A hedge trimmer can also be referred to as bush trimmer or a shrub trimmer. Being a gardening tool, the machine that can be used for trimming hedges. There are both manual and powered versions. Most Cordless hedge trimmer reviews don’t provide you with the one best cordless hedge trimmer but rather, a list to choose from. My choice for the best cordless hedge trimmer would be Black + Decker LHT2436 40V Cordless Hedge Trimmer, 24’’
Black + Decker LHT2436 40V Cordless Hedge Trimmer, 24’’
Amazing features of this Decker Cordless Hedge Trimmer
The following features made this hedge trimmer our choice for the best cordless hedge trimmer.
The battery, 40V lithium ion rechargeable battery can power the machine till you finish the task.
The batteries hold the power five times longer and have the double life of NiCd batteries.
The batteries are also powered by an energy star qualified charger for a better environment which recharges the battery in about an hour.
The batteries can be shared with other tools within the system.
Has 24 inch dual-action blades that delivers less vibration (up to 40 percent) as compared to single action blades and helps cut cleanly and comfortably.
Comfortable gripping area with the full wrap-around front handle – meaning you maintain your grip while cutting in any orientation the shearing blade cuts up to .75 inches thick quickly can be used to trim up to 6000 square feet per charge
Measures 39.2 by 7.3 by 7.5 inches
Weighs 6.9 pounds the steel blades, which are rust-resistant and pre-hardened can stay sharp longer.
What I like most about this hedge trimmer is that it is easy to use from the compact design, lightweight and the user experiences less fatigue. In addition, it comes with a built-in cord retention system that prevent accidental unplugging.
Before trimming your hedges:
- Wear appropriate gear- gloves, eye and ear protection, boots and heavy-duty clothes
- Lubricate the hedge trimmer blades
- Remove any objects around and ensure the cord’s connection to the power source
Holding the trimmer
- Grasp with the front hand on the handle firmly while the back hand on grip
- With the thumb under the handlebar, wrap your fingers around the handle
Trimming
- Trim from bottom going to the top, working slowly and steady.
- Trim branches that are .75’’ thick only
- Don’t force the trimmer, let it do the work to avoid hurting yourself or the blade.
- Always remember to release the trigger after finishing the cut- this prevents wear and tear.
Safety precautions when using a hedge trimmer
- Before moving to the next phase, wait for the blade to completely stop
- You should never use a trimmer on a ladder as this is very dangerous.
- Observe the height, never trim above your shoulder height and never overreach.
- Before making any adjustments to the trimmer, unplug the power source
Storing and maintaining the hedge trimmer
- Lubricate the blade
- Keep the blades sharp
- Store properly
Important point to note; before doing any inspection, maintenance, storage, replacement of any parts or cleaning; make sure the throttle control is disengaged, disconnect unit from the power source, all moving parts have stopped and that the trimmer is completely cool to touch.
How well do you know your hedge trimmer?
These are the common parts of a hedge trimmer
- Grip lock- ensures that you lock in your desired grip angle
- Handle- where the front hand grips
- Blade- does the cutting by moving back and forth
- Trigger switch- pressed and held simultaneously with the handle switch to activate the blade
- Plug- connects to the power supply
- Grip hole- allows the passage of the extension cord through the grip to reach the power supply
- Blade support rod- this is the central support for the blades
- Switch lock- makes the trimmer operational by engaging the trigger switch
- Cord hook- keeps the extension cord away from the blade
- Handle switch- pressed and held simultaneously with the trigger switch to activate the blade
Before heading out to your trimming assignment, you might need these tools: wheelbarrow, heavy leather work gloves, yard waste bags, lawn rake and the hedge trimmer. After finishing the trimming, clear away the hedge trimmings into your wheelbarrow for disposal.
Types of hedge trimmers
There are two common types of hedge trimmers including the electric and gas powered hedge trimmers. Electric hedge trimmers are lighter and easier to use. They are quieter and affordable. They can be corded or cordless electric hedge trimmers. Corded hedge trimmer can only extend up to where the extension cord allows which may cause some inconveniences. The cordless hedge trimmer can allow you to work as far as possible from the power source but will only be used as the battery charge lasts.
Getting a gas hedge trimmer could be the other option. However, they are more costly, weigh more and relatively hard to use them. On the brighter side, they can be used for tougher jobs.
Factors to consider before purchasing a hedge trimmer
- cost
- power
- length
- weight
- blade types
- maintenance
- ease of use
- durability
- features
Using the above tips, you can be assured of getting the best cordless hedge trimmer for your home needs.
