Having a hedge is practical and aesthetic. It protects from prying eyes while decorating the environment. For this, it needs maintenance, including pruning. The hedge trimmer is just the right tool. Electric or thermal, it makes it possible to standardize the green fence in a relatively short time. Portable, this equipment is practical. It has 2 toothed blades, at least one of which is sliding. The Makita DUH523Z 18V LXT Hedge Trimmer works with all series batteries. As for the DeWalt Hedge Trimmer Max 20V , it has sharp blades. It can cut thick branches.
Buying Guide – How to Choose a Good Hedge Trimmer?
The selection of a hedge trimmer depends on several criteria such as the budget, the thickness of the hedge or the aesthetics of the device. The different brands of tools offer a wide variety of models. They differ in power and functionality. So follow these few guidelines to find out how to choose the best hedge trimmers of 2022.
The energy source
Hedge trimmers can run on either gasoline or electricity. This 2 nd category is divided into 2. There are wired and wireless devices. Each of these 3 types has its advantages and disadvantages.
If you want to compare the weight of these machines, an electric corded hedge trimmer will be the least heavy. Indeed, it will display a maximum of 6 kg on a scale. This type of device is environmentally friendly since it does not release gas. On the other hand, it has a limited radius of action. It actually depends on an electrical outlet. Even with an extension cord, the distance you can work is determined by its length. Also, the wire can get in your way. The power of such a machine is generally lower than that of battery or gasoline models.
A cordless hedge trimmer is a great alternative. It has all the advantages of the 1st category without the inconvenience of the power cable. This type of device also has more power. With a good battery, you can work for several hours before needing to recharge it. The weight of this element must be taken into account when purchasing. It can indeed represent 2 to 3 kg more. Also, some brands offer the device without a battery. This then entails an additional cost.
A thermal model will be the most efficient in terms of power. Whether 2 or 4 stroke, the engine of this hedge trimmer is capable of providing 300 to 1100 W. Thick branches are not resistant to it. On the other hand, this type of equipment is quite heavy, up to 7 kg. It is also necessary to predict the weight and the price of gasoline. Although practical, this type of device is polluting.
The type of blade
Before deciding where to buy the best hedge trimmer, see what kind of blade the team has. All models are equipped with 2 which are toothed. Apart from the shape of the teeth, the main difference lies in the movement of these blades.
For single-cut devices, only one blade moves. The one on the top slides on the lower counter-blade, immobile. If you opt for this type of machine, make sure that it has an anti-vibration system. On double-cut hedge trimmers, the 2 blades slide relative to each other in opposite directions. The device thus cuts more efficiently and neatly.
The length of the blade also influences the rendering of the size. The longer it is, the straighter and more even the cut will be. Work also gets done faster. On the other hand, the weight of the device will be more important. Conversely, a short blade will give more maneuverability and therefore more precision. In general, manufacturers equip their devices with blades ranging from 40 to 76 cm.
The cutting capacity is also defined by the space between the teeth. This varies between 12 and 36 mm. If you want to know how to buy a better value hedge trimmer, first estimate the density of the hedge and the thickness of the branches. An average fence will require a cutting capacity of 20 to 25 mm for example.
maneuverability
Other aspects should be considered in a buying guide for the best hedge trimmers like this. These include the handles. Their shape and arrangement determine the comfort of handling. There is normally one on the back with the power button and another on the front as a guide.
Their handling is all the easier if they are covered with a non-slip rubber or foam coating. An anti-vibration device is also very useful to limit fatigue.
The heaviest models are often equipped with an armrest. To reach the high parts of the hedges, a long blade is often not enough. You have to use a stepladder. However, some manufacturers have equipped their hedge trimmer models with a telescopic handle. Thus, you have access to heights without having to perform an installation each time. Some models that you can see on a comparison even have a variable angle. They allow for example to trim the top of the hedge flat.
The 5 Best Hedge Trimmers (Reviews & Tests) of 2022
A hedge trimmer is an essential tool for maintaining your garden. There are all kinds with various functionalities. To find your way among the brands and know which is the best hedge trimmer on the market, having help is useful. Here are some models that stand out in Canada.
1. Makita DUH523Z 18V LXT Hedge Trimmer
This battery-powered hedge trimmer from Makita is equipped with double-cut blades. These are nickel plated. They have received an anti-abrasion treatment in order to be more durable, but also for a more straightforward size. The space between the teeth is 26 mm. This cutting capacity is high enough to cut branches of 15 mm in diameter.
The length of the blade is 22”. This dimension is quite adequate for good handling. The engine of this device is driven by an 18 V battery not supplied. Lithium-ion type, it offers a good autonomy to the machine.
The rate, meanwhile, is 2700 strokes / min. Cushions limit the vibrations transmitted to you when using this hedge trimmer. What makes it an even better hedge trimmer is its weight of 3.3 kg. The noise it emits is around 89 dB.
Buying this device means opting for less bulk and total autonomy. The battery compatible with this model is powerful and an indicator shows the charge level.
The weight of the machine and the length of the blade make this hedge trimmer maneuverable. The anti-vibration system and the ergonomic handles enhance comfort.
This device is powerful enough to effectively trim a hedge every day. The blades are sharp and the teeth fairly spaced.
Some users find the speed of the blades insufficient, especially compared to that of the thermal models.
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2. DeWalt 20V Max Hedge Trimmer
This DeWalt hedge trimmer is part of the brand’s tools using the 20V MAX battery. This system brings together around a hundred references. This accumulator works with Lithium-ion. It has a large capacity of 5 Ah. Thus equipped, this device has an excellent power without polluting emanation.
However, the battery is not supplied with the device. Considered by many to be the best brand of hedge trimmers, DeWalt offers this model with a 22” or 55.9 cm blade. The teeth have a curved design for more efficiency. They can cut branches that have a thickness of 1.9 cm, which is not negligible.
The reinforced steel of these blades contributes to a sharp and fast cut. The design of this equipment has been thought out for good handling. The handles are comfortable and the weight is not too high. Indeed, the device weighs less than 4 kg. Sign of quality, the manufacturer guarantees this model for 3 years.
The battery that fits this hedge trimmer is the same one that equips many of the brand’s tools. It can therefore be found on any price comparator.
The blades of this hedge trimmer are capable of cutting all branches as long as they match the tooth spacing.
The handle is quite comfortable and the device light enough to be handled with one hand, although this is not recommended.
A telescopic handle on this efficient hedge trimmer would have been a definite plus.
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3. Black + Decker LHT2220 20V Hedge Trimmer
If you are unsure which hedge trimmer to choose, know that this brand is renowned in the field of power tools. This Black and Decker hedge trimmer is no exception. This model is light with its 2.6 kg. It is no less powerful.
Its motor is powered by a Lithium-ion battery supplied with the device. This is the 20V MAX model that equips other brand tools. The blade is double cut. It has a length of 22”. Its rate reaches 2400 strokes/min. The cutting capacity is quite high. Indeed, the 3/4” branches are easily pruned.
The vibrations emitted by this unit are minimal compared to single cut models. This difference can go up to 40%. With the front handle that wraps around the body of the machine, you have the comfort you need for all cutting angles. It also has a soft texture.
Following the manufacturer’s advice, the batteries that equip other devices can be mounted on this hedge trimmer.
The blade of this device is very sharp. It therefore cuts the branches with ease. The power of the motor reinforces this efficiency.
The handle allows horizontal and vertical cuts while remaining comfortable. The lightness of this machine facilitates its handling.
A battery, even when fully charged, does not last long enough for long jobs.
The blade guard is quite fragile and can break easily.
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4. Sun Joe SJH901E Electric Hedge Trimmer
If you’re looking for where to buy a new hedge trimmer to reach the heights, take a look at the tools that Sun Joe offers. This brand has this model in its range. This is a telescopic hedge trimmer. Its handle can extend 7.4 feet. Thus, it provides extra length to allow you to reach points 12.5 feet away.
The head tilts from -90° to 90° in 30° increments to facilitate any size. The blade of this device is double cut. It is 18” long. It is powered by a powerful 3.8 A motor. Thus, it is capable of trimming bushes or stems 0.7” thick.
In terms of safety, this hedge trimmer has a safety button. This prevents accidental triggering of the blade. Indeed, the joystick instantly starts the machine. To compensate for the weight of the device, a strap is supplied with it.
The telescopic handle allows you to prune in height. It is no longer necessary to take out the stepladder and move it every time.
The adjustable head angle is very convenient. In addition, the device has the ideal dimensions to reach even narrow places.
For what it has to offer, this device is not expensive.
When the telescopic arm is at its maximum, the hedge trimmer becomes unwieldy. The weight is concentrated on the head and the strap does not help too much.
It takes several passes to get a satisfactory result.
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5. Greenworks 22102 2.7 Amp Corded Hedge Trimmer
This electric hedge trimmer is the cheapest of this selection. It is offered by the Greenworks brand. This is a model equipped with a wire powered from an electrical outlet. The installed motor has a power of 2.7 A.
This manufacturer wants to be entirely ecological. Its product therefore does not emit polluting gases. In addition, no maintenance is required on this model. The blades are double action. They have a length of 45.7 cm. Their cutting capacity is 3/8”, which corresponds to 9.5 mm.
This device is light and handy. It weighs only 7.26 pounds or 3.3 kg. The shell, the guard and the handles are in one piece to limit this weight.
It also reinforces the solidity of the whole. The bottom of the rear handle is equipped with a eighth note. It allows the extension cord to be attached to it so that the plug does not accidentally come unplugged.
The manufacturer, sure of the quality of his product, guarantees the tool for 4 years. This duration is much longer than that of almost all other brands.
This hedge trimmer has a low weight. It is therefore possible to use it for a long time without getting tired.
This device combines good efficiency with a cost within everyone’s reach.
It is necessary to constantly pay attention to the power wire. Several users have already switched it off by mistake.
Although the device itself is solid, it doesn’t seem to be able to handle heavy work.
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frequently asked Questions
Q1: How to sharpen a hedge trimmer?
Sharpening a hedge trimmer can be done with either a flat file or a carbide sharpener. In the 1 st case, place the appliance on the file, taking care to let the blade protrude from the table. Then file at the exact angle given in the tool’s instructions. It is important to go to the wire and not to go back and forth. Each tooth receives this treatment, whether it is the upper blade or the counter-blade. When a blade is sharp, turn the device over to remove the burr with an ironing stone.
With a carbide sharpener, the movement is from the inside out. The angle must always be respected. To remove filings, spray the appropriate product. Do not forget to wear gloves to sharpen your equipment.
Q2: How do you clean a hedge trimmer blade?
To clean a hedge trimmer blade, it is essential to avoid water. This may damage it. You also have to wear gloves. The first step is to remove the resins. To do this, use a cloth and a degreasing product. Then brush the blades with methylated spirit or gasoline. Otherwise, use a solution recommended by the brand. It must then be wiped off so that no trace remains.
It is also possible to disinfect these blades. The final step is the lubrication of these. Always use a product recommended by the brand whenever possible.
Q3: When to prune the cedar hedge?
The size of a cedar hedge should ideally take place towards the end of June. Annual growth is almost complete at this time. This operation can nevertheless continue until the beginning of September. Even until October it is possible to trim such a hedge.
However, this is not recommended. During this season, the shoots of the year are of an even more tender color than those of the previous year. A cedar hedge should be trimmed at least once a year. This task ensures good plant growth. Therefore, the hedge will be denser and more harmonious.
Q4: How to prune the cedar hedge?
To effectively trim a cedar hedge, 1/3 to 2/3 of the length of new growth must be removed. This size must be bevelled. This maintenance of the hedge can be done either with a manual shear or an electric hedge trimmer. Care must be taken not to cut too much into the wood otherwise it may no longer produce new shoots.
The tool must also be well sharpened. Otherwise, it will shred the stems. To make a very straight cut, it is possible to stretch a rope over 2 stakes placed at the ends of the hedge. Then just follow the level of this rope. As for the shape, it should be narrower at the top and wider at the base. In this way, the light can be evenly received by the whole plant.
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