Buying guide for best black+decker weed eaters
Do you need help taming the weeds and excess growth in your yard? A weed eater can help. BLACK+DECKER, a trusted name in lawncare products, is known for its stalwart line of weed eaters. In fact, the company offers over two dozen weed eater options for the homeowner. Such a wide selection guarantees you'll be able to find exactly what you need.
Before you invest in a BLACK+DECKER weed eater, there are a few questions you can answer to help narrow down your choices. Do you want a weed eater with a curved shaft or a straight shaft? Which power option fits your needs? Which model fits your budget?
These are the kinds of questions we can help you answer so you can decide which BLACK+DECKER weed eater is right for you. Read on to learn more.
What a weed eater can do for you
A weed eater slices through grass, weeds, and other lawn growth. You can use it to trim those impossible-to-reach areas – under and along fences, in corners, and around obstacles and ornaments – or you can turn it on its side and use it as an edger. Indeed, a weed eater is a highly adaptable device. With just a twist, you can change its function to neaten your lawn wherever it needs work.
Here’s a look at three of the modes offered by BLACK+DECKER weed eaters: trimmer mode, mower mode, and edger mode.
Trimmer mode
The trimmer mode is the standard operating mode for weed eaters. This is what you use to trim grass and weeds in areas where your mower can't reach.
Mower mode
BLACK+DECKER's detachable mower deck can be purchased with your weed eater or separately. This handy little attachment effectively turns a weed eater into a lawn mower that’s suitable for small yards and steep hills.
Edger mode
Most BLACK+DECKER weed eaters feature a wheel that acts as a guide to facilitate edging work. It is important to note that even if the model you are considering is only designated a "trimmer," all you must do to turn the tool into an edger is rotate the head 90 degrees. The only difference: models designated as trimmers do not have a guide wheel.
We research the overall quality of each BLACK+DECKER weed eater we consider. We want to know if components like the shaft, string feed, handle, and controls are durable and easy to operate.
Performance is a key factor for consumers when buying a weed eater. We find out whether BLACK+DECKER models are reliable at cutting through thick grass and weeds and if they are able to neatly trim tight spaces around walkways, fences, and other objects.
We look at product weight when shortlisting products, as weight is a key factor for consumers who need a tool that’s easy to maneuver.
We research the two types of weed eaters offered by BLACK+DECKER: corded and cordless. Electric-powered models have cords that may get in the way, but they offer unlimited runtime. Battery-powered machines require recharging, but they offer cord-free operation.
When considering a battery-powered weed eater, we find out how long the battery lasts with each charge. We also find out if it has the proprietary PowerCommand function that increases battery life.
Before recommending a battery-powered tool, we check to see if a battery is included with purchase. Some models include two batteries, optimizing runtime.
Shaft shape is an important feature of weed eaters. We research products with both varieties — curved and straight — for ease of use and durability.
We research string feed systems to determine how effectively they distribute the trim line. BLACK+DECKER offers two options: an EASYFEED system that works with the touch of a button and an automatic feed spool that distributes line automatically via a built-in sensor.
We research weed eaters to determine their versatility at accomplishing different lawn maintenance tasks. Some models have detachable components that convert the tool to a mower and edger.
We learn all we can about voltage power when selecting products for our shortlist. The greater the voltage, the more powerful the machine.
Corded and cordless BLACK+DECKER weed eaters
You’ll need to decide whether you want a corded or cordless weed eater. BLACK+DECKER offers both options.
Corded weed eaters
A corded tool is one that you plug in. You will never run out of power with a plug-in weed eater, but your mobility will be somewhat limited, as you can only work where an extension cord can reach. The more amps you have, the more powerful the tool. With a plug-in tool, 16 amps is the equivalent of 1 hp.
Price: BLACK+DECKER corded weed eaters range in price from $40 to $80. Price is closely tied to power output. For example, a BLACK+DECKER weed eater with 3.5 amps of power costs around $40. A BLACK+DECKER weed eater with 7.5 amps costs closer to $80.
Cordless weed eaters
A cordless tool is powered by a rechargeable battery. You will enjoy unlimited mobility with a cordless weed eater, but the runtime will be limited. The more volts your battery has, the more powerful the tool will be.
Price: BLACK+DECKER cordless electric weed eater prices tend to range from $80 to $220. Just like corded weed eaters, the price is closely tied to power output. For example, a BLACK+DECKER weed eater with 20 volts of power costs between $80 and $105. A tool with 40 volts ranges from $100 to $145, and a tool with 60 volts ranges from $150 to $220.
Other considerations
Shaft
For the long part of your weed eater, the shaft, you have two options: curved or straight.
A curved shaft is shorter and a little lighter. For the less-experienced user, the angle can help in difficult or tight spaces. Because the shaft is curved, the cable that whirls the string will endure greater wear and tear, making this type of trimmer less durable.
A straight shaft is longer and usually a little heavier. Because there is less wear and tear on the drive system, these models last longer. Professional landscapers opt for straight shaft weed eaters.
Cutting swath
This is the amount of cutting or trimming a weed eater can do in one pass. Many BLACK+DECKER machines offer 12-inch and 14-inch options. Other models have just one choice available: 13 inches. The weed eater line does offer a smaller 10-inch model as well.
Speeds
Most BLACK+DECKER weed eaters feature a variable-speed trigger. The tighter you squeeze the trigger, the faster the unit will go. Others have a dial that you can use to select your speed.
Some BLACK+DECKER weed eaters have a two-speed setting that gives you two choices. In the first position, the trimmer spins at a slower speed, thereby increasing runtime. In the second position, the trimmer spins faster, thereby decreasing runtime.
String feed
BLACK+DECKER has two different systems for replenishing string on newer model trimmers: AFS (Automatic Feed Spool) and EASYFEED. A weed eater with an AFS system has sensors that detect when the trimmer line has frayed or broken and automatically feeds more line out. A weed eater with an EASYFEED system gives the user ultimate control. While the machine is trimming, you simply depress the EASYFEED button to extend the cutting line. Because you only advance the line when it is needed, there is the potential for less waste due to automatic feeding.
FAQ
Q. What kinds of accessories can I get for my BLACK+DECKER weed eater?
A. BLACK+DECKER keeps things simple. Other than replacement parts such as the guard, spool cap, and string spools, the only accessories available are the removable mower deck and an edger wheel. Be sure your model will accommodate these accessories before purchasing them.
Q. Do I need any safety equipment when using my BLACK+DECKER trimmer?
A. Yes. Any time you use power equipment, safety gear should be worn. Recommended safety items include hearing protection, safety glasses, gloves, long sleeves, long pants, and hard-toed shoes.
Q. How do I find out if my weed eater has been recalled?
A. BLACK+DECKER maintains a list of safety notices and recalls on its website. To view the latest notices, scroll down to the bottom of any BLACK+DECKER website page and click on "Safety Recalls.”
