Petrol trimmers are used for trimming in hard to reach parts of large gardens, parks or orchards. They don’t require electricity, provide high performance, and can handle scraggly vegetation and dense, woody undergrowth. On the downside, they are also heavier, noisier and more difficult to maintain.
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Key parameters when choosing a petrol brushcutter
Power consumption and engine displacement
A machine with a higher wattage can better handle dense vegetation–it doesn’t get overloaded or stuck. The higher the power consumption, the more string you can unspool without risking to “choke” the engine. Brushcutter performance is listed in horsepower units (HP) or kilowatts (kW).
- 0.7 to 1 kW - ideal for maintained lawns and additional trimming in places inaccessible for a conventional lawn mower.
- 1.1 kW to 2 kW - copes well with tall grass and thicker herbs.
- 2 kW or more - can handle dense, scraggly vegetation, woody undergrowth and small trees and shrubs.
Engine displacement is an important characteristic, especially when starting the brushcutter–the higher the number, the more power you need to apply to start the machine. Brushcutters under 40 cc can be started by almost anyone; those over 50 cc are targeted mainly at the professionals.
Cutting swath
Cutting swath indicates how large is the area (strip) the brushcutter mows. Usually goes hand in hand with performance. The more powerful the trimmer, the larger its cutting swath. Normally ranges between 25 and 46 cm.
Aside from the classic steel blade and string, some petrol models also have other attachments—for example, hedge trimmer attachments that allow you to use the brushcutter as a hedge trimmer, or pruners that can cut thinner branches and can even partially replace a chainsaw.
Ergonomics
- Bike handle - considerably more comfortable for extended work on large areas.
- Loop handle - a basic and not particularly comfortable solution. On the upside, this type is easier to handle in tight spaces and tends to weigh less.
In both cases, a shoulder strap can make your work considerably easier, as it helps spread the trimmer’s weight on your entire body instead of just the hands–something you will definitely appreciate after a few minutes of work.
Weight
Generally, the more lightweight the trimmer, the easier it is to work with. A brushcutter’s weight is affected mainly by its engine power and displacement, but most brushcutters weigh around 5 kg. Less powerful machines may weigh less, while professional brushcutters can very well weigh over 10 kg.
Useful petrol brushcutter properties
- Height adjustable handle - makes trimming more comfortable for users with varying heights.
- Split shaft - the ability to split the machine into two parts makes it much easier to transport by car, for example.
- Bump feed - the string unspooled in increments by pressing the head of your brushcutter against a flat surface.
When using a petrol brushcutter, you should wear standard protective equipment such as work gloves, safety eyewear or safety helmet. If you are using a noisy petrol model, consider purchasing noise-cancelling headphones.
