15 Best Gas Operated Weed Eaters For Ease Of Use

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While battery-powered outdoor equipment continues to gain market share, high-demand jobs are still better done with gas. Gas-powered equipment’s unrelenting power, endurance, and efficiency are hard to match.

So, let’s look at 15 gas-powered line trimmers from 15 different manufacturers and see how they stack up – to each other and to weed-eating. We will look at weights, balance, power, starters, and the most frustrating part of using a string trimmer, changing cutting lines. We will look at how easy it is to start them and how difficult it is to restart them once they’re running hot.

We have arranged the 15 weed eaters (line trimmers) in our review alphabetically by brand name. There are so many variations that comparing them is like comparing apples and pears – it all depends on what is essential to the individual user. Let’s have a look.

1. BLACK+DECKER BDXGTAM214102 25cc 2-Cycle 14-Inch Straight Shaft Gas-Powered String Trimmer

We asked people to give us feedback on the different brands – for some brands; there was a lot to say; others are less known. Black+Decker was definitely not one of the unknown ones.

Black+Decker has an American history of more than a century-long. Founded in 1910 in Baltimore, Black+Decker was the first producer of portable electric drills. They launched the product in 1946 after the war; by 1951 they had manufactured more than a million units.

We know them for their electrical equipment, not so much for gas-powered units. While the Black-Decker website does not list this product, it is available on Amazon in the Back+Decker store as the only gas-powered unit. From the 188 reviews on Amazon, 128 of them loved the product, service, and delivery – 32 were not impressed.

The BLACK+DECKER BXGST225SS 25cc 2-Cycle 14-inch String Trimmer has a robust straight shaft and can tackle even the most overgrown yards. Trimming under shrubs and in hard-to-reach spots is quick and straightforward with the straight shaft.

This potent weed and grass trimmer have QuickStart technology, making it simple to start and get you up and running quickly. The lightweight design and 14-inch cutting swath help you get the job done faster, while the 25cc 2-cycle engine gives all the power you need in your hands.

This brushcutter is lightweight, portable, and powerful. It has been battle-tested and is ready to do even the most difficult chores. It’s small, powerful, and simple to operate. The BXGST225SS Straight Shaft Trimmer provides maximum cutting comfort and a clear view of the cutting line. The adjustable handle gives enhanced comfort, ergonomic comfort, and control for right or left-handed use.

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2. COOCHEER 42.7cc Weed Wacker Gas Powered 2-in-1 Weed Eater

Coocheer is a Hong Kong-based company that manufactures a range of diverse products, from LED light furniture to train horns (150dB) for vehicles. Known for its chainsaws and trolley wheels, the company offers this weed muncher at the $150 mark.

From the 109 Amazon reviews, 86 owners are happy with the product, and 17 109 were not impressed. The oil-to-fuel ratio (25:1) is higher than most mixes that vary between 40 to 50:1. With such a high concentration of oil, build-up on the spark plug is a risk. If it starts early, this will not be a problem, but consider spraying a quickstart product at the air intake if you flood the system.

Notwithstanding that, the unhappy people were mainly dissatisfied with the metal blades that are not high-tensile steel. You will easily manage the average garden with a 10-inch trimming line and the 18-inch T3 cutting blade.

The 42.7cc 2-cycle engine is one of the biggest we reviewed and contributes 72.8-pound weight – that shoulder strap sling helps. Combining the sling with the ergonomic adjustable U-handle with a slip-free design helps make the machine balanced, maneuverable, and easy to control.

It appears that it is a good choice if you don’t use it to cut down a bamboo forest. If you want a reliable, sturdy machine with a sling and double handles, this would be a good option for the price. COOCHEER weed eater powers through thick grass and dense undergrowth. The offset U-handle feature provides unprecedented operational control and user comfort while operating this trimmer/grass cutter.

Please remember to tighten all the screws when you assemble this unit – before starting the engine. This includes the bolts already put in at the factory. Use a 25:1 ratio of fuel to oil mix for 2-stroke cycle engines. We recommend you always use only fresh gas with a minimum octane rating of 89 or higher (mid-grade to premium).

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3. Craftsman CMXGTAMD30SA 30cc 4-Cycle 17-Inch Straight Shaft Gas-Powered String Trimmer

CRAFTSMAN® is an authentic American icon. For nearly a century, they’ve been the brand homeowners, home builders, auto enthusiasts, and master mechanics trust. Craftsman has multiple plants in Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York State, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Iowa, and planned plants in Texas and Virginia.

The weed-wacker String Trimmer is a robust 30cc 4-cycle gas-powered string trimmer that makes less noise and eliminates the need to mix gas and oil. With a cutting width of 17 inches, you can trim more grass in less time. This machine allows you to get to cutting faster thanks to features like enhanced 2-step starting and a high-capacity, easy-winding bump head.

The Easy Winding High Capacity Bump Head carries 20 feet of line. A big, multi-position, the adjustable handle gives you more control and makes it easier to use right- or left-handed. Convert the WS405 WEEDWACKER string trimmer into other lawn care tools with separately sold attachments.

The WEEDWACKER’s Easy-Winding head feeds a. 095″ line, allowing you to swiftly refill your cutting head for easy engagement. This brush cutter is powerful, portable, and lightweight, making it ideal for even the most difficult tasks. A 2-year limited guarantee is included with the CMXGTAMD30SA.

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4. Echo GT-225 2 Cycle 21.2cc Curved Shaft Gas Trimmer

Echo is a brand of the Yamabiko Corporation registered on the Tokyo Stock Exchange and with subsidiaries in nine countries. Echo Incorporated, with its factory in Illinois, produce the company’s Outdoor Power Equipment range.

The corporation’s success is based on engine development (and it shows in the final product). Yamabiko dedicates extensive resources to support engine development, sales and distribution, and after-market services for outdoor power equipment.

The company strives to create only the best quality products through sophisticated quality control procedures. They accomplish this while their engineers are continually challenged to exceed customer expectations for weight reduction, power improvement, and reduced environmental impact.

The Amazon review scores reflect this quality. This is one of the highest-scoring line trimmers we reviewed, just under the higher Husqvarna score. Of the 477 reviewers, 410 loved it, and only 28 of the 477 did not like something about the service.

What else must be said about the world’s finest commercial-grade grass trimmers? ECHO string trimmers are designed for performance if you need a lightweight curved shaft model for simple trimming around posts or a fence. ECHO’s easy-to-use custom ergonomic controls, lightweight design, and powerful professional-grade, 2-stroke engine technologies give you the tools to enhance productivity.

Wherever you purchase your Echo POE, be advised to register it on the ECHO website for ownership verification.  It also allows ECHO to contact you in the unlikely event of a service update or product recall.

This 16-pound machine has a cutting swath of 17 inches. Most negative feedback is not engine-related but focused on frustration with the head assembly. The GT-225 comes without a bump-to-feed set-up. Given the unit’s affordability, many buyers swapped the head assembly for a  Speed Feed 400 part #99944200908.

Remember to wear the appropriate personal protection gear, including goggles and long pants, when using any POE. You may also want to wear a long sleeve top as trimmers can flick debris up.

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

Honda Power Equipment Mfg., LLC in Swepsonville, North Carolina, is one of 11 Honda manufacturing sites worldwide that put together the company’s goods. Honda R&D Americas, Inc., in North Carolina, and Honda R&D Co., Ltd., in Japan, are responsible for research, development, and testing.

Honda Power Equipment Mfg., LLC (HPE) has increased the manufacturing of general-purpose engines to 2 million per year for use by Honda and other automakers.

Honda’s North Carolina Research and Development Center, which opened in 1993, is an 11,000-square-foot facility undertaking product engineering, prototype development, and testing of power equipment.

Honda’s dedication to developing items that improve people’s lives extends far beyond automobiles and motorcycles. Honda has produced over 100 million power items worldwide since 1953. Honda continues to pioneer developing low-emission, fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly 4-stroke engines for generators, water pumps, lawnmowers, outboard motors, and a wide range of other power equipment. Learn more about Honda’s Power Products heritage around the world.

Honda Power Equipment has three independent operating units: Honda Power Equipment, Honda Marine, and Honda Engines, headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia. In the United States and worldwide, Honda plants assemble the division’s goods, including engines, generators, lawnmowers, pumps, snowblowers, tillers, trimmers, and marine engines.

Honda’s GX35 mini 4-stroke engine runs on straight, unleaded gas. No need to mix gas and oil! Honda has three line trimmers, and the HHT35SLTA is the ultimate hand-held solution for heavy-duty trimming and brush removal – at the next level.

The HHT35SLTA offers higher fuel efficiency, up to 50% less than a two-stroke trimmer, and is designed to take on thick grass and heavy brush without bogging down. Strong low-end torque characteristics allow many jobs to be performed at partial throttle, increasing fuel efficiency.

6. HUSQVARNA 128LD 17-inch Cutting Path Detachable Gas String Trimmer

Husqvarna is a Swedish company with a 330-year history. In 1947 the brand introduced its first motorized lawnmowers. In 1959 it launched the Husqvarna 90 Chainsaw, which would position the company as a leading brand amongst forestry professionals, known for its innovative problem-solving skills and quality products.

Ahead of its time, Husqvarna already launched the solar-powered Automower® robotic mower in 1995. The company currently offers 27 line trimmer models, ranging from the 122C at $159.99 to the iconic 535LK at $519.99. We reviewed the best generalist machine.

Trim like a pro with this lightweight, multipurpose string trimmer from Husqvarna. The 128LD offers easy starting thanks to the Smart Start® recoil system and fuel pump, a perfectly straight shaft trimmer for homeowners.

The strong, braided wire cable drive can handle hard work, and the T25 semi-automatic trimmer head is ready for quick and easy loading. Plus, the detachable shaft allows for easy transport and storage and a full line of helpful trimmer attachments.

A key feature of the 128LD model is an innovative auto-return stop switch that helps you avoid trying to start the machine when the stop switch is on. The air-purge valve removes air from the carburetor and fuel system for easy starting. Add to that a design that ensures the machine starts quickly and with minimum effort, and you have a machine in its own class.

Of the 2,596 Amazon reviews, 2,310 absolutely loved the machine – the highest-scoring line trimmer on Amazon. Utilize the full potential of this tool with the optional attachments: the edger keeps your lawn, pathways, and flower beds looking neat, with a clearly defined edge (952711607); the cultivator is great for tilling small areas in your yard like flower beds and beneath trees (952711608); the pole saw gives you extra reach when you need it for those hard to reach limbs (952711672).

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7. HUYOSEN 25.4CC 2-Cycle 18-Inch Straight Shaft Gas-Powered String Trimmer

Huyosen is a trademark filed in July 2019 in California. A company of the same name, Huyosen Ltd, was registered in Nevada in January 2020. We suspect Huyosen products are manufactured in China and brought in under the Huyosen trademark. Either way, the reviews are brilliant.

Of the 394 global reviews on Amazon, 323 were happy with the product. More than half were impressed, with comments like “If you want sheer power, this baby is for you” and “More than impressed!”

Comments like those are for those who managed to decipher the poorly translated assembly instructions that frustrated many people. The assembled product is 71.5 inches long, weighs 16 pounds, is fitted with a 25.4cc 2-cycle engine that produces a whopping 0.735kW (1hp) power. For interest’s sake, one horsepower is the power it would take to lift 165-pounds 39.37-inches in one second (or lift 75kg 1 meter in 1 second). That is the traditional strength of a horse.

The package also doesn’t skimp on accessories and comes with two 3T blades, Two bump-n-go reels, a backpack harness, a tool kit, and a fuel mixing container – more than most offers. The dual-line bump-n-go head is ideal for lawns, and the 3T is suitable for taller weeds and grass. The telescoping aluminum shaft provides comfort for users of all sizes.

From our feedback, the harness works well in helping you handle a machine that is not light.

8. LawnMaster NPTGCP2517B

Cleva North America, Inc. offers an award-winning portfolio of innovative brands, including Vacmaster®, Vacmaster Professional®, Duravac™, Kenmore®, Kenmore Elite®, Armor All™, and LawnMaster®. With award-winning, proven experience in engineering and motor technology, Cleva incorporates the latest processes and highest standards for engineering, design, and production. The result is high-quality products with exceptional performance and durability. Cleva takes pride in producing a premium product at great value.

Engineered to make yard work less work for every lawn lover, LawnMaster understands the pain points homeowners and DIYers face while getting the lawn of their dreams. So they craft solutions to best address those issues, from equipment designed for ease of use to tutorials on tool care and resources for better lawn results.

LawnMaster leverages its history of innovative engineering and motor technology to provide new solutions for old problems. With features like comfort grips and forward-thinking design, their products make lawn care easier and more enjoyable for the end-user.

The days of the struggle and shoulder pain of pull-starts are over! This LawnMaster No-Pull™ trimmer features an electric push-button start combined with the power and reliability of a 26cc 2-cycle gas engine. Powered by a small 7.2V rechargeable lithium-ion battery, No-Pull™ technology provides up to 250 hassle-free starts on a single charge. Easily replace the trimmer line between 0.080″-0.100″ with the Rapid Reload system.

This trimmer has an adjustable anti-vibration assist handle and bump feed trimmer head, built with the user’s comfort in mind. Easily convert from a trimmer to an edger or brushcutter without using tools with the multi-tool attachment system. This unit carries a 3-year limited tool and 2-year limited battery and charger warranty. LawnMaster recycles batteries with Call2Recyle.

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9. Poulan ProPR28CD, 17-inch 28cc 2-Cycle Gas Straight Shaft String Trimmer

Poulan Pro has been making outdoor power equipment homeowners can rely on for more than seven decades, year after year. Their products are built with pride in McRae, Georgia, Nashville, Arkansas, and Orangeburg, SC.  You can find Poulan Pro products in-store and online at home improvement retailers, hardware stores, and mass merchants all over North America. Their motto is – we are here to help you tackle ANY YARD. ANY TASK. 

Interestingly enough, The PoulanPro brand is owned by Husqvarna. Poulan Pro trimmers boast features that ensure there’s a unit that’s perfect for every job. The PR28CD features a 28cc, 2-stroke engine with a curved shaft and 16-inch cut path. As an attachment-capable trimmer with Pro-Link™, this unit accepts six optional attachments, making it even more versatile. From standard trimming to blowing, tilling, hedge trimming, edging, brush cutting, and even tree pruning.

The SureFire™ Starting System removes the confusion from using chokes, providing a no-fuss start every time. The spring-assist pull cord combined with an easy-to-use purge bulb ensures fast, simple starts with fewer cord pulls. The Tap n’ Go head automatically feeds the line for further efficiency.

Like with all products, make an effort to register your purchase. You get exclusive product updates, offers, customer service help, and more with your product registration.

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10. PowerSmart PS4532

1. PowerSmart String Trimmer, 2-Stroke Gas String Strimmer, Cordless Brush Cutter, PS4532

Amerisun, headquartered in Itasca, Illinois, is the sole U.S. distributor and support center for PowerSmart outdoor power equipment. They offer various outdoor power equipment, from snow throwers, lawnmowers, pressure washers, pole saws, chip shredders, portable generators, and more. With experienced, professional, and highly knowledgeable staff, Amerisun provides ever-advancing and dependable quality products.

A 25.4cc 2-stroke gas engine powers this straight shaft string trimmer/brush-cutter combo which is fitter with an easy starting Smart Start recoil system and fuel pump.

The string trimmer has a shock-absorption design, adding improved use-comfort. A translucent fuel tank allows you to monitor your fuel level as you work visually. The engine design limits run-time emissions and noise levels.  Supplied with the product is a 10-inch, 3-tooth blade that makes cutting heavy vegetation easier. The package includes a shoulder strap that makes using this machine even more manageable.

Of the 92 global reviews on Amazon, 75 were happy, and nine were not. This unit is lighter than the 4-stroke sister machine, weighing in at a mere 18.7 pounds.

Specifications

• 25.4cc 2-Cycle Gas 2 in 1 Brush Cutter &String Trimmer
• Model# PS4532
• Engine type: Air-cooled, 2-cycle,vertical piston valve, gasoline engine
• Displacement: 25.4 cc
• Fuel used: Unleaded gasoline mixed with SEA 2-stroke motor oil (ratio of 50:1)
• Fuel tank capacity: 18.6 fl. oz
• Blade size: 10 inch
• Trimmer line diameter: 0.095″
• Cutting path diameter: 16-inches
• Length of main pipe section: 59 inches
• Length of drive shaft section: 60 inch
• Package dimensions (L x W x H): 43.3 x 10.2 x10.4 inches
• Net weight: 18.7 lb

Frequently Asked Questions

 How do you advance the line?

This trimmer uses a bump feed head. When spinning, you tap the head on the ground, and centrifugal force will extract the line from the unlocked reel.

How thick of a brush does it cut?

According to the owner’s manual, it is advised not to use the brush blade to cut trees that exceed a diameter of 0.5 to 0.75 inches.

Does this unit run on a 50:1 mix?

Yes. Mix one measure of oil with 50 measures of fresh high-octane gasoline.

Where can I purchase replacement string spools?

You can buy the string in any hardware store.  The recommended size is 0.95 inches. 

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11. Remington RM2530 Rustler™ 25cc 2-Cycle 16-Inch Curved Shaft Gas String Trimmer

In 1921, Arthur Mall opened a small power tool company in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He started out building gasoline and electrically powered drills and saws, and his customers appreciated the dependability of his tools. As word spread, the business grew, along with its reputation for quality workmanship.

As Remington® products became more popular, the company expanded, despite a world war and hard times at home. And with the launch of the first Remington® chainsaw in 1954, Remington® introduced a durable design capable of handling even the demanding duties of loggers.

In recent years, it’s added gas trimmers, cultivators, blowers, and three new chainsaw platforms to the Remington® line of equipment. Their power tools are built to take on any yard task. And just like the first products sold almost a century ago, each tool built today is designed to be efficient, durable, and deliver more than enough power for the job at hand.

With the RM2530 Rustler, Remington presents the perfect partner in your battle to keep tall grass and weeds at bay. The Rustler™ gas-powered trimmer/edger’s powerful 25cc 2-cycle engine and 16-inch cutting swath help you power through more territory at once. QuickStart™ technology makes getting started faster and easier. And when your trimmer line wears down, never fear – just tap the dual-line bump head on the ground, and more line is ready for action.

Features

• Quickstart™ technology  for smoother and easier pull starts
• A balanced curved shaft makes cutting comfortable
• Dual-line bump head with a .095-inch line for greater control
• 16-inch cutting swath trims wider sections of tall grass in less time
• Ultra-lightweight design
• Includes 2-cycle oil
• The lowest price of all trimmers in our review at less than $100

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12. Ryobi RY253SS 25cc Straight Shaft 18″ Lawn Grass Weed Trimmer 2-Cycle Gas Power

The TT Group is one of the largest manufacturing plants globally. It is responsible for making products like Milwaukee and Hoover. It also makes all Ryobi parts – although assembly is done worldwide, including the U.S.A.

The RYOBI 2 Cycle Gas Straight Shaft String Trimmer has a full crank engine for life twice as long as others. This string trimmer accepts RYOBI Expand-It Universal Brand Fit attachments adding versatility to your trimmer. Attach an edger, a blower, or even a tiller to the powerhead and quickly move from project to project.

Save time, save space and save money with the RYOBI Expand-It System. RYOBI makes string head reloads more straightforward with the Reel-Easy String Head; thread your string, twist the head, and resume trimming. Users will experience easier starting with the Zip Start carburetor, including Ethanol Shield 2 Cycle Oil. Backed by a 3-year warranty, trust the RYOBI 2 Cycle Gas Straight Shaft String Trimmer for your outdoor trimming needs.

Included

• Power Head
• Straight Shaft Trimmer
• REEL-Easy String Head
• 2 Cycle Ethanol Shield Oil

Of all the 2,838 people who reviewed the product, only 30 had an unfavorable report. The average score out of a 5-star rating across the different domains were:

• Overall               4.7
• Durability           4.6
• Ease of Use        4.7
• Performance      4.7
• Weight               4.4
• Power                 4.7
• Affordability       4.7

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13. Troy-Bilt TB22 EC 25cc 2-cycle Curved Shaft String Trimmer

Like many brands, Troy-Bilt proudly says their stuff is “Built-in America with the U.S. and global parts.”. Troy-Bilt® is headquartered in Valley City, Ohio. Their reliable equipment is designed, built, and tested right here in the U.S. – from Ohio and Mississippi to Tennessee and Arizona.

The TB22 gas string trimmer features a 25cc, 2-cycle lightweight engine for ease of use. It comes with a 17″ cutting swath to cut more expansive grass areas in less time and SpringAssist™ technology for easier pull starts. The dual-line bump head with a .095-inch line allows for precise cutting, while the curved shaft provides balanced and comfortable cutting. Its TrimmerPlus® attachment capability allows for more versatility and less storage space. The multi-position adjustable handle reduces vibration and operator fatigue. The trimmer includes 2-cycle engine oil and a 2-year limited warranty.

Key Features

• 25cc, 2-cycle lightweight engine is comfortable for everyone
• SpringAssist™ technology for easier pull starts
• 17″ cutting swath cuts wider areas of grass in less time
• Dual-line bump head with .095″ line for precise cutting
• Curved shaft provides a clearer view of the trimming area and evenly distributes weight for balanced and comfortable cutting
• TrimmerPlus® attachment capable – more versatility, less storage space (TrimmerPlus® attachments sold separately)
• Multi-position adjustable handle reduces vibration and operator fatigue
• Includes 2-cycle engine oil

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14. WEMARS 42.7CC WS-ST42G

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15. Wild Badger Power WBP31BCF 31cc Gas 4-Cycle

Wild Badger Power was born to provide a professional-grade product line at affordable prices for homeowners and small business owners. Our team researched the main issues with the other power tools today and found that the customer has to choose between price and features.

Until Badger, nothing on the market offers the features that homeowners want at a price they can justify. While the high price point of “Professional” products may not be prohibitive, it is hard to explain spending so much for so little usage each season.

Badger Power seeks to solve these issues with its new line of products. They believe that high-performance power tools should be available for all. Their motto is “We provide Power, Performance, & Durability at a justifiable price.”.

Their line of string trimmers, blowers, mowers, and other POE is designed to work as effectively as more costly professional tools. Their quality convictional offers a 6-year warranty on all their products.

So, stop mixing oil and gas and take control of your lawn care with the Sunseeker 4-Cycle WBP31BCF Straight Shaft 2-in-1 Grass Trimmer and Brush Cutter, a versatile, powerful tool. The WBP31BCF has a grass trimmer attachment for detail work along borders and a brush cutter blade for heavier grasses and brush clearing. It also includes a harness to relieve the strain on your arms and improve stability. Powered by a 31cc, 4-cycle, full-crankshaft engine, your WBP31BCF is designed for reliability. The full-crank design delivers a fast start and smooth operation, reducing emissions, increasing fuel efficiency, and delivering a longer life.

The transmission is supported by an aluminum casing which significantly reduces vibration, allowing you to work comfortably until the job is done. The straight shaft is built with a robust aluminum tube which is lightweight and durable for added comfort and convenience.

The tap-and-go trimmer head allows quick line feed for the twin-line cutting system. Replacing the line will no longer eat up precious daylight and will give you more time to get your lawns and landscaping looking clean. All Badger Gas units come with a 6-year Home Owners and a 3-year Commercial Manufacturer’s limited warranty!

Conclusion

We looked at 15 gas-powered weed eaters and gave you our honest perspective. We also looked at where they are made or said to have been made. Here is what stands out for me:

Highest Contenders

Both the Husqvarna and the Honda stood out for me. That may indicate that I’m a bit of a snob. Still, some companies have worked super hard to build a reputation and continue delivering the goods to ensure that reputation remains intact.

Winning companies cultivate an ethos where every employee is proud of what goes out the production plant’s door. They ensure that the materials they use are the best – always. To do that, they implement costly quality control mechanisms.

The Benefits of a 4-Stroke Motor

As the writeup on the Honda and the Craftsman shows, the 4-stroke motors are next level. Firstly, they don’t have the build-up of oil on the spark plug. Secondly, their torque range is much better, even at low revs. And finally, they cost less to run.

Of course, there has to be a counter-negative.  Traditionally, 4-stroke engines were heavy. New materials and technologies seem to sort that outlook at the Honda’s weight, for instance.