The Best Weed Eaters

Echo 280-T

• The Echo 280-T is Echo's top of the line straight shaft trimmer. Straight shaft trimmer means that the shaft does not curve like some weed eater models. The 280-T has a 28.1 cc engine. It can hold up to 21.6 oz. of fuel. The shaft is 59 inches long, which aides in not having to bend your back over in order to weed eat. You can stand up straight and still reach the weeds. It uses a thick .095 mm diameter cutting line. It has a cutting swath of 17 inches. This line will last longer so not as much line is used over time. The weight is 13.5 lbs and comes with a five-year residential warranty. As of Febuary 2011 this weed eater retails for $389.99.

Troy-Bilt TBP6040 XP

• This Troy Bilt features a 25 cc four-cycle engine. Four-cycle engine means you do not have to mix the oil in gas, unlike a two-cycle engine. This trimmer is capable of receiving EZ-Link attachments, which means you can add a blower, chain saw, or tiller on the end of your trimmer. The cutting swath is 18 inches and uses .095 diameter cutting line. You have a "D" handle that can move so you can easily hold the trimmer while running it. The TPB6040 XP comes with a three-year limited warranty. As of February 2011 the retail price is $239.99

Husqvarna 335 LS

• The 335 LS engine is 34.6 cc X-Torq engine. This engine is designed to reduce emissions by up to 60% and aides in fuel efficiency. It can hold 20.29 oz. of fuel. The straight shaft extends for 58.39 inches and has a shaft diameter of 1.1 inches. Without its trimmer head attached, the 335 LS weighs 13.01 lbs. Starting is done by pulling a cord and to ease starting this trimmer has an air purge valve. This allows air to be removed from the fuel line. As of February 2011 this trimmer retails for $449.95.

Stihl FSE 60

• The Stihl FSE 60 is a corded electric trimmer. Corded means that you must use a power cord connected to an outlet to operate this device. The only major drawback of a corded weed eater is that your range is limited by the length of your cord. This style of trimmer works well for small yards. The motor is 5.3 amps. This trimmer has a 14-inch cutting swath and weighs only 8.8 lbs. As of February 2011 the MSRP for this trimmer is $119.95.