Best Reviewed
String Trimmers
- Cordless grass trimmer Black & Decker Grass Hog NST2018 *Est. $100
- Corded electric trimmer; better for weeds Stihl FSE 60 *Est. $120
- Best-value gas trimmer Hitachi CG22EASSLP *Est. $190
- Propane string trimmer Lehr Eco Trimmer ST025DC *Est. $140
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- Most powerful gas trimmer available
- Four-stroke engine is quiet and efficient
- Easy to start
- Works for both right- and left-handed users
- Reloading line is foolproof, according to reviews
- No need to mix gas with oil
- Weighs 20 pounds, so you'll need a shoulder strap or harness
- 14-inch cutting head is on the small side
The top-rated gas-powered Craftsman 79197 is powerful enough to whack tough weeds and tall grass, and you're not tethered to an electrical cord. Furthermore, the four-stroke engine is more efficient, more durable and quieter than cheaper two-stroke engines, and you don't need to mix oil with the gas. Reviews say line refills are easy, and the split shaft allows you to use attachments (purchased separately). The downside? The 20-pound weight makes it cumbersome to use for more than a few minutes, so you'll probably need a shoulder strap or harness. If you don't mind dealing with a cord, the less expensive Stihl FSE60 (*Est. $130) is nearly as powerful, yet weighs less than half as much.
We found a detailed and current review of the Craftsman 79197 gas string trimmer at ConsumerGuide.com. Owners review this model at Sears.com, and it's briefly discussed in a professional landscaper's forum, LawnSite.com. ConsumerReports.org has not tested the Craftsman 79197 so far.
Our Sources
This single-product review gives the Craftsman 79197 a perfect five-star rating for performance, calling it a pro-level string trimmer and selecting it as a Best Buy compared to 18 other gas models.
Review: Expert Review: Craftsman 79197 Gas String Trimmer, Editors of ConsumerGuide.com, April 16, 2008
2. Sears.com
A great many gas and corded electric string trimmers have accumulated ratings and reviews from owners here, but the Craftsman 79197 gets higher ratings than most: an average of four out of five stars from more than 30 owners. Most say it's easy to start, is dependable and performs very well. One reviewer says the attachments are worth the money.
Review: Craftsman 29 cc 4 Cycle Gas Trimmer, Contributors to Sears.com
3. LawnSite.com
Though this forum is aimed at professional landscapers, this particular discussion debates the merits of various gas string trimmers for homeowner use, including the Craftsman 79197. Several people recommend spending a little more for an Echo, Stihl or Shindaiwa model, saying these brands are more durable.
Review: String Trimmer for Home Use?, Contributors to LawnSite.com
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