Hedge Trimmer
Buying tips

Before you choose a hedge trimmer, find out what you will be using it for. High or low hedges? Will you be shaping the hedge? Below is some advice for choosing a hedge trimmer.

Double-sided hedge trimmers

The most common type of hedge trimmer, designed for clipping hedges up to chest height.
If you choose a double-sided hedge trimmer, the machine should have an adjustable rear handle. This provides increased flexibility and better ergonomics when trimming the sides of hedges. During use, it’s important to keep the machine’s centre of gravity as close as possible to the body, to decrease the load on the arms, shoulders and back. The machine should also have some type of emission control system which doesn’t affect its weight negatively, as well as an efficient vibration damping system. For shaping hedges, the double-sided trimmer is the most suitable.
Husqvarna’s 325HDA55x is a good choice. It has an adjustable cutter bar for maximum flexibility and ergonomics.

Single-sided hedge trimmers:

This type is designed especially for straight sections of hedge. The machine’s design makes it easier for you to cut straight. Since there are only teeth on one side of the cutting bar, you can have longer blades without the machine becoming too heavy. The longer blade lets you clip larger areas in a single sweep. The machine’s centre of gravity is located somewhat closer to the body, compared to double-sided models, which makes it easier and more flexible to use. Accessories include a collector for the cuttings.

Pole hedge trimmers:

Pole hedge trimmers are used for cutting high and low hedges, and ground cover as well. With a pole hedge trimmer, you can cut high hedges without a ladder. And the adjustable cutting bar increases flexibility and helps you maintain a healthier posture when you work. The ability to angle the cutter bar improves you reach and speed, when cutting low or high hedges. Ground cover is easy to trim with our longest pole hedge trimmer. The engine is located as a counterweight to the cutting deck, so that the machine remains well balanced while you work. The engine’s location also means that the exhaust is directed away from the user.

Things to keep in mind when choosing a hedge trimmer:

• The machine should have an efficient vibration-damping system to minimise vibrations in those parts of the machine that the user comes in contact with.
• The engine should have some form of emission control, for the benefit of the user’s working environment as well as the environment as a whole.
• The cutter bar should be able to be turned, for cutting up close to walls.