OK, so as we now have a yard of our own, we limped along last year with irregular mowing, trimming, etc. I looked at an older Consumer Reports for info on trimmers. I had hoped for battery-powered since it would be much quieter and eliminate all the winterizing of 2-cycle engines, gas, oil, etc. Alas, CR seemed to bag on battery-powered trimmers. However, as the article was a few years old, and I saw 40 volt models at Lowes, I started to pine after the Dewalt & Kobalt (Lowes house brand). So, I decided to wait until I saw newer tests. Then, Lowes released an 80 volt model.
Still, I waited. Fast forward to a couple of weeks ago, on one of my numerous trips to Lowes, I always walk by the trimmers and that day was no exception. I then noticed a small sign about which even the employee assigned to that section seemed surprised. The sign showed a one-week offer stating if you bought one of the 80-volt machines, they would send you an extra battery ($180 value) as a rebate. Add to that the fact that they have been on sale for $50 off...well...I was starting to lean hard! Then, I noticed that it accepted the attachments that fit universally on several other mfr units. I have need for a pole saw and the extra $100 for the attachment was cheaper than a separate unit. Two days later I got a brand new edger attachment still in the box at a thrift store.
So...Friday I used the pole saw with the trimmer base. I expected it to run out the battery quickly. Piles of wood later...I was impressed. It also takes 30 mins to recharge. Yesterday, I used the trimmer laying waste to loads of non-native and feral weeds. Also impressive...and much quieter than traditional gas units on both counts. While I don't know about longevity yet, early use has exceeded expectations. I have been through 4 battery recharges now. Would love to test their 80 volt mower but not in my budget. Has anyone used these for longer periods? So far, I'm a fan.
