5 Commercial Gas String Trimmer – Buyer’s Guide

String trimmers often referred to as weed wacker, line trimmers, or a weed eater is an essential tool for keeping the edges of your garden or walkway neat and tidy. These tools employ a flexible line or string instead of a blade to cut through grass and weeds and reach places that a lawnmower can’t.

Types of String Trimmers

Most string trimmers fall under two categories – shaft string trimmer and the walk-behind, or wheeled string trimmers. A string trimmer uses a long shaft with a head that rapidly spins as a motor power it at the opposite end. This head contains one or two strings made of monofilament plastic, called trimmer lines. As the head spins, the centrifugal force pushes the trimmer line to stick out from the side, with the high speed helps cut down grass blades easily, as per the required height. String trimmer’s long shaft and the head’s small size make it easy to maneuver around fence posts, trees, under bushes, flower beds, etc.

See also – Best Commercial Weed Eaters

Walk-behind string trimmers employ a similar mechanism to lawnmowers, except that it controls the head while two wheels support the whole tool.

Identical to their handheld counterparts, walk-behind string trimmers are equipped with heavier engines, larger heads, and more prominent lines. They are equipped with wheels made from toughened rubber or plastic that allow you to reach rugged terrain. In addition, they are equipped with extra trimmer lines (some wheeled string trimmers carry four or more trimmer lines) that deliver even cutting and consistent results, providing you more coverage per cut. In addition, wheeled trimmers have cutting widths of 22 inches or more, making them efficient at taking on large areas of untamed growth.

Commercial String Trimmers

Commercial grade trimmers are designed to tackle heavy-duty jobs. These tools generate more power, durable, and fuel-efficient. These tools also boast an exceptional power-to-weight ratio, putting every last ounce of their well-balanced construction to work. Some of the commercial-grade string trimmers are powerful enough that they can double as brush cutters. These trimmers also have bigger trimmer heads that allow them to trim more comprehensive sections of grass at one time.

Landscaping professionals use their equipment eight hours a day, five days a week – sometimes more. Commercial string trimmers are made from robust plastic, stiff metal shafts with thick tubing and employ heavy-duty gearboxes to last through long hours of run time and withstand bumps, sun exposure, and other wear and tear. These machines also come with extra features such as anti-vibration technology and various harnesses for comfortable operation and reduced operator fatigue.

While residential string trimmer comes with horsepower in the 20-30cc range, commercial trimmers extend into the 30-40cc range for both 2-cycle and 4-cycle trimmers. Gas-powered 2-cylinder engines cost less, but you’ll need to add oil to your gasoline. The 4-cylinder models run on gas alone but need oil to lubricate the engine’s parts. Models with a four-cycle engine run quieter and more smoothly and start easier than their two-cycle engine counterparts; however, they are slightly expensive. Plus, the heftier four-cycle engine makes the gas trimmer noticeably heavier than a two-cycle gas trimmer, affecting its overall maneuverability for some users.

Things to Consider While Buying a Commercial Gas Strimmer

Curved or Straight Shaft: String trimmers are equipped with a straight shaft or a curved shaft, each providing its own set of benefits.  

Curved shafts are great for trimming around flower beds and other squared-off areas. They are also easier to maneuver and often weigh less, while their design enables you to keep the cutting head perpendicular to the ground. While curved shafts have some advantages, most lawn and landscape professionals use straight shafts, as their design let’s cut without bending or slouching to keep the trimmer head close to the ground.  They provide a better reach under bushes, clear brush, and even cut edges better with a straight shaft. Straight shafts deliver better weight balance and longer driveshaft life. In addition, they provide safer operation by keeping the head farther away from you during use.   

Head Types: There are three main types of mechanisms that control the amount of “string” fed through the trimmer. In the bump feed method, you bump the trimmer head on the ground to activate a spring-loaded mechanism to feed out the line from the coil inside the head as required. The bump feed system gives you more control over line usage. However, it also increases the chances of damaging the trimmer as it may get damaging by smashing it into the ground.

The second type of system is called an automatic feed, here the auto-feed heads come with spools of trimmer line preloaded, and a mechanism gradually feeds out new trimmer line as the ends get ground out or broken. Most trimmers use the centrifugal force to release additional lines once it starts to wear down. These systems provide you with ease of use, but these systems can be difficult to fix if they malfunction, and they don’t give you the same level of control.

Fixed-line systems use individual lengths of lines that are loaded into the trimmer one at a time. Where you thread in and tie pieces of trimmer line as needed – this is the approach employed by the walk-behind model. This ensures that the trimmer line rigidly remains fixed, but it does require manual change periodically.

Convertible Configurations: Many string trimmers available in the market offer convertible configurations with detachable heads, where you can change the trimmer into an edger, saws, blowers, etc. However, as a professional landscaper, when you are trimming at least a dozen lawns a day, the main thing you require is efficiency. Therefore, it is better to stick with a solid shaft string trimmer and stay away from the multi-purpose weed whacker designs, as the more efficient the trimmer is, the more time you can save on each lawn.

Weight: As with any tool, it’s crucial to consider the size and weight to ease handling. For example, if you are a professional landscaper or have a large yard, you need to carry the string trimmer around when you use it; hence the tool you select must be comfortable to carry and handle.

If you use a handheld trimmer, you’ll need to contend with vibration. While it is also applicable for wheeled trimmers, the ground reduces the impact a bit.  Vibration is an inevitable byproduct of doing the job. Constant vibration puts strain on your hands, wrists, and arms and may also lead to permanent nerve damage in the long run. Hence it is essential to consider the handle of the string trimmer before purchasing a product.

String trimmers usually employ two types of handles: bike handles and loop handles. Bike handles feature two distinct grips, similar to a bicycle handle. They are predominantly designed for right-hand operators.  Loop handles, on the other hand, offer multiple gripping positions. In addition, they are available in wide loops, either open or closed, affixed to the top of the shaft.

Best Gas String Trimmers

1. Southland SWSTM4317 2 Cycle Wheeled String Trimmer

The Southland 43cc SWSTM4317 makes lawn care effortless than ever. The 2-cycle wheeled string trimmer features a 20° – 30° trimmer head swivel adjustment for wall or fence trimming. It is also equipped with a 5° – 10° trimmer head bevel feature for precise edge trimming along an obstacle.

The Southland SWSTM4317 provides easy maneuverability and helps you get into the tight corners & odd spaces, while the heavy-duty 12-inch ball-bearing wheels ensure that the wheeled trimmer can handle rough and rugged terrain. In addition, this wheeled string trimmer provides over 35% more torque than a standard 25cc handheld string trimmer.

The Southland SWSTM4317 features a multi-streaming trimmer head that accepts 0. 095 inches and 0. 105 inches trimmer string – allowing you to select the suitable string depending on the task. This wheeled string trimmer features an onboard trimmer string cut length guide that ensures you get the perfect 17 inches cut swath every single time.

The Southland SWSTM4317 is equipped with an adjustable height ergonomic loop handle with spring-loaded thumb actuated throttle control that delivers added comfort and less user fatigue. In addition, its onboard trimmer string storage keeps your extra string handy at all times. The wheeled string trimmer is EPA and CARB Compliant.

Pros

• Easy to start
• Easy to push and maneuver
• Lightweight
• Pivot head makes it easy to trim along the walls

Cons

• Slightly difficult to assemble

2. LawnMaster Nopull 17″ Gas String Trimmer Grass Trimmer with Electric Start Variable

The LawnMaster® NO-PULL™ string trimmer combines a powerful 26cc 2-cycle gas engine with its patented electric push-button start technology. Powered by a 7.2-volt rechargeable lithium-ion battery, the NO-PULL™ trimmer technology provides up to 250 hassle-free starts on a single charge. In contrast, the 400 ml (0.105 Gal.) fuel tank provides up to 40 minutes of runtime on a single tank.

The LawnMaster NPTGSP2617A is equipped with a dual-line bump feed trimmer head with a 0.095-inch line that efficiently removes stubborn tall grass and weeds. The gas string trimmer has a 17-inch cutting width and includes a dual-line bump feed trimmer head equipped with an exclusive Rapid Reload™ Spool for quick and easy line replacement. The split shaft design accepts multi-tool attachments (to be purchased separately).   In addition, the machine comes with a 17-inch trimming diameter with a large guard to protect from debris.

The LawnMaster NPTGSP2617A grass trimmer sports an integrated Anti-Vibration Comfort™ shock absorption system built into the adjustable handle. The gas trimmer’s cushion-gripped handle design slides and pivots forwards and backward and rotates 360° that reduces operator fatigue and increases maneuverability.

The LawnMaster NPTGSP2617A is equipped with variable speed control and enables you to control the wind intensity by adjusting the pressure on the throttle trigger. The machine weighs just under 14lbs. The gas string trimmer is backed by a 3-year limited tool warranty and a 2-year limited battery and charger warranty.

Pros

• Powerful Motor
• Low Noise
• Anti-vibration adjustable assist handle
• Variable speed and bump line feed
• Electric Start
• Long Cordless Time

Cons

• No backup starting ability if electric start fails

3. Makita EX2650LH 25.4 cc MM4 4-Stroke Couple Shaft Power Head

The Makita EX2650LH delivers power and ease of use for commercial duty applications.  The couple shaft string trimmer features a powerful and fuel-efficient 25.4 cc 4-stroke commercial duty engine that requires no fuel mixing. Its multi-position lubrication system enables the engine to be inclined to any angle for continuous operation. In addition, the machine’s steel drive shaft delivers less vibration and longer equipment life.

The Makita EX2650LH is engineered with mechanical automatic engine decompression for quicker, easier starts. In addition, the machine features a commercial duty dual-stage air filter with large sealing areas and is replaceable. The oil filling port and drain plug are easily accessible with an oil level view window to check and replace oil. The machine sports an easily adjustable handle configuration for improved balance.

The Makita EX2650LH comes with a quick-release coupling for easy swapping between the multiple available attachments. The compact couple shaft string trimmer weighs less and is designed for reduced vibrations. The Makita EX2650LH meets or exceeds EPA and CARB exhaust and evaporative emissions regulations. The machine comes with a one-year limited warranty.

Pros

• Quick-release coupler shaft Attachment
• 4-stroke commercial duty engine
• Less Noise
• Low Emissions
• Dual Stage Air Filter

Cons

• Less Warranty

4. Honda 647620 35.8cc Gas 17 in. Straight Shaft String Trimmer/Edger

The Honda HHT35SLTAT is designed as the ultimate hand-held solution to tackle thick grass and heavy brush without bogging down. The straight shaft string trimmer’s strong low-end torque characteristics allow many jobs to be performed at partial throttle, increasing fuel efficiency. In addition, the machine features the world’s lightest 25 cc 4-stroke Honda engine with a quick start system.

The Honda HHT35SLTAT   is equipped with a durable flex shaft with a limited lifetime warranty for increased durability and superior shock absorption.  The device provides quick acceleration and excellent torque for demanding jobs. Highly fuel-efficient design costs less to operate – up to 50% less than a two-stroke trimmer. The machine creates less vibration than comparable engines. An advanced anti-vibration system is designed into the engine clutch housing to further minimize operator fatigue. The device sports a unique 360-degree inclinable engine that can be used and stored in any position.

The Honda HHT35SLTAT   features a solid trigger design for increased durability, while the 17-inch semi-matic bump feed head with Ultra Quiet® line reduces the trimmer’s noise level.  The string trimmer is ergonomically designed and provides positioned control balance and improved maneuverability due to the optimization of the engine’s center of gravity and the throttle assembly and loop handle position. In addition, the deflector is designed to provide increased operator visibility. The straight shaft trimmer can accommodate various 9″ and 10″ cutting blades with an optional barrier kit.  The Honda HHT35SLTAT    comes with a two-year residential warranty and a one-year commercial warranty.

Pros

• Quick Start System
• Increased operator visibility
• Low Noise Levels
• Powerful performance with the 4-stroke engine

Cons

• The primer bulb is inadequately placed
• The machine feels heavy

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

The Husqvarna 324L combines professional-grade power in an easy-to-use tool. The semi-pro string trimmer features a Honda powered 25cc 4-cycle engine, which powers the 18 inches (cutting width) trimmer head to tackle the grass & weeds effectively. In addition, the trimmer engine runs on unleaded gas, requiring no mixing of fuel and oil.

The Husqvarna 324L features a smart start trimmer technology that reduces starter cord resistance by 40% to allow for easy engine starts. The semi-pro string trimmer comes with the tap ‘N Go line release feature that allows you to quickly release a new trimmer line as you work by tapping the trimmer head against the grass. The machine comes with a T25 trimmer head that provides convenient line reloading. In addition, the device comes with an air purge primer bulb that conveniently removes unwanted air from the carburetor and Fuel system.

The Husqvarna 324L features a straight shaft design that provides greater reach underneath bushes and hard-to-reach spots. The gas string trimmer comes with a high visibility cutting shield that protects the operator from flying rocks and debris while providing better visibility of the cutting area. In addition, the machine’s translucent fuel tank allows you to monitor your fuel level as you work. The Husqvarna string trimmer is backed by a 2-year limit for residential use.

Pros

• Powerful 25 cc engine
• Easy to Start
• Easy to switch attachments (to be purchased separately)
• Fuel Efficient

Cons

• Undersized wire shield

String Strimmer Safety Tips

Safety Tip: Wear goggles to protect your eyes from debris and earplugs or headphones when using the string trimmers.

Always use the trimmer manufacturer’s recommended line size since a heavier line will put extra stress on the motor.

Some string trimmer models have a tap line feature. A button on the bottom of the head lets out an extra line when you tap it on the ground.

Be careful when trimming around trees. Flying tree bark can be dangerous, and trimmers can damage young saplings.

Wear sturdy shoes or boots to protect your feet.

If vibrations bother you or your hands tend to blister, wear heavy-duty gloves while operating your trimmer.

Safety is critical when it comes to using power tools for yard work; most commercial string trimmers implement many security features to safeguard users. In addition, some models may include smaller guards, which are meant for users with a higher level of experience operating the trimmer.

Safety features: Standard safety guards should include a shield over the string to prevent debris (rocks, weeds, mulch pieces, etc.) from flying and striking you. Many models offer a cutting guard that extends to limit the trim range and protect plantings.

Basic Maintenance Practices for a String Trimmer

To prolong the service life of any device, you need to perform some regular maintenance practices. It will help keep the tool’s performance and protect it from wearing out or breaking down.

Periodically examine the gas line: Old fuel can get stuck in the string trimmer’s filter, primarily if it is not used for a long time. It is ideal to drain the gas tank if you are not planning to use the tool for some time.  You can use a cleansing additive to clean up the filter for any accumulated gas/oil residue. Periodical cleaning of the machine makes it less prone to seizing.

Always maintain the gas/oil ratio in a 2-stroke engine. Ideally, you should use 3.2 ounces of oil for 1-gallon fuel. 

Line Breakage: The nylon cutting line used in the string trimmers is prone to break based on usage.  Do not use the string line to cut thicker woods. Also, the line might become brittle and prone to breakage if not used for a long time. Hence do not store an excess amount of the string for the future. 

Storage: A gas-powered string trimmer can be flooded if it is stored on its side. Ensure that you are keeping the tool away from water-prone areas. If the machine does get flooded, dry out the device entirely before restarting it.

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