6 Best Gas Hedge Trimmer Reviews in 2017

Keeping your lawn tidy and manicured can be an arduous task. Shrubs, trees and hedges quickly grow out of control, which is why it is important to keep them in shape by regular trimming.

With the advent of noise-free and pollution-fee electric gardening tools, it seemed as though gas powered tools would soon fall from grace. However, no electric or battery powered hedge trimmer can match the speed and power provided by a gas hedge trimmer. They are faster, more durable, run longer and are the tool of choice for maintaining larger hedges and shrubs with thicker branches.

While electric trimmers are more suitable for smaller applications, gas powered hedge trimmers will allow you to cut a large area in a short amount of time. You can take them anywhere without the need to worry about the length of the extension cord or the lifespan of the battery. If you have a large yard and do a lot of trimming, then a gas powered hedge trimmer is the tool for you.

In order to help you choose a trimmer that perfectly suits your needs, we’ve prepared a list of the best 6 gas hedge trimmers currently on the market. Apart from the list, we’ve also collected some basic information on day to day operation of your trimmer and the most important considerations you should keep in mind when buying one.

1. Poulan Pro PP2822 22” 28cc 2 Cycle Gas Powered Dual Sided Hedge Trimmer

Poulan Pro PP2822 is an immensely powerful and handy tool for your gardening needs. Its 22-inch dual sided blades powered by a 28 cc engine will ensure that you easily cut through thick branches with no need for stopping or slowing down. The spring assisted starting system makes starting your hedge trimmer a breeze.

By reducing vibration, the manufacturer ensured that the trimmer is easy to operate and will not cause fatigue and arm strain when used for longer periods. The adjustable rear handle makes this trimmer highly convenient and allows for precision when trimming your hedges.

The PP2822 is an excellent choice for any homeowner looking to get his front and back yard hedges and shrubs in perfect shape.

Features & Specifications:

28 cc Engine – The powerful 28 ccs 2-cycle engine will allow you to easily cut through thick branches without the need to slow down or use other tools. The engine features spring assisted starting to eliminate the need for powerful tugs on the starter-rope.

Double Sided 22” Cutter Blades – The stainless steel double sided blades can cut hedges in either direction, allowing for the job to be done quicker and easier. They are sturdy and durable, and are recommended for cutting twigs and branches of up to 5/8”.

Adjustable Handle – The rear handle can be rotated up to 180 degrees, allowing the users’ hands to stay horizontal while making vertical cuts. This increases the overall comfort and convenience of the trimmer and allows you to accurately shape the hedges however you desire.

Reduced Vibration – The PP2822 trimmer is designed to minimize the amount of vibration-released while in operation. This will reduce stress on user’s arms and hands, and alleviate fatigue that can result from prolonged use.

 
 
 
 

2. Husqvarna 122HD60 21.7cc Gas 23.7-in Dual Action Hedge Trimmer

The Husqvarna 122HD60 is a powerful and lightweight hedge trimmer with a quiet engine that will not disturb your neighbors. With an ergonomic design and weight of little under 11 pounds, this trimmer won’t cause you fatigue if you need to use it for longer periods.

Husqvarna’s Smart Start Recoil Starter will ensure the engine can be started quickly and with minimum effort, allowing for an easy tug on the cord to get the engine running. Adjustable handle and dual sided cutter blades allow for quick and precise trimming, enabling you to shape your shrubs and hedges as you see fit.

Anti-vibration dampers will ensure minimum vibration transfer from the trimmer’s engine to your hands and arms, reducing fatigue if you need to use it for prolonged periods.

This trimmer is the perfect choice for homeowners with large yards that require allotting of trimming.

Features & Specifications:

21.7 cc Engine – The 21.7 cc engine will provide plenty of power to quickly trim most hedges you are likely to come across, while its light weight will not cause you fatigue if you need to use the trimmer for a longer period. The engine features the Smart Start® Recoil Starter, which purges air from the carburetor and fuel system, allowing for quick and easy start with minimum effort. Auto return stop switch will automatically reset the switch to on position for easier starting.

With a noise level of only 93 dB, the engine is exceptionally quiet when compared to other 2-cycle engines.

Double Sided 23.6″ Cutter Blades – The stainless steel double sided blades can cut in either direction, allowing for quicker and more effective trimming. They are made of hardened steel, designed to stay sharp for longer. 1.1” teeth openings are recommended for twigs and branches of up to 8/10”.

Adjustable Handle – The rear handle rotates up to 180 degrees, allowing for the users’ hands to stay horizontal while making vertical cuts. This makes the trimmer comfortable and accurate while shaping your hedges.

LowVib® Design – Husqvarna 122HD60 is designed with effective anti-vibration dampeners, which will greatly decrease the amount of vibration experienced by the user. This alleviates the stress on the users’ arms and hands and decreases fatigue when the trimmer is used for prolonged periods.

 
 
 
 

3. Echo HC-152 Gas Powered Hedge Trimmer

Echo HC-152 hedge trimmer features a 21.2 cc professional-grade engine that provides a lot of power with a fairly light weight. The commercial-grade air filtration system will ensure a longer life for the engine and can be accessed easily, with no need for using tools.

Razor sharp double sided 20” blades are precision ground and laser cut and will go through woody branches like a hot knife through butter. They are supported by a rigid support bar, providing a clean, precise cut.

The trimmer weighs in at only 11.7 pounds, providing better maneuverability. Its balance is excellent, making the trimmer feel even lighter than it is. You will not get fatigued from carrying it around.

An important safety feature is the throttle lock, which requires you to press an additional knob with your palm while using the trimmer, preventing the throttle from accidentally engaging.

Echo HC-152 is a powerful and precise trimmer, perfect for homeowners looking to get their hedge trimmed in no time at all.

Features & Specifications:

21.2 cc Engine – The 21.2 cc professional-grade 2-stroke engine provides a decent amount of power while remaining exceptionally lightweight. It features a commercial-grade air filtration system for prolonged engine life. The filter can be easily accessed, with no need for tools.

Throttle Lock – HC-152 trimmer features the throttle lock to prevent accidental throttle engagement. It requires you to unlock the throttle by pressing a knob on the rear handle, thus preventing a serious or fatal accident.

Double Sided 20″ Cutting Blades –  The double-sided, double-reciprocating RazorEdge™ blades provide a clean straight cut time and time again. They are precision ground and laser cut, allowing them to maintain sharp for a longer time.

The cutting blades feature a rigid support bar that will ensure straighter and more precise cuts.

 
 
 
 

4. Tanaka TCH22EAP2 21cc 2-Cycle Gas Hedge Trimmer

Tanaka TCH22EAP2 is one of the lightest and most quiet gas hedge trimmers currently on the market. The engine’s PureFire technology features reduction in emission and fuel consumption, without making sacrifices to power output.

Weighing in at a little over 9 pounds, this trimmer is extremely easy to use and provides excellent maneuverability. With a noise level of only 87 dB, you can rest assured that not quite all of your neighbors will be informed that you’ve decided to do some work in the garden.

The double sided cutting blades and adjustable rear handle ensures speed and accuracy when trimming hedges and shrubs, while the front-mounted exhaust directs fumes away from your face no matter which position you hold the trimmer in.

This lightweight, quiet, easy to start hedge trimmer is the tool of choice for keeping your hedges as tidy as the rest of your garden. Large fuel tank and efficient engine make it a highly convenient gardening tool.

Features & Specifications:

21.1 cc Engine – Tanaka’s Powerful PureFire 2-stroke engine is one of the lightest and most quiet engines in the industry. With a noise level of only 87 dB, this hedge trimmer will make sure you inconvenience your neighbors as little as possible. The engine features PureFire technology, which reduces emissions and fuel consumption without sacrificing power output. S-start technology will ensure that a gentle tug on the starter rope will get the engine going.

A weight of little over 9 pounds provides for excellent maneuverability and very little fatigue if you need to use it for prolonged periods.

Forward-facing exhaust – The trimmer features a front-mounted exhaust that will direct exhaust fumes and heat away from the users face.

Double Sided Cutting Blades – The double sided commercial grade blades can cut in either direction, providing for quicker, more efficient trimming. 1.1” teeth openings can cut thicker branches without twisting or bruising. The product is available with blades in lengths of 20”, 24” and 30”.

Adjustable Handle – The Quick-Twist™ rear handle features five different positions within an 180-degree angle. This allows for comfortable use in tight areas and a high degree of precision when cutting.

 
 
 
 

5. Weed Eater GHT225 22-Inch 25cc 2-Cycle Gas-Powered Hedge Trimmer

 

Weed Eater GHT 225 is a powerful and fairly lightweight hedge trimmer designed for domestic use. The engine features an all-position carburetor that can operate vertically, horizontally or upside down, allowing for maneuverability and comfort.

Its lightweight design and the comfortable vibration-resistant handle will allow you to trim large hedges without getting fatigued. The 22” cutting blades are convenient for reaching across wider areas, while the precise variable speed trigger throttle allows for more accurate trimming.

Affordable price and comfortable design, coupled with a powerful engine, make this hedge trimmer the tool of choice for any homeowner’s gardening needs.

Features & Specifications:

25 cc Engine – Weed Eater’s 25 cc 2-cycle engine will provide plenty of power for any trimming task in your front or back yards. It features an all-position carburetor that can be operated vertically, horizontally or even upside down. The powerful and quiet engine makes this hedge trimmer an excellent tool for domestic use.

Variable Speed Trigger Throttle – The throttle enables the user to precisely control the cutting speed of the blades. That provides for more accurate trimming, allowing you to shape your hedges and shrubs as you desire.

Double Sided 22″ Cutting Blades – The 22” double-sided stainless steel cutting blades can cut in either direction, providing for speed and efficiency. Recommended for cutting twigs and branches of up to 3/8”.

Low Vibration Handle – GHT225 features the ComforTouch® reduced vibration handle for greater comfort and a secure grip. The handle will minimize the transfer of vibration to the user’s hands and arms, alleviating fatigue when used for prolonged periods.

 
 
 
 

6. Husqvarna 122HD45 Double Sided Homeowner Hedge Trimmer

122HD45 is the smaller brother of Husqvarna’s 122HD60 model we’ve discussed earlier. Featuring the same lightweight and quiet 21.7 cc engine, along with shorter, 18” cutter blades, this hedge trimmer is even more lightweight, comfortable and maneuverable.

As with the 122HD60 model, Smart Start Recoil Starter will allow you to quickly and easily start your hedge trimmer, with no need for repeated powerful tugs on the starter rope. Anti-vibration dampeners reduce stress on the user’s hands and arms, causing very little fatigue if used for prolonged periods.

This model has been tested and recommended by the National Home Gardening Club and features a 100% approval rating. Shorter blades, low noise level and lightweight design assure that this hedge trimmer will get your hedge trimming work completed quickly and easily.

Features & Specifications:

21.7 cc Engine – Lightweight, powerful and quiet, the 21.7 cc engine will make sure you don’t get fatigued while disturbing your neighbors as little as possible. Smart Start® Recoil Starter allows for quick and easy starting with minimum effort, while the auto return stop switch makes the trimmer ready for starting at all times.

Double Sided 18” Cutter Blades – The double sided 18” blades can cut in either direction. They are recommended for twigs and branches of up to 8/10”.

LowVib® Design – Like the 122HD60 model, Husqvarna 122HD45 features Effective anti-vibration dampeners, which will absorb vibration from the engine, alleviating stress on the user’s hands and arms, and minimizing fatigue when used for prolonged periods.

Hedge Trimmer Cutting Blades

When manicuring your front or backyard, you’ll want the proper tool for the job. The cutting blades of your hedge trimmer will enable you to shape your hedges and shrubs quickly and easily, so you should choose blades that will fit the needs of your particular garden.

What follows is some basic information on hedge trimmer cutting blades that you should have in mind when buying a new hedge trimmer.

There are three types of hedge trimmer cutting blades: double sided, single sided and long reach or pole. 

Single Sided Blades – Single sided blades are designed for cutting straight sections of the hedge. Since the teeth are on only one side, the blade can be longer, allowing you to cut large sections in a single sweep. These are usually installed on commercial-grade hedge trimmers designed for cutting long straight rows, mazes or other larger tasks.

Long Reach or Pole Hedge Trimmers – Long reach hedge trimmers have the cutting blade attached to a pole that can have an adjustable size. They are designed for cutting tall hedges and hard to reach places and are usually commercial-grade.

Double Sided Blades – The most common type of blades are double sided. Although used also for commercial landscaping, double sided blades are the typical kind of blades for domestic use, which is why all of the trimmers on our list have double sided blades. They can cut in either direction, providing greater speed and maneuverability, and allow for accurate shaping of hedges or shrubs.

Although not as quick as single sided blades, or as practical as long reach trimmers, double sided blades are versatile enough for any task required by domestic use. If you don’t plan on making hedge mazes in the town park, then double sided blades are the choice for you.

Blade Lenght – The length of blades for domestic gas powered hedge trimmers usually varies between 13” and 30”. While a longer blade will allow you to cut larger areas in one sweep, it is usually heavier and more difficult to maneuver. Shorter blades provide better maneuverability and allow you to shape your hedges and shrubs more accurately.

Ultimately, the length of the blade you choose will depend on the needs of your specific garden. If you have a 50” wide hedge, you would need a blade of at least 25” in order to easily trim it. Also, if you have allotted of hedges to trim, a longer blade will save you time. However, if you’re looking to shape your hedges or shrubs, then a shorter blade will provide better maneuverability for the task.

Teeth Openings – Teeth openings on the blade determine the thickness of branches that can be safely cut. The thickness is usually indicated by the manufacturer. Most blades can cut branches of up to 3/8”.

If you don’t have the specifications for your hedge trimmer, as a rule of thumb, don’t cut branches whose thickness exceeds 80% of the length of the teeth openings. So, for example, if the teeth openings on your hedge trimmer are 1”, it should safely be able to cut branches of up to 8/10”.

Keep in mind that these figures are approximate, and will largely depend on the quality of the blades and the power of the engine. Many trimmers can easily cut branches up to twice the thickness of the teeth openings, although doing so may cause damage to both the blade and the engine and void the warranty.

Sharpening the Blades – Most blades can be sharpened at home using a file or power grinder. They usually require sharpening every 40-50 hours of cutting, which amounts to once or twice a year, depending on how often you use them. The manufacturer will usually indicate how often the blades need to be sharpened.

Engine Maintenance

The engine is the heart of your hedge trimmer and should be serviced regularly for a longer life and more reliable operation. Apart from annual, or semi-annual, service, the engine needs a proper fuel mixture to run smoothly and efficiently.

Here is some basic information on hedge trimmer engines and the correct fuel they require.

Gas to Oil Ratio

Gas powered hedge trimmers will normally use a 2-cycle (or 2-stroke) internal combustion engine. These engines have a high power to weight ratio and a greatly reduced number of moving parts when compared to 4-cycle engines. Their simple design allows for a more compact and lightweight engine, making them perfect for gas-powered tools such as chainsaws and hedge trimmers.

The intake and exhaust phases of the cycle happen simultaneously, with the gas and air mixture being forced into the combustion chamber from the crankcase below the piston. This means that mixing of air and gas occurs in the crankcase, not in the main cylinder, which is why oil needs to be added to the fuel to provide lubrication for the piston.

The manufacturer of your hedge trimmer will normally indicate the proper gas/oil mixture. Most 2-cycle engines aren’t so sensitive as to require a highly accurate mixture, so anything between 25/1 and 50/1 should work just fine. If you don’t have the specifications for your trimmer or are unsure what gas/oil ratio to use, a ratio of 40/1 gas/oil should be the safest bet for most hedge trimmer engines.

When mixing the oil and fuel, use a separate canister. Pour in gas and oil separately in the required ratio and shake the canister to achieve the proper mix. Do not mix the oil and fuel in the engine’s tank.

Pre-Mixed Fuel – Some manufacturers offer pre-mixed fuel that already contains the appropriate gas/oil ratio. Although slightly more expensive than mixing oil and gas yourself, pre-mixed fuels are tailor made for the specific engine and will ensure maximum efficiency and longevity of the engine.

Storage – If you don’t plan on using your hedge trimmer for more than 30 days, make sure you empty the fuel from the tank and the engine itself before storing it. The fuel and oil mixture also has to be disposed of after 30 days, regardless of how often you use it.

What Types of Gas and Oil to Use?

Due to the specifics of their operation, 2-stroke engines are particularly susceptible to corrosion. This is why it is important to use fuel with a 10% or less ethanol content for your hedge trimmer engine. A larger than 10% ethanol content can not only corrode your engine but cause the fuel to combust improperly, resulting in mechanical damage. If the ethanol content of the fuel is not indicated, make sure you ask an employee of the gas station or store.

Since a 2-cycle engine uses the crankcase as part of the induction tract, it requires oil that is especially suited for such engines. The manufacturer will normally indicate the type of oil required for your hedge trimmer. However, most oils labeled as 2-cycle (or 2-stroke) engine oils will work fine, as long as they are properly mixed with the fuel.

Additional Features

Depending on your particular needs, some additional points should be taken into consideration when buying and using a hedge trimmer.

Weight and Balance – The size of the engine usually corresponds to its power output and weight. Additionally, a longer blade also tends to be heavier, making your choice of the right hedge trimmer a compromise between engine size, blade length and weight.

You should choose the trimmer that corresponds to your needs. If you use it for cutting smaller hedges and shrubs with relatively thin branches, then there’s no need for dragging 20 pounds of pure gasoline power around your yard and having to lift it above your head and hold it at difficult angles.

Regarding the balance, the hedge trimmer is well balanced when it stays parallel to the floor while being held by the front handle. This will make the trimmer more maneuverable and easier to carry around, so look for a well-balanced hedge trimmer.

Safety Features – Some models have features such as a hand guard or throttle lock. These will keep debris from flying towards you and prevent you from accidentally engaging the throttle. Other safety features include two handed throttle unlocking and an On/Off switch lock.

Anti-vibration features – Some Hedge trimmers offer vibration dampers that attach the middle and rear handles to the rest of the trimmer. This provides amortization to reduce the vibration passed onto the users’ hands and arms. You should look for anti-vibration features if you plan on using your trimmer for prolonged periods since the dampers will reduce stress and fatigue.

Adjustable Handle – An adjustable handle can usually be rotated within an 180-degree angle. It allows for your hands to stay horizontal while making vertical or angled cuts. It will increase the overall comfort of the trimmer, and provide better maneuverability and accuracy for shaping hedges and shrubs.

Noise Level – As we have seen, the quietest hedge trimmers on the market produce a noise level of around 87 dB, while a more powerful 2-cycle engine at full throttle can produce noise of up to 115 dB. Hearing loss starts at around 85 dB for a longer exposure, while a noise level of 100 dB takes less than 15 minutes to permanently damage your hearing!

For this reason, it is advisable to wear earplugs while using a gas-powered hedge trimmer, regardless of how quiet the engine may seem.

Conclusion

Although heavy and noisy, gas hedge trimmers are the tool for the job if you have a large lawn that requires allotting of maintenance. They are fast, powerful, durable and will make any trimming job much easier.

Allowing you to go through thick branches like a hot knife through butter, gas powered hedge trimmers have superior performance to any electrically powered tool out there. Manicuring your garden can be done quickly, leaving you precious time for more important tasks.

With proper maintenance, gas powered hedge trimmers will provide you with years of reliable service, lasting as long as your hedge.