Inside Consumer Reports Test Labs: Latest tests of string trimmers

In the market for a new string trimmer for next spring or even now? If you live in the Sun Belt, you're still likely actively tending to your property, with those of us in northern climates taking one or two last passes at overgrown areas of the property during fall cleanup. Here's what's new from our tests of more than two dozen new string trimmers.

One interesting new battery-powered model, the Black & Decker NST2036, is intended to be the first such trimmer capable of handling the tougher cutting jobs normally reserved for gasoline-powered trimmers. Powered by a very large 36-volt nickel-cadmium (NiCd) battery and equipped with a dual-string head, it's capable enough to rival some of the less-powerful gas models at trimming, including on tougher tall grass and weeds. But at 14.5 pounds, the NST2036 is among the heaviest string trimmers we tested, and with a price tag of $250, it's among the most expensive. What's more, recharge time for the NiCd battery is 12 to 16 hours, and a replacement costs $100. (Visit the Call2Recycle Web site or call 877-2-RECYCLE to find a local recycler of spent rechargeable batteries.)

New this year are propane-powered string trimmers with cleaner-burning, environmentally friendly fuel. But at $210, the Lehr ST025DC (right in photo above) and $290 Craftsman 79212 (left) are among the most expensive we've tested. And at 16 and 17 pounds, respectively, these trimmers are 4 to 5 pounds heavier than most gasoline models, and that doesn't include the nearly 2-pound screw-on propane tank you have to use.

Using pressurized propane gas, which come in containers sold at hardware stores, home centers, or sporting-goods stores, you might expect near-instantaneous starting. What we experienced, however, is that these engines often required one or two more pulls of the starter cord than did most two-cycle gasoline engines we tested. Also, the hose connecting the propane tank protrudes from the trimmer and can bang or catch on anything you brush past.

An additional concern, especially if you tend to ignore instructions, is that the owner's manual for these trimmers and a sticker on each product instruct you to disconnect the fuel line from the propane tank after each use. If you don't, the trimmer might leak and create a safety hazard.

When considering string trimmers, buy a model that not only feels right in your hand but also does the best job, considering your property's needs and your budget. For the most power against the toughest growth, the Stihl HomeScaper Series FS 45, $150, and FS 45 C Easy2Start, $170 (full ratings available to subscribers) remain among our top picks.—Ed Perratore | e-mail | Twitter | Forums | Facebook

Essential information: Check out our free buyer's guide to string trimmers and make easier work of fall cleanup and end-of-season equipment maintenance.

Comments

[Eric]

I don't know how CR can continue ranking the Black & Decker GH1000 as the top model in electric trimmers. I bought one on their recommendation and had nothing but trouble with it. My model # wasn't included in the two previous recalls, but I bet it's only a matter of time since I had the same troubles. I had 3 guards (replaced for free) b/c the holes kept melting out. The line feed mechanism is horrible. I spent more time trying to get line to come out, or put it back on the spool, than I ever did trimming! I finally gave up and went for the gas powered Stihl - a product line I KNOW works based on past experience. Read other comments from uses about the GH1000 (grass hog) on CR's site - you'll see the same experiences.