Extendable hedge trimmers

G_M

I've been looking to buy an extendable electric hedge trimmer and comparing:
blade length; cut width; overall length; reliability; weight;
Models include Flymo, Gardena, Eckman; B&D; Gtech; Stilh.

Reviews are hard to come by and contradictory (of course!) and few models are available to look at in garden centres/B&Q etc - just online.

One concern I have is weight/ease of use: Weights are sometimes given including/excluding waist-worn battery, but more significantly some models seem to have the motor at the end of the extension where it joins the blade - surely this makes it very unwieldy?

Any experiences welcome esp if you've tried more than one!

timbim_2

We've got a Ryobi job. Having the motor at the cutting end does make it heavier and slightly difficult to move, but transfering the drive up the shaft isn't ideal either, making it a real hassle to collapse once you've finished using it, a long drive shaft that needs oiling etc.

I'd honestly go for a mains one, I can't stand having how long I can cut for dictated to me by the battery. Also makes it lighter, and you get more power for the price.

G_M

Bumped for any more views?

jollyanna

I have had a Gtech one for 3 years and it still works though the battery is now a little weary on energy. It was a good investment at the time, saving me going up the ladder with huge lengths of flex and extensions. I'd go for one that includes 2 batteries as part of the purchase. Good luck.

G_M

Thanks jollyanna.

One concern I have is weight/ease of use: Weights are sometimes given including/excluding waist-worn battery, but more significantly some models seem to have the motor at the end of the extension where it joins the blade - surely this makes it very unwieldy?

Any comment on the Gtech?

GlenT_2

We have high hedges and I bought a combination extended petrol driven hedge trimmer/chainsaw/ strimmer from an eBAY advert. It extends up to almost 3 metres. BUT its hot and smokey, heavy and unwieldly, and the hedge trimmer gets jammed in the privet. I thought it was just me but my strapping 19 year old son refuses to use it. Its back to a lighter weight electric trimmer on a ladder (held at the base) for us.