Opinions on Stihl 600 Magnum blower

Ken_CT · Sep 4, 2011

I am thinking of replacing my old Echo backpack blower with a new one. I would like some opinions on the Stihll 600 Magnum backpack blower. I want to get something good that will last and be reliable. My old Echo still runs, but when I use it now, I reek of gasoline. It has served me well, but is getting old and busted up, plus I don't think bursting into flames while blowing leaves would be a good thing :laughing:, except for maybe making something to put on YouTube. There are a lot of very knowledgeable people here and I would like to get some advice from them before spending around $500.
Thanks in advance.

Fixemall · Sep 4, 2011

I fix a ton of OPE and Stihl is some of the best made stuff around. Echo is good as well, chances are your old unit just needs a new boot where the gas lines enter the tank.

Dargo · Sep 4, 2011

In the summer I run a backpack blower about an hour each week. I've been using a box store bought Husky backpack blower that has a Kawasaki engine and runs fine but is rather anemic on power. My handheld Stihl would move almost as much. My objective was to finish faster and move more. After 2 seasons with the BR600 Stihl, I've cut my blowing time in half. I'm careful to avoid that crappy ethanol laced gas in all my small engines, but I've never had an issue with the BR600 at all and it is by far the most powerful blower I've used. I highly recommend it.

Ken_CT · Sep 4, 2011

Thanks guys. Looks like I will get the Stihl. I will look into the boot on the Echo, but I really need (want

) a more powerful unit. I'm sure somebody will take it off my hands, but it never hurts to have a spare.

Topkicker · Sep 5, 2011

Can't go wrong with the Stihl. I've had my BR380 for 3 years with no issues. You might say I'm a big fan of their products.

Branchchipper · Sep 5, 2011

Another vote for buying the Stihl here!

All of our power equipment is Stihl, including the two most senior members; an FS66 trimmer and 034 chain saw, both bought by me in the mid-1980's. Both are still in regular use!

As for blowers, we have two, one hand-held (5 yrs old?) and a large backpack purchased just last winter. The backpack has the most recent throttle-choke-startup controls, and all I can say is that Stihl has made an already-good system even better.

I add Stabil to all gasoline right at the pump, and use only supreme (92 octane) grade, as well the better-grade Stihl 2-cycle oil.

They just keep on going....!

(PS- look at the circ saws and chain saws that most structural or wildland firefighters use- there's a reason that so many are Stihl products)

Ken_CT · Sep 8, 2011

I picked up the 600 Magnum, and while I was there I got the FS 90R trimmer also. My old Ryobi trimmer worked ok but I think it was causing nerve damage as my hand would be tingling & shaking badly after using it. The blower is really impressive, a lot of power, and they both have a nice feel to them. Thanks everyone for the advice.