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Echo HC-160

*Est. $350

Reviewed July 2008
Echo HC-160

pros
  • Powerful
  • Cuts branches up to ¾ of an inch thick
  • Anti-vibration handles
cons
  • Heavy
  • Noisy
  • Exhaust fumes
  • Expensive
 
 
Where to Buy
 
 
 

Mobility is one of the biggest factors in choosing either a corded or cordless hedge trimmer. While the corded Little Wonder 2420 (*Est. $290) is a powerful electric trimmer, you're tethered to a power cord. If you need power and mobility, a gas trimmer is the way to go. The Echo HC-160, a gas-powered model with a 24-inch blade, receives high marks for its power and ability to cut through branches up to ¾ of an inch thick. The Echo HC-160 has anti-vibration handles that make it more comfortable for prolonged use, and is one of the reasons why this model is a top pick in reviews. One of the biggest drawbacks is this unit's 12.4-pound weight (with the tank empty). It's also loud, and ear protection is recommended.

Echo gas-powered hedge trimmers consistently receive positive ratings in comparative reviews. ConsumerReports.org provides the most in-depth information on how the Echo trimmer stacks up against other gas-powered models. While an older review from Popular Mechanics doesn't compare as many different models, it does a good job weighing the pros and cons of a gas-powered trimmer, and it provides a detailed report on Echo trimmers. We found owner ratings at HomeDepot.com. An article in Yard and Garden, while it doesn't have in-depth comparative reviews, does provide additional information on gas-powered trimmers in general.

Our Sources

1. ConsumerReports.org

The Echo HC-150, a model very similar to the HC-160, is included in this Consumer Reports feature that compares 14 gas and electric hedge trimmers, rating each on power, safety, ease of use and more.

Review: Hedge Trimmers, Editors of ConsumerReports.org, May 2008

2. PopularMechanics.com

Editors of Popular Mechanics test six hedge trimmers in this older report. The Echo HC-160 isn't specifically tested, but the Echo HC-150 is included. (The two are similar except that the HC-160 adds anti-vibration handles.) The Echo trimmer is recommended for homeowners who need more power and can handle its heavy weight, but the review criticizes its lack of anti-vibration features (present on the newer HC-160).

Review: Hedge Hoggers, Joe Provey, Aug. 2004

3. HomeDepot.com

Home Depot sells the Echo HC-150 (similar to the HC-160 which adds anti-vibration dampening), and owners are invited to write comments. Of the few reviews, all give it a perfect rating.

Review: Echo 20 In. Double Sided Hedge Clipper, Contributors to HomeDepot.com

4. Yard and Garden

This article offers brief descriptions of seven gas hedge trimmers from Tanaka, Husqvarna, Little Wonder, Echo, Efco, Stihl and Redmax, plus the manual Corona Clipper Forged Hedge Shear. No ratings or rankings are included.

Review: Product Showcase: Hedge Trimmers, Editors of Yard and Garden, April/May 2008

Hedge Trimmers Runners Up:

Makita UH6350 *Est. $175

1 pick including: Amazon.com, GalTech.com…

     
 
image
Makita UH6350 Commercial Grade 25-Inch 4.6 Amp Electric Hedge Trimmer
Buy from Amazon.com
from Amazon.com
New: $189.99   
In Stock.
Average Customer Review:  
 
 
 
 
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