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7 Best Gas Hedge Trimmers to Buy Now According to Over 2,200 Customers

There’s nothing like hedges and bushes to lift the beauty of your lovely garden. They provide natural boundaries with a neat partition that make it spectacular. But maintaining this beaty is not so easy, isn’t it?

A hedge trimmer could be your savior. The gas powered ones may not be the safest, but they outperform their electrical counterparts in terms of both power and speed.

If you’ve decided to go for the supreme quality gas hedge trimmer, we can guide you through the searching process so you don’t end up with the wrong purchase! We reviewed several such models and shortlisted the top ones that might be part of your regular pruning routine.

7 Best Gas Hedge Trimmers Tested and Reviewed

01 Poulan Pro PR2322 22 Inch 23cc 2 Cycle Dual Sided Hedge Trimmer (For Precision Cutting)

Poulan Pro PR2322 22 Inch 23cc 2 Cycle Dual Sided Hedge Trimmer

Why Is This Our First Choice?

The Poulan Pro PR2322 is the overall best hedge trimmer, featuring a powerful 23cc dual-stroke engine that can handle any shrub or hedges with ease. It weighs about 11 pounds, making it one of the lightest in its category, enabling you to work for long without getting tired.

The handle design is superb, allowing you to rotate it to your most comfortable position, giving you more control over the machine. It has a dampening feature that reduces the effect of the shock on your hands while the engine is running.

This PR2322 is built to last, with a dual-action stainless steel blade that can cut through anything on a single stroke. The 1-inch teeth spacing and 22-inch blade length ensure that you can cover a large size hedge within a few minutes. We found that you can use it for trimming variety of hedges and menards.

The fuel tank is significant when compared to other models we tested, such that you do not need to stop the engine to refill frequently. Priced to suit any budget, at around $180, it is among the most affordable on the market considering its compelling features plus 2 years of warranty.

This is one of the best-rated gas hedge trimmers on eStores like Amazon – a clear sign that other users also found its performance quite satisfactory. Although few users complained that starting the device was hard for them, we didn’t face such issues. This product is exceptional in many aspects, making it worth the investment.

Pros

  • Easy to control
  • Stainless steel blade
  • Lightweight, versatile, and durable
  • Anti-vibration
  • Adjustable handle
  • Dual-sided blade

Cons

  • Issues with starter recoil

Final Verdict

There is no way you can beat this product for its numerous features. It is straightforward to use, providing a good value for the money. This may be a cheap gas hedge trimmer but it features a powerful engine and sturdy blade that ensures optimum efficiency and reliability.

02 Tanaka TCH22EAP2 21cc 2-Cycle with 20-Inch Double-Sided Blades (Best Commercial Hedge Trimmer)

Tanaka TCH22EAP2 21cc 2-Cycle with 20-Inch Double-Sided Blades

You cannot think of power and performance without giving the Tanaka TCH22EAP2 model a second thought. It is well-made, working great for all trimming and shaping jobs, even at a professional level. It features a 20-inch blade that is super sharp, cutting through any thick hedge quickly. Also, it runs quietly, so you won’t have to be bothered by loud sounds.

Unlike our top pick, it comes with the smart start technology that helps reduce the pulling force, enhancing the performance and durability of the recoil mechanism. The manufacturers had your garden in mind by redirecting the fumes to the front to prevent the hedges from burning while you trim.

The blades of this Tanaka model have rounded tips to enhance your safety that’s of utmost importance when you use any kind of power tool, whether that’s a bench grinder or a biscuit joiner or a drill press. Also, you can adjust the handle up to 5 positions for your comfort. A 7-year warranty backs all these features, so you can always fall to the manufacturers if you encounter any problem. Besides, it provides you the option to choose either 20-inch, 24-inch, or 30-inch blades.

The only complaint about this product is the scarcity of the replacement parts, which makes its repair more expensive and sometimes impossible. Weighing at 9.5 pounds, it costs around $250.

Pros

  • Smart start technology
  • More comfortable operation
  • 7-year warranty
  • 5-position handle
  • Forward-facing exhaust fumes
  • Blades have rounded-tips

Cons

  • Repairs expensive or impossible

Final Verdict

You really cannot make the wrong selection with this best commercial hedge trimmer. It is easy to start and operates quietly, like most electric models. The price is still affordable when compared with other models for sale. Looking at its many positive features, you can always expect an excellent performance.

03 Husqvarna 122HD60 21.7cc Gas 23.7-in Dual Action 9665324-02 (For Household Use)

Husqvarna 122HD60 21.7cc Gas 23.7-in Dual Action 9665324-02

Let us see why it features in our gas hedge trimmer review.

This Husqvarna 122HD60 hedge trimmer’s dimensions are 47.5 x 11.3 x 9.1 inches and weigh 16.2 pounds. It is, therefore, more massive than our previous picks, meaning that it will cut more shrubs per stroke. It also has a Smart Start system that ensures that you get the engine to run with minimum pull. This easy-start feature is complemented with the efficient carburetor design that guarantees adequate air and fuel mix for better combustion.

Once the engine is switched off, the stop switch replaces itself in the start position, making it ready for another trimming session.

Like other models on this review, This 122HD60 model comes with an adjustable handle, so you can easily maneuver it to your taste. Also, there are shock absorbers on the body, ensuring that minimal vibration reaches your arms.

This item comes with a 2-year warranty, but you can extend it to 3 or 4 years by using the Husqvarna branded oil. The blade is 23.7 inches long and sharp enough to provide clean and smooth cuts to the branches.

However, most of the users experienced frequent jamming of blades and difficulty in starting even right from the box. But, you can fix these issues yourself by following the instructions on the manual or contacting a professional. Once it is back in shape, you can use it anytime for your household trimming needs.

Pros

  • Ergonomic design
  • Smart start engine
  • Good carburetor system
  • Auto-stop switch return
  • Shock absorption

Cons

  • Possibility of blades jamming

Final Verdict

This is an excellent trimmer and the best companion of any avid gardener for their household needs. It has many specialized features like an auto-stop switch, and smart start to improve its performance. Though it costs a bunch, it is among the best trimmers you can find out there.

04 PROYAMA 26cc 5 in 1 Trimming Tools, Multi Functional Sets (Best Multi-Purpose Pick)

PROYAMA 26cc 5 in 1 Trimming Tools, Multi Functional Sets

One of the most versatile trimmers among the products we examined is this PROYAMA machine. It is surprisingly robust and durable, featuring five tools in a single package. Ideally, you will get a 26cc engine, hedge trimmer, string trimmer, pole saw, brush cutter, and extension poles among other safety kits.

The most exciting thing about this product, when compared to other items we have discussed, is that it comes with many attachments for several jobs. Each of these components performs like a single machine, making it the ideal option for persons requiring multiple tools for their yards.

You can adjust the trimmer blades to any angle for horizontal and vertical cutting. Also, you can extend the pole’s cutting length to enable you to reach taller trees.

Its fuel capacity is a little small when compared with other trimmers on our list, meaning you will refill regularly. However, we noticed that the fuel consumption was pretty economical compared to other cutters with 2-stroke engines though it has a mix ratio of 1:40.

It has a secure start system that fires the engine in a single pull. There is an emergency stop button to halt the motor during a mishap. It comes with a 1-year warranty too.

Though its replacement parts are available, you cannot use attachments from other brands if any of them becomes faulty. Since most of its components are plastic, using it for heavy-duty jobs will shorten its life.

It costs around $250 – a reasonable bargain considering the number of items in the pack.

Pros

  • Comes with protective kits
  • Lightweight and versatile
  • Low petrol consumption
  • Adjustable extension length
  • One-year warranty
  • Hedge trimmer multi-angle adjustment

Cons

  • Not ideal for heavy-duty applications
  • Cheap plastic parts

Final Verdict

This is the best tool for handling multiple tasks in the yard. It is easy to set up, and with the included protective gear, you have the assurance of making the right choice.

05 MAXTRA 42.7cc Powerful 8.2 FT to 11.4 FT Extension 4 in 1 Hedge Trimmer Pole

MAXTRA 42.7cc Powerful 8.2 FT to 11.4 FT Extension 4 in 1 Hedge Trimmer Pole

This is another powerful trimming set in our gas hedge trimmer review. It is designed to quickly convert into a pole chainsaw, brush cutter, string trimmer, and gas-powered hedge trimmer. It is perfect for cutting tree branches, grasses, and pruning the garden.

It has the most powerful engine on our list. So, with the 42.7cc motor, it can engage thick branches with ease. The motor runs at a maximum speed of 7500rpm, meaning you will finish your work quicker with less effort. Also, the machine is EPA certified, meaning that it satisfies the standard environmental regulations, and it is safe for use anywhere. You’ll appreciate the shoulder strap that helps to dampen vibration, which causes fatigue and concentration loss.

Amazingly, the 43-inch long extension pole allows you to prune trees that are about 14 feet from the ground. You will also enjoy the one-year warranty, which is a little low compared to most of our top models. The only drawback with this unit is its heavyweight, which makes it feel less comfortable when holding for hours.

Pros

  • Multi-functional set
  • Extremely powerful
  • Easy to start
  • One-year warranty
  • EPA certified

Cons

  • Relatively heavy

Final Verdict

If you are looking for something sturdy and versatile, this MAXTRA model ticks all the boxes. It comes with many attachments that make it the ideal gardening companion. Though heavier than most models in its category, you will always have the assurance that it will withstand the toughest of shrubs.

06 Echo HC-152 Gas Powered Hedge Trimmer

Echo HC-152 Gas Powered Hedge Trimmer

The Echo HC-152 features a powerful 2-cycle engine and double-sided blades, combining to take almost all trimming jobs. It has dimensions of 8.5 x 11.3 x 44.8 inches and a weight of 11.8 pounds. It’s gas tank has a capacity of 15.6 liters, allowing you to work more but refuel less frequently.

This top rated model is similar to our Husqvarna 122HD60 above by its carburetor system and noise ratio. Ideally, the Echo HC-152 has a muffler that cancels a lot of noise, making it perfect for use in areas with strict environmental pollution laws. Its carburetor works by removing the air in the fuel for efficient ignition and performance. The engine usually starts at the first pull.

The length of the blade is 20 inches, which is relatively short in comparison with models with extension poles. However, it offers the advantage of better maneuverability and balance, making the cutting process more straightforward and adventurous. Though the feel of the handle is still comfortable, you cannot adjust it; making it a bit hard for new users to control it.

Pros

  • Well-built and durable
  • Easy to start
  • Better balance
  • Lightweight
  • Cuts easily
  • Less noise

Cons

  • No handle adjustment

Final Verdict

This trimmer is lightweight and well-balanced, having enough power to cut through anything from the start. It is durable and kicks-off right after the first or second pull. We often call it the destroyer because of the efficiency of its trimming power when compared to other products we tested.

Echo HC-152one of the best-rated models on this list with unbeatable ease of use and noise cancellation. It is an excellent choice for both domestic and commercial use. However, any serious homeowner or commercial landscaper might also want to check out other Echo models. including HC 150, HC 151, HC 1500, HC 1600, HC 2000, and HC 2100.

07 Redmax CHT220L 24″ 21.7cc Gas Powered Hedge Trimmer

Redmax CHT220L 24" 21.7cc Gas Powered Hedge Trimmer

Among the products in our reviews, the Redmax CHT220L stands out in many ways. As you already know, one of the most significant problems with gas hedge trimmers is noise pollution, but this one is the quietest among the lot we tested.

Besides, it features a 21.7cc motor which performed excellently, cutting through diverse shrubs and bushes, helping us to finish the job on time. Its cutting efficiency was also aided by its double-sided 24-inches blade, which makes it easy to cut tall and hard to reach trees.

Unlike the Echo – HC152, this Redmax model allows you to adjust the rear handle to three positions of your choice. It comes with a safety bar that guards the user against injuries if the blades snapped.

Pros

  • Quiet operation
  • Easy to operate
  • Ideal for new gardeners
  • Powerful engine
  • Adjustable rear handle
  • Long blade

Cons

  • Relatively heavy

Final Verdict

The Redmax CHT220L is a powerful, sturdy, quiet hedge trimmer, ideal for keeping the yard clean. It is one of the easiest to use though it is a little heavier than most options here. If you are searching for a reliable arsenal for your garden, this might be the best gas powered hedge trimmer for you.

Why Use a Gas Hedge Trimmer

If you are yet to decide which is better among battery, gas or electric, we have helpful tips for you below.

  • Power –All power tools you use – whether it’s a miter saw or a MIG welder – are there to make your life a bit easier. These types of trimmers usually come with powerful motors that can cut through any mature tree that gets on their way.
  • Longer runtime – Since they run by gasoline, they will take on the job for hours without the need to recharge or replace the battery. This makes them suitable for working on larger hedges.
  • Ease of maneuvering – Unlike the corded-electric trimmers that you will only go far as the length of the cord permits, gas trimmers allow you to reach anywhere in the garden with little effort.
  • Fast and efficient – Gas trimmers work twice as fast in comparison with their electric counterparts. Its powerful engine and high speed enable you to finish the task at a faster rate.
  • More durable – Most gas trimmers come with two-stroke engines which last-longer than the corded and cordless trimmers. Models with the four-stroke engine used by many professional garden workers are the most durable.

However, Choosing the right machine involves finding the balance between the nature of trees to prune, the size of the garden, and your convenience. While gas trimmers may lag behind their electric counterparts in terms of weight, harmful emissions, fuel economy, and noise, they are perfect for handling large jobs.

Gas Hedge Trimmer Buying Guide: What to Look For

Gas Hedge Trimmer Buying Guide

Finding the best hedge trimmer for the money could be more complicated than you think considering the different models on the market. Keeping certain critical factors in mind will make it so much easier for you.

1. Blade Type

For gas trimmers, you will either come across the double-sided or single-sided blades. The latter is the safer option because it allows you to trim the hedges with the sharper edge facing the plants. The only issue with single-sided blades is their low performance when compared to the dual blades. Hence, double-sided blades give more cut per stroke, allowing you to finish the task quicker.

2. Motor Power

When shopping for this gardening equipment, you can opt for a 2-cycle or 4-cycle motors. Most four-cycle engines are more cumbersome and expensive. However, they are more durable and environmentally friendly than dual-cycle types.

As mentioned earlier, gas trimmers have the most significant power allowing you to work with little effort. Its output is in cubic centimeters (cc), ranging from 21cc to 28cc. So, the higher the rating, the better the efficiency.

3. Blade Length

You will find different blade sizes ranging from 300mm to 500+mm. Your choice is dependent on your hedge’s size and the volume of work at hand. The longer the blade, the more significant portion it can cover at a time, resulting in a quicker finish.

However, the major downside with longer blades is that they are heavy, making its control less comfortable. The small edges fall between 300mm to 400mm and are perfect for handling sizable hedges.

4. Hedge Size

Keeping the size of your hedge in mind will prevent you from getting oversize or undersize equipment. This means if you have tall shrubs, you will need machines with the longest blades. But if the bush is small then choose a smaller trimmer.

5. Blade Speed

The speed is the number of cuts the trimmer makes in a minute. Obviously, the higher the rate, the faster the cuts, and vice versa.

6. Teeth Size & Spacing

The blade’s teeth and distance play a significant role in the size of the branch it can tackle. For example, commercial trimmers have wider tooth gaps making it easy to cut hedges of ¾ inch and above.

7. Hedge & Trimmer Usage

For those that trim their hedges more frequently, at least once a week, it is essential to spend more on a durable machine that can withstand heavy usage.

8. Trimmer Weight

Domestic trimmers are more comfortable to use than commercial types because of their relative lightweight. More often, while holding the trimmer by hand, you will notice that lighter ones are easier to carry and control. Since heavy-duty machines are more massive, they cause the hands to tire quickly, making it difficult to work for hours.

9. Engines & Fuel

We have already mentioned that gas-powered hedge trimmers have either two or four-stroke engines, each having different maintenance and fueling requirements. Four-cycle drivers have more moving parts that wear faster and, therefore, will need regular maintenance and replacement. Two-stroke models require you to mix the fuel and oil in the right proportion.

10. Noise

Generally, gas trimmers generate unwanted sounds, which might violate the local environmental laws and also disturb the neighbors. Besides, frequent exposure to such pitches could cause severe health crises, so we recommend you wear ear protectors while adhering to other safety tips.

11. Vibration Dampening

It is almost impossible to avoid shocks when working with a gas trimmer, which often results in pain and discomfort. However, most models have specialized features that protect the user from the effects of excessive vibration.

12. Exhaust Fumes

Though you cannot avoid emissions when using a gas trimmer, however, with regular maintenance and the correct mixture of fuel, you can reduce the toxicity to a considerable level. Ensure that you cover your nose and mouth with a face mask. Also, remember to switch off the engine whenever you are not trimming.

13. Blade Tip Protector

Though trimmer blades are durable and can handle different hedge sizes, frequent hitting of stone or wall can shorten their lifespan. So, the top-class models usually have blade protectors to guard against accidental hits that would damage the tips.

14. Handle Design

Trimmers with ergonomically designed handles are more comfortable to use. Any user will feel more convenient on those with contoured and adjustable handles.

Usage Tips

  • Use sharp blades – Trimmers with sharp edges produce smooth and efficient cuts giving the garden a beautiful shape. Using blunt blades will twist the trees instead of cutting them and might reduce their growth and sustainability.
  • Read instructions – Ensure that you read the manual and understand the manufacturer’s requirements before operating the machine. If you are lending it, pass the same direction to the operator.
  • Guides straighten the shape – Using guides will make lines straight, bringing out the form in the manner you expected.
  • Remove hazards from the yard before starting – These include large stones, iron, and wood logs that might cause accidents. If you hit a strange object while you cut, stop the engine immediately to checkout.
  • Winter or late autumn; best season to trim – This is the right time to shape your garden since the growth is reduced while plants seem to be at rest. Keep your hands and feet away from the rotating blades.
  • Hold the trimmer with both hands and ensure that your legs are firm on the ground.
  • Avoid cutting shrubs that are thicker than your machine can handle. Maintain your trimmer regularly and use the right oil to fuel mixture.
  • Never let gas sit in the tank after use. Leaving the petrol there for long could create layers that prevent from flowing smoothly to the carburetor.

Safety Tips

  • Wear Protective Clothing – It is an excellent idea to cover your body when trimming out there to prevent debris from hitting or injuring your skin. Besides, wearing gloves will enhance your grip of the equipment and also help to reduce the vibration effect on your arms. Always shield your eyes from flying objects by wearing safety goggles. You can reduce the impact of the sound on your ear by using ear-muffs.
  • Do not trim in wet weather – Never cut in damp conditions to prevent injuries resulting from a slip or electric shock. Only trim when the weather is dry since the branches will break more easily.
  • Trim away from you – observe a safe distance from the cutting blades by pointing it away. You will feel safer with a single-sided blade since you can always concentrate the cutting side on the shrubs.
  • Never use the trimmer with one hand – Holding the machine with both sides will enhance your balance and ease of control when the engine is running. Besides, you will risk losing your grip if you are cutting with one hand.
  • If the tree is sturdy, avoid it – Most machines can only handle shrubs with smaller diameter, so if the trees are thicker than the equipment, do not force it to cut. Mostly, it will cause a rebound, which creates an accident.
  • Store in a safe place – ensure that your trimmer is kept out of the reach of children. Store it in a clean and dry place.
  • Turn it off before cleaning – Never attempt to clean the machine when it is running and always unplug it to prevent accidental starting.
  • Inspect tools regularly – Troubleshooting your device on a regular basis will help you spot any damaged part right on time and avoid unexpected downtime.

Final Words

If you have shrubs or a yard in your home and you have intentions to keep it in shape, you surely need to find a high-quality hedge trimmer out there. The first factor to consider while shopping for this product is your hedge size; then, you can figure out the trimmer’s power, blade length, blade spacing, and blade type. Once you get your ideal machine, follow the instructions in the manual on storage, maintenance, and safety.

If you are yet to make a decision, you can consider the Poulan Pro PR2322, which is our best gas-powered hedge trimmer. This model has the features you will need as it is pocket-friendly, lightweight, and convenient for use.

You cannot go wrong with the Tanaka TCH22EAP2, which features a powerful engine, making it perfect for commercial and heavy-duty applications. It has a Smart Start technology that always prepares it for your hedges.

For multi-purpose tasks, the MAXTRA and PROYAMA models are the best options since they come with attachments that work as independent cutters.

While your preference and budget matter most, we hope that this buying guide will help you to make the right decision.

FAQs

Q. 1: How often do I need to sharpen the hedge trimmer blades?

Ans. You should not wait until the blades become blunt before sharpening. The blade requirements are the same for all trimmers, so sharpen it as often as you can; at least twice a month if the growth is much.

Q. 2: Do gas hedge trimmers need much maintenance?

Ans. If you are using a gas trimmer, note that you will sharpen it more often because they exert a greater force that causes the blades to be dull quicker.

Q. 3: What is better gas or electric hedge trimmer?

Ans. Gasoline-powered hedge trimmers have powerful electric motors that make them capable of cutting thicker trees. Besides, they lack cords, and that means you will not have limitations when reaching out to the shrubs. However, they are heavier than electric trimmers and often produce louder sounds.

Q. 4: How do you trim the hedges?

Ans. To cut the top plants, grip the machine’s cutting bar and guide it slowly from left to right.

Q. 5: What is the best time of the year to trim hedges?

Ans. It is ideal for cutting bush during the dormancy period. Usually around late autumn and early winter.

Q. 6: How thick can hedge trimmers cut?

Ans. The cut diameter depends on motor power, blade length, and spacing. Blade sizes range from 5 inches to 26 inches and cuts from 1-inch diameter to ¾ inches.

Q. 7: Can I use a chainsaw as a hedge trimmer?

Ans. Chainsaws can be used for trimming shrubs, hedges, and bush. Though chainsaws can cut light woods faster, they are not good enough to shape your garden’s structure like hedge trimmers.

About the author

Brent Butterworth

A Professional Woodworker & Custom Furniture Builder

Brent lives in Wisconsin and is a woodworker, custom cabinetmaker, interior consultant, and a freelance writer who got the opportunity to write several magazine articles for different publications on home improvement and woodworking. He’s always amazed at the depth and breadth of woodworking all over the globe, and feels proud to be a part of this great effort. Brent has built everything one can imagine, from unique art furniture to different types of home furniture to canoes and even a sailboat.

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