Battery-powered hedge trimmers

[Spider]

I am on the verge of acquiring a hedge trimmer, and would be grateful
for advice and comments from other users. It will be used for two small
Euonymous hedges (about 40ft long in total), and a large yew
specimen-cum-topiary. It needs to be cable-free and, since I don't
fancy working with a petrol-powered machine, that means battery-powered.

For those who don't already know, I am a lady spider, so I would need to
avoid the heaviest machines, but I don't want a flimsy 'toy' model,
either. Having looked at one or two online, the gripping handles look
huge for a lady's hand, so that might be an issue.

Advice from anyone would be appreciated, but I am keen to hear from
other ladies on their opinions re bulky handles. Safety is also a
concern and I know some models have two brakes rather than one. How
much is this necessary/essential? How easy are they to use?

Lastly, although I intend to buy two batteries, comments on length of
charge and charging time would be helpful. Also, does charge and
charging time deteriorate over time?

Cost isn't an enormous issue, but I come from Yorkshire so I don't want
to throw money away ;~).

Thank you for your time.

--
Spider
from high ground in SE London
gardening on clay

[nm...@cam.ac.uk]

In article <b7rjk8...@mid.individual.net>,

Spider <spi...@invalid.com> wrote:
>
>For those who don't already know, I am a lady spider, so I would need to
>avoid the heaviest machines, but I don't want a flimsy 'toy' model,
>either. Having looked at one or two online, the gripping handles look
>huge for a lady's hand, so that might be an issue.

Well, I am definitely not a lady and will leave others to judge
whether I am a gentleman :-) But I am very weak in the arms for
a reasonably fit man, and had to give up using a mains electric
one because of the danger. That was a while ago, so it was
probably a similar weight to modern battery ones.

The problem was that holding my arms up and the vibration caused
me to let it drop partly out of control. After it nearly landed
on my legs three times, I gave up and went back to shears and
secateurs. The alternative is, of course, to pay someone to do
it (whether in cash or kind).

It is worth checking that you CAN use such a device for more than
a few minutes with your arms at the height you would need to hold
them. Quite a few women can't.


Regards,
Nick Maclaren.

[Mike]

Spider my next door neighbour has a battery pack one I think, that is a
battery which is in a pouch around her waist. I know it is very lightweight
and I will see what it is and give you the details.

I know what you mean about the heavy machines. Since my second major
operation I am weak in the left arm and the mains hedge trimmer I have,
purchased when I was a lot younger with a huge garden, gets too heavy after
a few minutes, especially when working up a ladder.

I know exactly what you mean and want and will have a word with Julie or
Steve when they come in re the small one Julie uses

Mike



"Spider" wrote in message news:b7rjk8...@mid.individual.net...

[Janet]

In article <kva64h$s1l$1...@needham.csi.cam.ac.uk>, nm...@cam.ac.uk says...

I agree. Borrowing or hiring power tools to try before buying, is the
way to go.

I'm 5 ft 2 and use a small electric hedgecutter (15 " blade) to cut 50
m of hawthorn hedge three times a year, which my arm-strength can manage
fine because the hedge is only chest height on me. Takes me a couple of
hours with a break midway.

Yesterday someone gave me a pair of very heavy old 5ft iron gates; he
and John put them on the car roofrack. Back home, nobody but me to help
John get them down. Well, I managed (just) not to drop or scrape my end
down the car but today, don't I wish I hadn't lifted them :-(

Janet.

[David Hill]

I have a petrol hedge cutter, but haven't used it much since I got my
Viking strimmer with hedge cutting attachment.
Having the longer reach, and a head you can adjust through a variety of
angles I find it much easier no lifting a weight overhead and holding it
there.
Not knowing how tall your hedges are, it's something to think about, not
saying you get a petrol strimmer but possibly something to think about,
most of the weight is taken on the shoulder strap.
David

[Tim Watts]

On Saturday 24 August 2013 14:00 David Hill wrote in uk.rec.gardening:

> I have a petrol hedge cutter, but haven't used it much since I got my
> Viking strimmer with hedge cutting attachment.
> Having the longer reach, and a head you can adjust through a variety of
> angles I find it much easier no lifting a weight overhead and holding it
> there.
> Not knowing how tall your hedges are, it's something to think about, not
> saying you get a petrol strimmer but possibly something to think about,
> most of the weight is taken on the shoulder strap.
> David

I got one of these a couple of years back:

http://www.argos.co.uk/static/Product/partNumber/7304280.htm

It is "adequate" - in my case it will trim about 50-70 linear feet of 4ft
high hawthorn (both sides and top). Fresh growth only and softer twigs upto
about 1/4"

The supplied 2 battery packs means I can get most of my hedge done in one
session.

It's weak compared to even a lightweight petrol trimmer, but it is:

1) Inexpensive;

2) No cables (a damn liability with a hedge trimmer of all things!)

3) Pretty light to handle.

4) Low hassle if you keep the batteries charged.

Warning - uses old style NiCd battery.

Look at the newer Bosch trimmers with a more modern Li-Ion battery, eg:

http://www.argos.co.uk/static/Product/partNumber/1019911.htm

Could be better battery wise[1] but you'll need to check some reviews!

[1] I have a Bosch cordless screwdriver that uses the 10.8V LI-Ion battery
and it has been worked to death on a renovation job and the original battery
is still alive (it's a "Bosch Blue" pro tool rather than a "Bosch Green"
consumer tool, but I think the battery packs are the same.

--
Tim Watts Personal Blog: http://squiddy.blog.dionic.net/

http://www.sensorly.com/ Crowd mapping of 2G/3G/4G mobile signal coverage

[Jeff Layman]

Well, you could always visit a few garden centres and "sheds" (B&Q,
Homebase, etc) and try a few for weight and size, just remembering that
after half an hour's use they will all be at least twice as big and
heavy as the one you started with!

Read as many online reviews as you have time for, noting the comments
and whether or not they make sense and are of any use (positive ones
such as "nice colour", and negative ones such as "I couldn't plug in the
charger because my wall socket was faulty" should be ignored in their
entirety, of course). You might also find info there about how long they
actually lasted in use, not just the manufacturer's figures .

--

Jeff

[Dave Liquorice]

On Sat, 24 Aug 2013 12:52:37 +0100, Mike wrote:

> Spider my next door neighbour has a battery pack one I think, that is a
> battery which is in a pouch around her waist.

That is quite a good tip, a lot of the weight of a battery trimmer
will be in the batteries. The less weight you have on your arms and
having to wave about the better. Nice wide padded belt snug on your
hips will carry a lot more weight than you like on your arms. There
will of course be a cable from the pack to the cutter...

TBH I'm not sure what the problem with the cable could be if you
route it well. Assuming cutter trigger handle in right hand, back to
front under right arm pit, round back of neck, front to back under
left arm pit then to a loop shoved under your belt in the middle of
yoru back. Slack enough not to restrict any movement and it'll follow
your arm well and leaving being behind you, out of the cutters way.

--
Cheers
Dave.

[S Viemeister]

On 8/24/2013 3:56 PM, Dave Liquorice wrote:

> TBH I'm not sure what the problem with the cable could be if you
> route it well. Assuming cutter trigger handle in right hand, back to
> front under right arm pit, round back of neck, front to back under
> left arm pit then to a loop shoved under your belt in the middle of
> yoru back. Slack enough not to restrict any movement and it'll follow
> your arm well and leaving being behind you, out of the cutters way.
>

Some of us learn these things the hard way...I did survive, though.

[Dave Liquorice]

Which bit half strangling yourself with a cable or cutting the cable?

Anything mains powered outside should be fed via and RCD somewhere.
If you come into contact with mains it'll still hurt, if up a ladder
the jerk reaction might knock you off balance and you'll count half a
dozen cycles or so before it trips but that is far more preferable to
no RCD.

DAMHIKT...

--
Cheers
Dave.

[S Viemeister]

On 8/24/2013 5:05 PM, Dave Liquorice wrote:
> On Sat, 24 Aug 2013 16:33:57 -0400, S Viemeister wrote:
>> Some of us learn these things the hard way...I did survive, though.
>
> Which bit half strangling yourself with a cable or cutting the cable?
>

Cutting the cable.

> Anything mains powered outside should be fed via and RCD somewhere.
> If you come into contact with mains it'll still hurt, if up a ladder
> the jerk reaction might knock you off balance and you'll count half a
> dozen cycles or so before it trips but that is far more preferable to
> no RCD.
>
> DAMHIKT...
>

Fortunately, I was not on a ladder at the time.

[Spider]

Thanks, Nick, and I'm sure you are a gentleman :~).

I am certainly not intending to chop my legs off, as a legless spider
is, well, not very spidery.

I am stronger in the arms than, perhaps, some ladies, but sometimes have
weak and painful hands due to rheumatism. Naturally, I would not use
the trimmer in those circumstances. I did use a friend's mains powered
one about ten yrs ago and don't remember any problems, but I may ask if
I can have another go with hers purely to judge the weight and tremble
effect as I wobble off into advanced old age;~). No, I'm not that
creaky yet, but not getting any younger, either. I will continue to use
secateurs and geared loppers for my considerable pyracantha hedge
because the flowering and fruiting is so much better when carefully
judged, but for non-flowering material I am prepared to try a power timmer.

Thanks for your comments.

[Spider]

Thanks, Janet. Yes, I shall certainly try a few out once a get a short
list.

I'm 5ft 4ins, so that helps a bit with taller plants, but the hedge I
want to cut will never be more than 2ft and is currently less. Although
I don't carry its weight(in use), I have used a push mower for years and
that has probably strengthened a few muscles. Naturally, I will take it
very gently when I first use the new machine and may even ask RG to be
on hand in case I need help.

You sound as if you need to soak your aching muscles in a hot bath after
struggling with that gate. Well done, for lifting it down without
pranging the car.

[Peter & Jeanne]

>"Jake" wrote in message news:hgoj19tnrob24lhou...@4ax.com...



>Not that long ago, I saw an advert for a battery hedge trimmer where
>the battery was carried in a knapsack contraption on the back with
>just a short cable to the tool. This may be an option to consider?

Yup - my grass trimmer (Aldi £29.99 iirc) works along the same lines.
Battery fits nicely in pocket - does about 20mins on full charge.

Regards
Pete

[Spider]

On 25/08/2013 11:57, Jake wrote:

> On Sat, 24 Aug 2013 22:41:39 +0100, Spider<spi...@invalid.com> wrote:
>
>>
>> I am stronger in the arms than, perhaps, some ladies, but sometimes have
>> weak and painful hands due to rheumatism.
>

> Not that long ago, I saw an advert for a battery hedge trimmer where
> the battery was carried in a knapsack contraption on the back with
> just a short cable to the tool. This may be an option to consider?
>

> The magazine will be in my rather large "Never chuck it out" pile and
> I'd be happy to have a hunt if you can wait a day or three.
>



That sounds interesting, Jake. Yes, I'd be grateful if you could seek
it out, but don't worry if you can't find it. I could try googling if
your magazine has disappeared. Thank you.

[Spider]

The lightweight bonus sounds good, but I may need more than 20 mins
worth of charge at a time. Nevertheless, since you and Jake have both
mentioned this type of portability, I will look into it.

[Spider]

On 24/08/2013 12:52, 'Mike' wrote:

> Spider my next door neighbour has a battery pack one I think, that is a
> battery which is in a pouch around her waist. I know it is very
> lightweight and I will see what it is and give you the details.
>
> I know what you mean about the heavy machines. Since my second major
> operation I am weak in the left arm and the mains hedge trimmer I have,
> purchased when I was a lot younger with a huge garden, gets too heavy
> after a few minutes, especially when working up a ladder.
>
> I know exactly what you mean and want and will have a word with Julie or
> Steve when they come in re the small one Julie uses
>
> Mike
>

Thanks, Mike. I'll watch for you popping back here.

[Spider]

Thanks for the thought, David. You do make it sound more manageable
than I had envisaged (I wasn't aware of the shoulder strap thing), but
I'm still not deeply chuffed about using - and storing - petrol. Having
discussed it with RG before replying, I find he's quite against it, so
I'm afraid it's a big thumbs down. Thanks nevertheless.

[Spider]

Thanks Tim. Having looked at both, I am certainly more impressed with
the Lithium Ion batteries, so that will probably be the way to go. The
Bosch is a smart-looking tool, so I'll be looking closer at them. The
Bosch 54/20 36V looks quite good, so that's two to add to my short list.

[Spider]

On 24/08/2013 20:56, Dave Liquorice wrote:
> On Sat, 24 Aug 2013 12:52:37 +0100, Mike wrote:
>
>> Spider my next door neighbour has a battery pack one I think, that is a
>> battery which is in a pouch around her waist.
>
> That is quite a good tip, a lot of the weight of a battery trimmer
> will be in the batteries. The less weight you have on your arms and
> having to wave about the better. Nice wide padded belt snug on your
> hips will carry a lot more weight than you like on your arms. There
> will of course be a cable from the pack to the cutter...
>

Thank you, Dave. Yes, I'm going to look into that type. I will Google
and see what the cable looks like.

> TBH I'm not sure what the problem with the cable could be if you
> route it well. Assuming cutter trigger handle in right hand, back to
> front under right arm pit, round back of neck, front to back under
> left arm pit then to a loop shoved under your belt in the middle of
> yoru back. Slack enough not to restrict any movement and it'll follow
> your arm well and leaving being behind you, out of the cutters way.
>

TAs you say, it oughtn't to be a problem if common sense is applied, but
people have accidents just the same.

Having used a push mower for years and finding it so much easier than
getting the mower out .. getting the cable out .. opening a window from
inside .. running outside to plug the cable in .. moving both around the
garden as I work, then reversing the process at the end of the job, I
find I am so much happier just carrying the very light mower out and
working straight away without any restriction (apart from not mowing
another stripe down my cat's back!), that I am loathe to invite another
outdoor cable to my menagerie of tools.

To come to the point, I will certainly look into a pocketed battery if a
reasonable sized one is available. Atm, I'm looking at 36V or so.

[Spider]

:~((! Well, thank goodness you're still here. Someone has to tell us
how it shouldn't be done. The horse may have bolted, but at least the
stable door is firmly shut ;~). I'm sure you're now being very careful.

[Spider]

On 25/08/2013 13:20, Jake wrote:

> Meanwhile, here's one to be going on with:
>
> http://www.gtechonline.co.uk/garden-tools/ht05-cordless-hedge-trimmer.html
>
> Note battery is built in so although it's light, you can't have a
> charged battery ready to swap out.
>



Thanks, Jake. That does look light and rather nifty. I'll copy it to
RG for his comments. I was hoping for a two battery option, but it may
not be needed. That's why I need some help. Thanks very much for yours.

[Dave Liquorice]

On Sun, 25 Aug 2013 12:54:15 +0100, Spider wrote:

>> Yup - my grass trimmer (Aldi £29.99 iirc) works along the same
lines.
>> Battery fits nicely in pocket - does about 20mins on full charge.
>

> The lightweight bonus sounds good, but I may need more than 20 mins
> worth of charge at a time.

The recharge time is important unless you have two batteries.

If you get 20 mins run time and 20 mins recharge, that's a resonable
working period then a rest for coffee, whilst you both recharge. B-)

Trouble is a fast charge like that really needs a "clever" charger
that will monitor the battery and shut off when it is charged. Cheap
kit tends not to come with such clever chargers...

--
Cheers
Dave.

[Spider]

On 25/08/2013 13:33, Jake wrote:
> On Sun, 25 Aug 2013 13:20:33 +0100, Jake<Nos...@invalid.invalid>
> wrote:
>
> Or there's this belt battery pack model:
>
> http://www.worldofpower.co.uk/flymo-sabrecut-24v-cordless-42cm-telescopic-hedge-trimmer.html
>
> This site's cheaper than the one in the ad but I can't say it's the
> cheapest of course.
>
> I'll be quiet now till I find the one I'm looking for!
>



Thanks, Jake. That really does look light to handle! I'll ask RG about
the pros and cons of acid batteries over Li-ion types.

It doesn't matter if you're quiet or not now, 'cos I'm going into the
garden for a couple of hours ;~)). Will look in later.

[S Viemeister]

_Extremely_ careful!
I'm also looking for a battery operated trimmer, as the bits needing
trimming are too far from the house to make a corded one practical, and
I don't like petrol powered tools.

[Dave Liquorice]

On Sun, 25 Aug 2013 13:00:36 +0100, Spider wrote:

> I'm still not deeply chuffed about using - and storing - petrol. Having

> discussed it with RG before replying, I find he's quite against it, ...

You have diesel car? B-)

5 l of petrol in a sealed good metal can isn't a serious problem in
the garage out of sunlight. I wouldn't store it in the house though
and only refill the machine outside the garage/shed.

A small portable machine that can operate at almost any angle is
likely to be a two stroke so will need two stroke oil adding to the
fuel in the correct proportion. Mixer bottles are available for the
common 50:1 (fuel:oil) ratio.

--
Cheers
Dave.

[Spider]

RG has. He's hardly got room in the garage for the car (had to hack one
skin of bricks off the wall so he could open the car door!!). That
aside, he just doesn't want to store it .. and I haven't got a shed :~((
.. yet.

[Spider]

Two of my yew trees are really too far from the house for cable and I
have ruled out petrol type trimmers, too.

If you like, I'll let you borrow a bit of my thread! ;~)).

[David Hill]

Which have a good set of reviews of hedge trimmers if you are a member,
for domestic cordless The Black & Decker GTC1850L is part of new range
of cordless trimmers. It boasts the same basic design as Black &
Decker's corded trimmers, but actually weighs less at only 2.8kg, even
with the compact lithium-ion battery fitted.
But The blade sheath is a bit tricky to refit for carrying and storing.

The lithium battery takes nearly eight hours to recharge, so make sure
the 20-minute or so cutting time is sufficient for your hedges. In our
experience, you should be able to trim 70sq m of hedge in that time.

Is there anything else I should know?
If you need a second battery this will set you back another �52.

Almost all of their best buys are corded.

[S Viemeister]

Spiderweb thread?

[Spider]

Too right! :~)). But but don't get in a tangle with it, heh heh.

[Spider]

Alas, I'm not a member of Which? However, I've read a few reviews on
line, although not Black & Decker yet. There is a Bosch I've got half
an eye on. It's relatively expensive even without the second battery,
which I would like. However, RG thinks I may not need a second battery
if the first holds a long enough useable charge.

Before I decide, I shall Google the portable battery types to see what's
available. Again, RG thinks these may not be man enough for the work
I'll be doing (I spent part of today showing him the plant material I'll
be attacking), but there may be something we've not seen yet.

The only other (so far unanswered) query I wanted to resolve is the
matter of bulky handles for smaller ladies hands. It may be I'll just
have to visit a local 'shed' and heft one or two. Not that RG intends
to buy locally; he'll probably use Amazon or another reliable cheapish
online site that will deliver the next day.

Oh. Just thought of another question. In your experience, do power
trimmers 'kick' alarmingly when they meet a tough bit of branch they
don't like? I'm not otherwise too worried about using one, but that
sort of fright just might make me unusually girly.

You needn't hurry to answer that. It's way past my bedtime and I
haven't fed the cats yet :~(. Will have a look here in the morning.

Thanks for all your help.

[Spider]

On 26/08/2013 12:08, Jake wrote:

> On Sun, 25 Aug 2013 22:43:16 +0100, Spider<spi...@invalid.com> wrote:
>
>
>>
>> Oh. Just thought of another question. In your experience, do power
>> trimmers 'kick' alarmingly when they meet a tough bit of branch they
>> don't like? I'm not otherwise too worried about using one, but that
>> sort of fright just might make me unusually girly.
>>

> If a branch is too wide to fit between the teeth, it won't get in
> there! If it fits in the gap then it should be within the machine's
> capability. So I doubt you'll experience any kickback to worry about.
>
> Indeed, given that a battery-powered motor will generally be weaker
> than an electric or petrol one, I would expect that if the trimmer
> encounters something too tough, it will simply stop and make a naughty
> noise until you release the trigger.
>
> However, I check hedge surfaces over before I start and if there is a
> particularly thick branch I remove it with loppers (to a point below
> the "trimming line") before I start with a hedge trimmer. Apart from
> anything else, pushing the trimmer to its limit means the blades
> blunt more quickly and round here sharpening is about �30 a time.
>



That all makes a great deal of sense and is most reassuring. Thanks,
Jake. Interestingly, I've already checked for stout close-to-surface
branches, so that's how I'll continue.

So far, the battery-carried-separately type (despite being very light)
may not be powerful enough. I am currently looking at a Bosch with
54/20 blade ratio and a 36V battery. The weight isn't too bad. There
is a more powerful one, but I doubt I'll need that. I know myself well
enough to know that I have to have a tool that I respect and which is a
little more powerful than I need so that it's working a little light of
its ultimate capability. So far, that Bosch model fits the bill *and*
RG is happy with it, too. If nothing else catches my eye soon, we will
be ordering that one. Naturally, I will report back here whichever I
choose, after I've given it some use.

Thank you so much for your most instructive advice, Jake.
Thanks also to everyone else who chipped in and helped shape my opinion.

[S Viemeister]

On 8/26/2013 7:36 AM, Spider wrote:

> So far, the battery-carried-separately type (despite being very light)
> may not be powerful enough. I am currently looking at a Bosch with
> 54/20 blade ratio and a 36V battery. The weight isn't too bad. There
> is a more powerful one, but I doubt I'll need that. I know myself well
> enough to know that I have to have a tool that I respect and which is a
> little more powerful than I need so that it's working a little light of
> its ultimate capability. So far, that Bosch model fits the bill *and*
> RG is happy with it, too. If nothing else catches my eye soon, we will
> be ordering that one. Naturally, I will report back here whichever I
> choose, after I've given it some use.
>

I look forward to your report.

[stuart noble]

> I am currently looking at a Bosch with
> 54/20 blade ratio and a 36V battery.

36 volts is certainly awesome on a drill

[Spider]

On 26/08/2013 12:57, Jake wrote:
> On Sun, 25 Aug 2013 13:36:18 +0100, Spider<spi...@invalid.com> wrote:
>
> All hedgetrimmed :)
>
> Found the ad. Sit down. Its for a Stihl (or is that Steal perhaps). I
> looked on the web and the cheapest price I can find for the backpack
> battery is �640. Add to that a Stihl or Viking trimmer which will cost
> upwards of �350 and you're away. So probably something for the
> professionals.
>
> The December 2012 issue of Amateur Gardening has a comparison of 6
> different battery models (including a Stihl which takes second place
> and has a belt battery option which I guess will be a lot cheaper). If
> you can't get hold of a copy locally, and would like to read, I can
> try a scan to the web and link from here.
>



Thanks, Jake. I'm most grateful to you for seeking out the ad but,
crikey, they are a bit pricey! If I chose to, I could afford them, but
it makes my Yorkshire wallet muscles sore to think about it. As you
say, they're probably professional models. No doubt the pros can claim
part of the cost against tax.

After you've gone to all that trouble, I feel rather guilty as I made a
decision today and asked RG to put in an order for the Bosch. I don't
recall the model number well enough, but its the one with the 54/20
blade and 36V battery. I sincerely hope it's going to be okay. I was
just struggling in the garden this afternoon and felt the need of a
decent bit of kit.

Nevertheless, I will take the time to suss out the Stihl and Viking
machines, even if it's only to marvel at the price tags!, and also
because you've gone to some trouble on my behalf to find them. Thank
you, I do appreciate it.

[Spider]

Well, I'm hoping my 36V trimmer will be awesome on my hedges:~). I'll
be sure to let everyone know.

[Spider]

On 27/08/2013 08:46, Martin wrote:
> On Mon, 26 Aug 2013 14:17:53 +0100, Jake<Nos...@invalid.invalid>
> wrote:
>
>> On Mon, 26 Aug 2013 14:44:00 +0200, Martin<m...@address.invalid> wrote:
>>
>>> Tell us what were number 1 and 3 first?
>>>
>>> I found this on their website
>>> http://www.amateurgardening.com/uncategorized/carol-klein-to-present-bbc-glebe-cottage-series/
>>
>> The web site's rubbish.
>
> The bit about Carol Klein refers to what was already shown this year?
>
>> But the 15 December edition (to be more
>> precise) lists:
>>
>> 1st Metabo 36V AHS at £369.95 (scores 19 out of 20)
>> 2nd Stihl HSA 65 at £359 (scores 18)
>> 3rd CEL 18V at £99.99 (also scores 18 thanks to price but it's only an
>> 18V model)
>> 4th Wolf Li-ion Power 45V at £183.99 (16) NB this is 18V not 45!
>> 5th Bosch 52CM AHS 52LI at £109.99 (15) Again 18V
>> 6th Makita - no model specified - at £226.80 and just 14.4V (13)
>>
>> Prices at time of publication. There was at that time an offer via
>> toolshop.co.uk of an additional "free" battery. The Stihl has an
>> optional extra of "battery belt with harness and bag" so there's the
>> option of battery in the motor housing or in the belt bag.
>>
>> Makes me feel a bit on the wierd side when I realise that I now have 1
>> petrol hedgetrimmer, 3 mains electric ones and a small battery one
>> plus a little Bosch mini thing that's good for trimming heathers and
>> lavenders.
>
> We have a little Bosch mini thing with a rechargeable battery. My wife
> who uses it is not impressed, it's not very powerful and the battery
> life is short. We have a mains Bosch hedge trimmer that we do
> recommend



Well, we've finally ordered a battery-operated Bosch, so it will be
interesting to see how it performs. I need to get some goggles now,
otherwise I won't be able to use it.

[S Viemeister]

On 8/27/2013 9:19 AM, Spider wrote:

> Well, we've finally ordered a battery-operated Bosch, so it will be
> interesting to see how it performs. I need to get some goggles now,
> otherwise I won't be able to use it.
>

Which model did you order?

[Tim Watts]

On Tuesday 27 August 2013 14:19 Spider wrote in uk.rec.gardening:


>
> Well, we've finally ordered a battery-operated Bosch, so it will be
> interesting to see how it performs. I need to get some goggles now,
> otherwise I won't be able to use it.
>

Please do give some feedback, including the model number :)

Stuff like this is always interesting to know!

--
Tim Watts Personal Blog: http://squiddy.blog.dionic.net/

http://www.sensorly.com/ Crowd mapping of 2G/3G/4G mobile signal coverage

[Mike]

Spider sorry it's been a long time in replying, but I have only just had the
chance to talk to Julie. We are both busy and our paths don't cross to
often, and when they do, we do tend to natter for a long time.

Anyway, she has a 'gtech' which if it is anything like the battery vacuum
cleaner, is superb. We have a Vacuum Cleaner at the theatre and we were so
impressed we bought one for home.

I believe the gardener now want a gtech battery hedge trimmer!!!!

(Thanks for the contacts re Bay Leaves. Should have replied to you all by
now)

Mike







"'Mike'" wrote in message news:VNmdnTZlRtzpA4XP...@bt.com...

Spider my next door neighbour has a battery pack one I think, that is a

battery which is in a pouch around her waist. I know it is very lightweight
and I will see what it is and give you the details.

I know what you mean about the heavy machines. Since my second major
operation I am weak in the left arm and the mains hedge trimmer I have,
purchased when I was a lot younger with a huge garden, gets too heavy after
a few minutes, especially when working up a ladder.

I know exactly what you mean and want and will have a word with Julie or
Steve when they come in re the small one Julie uses

Mike



"Spider" wrote in message news:b7rjk8...@mid.individual.net...

I am on the verge of acquiring a hedge trimmer, and would be grateful
for advice and comments from other users. It will be used for two small
Euonymous hedges (about 40ft long in total), and a large yew
specimen-cum-topiary. It needs to be cable-free and, since I don't
fancy working with a petrol-powered machine, that means battery-powered.

For those who don't already know, I am a lady spider, so I would need to
avoid the heaviest machines, but I don't want a flimsy 'toy' model,
either. Having looked at one or two online, the gripping handles look
huge for a lady's hand, so that might be an issue.

Advice from anyone would be appreciated, but I am keen to hear from
other ladies on their opinions re bulky handles. Safety is also a
concern and I know some models have two brakes rather than one. How
much is this necessary/essential? How easy are they to use?

Lastly, although I intend to buy two batteries, comments on length of
charge and charging time would be helpful. Also, does charge and
charging time deteriorate over time?

Cost isn't an enormous issue, but I come from Yorkshire so I don't want
to throw money away ;~).

Thank you for your time.

[David Hill]

> Well, we've finally ordered a battery-operated Bosch, so it will be
> interesting to see how it performs. I need to get some goggles now,
> otherwise I won't be able to use it.
>

Robotic?
I'd have thought you would have been the one to operate it, and it would
have been battery powered,

[Spider]

It was the Bosch AHS 54-20 Li with a 36V battery pack.

In fact, it came today! We charged up the battery and gave it a little
test. RG had a go first, then I did. It's very good, and will be
better when I've had a bit of practise. It certainly seems to be well
made and the blade is *sharp*. Between us, we trimmed both small
Euonymous microphylla hedges (approx 40ft long in total) and an almost
6ft yew specimen which I want to topiarise. We both had a bit of
trouble persuading young, whippy shoots to feed themselves into the
blade, rather than bending away, but I think that's part of acquiring
the right technique. In fact, I think a helpful poster suggested
something earlier in this thread, so I shall look back at that to see
what was said.

I can't properly comment on the time it took to charge because I think
it was partially charged when it came. However, it was still going
strong when we finished with it, so no problems.

All in all, I'm very pleased with it. I may even have to plant more
hedges or topiary subjects! Allowing for being seriously sensible and
safety-concious, one might even be inclined to say it's fun. To put all
this into perspective, I'm a 5ft 4" 58yr old blonde woman - if I can do
it, anyone can do it!

It's early days to recommend it without more useage, but I think I may
be recommending in the not too distant future :~).

Thanks everyone for your helpful advice, comments and links. It's all
been worthwhile :~)).

[S Viemeister]

On 8/27/2013 5:54 PM, Spider wrote:
> On 27/08/2013 14:21, S Viemeister wrote:
>> Which model did you order?
>
> It was the Bosch AHS 54-20 Li with a 36V battery pack.

Looks good - but I'll need to save up a bit more!

> All in all, I'm very pleased with it. I may even have to plant more
> hedges or topiary subjects! Allowing for being seriously sensible and
> safety-concious, one might even be inclined to say it's fun. To put all
> this into perspective, I'm a 5ft 4" 58yr old blonde woman - if I can do
> it, anyone can do it!
>

I'm a bit older, brunette, and a lot taller - it should be a snap. :)

> It's early days to recommend it without more useage, but I think I may
> be recommending in the not too distant future :~).
>
> Thanks everyone for your helpful advice, comments and links. It's all
> been worthwhile :~)).
>

Please report back on it after you've used it for a while - it may
encourage/help justify a splurge.

[S Viemeister]

On 8/28/2013 5:58 AM, Martin wrote:

> <firs...@lastname.oc.ku> wrote:
>> On 8/27/2013 5:54 PM, Spider wrote:
>>> All in all, I'm very pleased with it. I may even have to plant more
>>> hedges or topiary subjects! Allowing for being seriously sensible and
>>> safety-concious, one might even be inclined to say it's fun. To put all
>>> this into perspective, I'm a 5ft 4" 58yr old blonde woman - if I can do
>>> it, anyone can do it!
>>>
>> I'm a bit older, brunette, and a lot taller - it should be a snap. :)
>

> Bosch trimmers prefer German blondes :-)
>
I suppose I could dye my hair...

[Spider]

On 28/08/2013 01:00, S Viemeister wrote:
> On 8/27/2013 5:54 PM, Spider wrote:
>> On 27/08/2013 14:21, S Viemeister wrote:
>>> Which model did you order?
>>
>> It was the Bosch AHS 54-20 Li with a 36V battery pack.
>
> Looks good - but I'll need to save up a bit more!

Shop around as winter approaches. You may get a good deal.

>
>> All in all, I'm very pleased with it. I may even have to plant more
>> hedges or topiary subjects! Allowing for being seriously sensible and
>> safety-concious, one might even be inclined to say it's fun. To put all
>> this into perspective, I'm a 5ft 4" 58yr old blonde woman - if I can do
>> it, anyone can do it!
>>
> I'm a bit older, brunette, and a lot taller - it should be a snap. :)

I'm sure I'd look up to you ;~), but this Spider's already got a victim.
Heh heh.

>
>> It's early days to recommend it without more useage, but I think I may
>> be recommending in the not too distant future :~).
>>
>> Thanks everyone for your helpful advice, comments and links. It's all
>> been worthwhile :~)).
>>
> Please report back on it after you've used it for a while - it may
> encourage/help justify a splurge.

Will do. I promise.

[Spider]

On 28/08/2013 10:58, Martin wrote:

> On Tue, 27 Aug 2013 20:00:44 -0400, S Viemeister
> <firs...@lastname.oc.ku> wrote:
>
>> On 8/27/2013 5:54 PM, Spider wrote:
>>> On 27/08/2013 14:21, S Viemeister wrote:
>>>> Which model did you order?
>>>
>>> It was the Bosch AHS 54-20 Li with a 36V battery pack.
>>
>> Looks good - but I'll need to save up a bit more!
>>
>>> All in all, I'm very pleased with it. I may even have to plant more
>>> hedges or topiary subjects! Allowing for being seriously sensible and
>>> safety-concious, one might even be inclined to say it's fun. To put all
>>> this into perspective, I'm a 5ft 4" 58yr old blonde woman - if I can do
>>> it, anyone can do it!
>>>
>> I'm a bit older, brunette, and a lot taller - it should be a snap. :)
>

> Bosch trimmers prefer German blondes :-)
>

That's a load of Bosch!! ;~)).

[Spider]

Nah .. just trim it a bit .. I've got the perfect tool!

[Spider]

On 28/08/2013 21:37, Martin wrote:

> or give it a quick trim before the battery goes flat.




Rats! You beat me to it!

[Sacha]

Rats tails?! ;-)
--

Sacha
www.hillhousenursery.com
South Devon
www.helpforheroes.org.uk

[Sacha]

On 2013-08-29 10:02:38 +0100, Martin said:

> There's a Siemens pun lurking somewhere.

Well navigate your way around it!

[Spider]

I wouldn't want to trim a rat's tail. The angry end might turn round
and bite me :-/

[Spider]

On 29/08/2013 10:03, Martin wrote:

> Bosch multi tool can be used to polish your scalp.




But I don't want a shiny pate, thank you! I'm a hairy spider :~).

[Spider]

On 29/08/2013 10:02, Martin wrote:

> There's a Siemens pun lurking somewhere.

Wrong spelling. It's "She was only a seaman's daughter .." ;~).

[RG]

We don't wish to know that. Kindly leave the naval base :(