Buying guide for best Husqvarna weed eaters. Gasoline Husqvarna weed eater

Buying guide for best Husqvarna weed eaters

You’ve probably heard of Husqvarna when it it comes to heavy-duty powered lawn, forest, and other outdoor equipment. Maybe you even know someone who owns a mower or chainsaw by the brand. But did you know that Husqvarna also makes tools to banish weeds and keep your lawn looking perfectly manicured?

If you have a lot of land to maintain or a minimal backyard, Husqvarna makes a weed eater that will help you keep your property looking its best. From affordable, mid-powered machines to serious lawn tools, there’s a Husqvarna weed eater with the features and functions that will make tending to weed-control chores fast and efficient. But how to choose the right model?

The dedicated team at BestReviews has researched Husqvarna’s weed eaters so you can find the perfect match for your needs. Read our shopping guide for some tips and tricks to help you choose.

In researching Husqvarna weed trimmers, we consider models that are lightweight and user-friendly enough to use for typical lawn cutting and weed clearing.

When we research Husqvarna weed eaters, we evaluate their maneuverability and leverage by comparing shaft options. Users can choose between straight or curved shafts, or even telescopic or adjustable shafts.

How a Husqvarna weed eater is powered is a key consideration in our research. Battery-powered models are quieter and weigh less, but they are better for small jobs. Gas-powered models offer more horsepower, but they also weigh more.

During our research, we look for Husqvarna weed trimmers that can handle heavy-duty jobs like clearing brush and thick growth.

In researching Husqvarna weed trimmers, we evaluate their fuel efficiency, particularly the more eco-friendly X-Torq engines.

We pay special attention to the handles during our research. We want to know if Husqvarna’s adjustable handles and soft coverings lead to a comfortable user experience.

When we research Husqvarna weed eaters, we consider the kinds of features residential users are looking for compared to professional landscapers. For example, gas-powered weed trimmers can run for a long time, but they may be too heavy for some users.

During our research, we note how easy Husqvarna weed eaters are to start and, if they’re gas-powered, how easy they are to correctly fill with gas and oil.

We take into account how heavy a Husqvarna weed eater is during our research. Battery-powered models are lighter in weight and vibrate less, while gas-powered ones, though powerful, are heavier and vibrate more.

We consider the charging capabilities of battery-powered Husqvarna weed trimmers during our research. We want to find out how quickly they charge and how durable their chargers are.

Husqvarna weed eater features to consider

Although Husqvarna is known for its high-powered lawn and property-maintaining equipment, the tools the company manufactures for the average homeowner are just as reliable and durable. Its line of weed eaters is no different. For the thickest weeds and more challenging maintenance tasks, Husqvarna’s professional line trimmers are built for heavy-duty work. These reliable machines are designed to handle a variety of tasks and are compatible with different attachments. There is a gas- or battery-powered model to fit nearly every weed-clearing need.

Battery

When it comes to average use, such as weekly lawn cutting or clearing small weeds along a fence line, Husqvarna offers several battery-powered weed eaters. These models use less energy and are easier to maneuver for the occasional user.

• Lighter weight
• Less vibration
• Easier to handle
• Good for light-duty landscaping
• Energy efficient
• Quieter
• Lower price (most models)

Gas

For more frequent trimming needs or even the professional landscaper, Husqvarna makes gas-powered weed eaters that have more horsepower for cutting through taller, thicker growth. These models are also suitable for property owners who have large swaths of land that frequently need to be cleared of brush.

• powerful
• Not limited to battery life
• Cuts through thicker weeds
• Models with different horsepower to fit different jobs

After researching 32 different hot roller sets over the course of 52 hours, we picked our top five to recommend. We also purchased our favorite and tested it hands on.

Smart Start engine

Husqvarna designs each engine and starter to work together to start quickly so you can get to your work when you’re ready.

Comfortable handles

If your hands are uncomfortable or you don’t have a firm grip, you can’t trim weeds effectively. To help prevent these common occurrences, Husqvarna has designed their weed eater handles to fit nicely in the hand. With soft coatings and adjustable mechanisms, nearly everyone can achieve a comfortable grip.

Convenience

For consumers who prefer a battery-powered trimmer, Husqvarna offers durable chargers and reliable Li-ion batteries that charge quickly.

Shaft options

Choose a Husqvarna weed eater with a long, straight shaft if you need the added length and superior leverage offered by these tools. Or choose a model with a curved shaft if manageability and a lighter weight are your preferences. Some weed eaters also feature telescopic or adjustable shafts to fit various users and trimming tasks.

Fuel efficiency

Each Husqvarna weed eater is designed to save energy. While the battery-operated models are the most eco-friendly, the brand’s X-Torq engines are efficient and made to put out minimal emissions.

Husqvarna weed eater prices

Husqvarna weed eaters vary in price, from about 160 to 480, depending on the model and features you need.

Inexpensive: For about 160 to 200, you can find both battery- and gas-powered models for weed control in small to midsize areas.

Mid-range: If you want a weed eater with a bit more power that’s capable of handling larger yards and some mid-level professional lawn care duties, expect to pay between 200 and 300.

Expensive: For between 300 and 480, you can find the most powerful models offered by the brand, including professional-grade tools made for large properties and commercial use.

FAQ

Q. How reliable is the string feed function on Husqvarna weed eaters?

A. Issues with trimming line, or string, not working properly is a common concern when using weed eaters. Husqvarna has addressed this concern with string feed that works quickly and effectively in most weed trimming situations. In addition, once you complete your trimming work, the automatic Return/Stop switch keeps your line in order and ready to use for your next job.

Q. I own a landscaping business. What are some features I should look for in a weed eater?

A. Because you’ll encounter all types of weed-control issues in your business, versatile features will be important to you. A gas-powered trimmer can run for longer periods and handle small to large jobs. If you plan to do more than just manicure lawns, more horsepower will give you an advantage. Additionally, adjustable handles and shafts will help you increase your reach as needed and make transporting your equipment easier.

Q. What’s the difference between curved and straight shafts when it comes to maneuverability?

Husqvarna balance XT harness review

A. If you’re a smaller individual or have limited arm or hand strength, a model with a curved shaft is a good option because the contoured design makes it easier to use. However, if you need optimal power or are taller, consider one of the brand’s straight-shaft models because these are built for heavy-duty weed control and are better suited to taller users.

Husqvarna 128LD Review

Our rating: Very good

Customer rating: 700 reviews

The Husqvarna 128LDX is a quality gas weed eater – powerful, not extra heavy, easy to handle and for a decent price. Also with a possibility to attach various Husqvarna extensions.

Pros:

Cons:

Key specifications:

(the outlined part with no fill indicates using the edger add-on)

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Attachments in action – but bad video quality

Gas Powered – But Not Too Loud or Heavy

Husqvarna 128LDX shares all the advantages of gas weed whackers – great power, complete freedom of movement, no messing with the cord or limitation of battery life. On the other hand, it requires mixing the gas-oil fuel, a little maintenance and it’s louder and heavier than electric units.

However, the weight is still on a solid level, just for older people may be reasonable to buy some shoulder strap – and the balance is nice as well.

The assembly is very easy and doesn’t take a lot of time – you just attach the guard, slide the shaft parts together and tighten the clamp. A few users reported some kind of defect when joining the shaft, but it seems the solution is pretty easy – more info here. The construction is sturdy and durable, users report no signs of wear even after three seasons.

Powerful and Easy To Start – But Some Reliability Issues?

As you would expect from a gas unit, it offers plenty of power – you won’t encounter any bogging down, tangling or binding of line even in heavy weeds (take a look at the video above). It’s easy to start and runs smoothly, the off switch placement is also good and it automatically resets to the ON position for easier starting.

On the other hand, some users also mentioned problems with reliability – stalling, fimicky behaviour right out of the box or running only for a few minutes and then dying (after a few months or years of service).

The trimmer uses bump feed to advance the line and it works without any problems, many users also mention how quick and easy it is to disassemble the spool and change the line.

Attachments and Edging

This weed wacker does not offer a built-in edger adjustment – but when turned upside down, it can be used for edging quite successfully. And you can even get the edger extension if you plan to use it often – it’s more convenient to use and produces a cleaner edge.

That leads us to attachments – the shaft accepts various addons like blower, hedge trimmer, pole saw, cultivator or the already mentioned edger. Users love this feature and report the Husqvarna attachments work great, plus the switching is easy as well – and according to some customer reviews, even Poulan and Ryobi extensions work quite well.

Conclusion: If you want a quality gas weed eater for your yard, Husqvarna 128LDX is a good candidate – powerful, easy to start, not extra heavy and easy to handle. We can recommend it to you.

However, there are also reviews mentioning severe problems with this machine – so if you don’t want to risk any trouble, the Hitachi CG22EAP2SL might be a safer bet.

Frequently asked questions:

What kind of fuel is required?

The machine is 2-cycle so a mix of gas and oil (50:1) is required. We recommend using a non-ethanol blended, high octane gas and for example the Husqvarna oil.

Or to make things easier, you can get a premixed fuel.

Are there any accessories I should buy?

We recommend getting a spare string and also the Husqvarna oil (or the premixed fuel if you don’t want to do it yourself).

How to change the line?

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Gas Weed Eater Won’t Start? Try This

Weed eater, weed whacker, string trimmer – no matter what you call it, here’s how to get it running again.

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No matter what you call it – weed eater, weed whacker, string trimmer – chances are at some point it won’t start. Few things are more annoying than destroying your shoulder trying to start a gas weed eater when there’s work to do.

Fortunately, gas weed-eater engines are pretty simple, so most DIYers with a few tools and some basic know-how can troubleshoot a stubborn trimmer and get it running.

) Check The Gasoline

Gasoline can break down in as little as 30 days, especially today’s ethanol-containing gas.

Homeowners sometimes stash their string trimmer in the garage at season’s end without stabilizing the gas. Oxygen has all winter to break down and ruin the gasoline, leaving you with a trimmer that won’t start in the spring.

If your trimmer falls into this category, empty the old gas from the fuel tank and replace it with fresh fuel.

If your weed eater won’t start, trying removing the air filter and spraying carburetor cleaner into the intake.

) Clean The Carburetor

Once gas breaks down, varnish, gums and other debris can form inside the carburetor and clog the tiny fuel passages. This prevents fuel from reaching the combustion chamber and igniting, leaving you to struggle with a trimmer that won’t start.

Remove the air filter and spray carburetor cleaner into the intake. Let it sit for several minutes to help loosen and dissolve varnish. Replace the filter and try starting the trimmer.

If this doesn’t solve the problem, consider disassembling the carburetor to give it a more thorough cleaning.

Beware, however – taking apart a carburetor marks a point-of-no-return, of sorts. Understanding how the delicate gaskets, tiny screws and needle valves go back together can be a challenge, even on a relatively simple string-trimmer carburetor. Take pictures with your phone throughout the process to help reassembly. Clean all the openings and passages with carburetor cleaner.

If you’re reluctant to take apart the carb, visit the servicing dealer.

Remove the spark plug and use light sandpaper to clean electrode deposits to help fix a gas trimmer that won’t start.

) Clean/Replace Spark Plug

Oil deposits and carbon can foul the spark plug in a two-stroke engine if a low-quality oil is used. Deposits on the electrode prevent the plug from firing properly, which can reduce performance or prevent the engine from running altogether.

Plugs are inexpensive, so replace it if it’s fouled. If you don’t have a new plug available, clean the deposits from the electrode with light-duty sandpaper and check the gap. Consult the owner’s manual for the correct gap size.

If you know the spark plug is good, but the engine still doesn’t produce spark, the coil is likely to blame and requires replacement.

Direct compressed air from the inside of the air filter toward the outside to remove debris that may be restricting airflow.

) Clean/Replace Air Filter

A clogged air filter prevents the engine from receiving sufficient air to operate properly.

Before removing the air filter, brush away loose debris from around the filter cover and filter element. Tap rigid filters on a tabletop or the palm of your hand to dislodge any dirt or debris. Compressed air also works well. Make sure you direct air through the filter from the inside to avoid lodging debris deeper in the filter.

Avoid washing paper filters as this can collapse their micro-fine structure. Foam filters, however, can easily be washed using mild detergent and warm water.

As with the spark plug, however, replacement is often the best practice, especially if the filter is excessively dirty.

A spark-arrestor screen clogged with deposits can choke off airflow enough to prevent the trimmer from starting.

) Clean The Spark-Arrestor Screen

On many trimmers, a small screen covers the exhaust outlet and prevents sparks from exiting the muffler and potentially starting a fire.

As with plug fouling, too much oil in the gasoline, inferior oil and continued low-rpm operation can plug the screen with carbon deposits. This prevents exhaust-gas flow, which leads to power loss. In extreme cases, heavy deposits choke airflow enough to leave you with a weed eater that won’t start.

To fix the problem, remove the spark-arrestor screen and spray it with a heavy-duty cleaner, like AMSOIL Power Foam to soften the deposits before cleaning the screen with an abrasive pad. Reinstall the screen and test the trimmer.

Replace the screen altogether if it’s excessively plugged with carbon.

AMSOIL Performance Testing

Laboratory tested and proven on the road.

See how AMSOIL products perform in the lab and in the field.

STIHL vs Husqvarna Trimmer: Which Brand To Choose?

Are you in the market for a lawn trimmer and torn between STIHL vs Husqvarna trimmers? Lawn maintenance might sound easy but simply using a lawnmower won’t keep your property as neat as possible.

Husqvarna 130L Review. (String Trimmer)

Some corners are not reachable with a standard lawnmower – and this is where the trimmer comes in handy. With a trimmer, your lawn will be guaranteed a clean look from the center right down to every corner.

So, which trimmer should you buy at the retail store? To help you make the decision, here is a quick rundown of two brands, namely, the STIHL vs Husqvarna trimmer.

STIHL Trimmers

STIHL FS 50 C-E Lightweight Trimmer

STIHL FS 56 RC-E Grass Trimmer

STIHL FS 111R Grass Trimmer. Best Gas Powered

STIHL FSE 60 Grass Trimmer

STIHL FSA 130R Grass Trimmer. Our Top Pick

The STIHL company always aspires to create such trimmers provide you with freshly cut grass. Lawn mowers need reliable gardening equipment to effectively get rid of bad weeds. After all, it’s not rare for a weed infestation to start at one small patch and spread out.

STIHL trimmers differ in handle types such as length shaft, loop handle, and straight shaft variations. Thanks to the variety of trimmers, you won’t come empty-handed regardless you’re a professional landscaper or a homeowner looking for the perfect lawn trimmer.

Some features a STIHL trimmer has include fuel-efficient engine systems, sturdy construction, swappable cutting heads, and anti-vibration technology.

The company even manufactured its own cutting heads and trimmer blades to ensure that even replacement parts meet the set standards. If you want a more environmentally-sustainable trimmer, STIHL offers both electric-type and battery-powered variants.

These trimmers do not rely on fossil fuels, unlike the typical gasoline-powered models. Furthermore, they are relatively light, operate quietly, and will readily be activated with just a single touch of a trigger.

Here’s a video from STIHL helping out people choose the right trimmer:

STIHL FS 50 C-E Lightweight Trimmer

This is a good all-rounder for people who want unfussy performance and reliability. It’s a heavy-duty gas string trimmer that has a useful TapActionTM bump feed system, a longer curved shaft that’s ideal for taller users, and is well-balanced for comfort.

It has an easy-start system that requires little force to use, and the 2-stroke engine is designed to meet emissions standards, and is 20% more fuel efficient than previous models.

The ergonomic multi-function grip and loop handle allow you to trim easily and in comfort, and it has a 2-year warranty.

• Longer shaft for tall users
• Easy bump feed system
• Ergonomic design for comfort
• Good for heavy-duty gardening
• Well-balanced
• Moderate weight at 10.1lbs

STIHL FS 56 RC-E Grass Trimmer

This STIHL gas string trimmer is a great option for yards where there is 1 acre or more to trim. The straight shaft and adjustable handle are designed to help you trim hard-to-reach areas easily, and the heavy-duty design means it can handle weeds and light brush with ease.

It has plenty of power thanks to the gas powered 0.8kW engine and offers great performance from the AutoCut cutting head and 16.5-inch cutting swath.

It’s fuel efficient too, running with few emissions and offering around 5% more power than the FS 55R.

• Durable design for heavy duty use
• Easy, one-pull start technology
• Shoulder strap for more comfort while working
• Upright transparent fuel tank
• Fuel efficient
• Low emissions

STIHL FS 111 R Grass Trimmer

This model offers even more power for cutting through heavier brush and weeds with ease, making it one of the best STIHL weed whackers on the market.

Significant improvements have been made in this trimmer, which now offers 30% more runtime than the previous iteration, and meets emissions standards.

• Professional-level performance
• Electronic ignition ensures easy start
• Multifunction control handle
• Loop handle for hard-to-reach areas
• Anti-vibration system

Best Gas Powered STIHL Trimmer

Our pick as the best gas-powered string trimmer from STIHL is the STIHL Grass Trimmer FS 111R! Although it’s a little on the heavy side at 12.1lbs, the ergonomic design, loop handle, anti-vibration system, and harness make it easy to use even on bigger jobs.

It offers exceptional professional-level performance, making it ideal for more challenging gardens or commercial use, and the low-emissions, high performance engine means you use less fuel and help protect the environment while you work.

The multifunction handle is a great feature that keeps you in complete control, making this weed whacker hard to beat!

STIHL FSE 60 Grass Trimmer

If you want something quiet, energy efficient and eco-friendly, this STIHL string trimmer is a great option. It won’t disturb your neighbors as you work because it runs at less than 60 decibels, and you don’t need ear protection either.

The 0.6KW engine offers plenty of power and is ideal for small to medium-sized lawns, and you have continuous run-time with this corded trimmer, so there’s no worry about refueling or recharging batteries.

The built-in anti-vibration technology and the lightweight design keep you comfortable as you work, and the curved shaft is ideal for straightforward lawn maintenance.

• Eco-friendly – zero emissions
• Unlimited run-time
• Anti-vibration technology
• Adjustable handle
• Quiet to operate
• Lightweight at 8.8lbs
• Maintenance-free

STIHL FSA 130R Grass Trimmer

This battery string trimmer is a green gardener’s dream, offering plenty of power from the 36V batteries and pro-level performance as you cut in 16.5-inch swathes.

Due to the battery, it’s a bit heavier than corded electric models, but the harness system and adjustable front handle make working with this tool easy and comfortable.

The electric motor is maintenance-free, and comes with some great features including three performance levels, allowing you to conserve battery power as you work. Overall, battery runtime is good, running for up to 150 minutes.

• Professional level performance
• Unlimited range
• Good battery run time
• Straight shaft for maneuverability
• Energy-conserving features
• Comfortable harness system
• Lightweight at 8.6lbs
• Maintenance-free

Best Electric STIHL Trimmer

Our choice for the best electric STIHL brush cutter is the STIHL Grass Trimmer FSA 130R! The professional-level performance this STIHL battery powered weed eater offers is enough to quiet any doubts you may have about moving from gas models, and its quiet operation and zero-maintenance will have you converted in no time at all.

This exceptional machine can cut through tough brush with ease with a 16.5 cutting swath, offering around 150 minutes of run-time per charge of the 36V battery, with the harness system and ergonomic design keeping you comfortable as you work.

Husqvarna Trimmers

Husqvarna Battery Straight Shaft String Trimmer 115iL

Husqvarna 128LD 17″ Cutting Path Detachable Gas String Trimmer

Husqvarna 129C 17″ Cutting Path Gas String Trimmer

Husqvarna 324L 4-Cycle 18″ Cutting Path Gas String Trimmer

Thanks to the patented Smart Start, the Husqvarna gas-powered trimmers can get activated with ease. Basically, there’s an automatic return stop switch, which assures a quick start for the next operation.

One feature that you will surely like is how Husqvarna trimmers can operate with the least possible amount of noise. This is evident if you choose a battery-powered line trimmer. Not only are they quiet because of less vibration, but they are also light and energy efficient due to their 36V Li-ion battery packs.

Getting a battery-powered Husqvarna trimmer will save you a lot of money in operational costs. You don’t have to fill its tank with expensive gas that will add up in the long run. importantly, there are no emissions whatsoever, which is good for our planet.

Aside from the gas-powered and battery-powered variants, Husqvarna also offers combination trimmers. Just pick among 11 high-quality attachments. a hedge trimmer can turn into a tree pruner, sweeper, pole saw, hedge trimmer, tiller, or even an edger.

The base engine unit of the combination trimmer needn’t be changed. It’s truly a versatile trimmer with all the available attachments.

Husqvarna Battery Straight Shaft String Trimmer 115iL

• Brushless electric motor with innovative design to deliver high efficiency and maximize run time

• Battery voltage. 36.5 V
• The telescopic shaft to easily adjust the length for a comfortable working position
• Easy storage/transport with telescopic shaft
• Ideal for cutting lawn edges or smaller areas of higher grass
• 2-year Warranty
• 14 inch Cutting Swath accomplish a lot in a short amount of time

Husqvarna 128LD 17″ Cutting Path Detachable Gas String Trimmer

• 28cc 2-cycle engine
• 17 inch cutting width trimmer head
• Runs on a mixture of unleaded gas and 2-cycle oil (bottle included with mixing instructions)
• Tap ‘N Go line release feature. Easy to release line
• Simple and easy line reloading
• Translucent fuel tank, for easy fuel monitoring
• This edger keeps your lawn, pathways and flower beds neat and tidy
• 2-year limited warranty for residential use

Husqvarna 129C 17″ Cutting Path Gas String Trimmer

• 27. 6cc 2-cycle engine
• 17 inch cutting width trimmer head
• The curved shaft evenly distributes the weight of the trimmer. Greater comfort for when using for long periods of time
• Runs on a mixture of 2-cycle oil and unleaded gas. Mixing bottle and instructions included
• Tap ‘N Go line release feature. Simply tap the trimmer head against to activate new line
• Simple and easy line reloading design
• 2-year limited residential use warranty
• 2-Stroke Engine

Husqvarna 324L 4-Cycle 18″ Cutting Path Gas String Trimmer

• 25cc 4-cycle engine
• 18 inch cutting width trimmer head
• Trimmer engine runs on unleaded gas, No mixing of fuel and oil required
• Tap ‘N Go line release feature
• String trimmer 2-year limited warranty for residential use
• 4-Stroke engine

Concluding Our STIHL vs Husqvarna Trimmer Comparison

Now, let’s take a look at the performance of two actual products from STIHL and from Husqvarna, namely, the STIHL FS 56 RC-E Trimmer and the Husqvarna Straight Shaft 4-Stroke Gas String Trimmer.

First, the STIHL trimmer model has sufficient power to go through sections of the lawn packed with heavy grass. The motor starts quickly and the overall build seems sturdy.

If there are any problems, each owner can utilize the two-year warranty. Some issues with the STIHL FS 56 RC-E Trimmer are that it feels quite heavy to hold and the Tap Action bump head isn’t particularly impressive.

On the other hand, the Husqvarna trimmer model has a four-stroke engine system. This is more powerful compared to a two-stroke engine system.

However, the Husqvarna Straight Shaft 4-Stroke Gas String Trimmer couldn’t help but slow down as it tried to cut grass as tall as 16 inches. It wasn’t as fuel-efficient as expected.

As you can see, both STIHL and Husqvarna have their own sets of advantages and disadvantages. Each company provides gas-powered and battery-powered models to suit your needs.

To help you maintain your lawn, be sure to check out our list of product reviews and buying guide below:

There you have it! That is everything you need to know about STIHL vs Husqvarna trimmers. If you have any queries, do give us a comment.