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Weedwacker Tools

The weed whacker goes by many different names. It is also called a string trimmer, weed eater, or may be referred to by the attachment tool you are using, such as an edger. At its heart the weed whacker is a piece of landscaping equipment with a small motor used to spin a wheel at the bottom. In the past, manufacturers made many weed whackers to only use the string cutting attachment. Now there are many useful landscaping tools you can attach to that small motor, making your weed whacker an all-in-one yard care machine.
  1. Edger Tool

    • The edger is a vertical blade that attaches to the weed whacker for detail work around the yard. An edger creates defined lines around trees and gardens and clears out weeds or unwanted grass and dirt between paving stones of sidewalks and driveways. Many models also have wheels or guards that allow the weed whacker to roll along an edge for easier and more controlled edging.

    Pruner Tool

    • The pruner tool is a short chainsaw blade that attaches to the end of the weed whacker for removing low hanging branches from trees. Some models have guards on them that hold the branch close to the blade, while others are freestanding. This blade makes short work of slim branches, allowing you to keep your trees looking tidy.

    Blower Tool

    • Some weed whackers can accommodate a blower tool. This attachment uses the spinning action of the motor to turn a fan which blows air from a vent. This tool is used as a stand-in for larger leaf blower machines. Although the volume of air blown is generally smaller than the dedicated leaf blower, this attachment allows your weed whacker to clear off debris quickly.

    Exchangeable Power Sources

    • Weed whackers use one of three power sources. Either they are gasoline-powered, electrically-powered through a cord or battery-powered. Some models of weed whackers have interchangeable heads that attach on the motor side so that you can use the right power source for the right job. Battery power provides mobility but batteries can drain quickly, limiting the size of the job you can do.

      Gas power is another mobile option. Gas power generally gives a longer running time than a battery, and has the added benefit of not needing to be recharged. You need only add more gas. The downside to this power source is having to buy and store gas to operate it.

      Electrical cables can allow the weed whacker to run for very long periods of time but they require a place to plug into and likely extension cords. All of these power sources have benefits and disadvantages so having several to choose from can make most jobs easier.