments - we will try to provide you with the necessary information in the shortest possible time.