My 16 yr old does my lawn and we need a new whipper snipper. I am thinking of getting an electric one, has anyone got any advice please that would be easy for him to use. Thanks in advance
Whipper snipper advice
caro on 20/05/2014 - 20:32
Comments
Depends on the size of the lawn. I have a Ryobi electric, and it works quite well. Bought a 20m extension cable as well. Earlier, I had a cheapo petrol 2 stroke whipper (Homeline) and had lots of problems with it - used to be very hard to get started.
I use to use a rechargable battery version for light work.
Eventually the battery gives out - so new battery will be needed. battery cost=petrol cost=electricity cost - take your pick.Easy maintenance - just hang it in the cradle to recharge, no cables or refuelling etc.
Also, recently saw plastic substitute cord for the whipper snippers. They look like a short zip-tie rather than a roll of "twine"
The council workmen use steel wire or chain instead of the twine due to their heavy duty workload, but a packet of zip-ties might be an OzB alternative.Then again, handing a 16yo a modified piece of equipment to use might not be a good example.
I would recommend getting one that allows you to use whatever replacement trimmer line you want - then buy a larger diameter trimmer line.
Some electric ones have cartridges of line that you have to buy - and they are usually a low diameter which breaks easily and doesn't cut through thicker brush as well as the larger diameter.
Personally I have a cheap electric one from bunnings - and it was terrible until I bought larger diameter line. Now, it cuts everything in my garden without any issue and the line lasts a long time due to not breaking anywhere near as much.
As he has already been doing it I reckon stay with a petrol one. This one is pretty easy to use. Shop around and you will find a good price. http://www.stihl.com.au/STIHL-Products/Grass-Trimmers-Brushc…