Apart from being our main writer, Nora also works for a number of gardening-related sites and magazines, sharing her experience as an owner of a small farm in North Carolina.
Bruce owns a small farm and loves to grill since his early childhood. He’s a professional cook, but hiking and enjoying the great outdoors is his no less favorite part of life.
Last updated: March 09, 2022
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Some of the foliage, brush, and grass in your lawn or garden may be hard to reach with your mower or string trimmer. In this case, it might be time to consider bringing in the brush cutter. Of course, with the various trimmer heads that you can use with the device, it becomes much more versatile.
Our team had a field day reviewing 24 of these products. Consequently, we concluded that Husqvarna 336FR 966604702 is one of the better options in the market. It comes with two different cutting attachments, has an adjustable handlebar as well as a long shaft. Another benefit is the X-Torq engine that provides a significant level of fuel economy. Apart from that, you have seven other great offerings with different advantages listed in the table below.
As we already mentioned, we reviewed about 24 products which was a grueling, time consuming but fulfilling exercise. Of course, manufacturer websites, vendor sites and customer reviews played a significant role in providing relevant information for the write-up. With regard to the devices, their engines and cutting swath will give a general idea of performance and usability. As well, we looked into the weight, warranty, and other features to bring you the best possible purchases for your needs. The table provides a summary of how we ranked the products. After that, we offer more information on the products in our selection. You can also use the buying guide to break a deadlock between two products you end up liking.
"A powerful string trimmer and brush cutter combo with an 18.5-inch cutting diameter, a 2-stroke engine, air cooling system and an adjustable U-handle."
Husqvarna 336FR is a reliable and high-quality brush cutter that makes it to the top of our list. There are many reasons why we love this product, and it seems that the reliable manufacturers have thought of virtually everything.
As well as the line/brush cutter there is also a saw blade meaning that you can employ the benefits of either, all in one product. This multifunctional design makes it an excellent gardening companion.
With an X-Torq engine, this product also boasts a really great level of fuel economy and power, with plenty of capacity to handle hours of yard work.
To ensure that you can actually keep up with the product, it comes with a balance 35 harness, which you wear around your body to hold the weight of the product and allow you to reduce the strain on different parts of your body. If you are the type of person who will be bedding in for long days using these kinds of tools, you will know how beneficial this can be.
In the words of the manufacturer, this product “reduces harmful exhaust emissions by up to 60% and increases fuel efficiency by up to 20%” which means it can even be a more eco-friendly product and reduce your guilt about the environmental impact.
As well as the environmental considerations, this model is top of its particular line due to the fact that it has such a versatile and ergonomic design. You can use the line/brush cutter or the saw blade for long periods of time.
Other features: straight shaft, recoil start, attachment possible, air cooling system, adjustable U-handle
One of the top features of this machine is that it has a powerful 2-stroke engine. This is more than enough to work on those hard to reach areas that you might encounter on your property.
Furthermore, the long shaft is as well made for the same purpose. You are also likely to be impressed by the cutting width. It is not as big as that of most lawnmowers and string trimmers, but it should be enough for the task at hand.
As to the start system, you will have to use a recoil mechanism. Presuming you have enough fuel in the tank, the device should be able to start on the first try.
Speaking of fuel, you should realize that this machine uses gas to provide power rather than oil. You can thus depend on it to produce less fumes while still making sure you have the power you need.
The engine as well features an air cooling system, so the machine doesn’t get hot while you are using it. Nevertheless, it does come with a u-shaped handle that you hold onto while using the tool. You can also make adjustments to the handle to ensure maximum comfort while you go about your landscaping.
A closer look at the name will also tell you that this is a 2-in-1 tool. Also, it will name which components are included. As per the write-up, the brush cutter is the first component. Nevertheless, some scenarios might require a different tool. In this case, you can take out the cutter and replace it with the string trimmer.
What are our favorite features?
Powerful engine
Wide cutting diameter
Adjustable handle
Long shaft
Additional attachments can be added
Brush cutter and as well as string trimmer components
What could be better?
Most people who have used the device are happy with its properties
Other features: straight shaft, anti-vibration handle, commercial duty dual-stage air filter, adjustable handle
Our second favorite pick of the day is the Makita 4-Stroke Brush Cutter. As indicated in the name, it uses a four-stroke engine to power the cutter. Nevertheless, you can see this is a 25.4 cc engine as compared to that of its predecessor, which offers about 43 cc.
With the straight shaft that measures 57” in total, you can extend the device to reach into tight spaces. Consequently, leaving grass on some regions of your lawn just because your mower cannot fit will be a thing of the past.
Additionally, at only 12.1 lbs, this is one of the more lightweight devices you can own. This will effectively serve to lighten the load on your arms as you stretch them out to reach specific patches of foliage.
One feature that both this device and its predecessor share is the adjustable handle. You can learn how to tweak it by reading the manual. The handle also has the additional property of being vibration resistant.
The 9” small cutting width may be viewed as both a good thing and a bad thing. It is ideal for tight spaces, but you may need to spend a lot of time trimming a relatively small area. You can even use this brush cutter for small trees.
Another pro associated with this device is the commercial air filter. It helps prevent contaminants from damaging your engine. One should also take note of the fact that this is a gas-powered engine before buying.
What makes it stand out?
Long shaft
Lightweight
Adjustable and vibration resistant handle
Dual-stage air filter
Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
Relatively small cutting width
A little underpowered as compared to other machines on our list
Other features: straight shaft, Link-on connection point, Twist-n-Load string trimmer spool, auto-on kill switch, soft-grip handle
While not expressly mentioned in the name, you would do well to note that this is a 2-in-1 gas brush cutter. As such, you can switch out the string trimmer spool for a brush cutter and vice versa any time you like.
Concerning the cutting width, it holds an advantage in size when compared to the premier pick. Nevertheless, whether this advantage proves beneficial or not will depend on your lawn, terrain, and any obstacles you may encounter.
Shaft length is quite long, and as such, you shouldn’t have qualms reaching into tight spaces. Some of your landscaping projects will likely take longer to finish. If so, the soft grip handle should come in handy.
Speaking of the handle, you should also remember that it has an ergonomic trigger included. It allows you to start and stop the machine at a moment’s notice.
If you are preferential to the string trimmer, you will love this tool as well. Changing out old and worn out strings is a breeze.
You should as well refuel the tank with gas every so often. This will keep the 2-stroke engine running and in good condition for a long time to come.
Other features: straight shaft, adjustable J-handle and shoulder strap, QuickStart Technology
The Remington RM2700 Ranchero is another easy to use device to feature on our list. For more comfortable carry, the device can be attached to a shoulder strap. This is in addition to the adjustable handle that anyone can use, whether they are right or left-handed.
As to the weight, you are likely to find a few other lighter options in the market and on this list as well. Nevertheless, it is not expected to cause you any back and muscle aches after use.
The 27cc 2-cycle engine should as well be sufficient to power the device through your lawn. A manual is included in the package as well as a string trimmer bump head. With in-depth understanding of the former, you will be able to attach the latter with relative ease.
Also, while it does use a recoil start mechanism, it as well incorporates quickstart technology. Consequently, you don’t need as much energy to kick start the machine as you would with other machines.
Maybe one of the top benefits of owning this device is that there are a few other optional attachments. While you may need to spend a little extra to acquire them, it opens up a lot of possibilities for the use of the machine.
What makes it stand out?
Quickstart technology
Easy to change out brush cutter head for the string trimmer option
Adjustable handle
A shoulder strap is included
A few other optional attachments can be bought for the device
Other features: telescoping aluminum shaft, 2-tooth heavy duty metal blade, straight shaft
At 51.7 cc, the HUYOSEN CG520 provides us with one of the more powerful engines on our list. As such most users will find it easy to cut through any of the small plants in the way. It is also one of the more heavy-duty brush cutters in the market.
Also, if you look at the features listed above, you should notice that this device is the heaviest one on our list thus far. Of course, this will come with added strain on the user.
If you want to offset the weight of the tool, you can make full use of the harness. It fits on your body like a backpack and can then be attached to the device. The strap included also has a quick-release mechanism for when you want to remove it quickly.
The length of the device remains unstated in the features listed. This is because the size of the shaft is adjustable to match the needs of the user and the project at hand.
Concerning the trimming line, you can easily find replacements should the one on your device get damaged or break. The trimming head is ideal for when working around obstacles. If this is not the case, the brush cutter is more suited to the task.
Why did it make our list?
Powerful engine
Adjustable shaft size
A harness is included to make carrying easier
Comes with both a brush cutter and a string trimmer head
Other features: 3T blade, 2-in-1 design, shoulder harness, visible fuel tank
The SALEM MASTER G520M is packed with plenty of power, so if you need to rest assured you can cut through those weeds and overgrowth, this is the type of brush cutter you can opt for.
It’s gas-powered, with a very efficient design and an easy-start handle so you can turn it on and off as you need to.
It is definitely one of the heavier models on the list, so if you’re worried that you might not have the strength to handle it then it might be worth considering something like the lighter Husqvarna models.
In spite of that weight, the shoulder straps do help you to spread the impact, and the ergonomic design means that it isn’t too hard to use for longer sessions. A shock absorbing design also means you won’t do long-term injury brought about by vibration.
The simple baffle is a good idea, and it helps you to prevent the debris from flying everywhere, something that you definitely need with a product like this.
If you’re going to opt for over 50cc of power then you should be prepared for the brush cutter to be heavy, and that is exactly what this cutter is. However, for those with a lot of weed whacking to do, it could be ideal. We like the translucent fuel tank which also means that as you work you can see when the fuel levels are starting to run low and plan accordingly.
Why is it special?
Excellent power levels
Convenient handles and body harness
Easy to see the fuel levels
What are the flaws?
Very heavy for some people when using for long periods of time
Other features: two 21V Lithium batteries, 3 blade types, 18000 rpm
The MAXMAN Cordless Weed Eater is quite a different proposition to some of the other models on this list, and it doesn’t require fuel to run. You can simply use this with the inbuilt lithium batteries. Charge it up, and you’re ready to go, with up to an hour of running time on one battery. That’s enough for most small yards.
The edger tool actually includes a front baffle, and multiple different blade types. The plastic blades allow you to style and mow softer grass whereas a flat blade deals with the weeds and small branches. There’s also a circular-saw style blade that helps you to prune thick branches and overgrown areas.
The lightweight design is just a fraction of what some of the competing options weigh. With a telescopic rod, you can alter the length from 0.39 to nearly 12 inches. There are also some safety features, such as a handle fixed button to keep the edger tool working without interruption, and the baffle to prevent you from constantly spraying the trimmings all over your yard and having to clean up after.
You can also adjust the head angle, from 0-90%, so this allows you to access even tricky areas on your lawn and elsewhere in your garden.
It may not be perfect for industrial use or pro gardeners but for those of us just looking to add to our tools at home, it is a good option which provides a lot of flexibility.
Unfortunately, a warranty isn’t specified on this product.
What are our favorite features?
Very lightweight design makes it easy for long-term use
Affordable design
Telescopic and adjustable
What could be better?
No warranty specified
Not the most hard-wearing product
Limited battery life so not suitable for all-day use
Things to Consider
If the brushcutter is your next piece of lawn maintenance equipment, then you need to go about choosing a model in a smart way. That is the only way you guarantee that the cutter you pick will serve your needs in the best way possible. Also, you save money and time that would have been spent trying and returning devices that are not suited to your situation.
What is a brush cutter?
These are powered gardening tools similar to a lawnmower. It can easily cut through grass and small plants, albeit it is used where other rotary mowers are unable to reach. It is made up of an engine that is held close to the user’s body. Additionally, there is a long shaft and trimmer heads or blade components attached.
Features to consider when purchasing a brush cutter
In a scenario where you have at least a few options to choose from, the features may help differentiate individual machines from others. As such, if you understand these features well, you should have a breeze picking out the best model from the list above.
Since the brush cutter features are listed and explained below, you should make the best out of the opportunity and read everything you can about them.
Power source
Gas cutters are quite common. However, they come with fuel requirements that you will need to fulfill using money.
Electric brush cutters, on the other hand, are cheaper since you can easily charge them. They also won’t add much to your utility bills. However, they don’t carry as much power and torque. Whichever of these two machines appeals to you the most is the one you should buy.
Engine
Two-stroke engines tend to be more compact than their counterparts. Also, they are more efficient since they achieve the whole power production cycle in fewer steps.
Most brush cutters, including the ones on the list, tend to have 2-stroke engines. Nevertheless, there are exceptions, such as with the Makita 4-Stroke Brush Cutter.
Power output in terms of volts also matters since more power means the machine has an easier time cutting through the foliage.
Shaft
You may not have seen a bent shaft since they haven’t featured on our list. However, some of you may come across scenarios in your lawn maintenance where you need a curved end. As such, getting the right tool for the job is ideal.
Blade material and diameter
The blade may need to be the strongest component of the machine. This is because it is bound to experience a lot of friction and resistance as it cuts through plants. As such, it’s good to check the blade material before buying a new brush cutter.
However, as you do so, do not forget to check on the diameter of the blade. The smart thing to do is carefully survey the area you want to use the device on. You can even measure the dimensions, and that will give you an idea of the diameter you need on your blades.
Handles and vibration
While comfort is not a primary concern for most people buying a brush cutter, it should still feature in your pros and cons list for a device. Soft ergonomic handles are the best since they reduce strain on your hands. It will also help if they minimize vibration from the engine.
Heads and attachments
Most of the machines above come with an extra head in addition to the brush cutter one. More often than not, this attachment is the string trimmer option, such as with the HUYOSEN CG520.
If you are searching for even more functionality, you may have to go with the Remington RM2700 Ranchero model. This device allows for a cultivator, pole saw, edger, and more attachments giving you a more versatile mix.
Weight
The brush cutter is not a self-propelling machine, nor does it come with wheels. As such, you will need to carry it whenever you intend to use it. Consequently, it needs to be lightweight so that you can use it for long periods without needing multiple breaks in between.
Warranty
The Remington RM2700 Ranchero comes with a two-year warranty. As such, any person who buys it will be covered if the product gets damaged or suffers defects within the first 36 months of ownership.
They can send it back to the manufacturer for repairs or replacements if it breaks down within this period. Of course, no extra charges will be associated with these repairs. The machine with no warranty will require that the user pays out of pocket for spare parts and other additional costs.
The blades on a brush cutter are usually exposed. As such, you would do well to put on safety equipment as a precautionary measure. This way, if an accident happens, you do not suffer any significant injuries.
Some of the protective gear in question includes safety boots, shin protectors, goggles, and more. If you do not already have them, this will add to the cost of the machine.
One thing you can do in preparation for using the device is to read the manual that comes with the device. This will provide you with relevant information about fueling and using the machine.
When it comes to taking your brush cutter out of storage, you also need to be prepared with protective equipment. Goggles are essential and will serve to protect your eyes from any debris thrown the way of your face.
Also, the machines tend to be quite noisy. This being the case investing in-ear protection is also quite necessary. Closer to your feet, you should look for solid non-slip shoes. You don’t want to slip and fall while your cutter rotates.
Also, as mentioned above, shin protectors will do you a lot of good. Additionally, the clothes you wear during the trimming exercise should be well fitted to avoid getting caught on branches and bushes.
Our Verdict
The Husqvarna 336FR 966604702 is a fantastic model of brush cutter with a harness to evenly distribute weight and ensure that you are comfortable even after long-term use.
On the other hand, you can choose the COOCHEER 42.7CC 2-in-1 Gas String Trimmer and Brush Cutter, which is the epitome of power and usability when it comes to brush cutters. It is likely capable of handling professional brush cutting jobs with relative ease.
Another favorite for the team is the Makita 4-Stroke Brush Cutter. Despite being the only one with a 4-stroke engine on our list, it is also quite dependable. Most home users will appreciate that it is lightweight as well. If you do not mind the low power of the device, it should be an easy pick.
If the three options mentioned here don’t appeal to you, then the other two on the list definitely will. All you have to do is set aside the money and get to ordering your pick from Amazon.
