7 Best String Trimmer Heads of 2023 – Reviews & Buying Guide. Universal string trimmer head
Best String Trimmer Heads of 2023 – Reviews Buying Guide
To have a well-maintained garden and lawn, you need to use various tools. Having the right tool can greatly enhance your gardening experience.
A string trimmer is an essential tool for any garden. It is important that the trimmer head is in good working condition in order to effectively use the trimmer.
In this article, we will be reviewing the best string trimmer head models available on the market. These models can assist you with various gardening tasks such as trimming overgrown grass on the sides of your lawn or eliminating weeds.
Without further ado, let’s get started with our list of top-rated models.
Husqvarna 966674401 T25 String Trimmer Head
Tanaka 32308 No Brainer Quick Load String Trimmer Head
Grass Gator 4680 Heavy Duty String Trimmer Head
Husqvarna 537388101 Universal T35 String Trimmer Head
Echo 78890-21001E Spring Trimmer Head
Weed Warrior EZ Lock String Trimmer Head
Handy Camel Universal String Trimmer Head
Best String Trimmer Heads. Reviews
#1. Husqvarna 966674401 T25 String Trimmer Head
Editor’s Rating: (4.5 / 5)
The brand Husqvarna is recognized as one of the leading brands in the market to manufacture high quality garden tools.
This little head is a great product for the new users as well as for the professionals. This reel is very convenient to reload.
Because of the cap on the bump head, you don’t have to turn the head upside down to make replacement.
Also, the spool has split design that reduce line welding and tangling. Plus, there are arrows crafted at the head to give you direction of winding the string.
This model can hold 0.065 inch, 0.080 inch or 0.095 inch gauge trimmer line conveniently. Also, this trimmer head is very easy to use.
You make have the trimmer from any other brand as well and the head will seamlessly fit. Some of the compatible brands are Echo, STIHL, and RedMax as well.
Any other brand whose products have straight shanks can use this trimmer head. Also, this model comes adapters of different sizes so that it can fit most of the trimmers available in the market.
#2. Tanaka 32308 No Brainer Quick Load String Trimmer Head
Editor’s Rating: (4.2 / 5)
Next in our list is this extremely basic model from Tanaka. This brand is relatively new in the market but their products are praise worthy.
The profile of this model is really small with quick load string that you can wind effortlessly on the trimmer head.
This model is no brainer as you can insert the line with a push of a button. There is nothing very unique about the winding of the string in this trimmer head.
This one can hold 0.080 inch to 0.115 inch gauge trimmer line conveniently. Also, this trimmer head is very easy to use.
But at the same time, it is not suitable for the commercial users because of its smaller size and single line head.
The trimmer head is compatible with 95% of the brands selling their trimmers in the market, irrespective of the power type.
Certainly, the trimmer head is a great model to purchase in the market and attach to a decent working trimmer to get rid of weed and soft overgrown grass from your yard.
#3. Grass Gator 4680 Heavy Duty String Trimmer Head
Editor’s Rating: (4.2 / 5)
If you are looking for the most cost-effective trimmer head in the market then we present you this model from Grass Gator.
HOW TO: Easily Restring An EGO String Trimmer Head #shorts
This one is heavier than the others in the range because it is made of steel. About the size, this head is available in medium size that can be good for medium sized lawns.
One thing that you must know is that the trimmer head is best suited for gas powered trimmers and is compatible with different brand trimmers in the market.
The performance of this trimmer is really appreciable. Plus, you can rest assured that this trimmer works with your trimmer model from brands like Cadet, Toro, Poulan, John Deer, etc.
This model is also the first commercial trimmer head in our list that is preferred by the contractors because it make cutting grass and weed very easy.
The trimmer head is suitable for engines that are 25 cc or more in power. This can clearly state that this product is extremely powerful and suitable for bigger gardens and lawns.
#4. Husqvarna 537388101 Universal T35 String Trimmer Head
Editor’s Rating: (4.2 / 5)
Again, we come with another amazing model from Husqvarna. This brand has great goodwill in the market for the quality manufacturing of the products.
The profile of this model is really small and it is very easy to use. Technically, this is one of the best trimmer heads in the market
The winding mechanism of this trimmer does not require a lot of prior knowledge about it. There is nothing very unique about the winding of the string in this trimmer head.
This model can hold 0.080 inch to 0.095 inch gauge trimmer line conveniently. Also, this trimmer head has simple mechanism of usage.
Just like the previous model from Husqvarna, the head is also not suitable for the commercial users because of its smaller size and single line head.
The trimmer head is compatible with 95% of the brands selling their trimmers in the market, irrespective of the power type.
#5. Echo 78890-21001E Spring Trimmer Head
Editor’s Rating: (4.2 / 5)
This model from Echo is a great commercial trimmer head which makes a perfect addition to your garden tools.
This head is of medium size that is why it is compatible for commercial use. Also, the assembling of the head string is very convenient which takes less than 30 seconds or less.
The winding of the string is very simple in this trimmer head and it does not require any disassembly.
Furthermore, this is a heavy duty product that is compatible with gas powered models with minimum power of 25 cc.
Thus, this product is extremely high in performance. Also, it fits all kind of trimmer brands available in the market due to the multiple adapters available with it.
The maximum line size compatible with it is 0.130 inch. That is why, this one is an amazing product for professional use.
#6. Weed Warrior EZ Lock String Trimmer Head
Editor’s Rating: (4 / 5)
Next, we have got this highly efficient model from Weed Warrior which is suitable for small to medium sized yards.
You can consider this one as a semi-commercial model because of its efficiency. It cuts with 4 lines which is very easy to wind.
Plus, the quick and easy line loads prevent the tangling of string on the spool. This is due to the sectioning of the inner part of the head that the string does not tangle and hinder the working.
Although this is a manual feed head but the winding is pretty simple. The EZ lock replacement trimmer head allows for less stops to change line.
This model is compatible with 99% of all gas curved and straight shaft trimmers. You will find this model extremely powerful since it can work with the gas powered trimmers.
#7. Handy Camel Universal String Trimmer Head
Editor’s Rating: (3.5 / 5)
Last model in our list is from Handy Camel which is an amazing brand that manufactures high quality string trimmer heads.
Now, about the features, first of all, there is no need for winding in this model as you can simply insert the line in the eyelids.
This one comes with various tools but the assembling is very easy. In order to make no mistakes, you can read the manual that comes along with the product.
The reload can be done in seconds and it is no rocket science to make the adjustments in the trimmer head. Also, this one is compatible with all the leading trimmers available in the market.
This model is the simplest yet one of the powerful universal string trimmer head that you will simply love to have around in your garden tool kit.
How to Buy the Best String Trimmer Heads
A trimmer head is the most important component of a string trimmer. It is the place where you put the strings that cut the overgrown cultivation and kill the weed.
These days, you can also buy best universal string trimmer heads that accommodate different tools such as string as well as blades to make themselves more useful to the landscapers.
After determining the need of your garden, one can make a purchase. But for all kind of buyers, there are certain tips that can help them in making right purchase.
#1. Type of String Trimmer Head
The initial factor that you need to consider is the type of head that you are buying. Primarily, there are 3 main types of string trimmer heads available in the market.
All these different types of heads are suitable for different trimming situations. Let’s read more about them below:
Fixed/Line Head: This type requires you to thread individual lines in the head rather than winding the entire spool.
Basically, this type is best suitable for the commercial users that need to use thicker lines. Because of the fact that thick lines do not break very soon, you can escape changing them after every usage.
This way, the maintenance is less and thus this type is proven to be the most favourable for professional landscapers.
Bump Feed: This type requires winding of the lines on the spool through the opening in the head.
Feeding of new lines as you cut is convenient because you just have to bump the head on the ground.
This one is pretty simple and easy to use. That is why, it is very popular among the home users with smaller yards and sideways.
Because of the constant bumping of the head, you will have to replace the strings more often than all other kinds of strimmer trimmer heads.
Automatic Feed: The contemporary trimmers have automatic feed that do not require manual feeding of the line.
This type consists of line spooling motor which pulls out the line without stopping the cutting. However, you may find this one a little expensive and replacement could be troublesome.
Buying Advice: Different type of string trimmer heads has different winding mechanism. If you don’t mind spending an extra buck then you must make your work easy and buy automatic feed.
But because bump feed type is easiest to wind, you can consider buying it as well because they are available at a cheaper rate. And trust us, they are not too complex to set.
#2. Shape and Grass Thickness
Second thing that you need to determine is the grass type and thickness in order to purchase the right product.
Please note that string trimmers are ideal for soft crops and plantation while the best string trimmer replacement head give you the option of changing strings with blades.
If you have all kind of branches and side overgrown grass then you need to purchase a product that gives you the option of changing strings and blades.
This way, you will be able to handle thickest grass as well to cut the weed effortlessly.
Size of the head is also very crucial while making a purchase and it depends on the size of the yard. Smaller head is good for the smaller yards as they can handle less amount of work.
At the same time, for larger yards, you will need a trimmer head which has over 0.1 inch diameter. So, all in all, the size of the garden gets to decide the size of head needed.
#4. Single or Dual Line Head
There are also other two types of heads available in the market namely single line or dual line. Both the types have their own merits and demerits that must be considered before you make purchase.
In single line head winding new trimmer line is convenient but at the same time the grass is not cut very swiftly. Also, these trimmer heads are not suitable for professionals.
The dual line trimmer head cut the branches and grass very quickly and finishes the job soon. However, winding the line is difficult in this case and requires some efforts.
You can buy the best string trimmer replacement head from the market but it will be sheer waste if the product is not compatible with your trimmer.
We highly insist our readers to read all the specifications given along with the product to make sure that the particular product is compatible with the trimmer that you have.
These days, the manufacturers are very particular about the trimmer head that they make and also manufacture them in a way that they are compatible with regular gas and electric trimmers.
How to Install a String Trimmer Head
For all those that are installing a string trimmer head for the first time, let us tell you that it could be tricky. Here we will try to simplify the task as much as we can:
#1. Prepare the String Trimmer Line
A 10 feet long string is used in a string trimmer. First you need to cut the string to the half of 5 feet each. You can also use twin strand split line.
#2. Disassemble the Cutting Head
Of the trimmer head, take apart the cutting head by unscrewing the bump knob and removing the inner wheel and spring.
On the top of the inner reel, you will find tiny two holes. This is where you have to insert both ends of the line. Then, simply pull the line through and leave some 2-3 inches outside.
Now, simply loop the short ends of the line through the other hole while pulling the long ends in order to close the loop.
Now, you have to wind the loop around the wheel towards the direction of the arrow. You may have to apply some pressure in order to securely and evenly wind the loop.
As soon as some 6 inches of the line is left, push each string in the holding slot that is marked 0.95 inch.
Now, once you are done with the process by far, simply place the spring back on the shaft.
#7. Cross the line through the eyelets
Now, you have to find the eyelets on the spring head and pass the strings through. These are the part of strings that will do all the cutting and cleaning task.
Now, you can place back the reel on the shaft and set the alignment of the holding slots. For this, you have to compress the spring and tighten the bump knob.
Now, gently pull the lines to ensure that they are released conveniently. Once done with this much, you are good to take the trimmer out for cleaning the garden.
Make sure that bump head of the trimmer is in fine working condition.
Conclusion
As we conclude this string trimmer head review, we would like to say that a trimmer is of no use without an ideal head attached to it.
If you wish to make a safe purchase then you must refer the tips that we have shared above. over, we give you perfect suggestion of the products that you can buy.
Check out the above mentioned products in order to make secure purchase because all the models that we have discussed above are the leading ones in the market.
So, be sure and proceed with the purchases. Happy Shopping!
Best String Trimmer Heads of 2023 – Reviews Buying Guide
To have a well-maintained garden and lawn, you need to use various tools. Having the right tool can greatly enhance your gardening experience.
A string trimmer is an essential tool for any garden. It is important that the trimmer head is in good working condition in order to effectively use the trimmer.
In this article, we will be reviewing the best string trimmer head models available on the market. These models can assist you with various gardening tasks such as trimming overgrown grass on the sides of your lawn or eliminating weeds.
Without further ado, let’s get started with our list of top-rated models.
Husqvarna 966674401 T25 String Trimmer Head
Tanaka 32308 No Brainer Quick Load String Trimmer Head
Grass Gator 4680 Heavy Duty String Trimmer Head
Husqvarna 537388101 Universal T35 String Trimmer Head
Echo 78890-21001E Spring Trimmer Head
Weed Warrior EZ Lock String Trimmer Head
Handy Camel Universal String Trimmer Head
Best String Trimmer Heads. Reviews
#1. Husqvarna 966674401 T25 String Trimmer Head
Editor’s Rating: (4.5 / 5)
The brand Husqvarna is recognized as one of the leading brands in the market to manufacture high quality garden tools.
This little head is a great product for the new users as well as for the professionals. This reel is very convenient to reload.
Because of the cap on the bump head, you don’t have to turn the head upside down to make replacement.
Also, the spool has split design that reduce line welding and tangling. Plus, there are arrows crafted at the head to give you direction of winding the string.
This model can hold 0.065 inch, 0.080 inch or 0.095 inch gauge trimmer line conveniently. Also, this trimmer head is very easy to use.
You make have the trimmer from any other brand as well and the head will seamlessly fit. Some of the compatible brands are Echo, STIHL, and RedMax as well.
Any other brand whose products have straight shanks can use this trimmer head. Also, this model comes adapters of different sizes so that it can fit most of the trimmers available in the market.
#2. Tanaka 32308 No Brainer Quick Load String Trimmer Head
Editor’s Rating: (4.2 / 5)
Next in our list is this extremely basic model from Tanaka. This brand is relatively new in the market but their products are praise worthy.
The profile of this model is really small with quick load string that you can wind effortlessly on the trimmer head.
This model is no brainer as you can insert the line with a push of a button. There is nothing very unique about the winding of the string in this trimmer head.
This one can hold 0.080 inch to 0.115 inch gauge trimmer line conveniently. Also, this trimmer head is very easy to use.
The BEST TRIMMER HEAD ever made! How to install a Universal Speed Feed on most any trimmer.
But at the same time, it is not suitable for the commercial users because of its smaller size and single line head.
The trimmer head is compatible with 95% of the brands selling their trimmers in the market, irrespective of the power type.
Certainly, the trimmer head is a great model to purchase in the market and attach to a decent working trimmer to get rid of weed and soft overgrown grass from your yard.
#3. Grass Gator 4680 Heavy Duty String Trimmer Head
Editor’s Rating: (4.2 / 5)
If you are looking for the most cost-effective trimmer head in the market then we present you this model from Grass Gator.
This one is heavier than the others in the range because it is made of steel. About the size, this head is available in medium size that can be good for medium sized lawns.
One thing that you must know is that the trimmer head is best suited for gas powered trimmers and is compatible with different brand trimmers in the market.
The performance of this trimmer is really appreciable. Plus, you can rest assured that this trimmer works with your trimmer model from brands like Cadet, Toro, Poulan, John Deer, etc.
This model is also the first commercial trimmer head in our list that is preferred by the contractors because it make cutting grass and weed very easy.
The trimmer head is suitable for engines that are 25 cc or more in power. This can clearly state that this product is extremely powerful and suitable for bigger gardens and lawns.
#4. Husqvarna 537388101 Universal T35 String Trimmer Head
Editor’s Rating: (4.2 / 5)
Again, we come with another amazing model from Husqvarna. This brand has great goodwill in the market for the quality manufacturing of the products.
The profile of this model is really small and it is very easy to use. Technically, this is one of the best trimmer heads in the market
The winding mechanism of this trimmer does not require a lot of prior knowledge about it. There is nothing very unique about the winding of the string in this trimmer head.
This model can hold 0.080 inch to 0.095 inch gauge trimmer line conveniently. Also, this trimmer head has simple mechanism of usage.
Just like the previous model from Husqvarna, the head is also not suitable for the commercial users because of its smaller size and single line head.
The trimmer head is compatible with 95% of the brands selling their trimmers in the market, irrespective of the power type.
#5. Echo 78890-21001E Spring Trimmer Head
Editor’s Rating: (4.2 / 5)
This model from Echo is a great commercial trimmer head which makes a perfect addition to your garden tools.
This head is of medium size that is why it is compatible for commercial use. Also, the assembling of the head string is very convenient which takes less than 30 seconds or less.
The winding of the string is very simple in this trimmer head and it does not require any disassembly.
Furthermore, this is a heavy duty product that is compatible with gas powered models with minimum power of 25 cc.
Thus, this product is extremely high in performance. Also, it fits all kind of trimmer brands available in the market due to the multiple adapters available with it.
The maximum line size compatible with it is 0.130 inch. That is why, this one is an amazing product for professional use.
#6. Weed Warrior EZ Lock String Trimmer Head
Editor’s Rating: (4 / 5)
Next, we have got this highly efficient model from Weed Warrior which is suitable for small to medium sized yards.
You can consider this one as a semi-commercial model because of its efficiency. It cuts with 4 lines which is very easy to wind.
Plus, the quick and easy line loads prevent the tangling of string on the spool. This is due to the sectioning of the inner part of the head that the string does not tangle and hinder the working.
Although this is a manual feed head but the winding is pretty simple. The EZ lock replacement trimmer head allows for less stops to change line.
This model is compatible with 99% of all gas curved and straight shaft trimmers. You will find this model extremely powerful since it can work with the gas powered trimmers.
#7. Handy Camel Universal String Trimmer Head
Editor’s Rating: (3.5 / 5)
Last model in our list is from Handy Camel which is an amazing brand that manufactures high quality string trimmer heads.
Now, about the features, first of all, there is no need for winding in this model as you can simply insert the line in the eyelids.
This one comes with various tools but the assembling is very easy. In order to make no mistakes, you can read the manual that comes along with the product.
The reload can be done in seconds and it is no rocket science to make the adjustments in the trimmer head. Also, this one is compatible with all the leading trimmers available in the market.
This model is the simplest yet one of the powerful universal string trimmer head that you will simply love to have around in your garden tool kit.
How to Buy the Best String Trimmer Heads
A trimmer head is the most important component of a string trimmer. It is the place where you put the strings that cut the overgrown cultivation and kill the weed.
These days, you can also buy best universal string trimmer heads that accommodate different tools such as string as well as blades to make themselves more useful to the landscapers.
After determining the need of your garden, one can make a purchase. But for all kind of buyers, there are certain tips that can help them in making right purchase.
#1. Type of String Trimmer Head
The initial factor that you need to consider is the type of head that you are buying. Primarily, there are 3 main types of string trimmer heads available in the market.
All these different types of heads are suitable for different trimming situations. Let’s read more about them below:
Fixed/Line Head: This type requires you to thread individual lines in the head rather than winding the entire spool.
Basically, this type is best suitable for the commercial users that need to use thicker lines. Because of the fact that thick lines do not break very soon, you can escape changing them after every usage.
This way, the maintenance is less and thus this type is proven to be the most favourable for professional landscapers.
Bump Feed: This type requires winding of the lines on the spool through the opening in the head.
Feeding of new lines as you cut is convenient because you just have to bump the head on the ground.
This one is pretty simple and easy to use. That is why, it is very popular among the home users with smaller yards and sideways.
Because of the constant bumping of the head, you will have to replace the strings more often than all other kinds of strimmer trimmer heads.
Automatic Feed: The contemporary trimmers have automatic feed that do not require manual feeding of the line.
This type consists of line spooling motor which pulls out the line without stopping the cutting. However, you may find this one a little expensive and replacement could be troublesome.
Buying Advice: Different type of string trimmer heads has different winding mechanism. If you don’t mind spending an extra buck then you must make your work easy and buy automatic feed.
But because bump feed type is easiest to wind, you can consider buying it as well because they are available at a cheaper rate. And trust us, they are not too complex to set.
#2. Shape and Grass Thickness
Second thing that you need to determine is the grass type and thickness in order to purchase the right product.
Please note that string trimmers are ideal for soft crops and plantation while the best string trimmer replacement head give you the option of changing strings with blades.
If you have all kind of branches and side overgrown grass then you need to purchase a product that gives you the option of changing strings and blades.
This way, you will be able to handle thickest grass as well to cut the weed effortlessly.
Size of the head is also very crucial while making a purchase and it depends on the size of the yard. Smaller head is good for the smaller yards as they can handle less amount of work.
At the same time, for larger yards, you will need a trimmer head which has over 0.1 inch diameter. So, all in all, the size of the garden gets to decide the size of head needed.
#4. Single or Dual Line Head
There are also other two types of heads available in the market namely single line or dual line. Both the types have their own merits and demerits that must be considered before you make purchase.
In single line head winding new trimmer line is convenient but at the same time the grass is not cut very swiftly. Also, these trimmer heads are not suitable for professionals.
The dual line trimmer head cut the branches and grass very quickly and finishes the job soon. However, winding the line is difficult in this case and requires some efforts.
You can buy the best string trimmer replacement head from the market but it will be sheer waste if the product is not compatible with your trimmer.
We highly insist our readers to read all the specifications given along with the product to make sure that the particular product is compatible with the trimmer that you have.
These days, the manufacturers are very particular about the trimmer head that they make and also manufacture them in a way that they are compatible with regular gas and electric trimmers.
How to Install a String Trimmer Head
For all those that are installing a string trimmer head for the first time, let us tell you that it could be tricky. Here we will try to simplify the task as much as we can:
#1. Prepare the String Trimmer Line
A 10 feet long string is used in a string trimmer. First you need to cut the string to the half of 5 feet each. You can also use twin strand split line.
#2. Disassemble the Cutting Head
Of the trimmer head, take apart the cutting head by unscrewing the bump knob and removing the inner wheel and spring.
On the top of the inner reel, you will find tiny two holes. This is where you have to insert both ends of the line. Then, simply pull the line through and leave some 2-3 inches outside.
Now, simply loop the short ends of the line through the other hole while pulling the long ends in order to close the loop.
Now, you have to wind the loop around the wheel towards the direction of the arrow. You may have to apply some pressure in order to securely and evenly wind the loop.
As soon as some 6 inches of the line is left, push each string in the holding slot that is marked 0.95 inch.
Now, once you are done with the process by far, simply place the spring back on the shaft.
#7. Cross the line through the eyelets
Now, you have to find the eyelets on the spring head and pass the strings through. These are the part of strings that will do all the cutting and cleaning task.
Now, you can place back the reel on the shaft and set the alignment of the holding slots. For this, you have to compress the spring and tighten the bump knob.
Now, gently pull the lines to ensure that they are released conveniently. Once done with this much, you are good to take the trimmer out for cleaning the garden.
Make sure that bump head of the trimmer is in fine working condition.
Conclusion
As we conclude this string trimmer head review, we would like to say that a trimmer is of no use without an ideal head attached to it.
If you wish to make a safe purchase then you must refer the tips that we have shared above. over, we give you perfect suggestion of the products that you can buy.
Check out the above mentioned products in order to make secure purchase because all the models that we have discussed above are the leading ones in the market.
So, be sure and proceed with the purchases. Happy Shopping!
Shakespeare 2-in-1 Universal Trimmer Head for Blade and Line
This item is not currently available for immediate purchase, but can be ordered by visiting the selected store.
◊ Information regarding the delivery method for your purchase:
Pick-up in store: Most orders will be ready for pickup within 24 hours of order. Some orders may take up to 7-14 days (where inventory is not available in store). You will be notified by email when your order is ready for pick-up. Once you arrive at the store, you can pick-up your order inside the store or use our curbside pick-up (available at participating stores only). You will find all the information on the procedure and the participating stores list here.
Parcel shipping: Most orders will ship next business day. Some orders may take up to 7-14 days (where inventory is not available in store). Delivery time may vary due to factors beyond our control. You will receive an email when your order has shipped.
RONA truck delivery: Our expert center will contact you to book an appointment in approximately 24-72 hours for appliance delivery and 24 hours for the delivery of other types of products. Delivery only include curbside delivery, except for appliances. Delivery service is only available within a 50 km radius from the selected store. Additional charges may apply for installation. For appliances, accessories required for installation must be provided by the customer. The delay for delivery is an estimate and may vary according to the availability of products, or due to other circumstances beyond our control. We will not leave deliveries at an unattended site – note that additional delivery charges may apply for subsequent delivery attempts.
Product specifications
Includes 6 strips of Ugly Line (0.095-in line), 3 nylon blades, and an adapter kit for easy installation
Will this fit a Troy Built TB304C EC
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Rated 5 out of 5 by VAGeek from The only trimmer head I use now I go through so much line I got sick of re-wrapping the stock bump heads, so I tried probably 6 different third party heads till I got to this one. I pair it with.095 silver line and I can get about 8 cuts from a set of line and then I just keep a bunch of pre-cut line (I made a jig to make it quick), and fold and push three pieces in minutes, then 8-10 more cuts. Easy peasy. The only thing to take care on, it is a consumer level product so don’t be bouncing the housing off of rock and expect it to last long. I’ve gotten these the last 5 seasons and only on my second one so I’ll keep buying as long as they keep making them.
Rated 4 out of 5 by Fredio from This thing is amazing. BUT Best trimmer head I’ve ever used! Easy to load, tackles the toughest grass and small shrubs and the “give way” feature of the line holder saves your line against hard surfaces like cement. BUT. it’s not technically a “universal” fit. Of course, nothing universal really is without some MacGuyvering. It took a bit of engineering to get it to fit my el cheapo Homelite trimmer, but all the parts were there to make it work and work safely. Once I got it installed, man does it kick butt! Looking forward to trying the blades next. I don’t have too much use for those, but maybe I can practice on my neighbors yard. 😉
Rated 1 out of 5 by Michael from Good Luck The Ugly head worked for several times (I remember less than 6x). (Purchased 4-30-14, installed late May, contacted customer service about the plastic adapter that melted from the bolt head causing the head not to spin on 7-12-14. The customer service rep. would not stand behind the company warranty and did not offer anything paid or not. Incidentally, it was used on an Echo string trimmer along a highway (in town), where sand and small rock used in ice/snow removal must have scratched the head. After submitting photos, this was the reason given. It maybe adequate for grass just not tough weeds or when edging along a curb.
Rated 4 out of 5 by Dispatcher-Joe from The plastic blades work pretty well. I used them to cut down my corn stalks from last year prior to tilling my garden. When I tilled the area, the corn stubble was virtually gone. Last year, I had a lot of big pieces of corn stalk that had to be removed prior to planting. Instead of buying the pre-cut string, I purchased an entire spool for a lot less money. I built a jig for cutting the string that cuts 50 pieces at a time. Pretty easy to make with a scrap 2X4, 2 screws and a few staples.
Rated 1 out of 5 by DSSBedford from Poor Design Customer Service I purchased this at the end of last season and after only 2 uses the plastic shaft adapter rounded out. It was nearly impossible to get back off the trimmer to replace being stripped. Lowes was very good about replacing it for a new one. With approx 3 uses between last year and this year on the replacement it did the same thing. Called the Mfg directly and they said they only offer 90 days of support so all they could do is sell me a new one. When I asked if this is a reoccuring problem his reply was “we’re sorry you’re having difficulties, would you like to buy a new one”. When it works it does work well but I need something that will last more than 2 or 3 uses.
Rated 5 out of 5 by msbrownslc from Finally! I am an avid lawnmower who has been through many different trimmer heads and trimmers. I am currently using (and love) the STIHL combi-tool. I was not, however, in love with the bump and feed trimmer head provided by STIHL. This is my second Shakespeare Ugly Line Head and boy is it better. It’s easy to use, the line doesn’t break and it installs easily on most trimmers. If you are frustrated beyond belief with trimmer head and line breakage issues, this is the head for you. It’s no joke, it gets the job done. The line doesn’t break the minute you hit a fence or rock, etc. I can usually trim the whole yard without having to stop. It’s a lifesaver, a time saver. Thanks to this trimmer head, the profanity that used to come out of my mouth while trimming has ceased, which I’m sure the neighbors with small children appreciate. If you’re looking for a solution, this is it.
Rated 5 out of 5 by Dennis from Well-built This is a better trimmer head than the previous model. The string holders have metal pins in them instead of plastic, and the ability to use plastic blades for heavier weeds is a bonus. Very easy to install on my RYOBI trimmer. The line that is supplied with the head is not very strong, and I had to replace it after very little trimming. Do yourself a favor and buy the premium line and cut it to length.
Rated 5 out of 5 by iam4ralph from Works Great This trimmer head was very easy to install, screw one off and the new one on. I also like the fact that it’s two heads in one. You can use line or the plastic trimmer blades without having to change heads. With both heads in one this was a very good bargain.
- Shakespeare 2-in-1 Universal Trimmer Head for Blade and Line Reviews. page 2
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Standardizing String Trimmer Heads
As much as we love our string trimmers, some of us wonder why there aren’t more customizable options for such a multifunctional tool. This uncertainty prevails especially as it pertains to string trimmer heads. “Why isn’t there a universal standard for our string trimmer heads?” We, at OPEReviews.com, get asked this question quite a bit. So, in response, we thought we’d take a stab at answering that question.
Why Isn’t There A Universal Standard?
Gas-Powered String Trimmer Heads
If you find that you’ve asked this question before, the chances are good that you’re using either a corded or cordless electric trimmer. The truth is that gas-powered string trimmers, such as the Husqvarna 525LS String Trimmer, don’t generally suffer from having a lack of options. While there isn’t necessarily a universal standard in the gas-powered world, switching out string trimmer heads, line gauges and shapes, blade attachments, etc., don’t tend to be much of a problem.
This is especially the case with pro-grade string trimmers. Basically, as long as the string trimmer head is compatible with the arbor bolt coming out of the trimmer, the combustion going on in the gas engine will be more than enough to power any gauge string or attachment you might want to use.
Electric Trimmers
This becomes more of an issue when it comes to electric string trimmers. Many cordless heads cannot be upgraded to professional grade heads, or replaced if the trimmer head breaks. Most electric string trimmers are relegated to the world of light gauge trimmer string. Bladed attachments generally don’t work for the electric string trimmer either. Why is this? There are probably a few reasons why there isn’t a universal standard for electric string trimmer heads.
Corded Trimmers
In the case of the corded string trimmer, the reason might just have to do with the quality of the trimmer. Corded trimmers handle the needs of the homeowner with a smallish lot, but don’t tackle too much beyond that. They’re generally the cheapest of the string trimmer options, and the quality and customization of these units reflect that. Suffice to say that corded string trimmers generally aren’t designed to handle anything but light-duty work.
Battery-Powered Trimmers
This is not the case with a lot of cordless models. Many of the battery-powered, cordless string trimmers have the requisite quality to handle some professional applications, but the problem comes from the design. Most cordless string trimmer heads come “hard-wired” to the unit, rather than being attached by an arbor bolt. A lot of the time, this happens because the motor for the trimmer is placed at the bottom of the shaft, with the head mounted directly to it.
Also, electric motors just don’t produce the kind of power that a gas engine will. Electric motors, particularly from the cordless market, prioritize efficiency over power in an effort to improve runtime and vibration control. Therefore, the head that comes with the trimmer is specifically attuned to that model. Weight, speed, and the wind resistance of a particular gauge of string all factor into the software of the unit. Having the capability to customize the trimmer head, or to string up a thicker gauge line, would inevitably throw the head out of balance. This could cause much more vibration or potential breakage. Ultimately, one of the big reasons for not having a universal standard, at this point, seems to revolve around the delicate and proprietary systems of cordless electric trimmers.
Final Thoughts
To sum it all up, there might not be a universal standard for string trimmer heads. But, if you work with gas powered trimmers, it shouldn’t matter all that much. As long as your arbor bolt and upgrades are compatible, you ought to be good to go. Even this isn’t much of a problem, as arbor bolt adapters are widely available.
The problem with universalizing string trimmer heads in the electric world has to do with performance from model to model. Since each manufacturer optimizes a trimmer to specific cutting head specifications, any deviance from that spec could ruin the trimmer. Plus, battery-powered trimmers tend to have their cutting heads mounted directly to their motors, making customization impossible.
Perhaps cordless manufacturers could eventually establish a standard. The cordless tool market keeps seeing continual improvement, with electric motors becoming more powerful and efficient. It does seem unlikely, however, at least in the near future. As manufacturers continually improve their own proprietary platforms, there might not be much incentive to universalize parts. Though making a cutting head upgradeable in the electric market seems like a good inroad to more professional functionality, it seems like all we can do is dream. At least for the time being.