which Stihl string trimmer

[buck12]

My old Weedeater trimmer is worn out. I am in the market for a new string trimmer. I have a 1.5 acre yard which includes a shared pond. Between the pond, fence, and edging I have a fair amount of trimming. I am considering the Stihl FS55R. I bought a new Stihl chainsaw earlier this year and opted for the pro model but I don't want to ante up the extra money for a pro model trimmer unless there is a valid reason. Any thoughts?

 

[Runner]

I have had a Stihl FS55 for about 5 years now and have been very satisfied with it. I trim around a 2 acre yard, including high grass along a creek and in an evaporation pond.

So far, it has started and run well every time I pulled the handle. Uses a lot of gas, but is very powerful.

 

[two_bit_score]

I have an FS-70, which is a low end commercial model.Love it.

Have you considered a kombi unit?

 

[buck12]

I have an FS-70, which is a low end commercial model.Love it.

Have you considered a combi?

Combi?

 

[Steve HEF]

I've used Stihl products commercially for over 15 years. I've found the newer "4-Mix" 4 stroke models to be much more reliable than the older style 2 strokes. I used the FS85 2 stroke but switched to the FS110 4 stroke. The difference was 20 but it was money well spent. The FS110 starts first pull every time and is a lot better on fuel.

I don't have any experience with the smaller units, you won't be disappointed with the FS110

 

[two_bit_score]

Combi?

It's actually Kombi. I edited it. They are able to take a lot of different attachments.. Blower, pruner, Hedge trimmer, cultivator, etc.

Look in the Stihl website under multi-task tools.

I think in the long run for a homeowner they would be the best bet.

 

[buck12]

Combi?

I looked at Stihl's website and see it's their power head with multiple attachments. I thought about this route but the only attachment I would use is the pole saw and I borrow my Dad's pole saw for the few times I have the need.

 

[two_bit_score]

I understand. Thought that too. Kinda wish I had bought the Kombi unit to start with now. What saw did you buy?

 

[two_bit_score]

I love Stihl Products. I have a gas cutoff saw, brush cutter, elect string trimmer, two chain saws, and a pole pruner. All great.

 

[Baby Grand]

I have what must be a 20 or 25 year old Stihl FS62. It wasn't cheap when I bought it, but it's been a great value. Never had it serviced. Starts after about 5 or 6 pulls - it's always been a slow starter. Not too bad on fuel. It has sat, unused, for 2 or 3 years at a time in storage when I lived in apartments. I'd get an angle head (not the curved shaft) model if I were to replace it. If you need to cut tall, tough grasses around water, like phragmites, then you'll be wanting a blade cutter rather than a string cutter on the end and a fair displacement engine to drive it. That FS110 that Steve HEF mentioned looks like a nice one. Do yourself (and your back) a favor and get the wide handlebars and shoulder strap - then you can cut for hours and still walk the next day.
-Jim