
While experts consider the propane-fueled Lehr Eco Trimmer to be as powerful as a gas trimmer, you don't have to buy and store gasoline, and propane is less polluting. However, you do have the ongoing cost of 1-pound propane canisters (*Est. $2 to $5 each), which can't be refilled (but can be recycled) and only give you two hours of run time each. The ST025DC has a detachable curved shaft and weighs 15 pounds with the propane canister. Those who want power but less weight may want to consider the corded electric Stihl FSE 60 (*Est. $120), another eco-friendly choice.
We found the best reviews of the Eco Trimmer at ConsumerReports.org, where editors rate and rank it in comparison with 39 other string trimmers of all types based on objective testing.
About.com features both a single-product review and one that compares the Lehr trimmer to a Black & Decker Grass Hog, while Popular Mechanics compares the Lehr Eco-Trimmer to the cordless Worx WG150 and a Troy-Bilt gas trimmer. Professional landscaper Allyn Paul provides a video review on LifeAndLawns.com, and GearPatrol.com contributing editor Dusty Overby reviews the Eco Trimmer as well. At Amazon.com, owners rate the detachable-shaft models.

| LEHR ST025DC 25cc Propane Powered 4-Stroke Detachable Curved-Shaft Eco Trimmer | |
(56 reviews) In Stock. |
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Our Sources
1. ConsumerReports.orgDetails/Subscribe
This review compares the Lehr Eco Trimmer ST025DC with 39 other string trimmer models, including gas, electric and cordless trimmers. All of the string trimmers are ranked based on performance ratings for trimming, edging and handling tall grass and weeds, plus ratings for ease of use.
Review: String Trimmers, Editors of ConsumerReports.org, May 2011
2. About.com
David Beaulieu, About.com's guide to landscaping, cites several advantages the Eco Trimmer has. It won a 2009 Environmental Protection Agency Clean Air Excellence Award; propane doesn't gum up the carburetor, so owners will have fewer engine problems; and it does not give up "power and price in the name of being 'eco-friendly.'" He recommends it for professionals and for homeowners "with challenging trimming requirements" -- either a large area to trim, or one with tough brush and weeds. (Note: ConsumerSearch is owned by About.com, but the two don't share an editorial affiliation.)
Review: Lehr Eco-Friendly Weedeater, David Beaulieu
3. About.com
Beaulieu compares two eco-friendly string trimmers: the new Lehr propane-powered Eco Trimmer models and Black & Decker's cordless NST2018. He recommends Lehr's Eco Trimmer for professionals and for homeowners who need a powerful string trimmer that can handle tall grass and weeds. (Note: ConsumerSearch is owned by About.com, but the two don't share an editorial affiliation.)
Review: Eco-Friendly Weedeater Comparison: Lehr vs. Grass Hog, David Beaulieu, June 2, 2009
4. PopularMechanics.comDetails/Subscribe
Doug Mahoney tests three string trimmers, each with a different fuel type. The Lehr propane-powered trimmer lands in the middle of the pack; it's not as powerful as the gas-powered trimmer tested, and it's not as easy to use and ergonomic as the electric trimmer on test. The Lehr trimmer does get a good score for long run time, and it's less polluting than the gas trimmer.
Review: Which Kind of Fuel Is Best for Lawn String Trimmers?, Doug Mahoney, Oct. 7, 2009
This video review shows the straight-shaft Lehr Eco Trimmer in use on the author's own lawn. Allyn Paul says the Eco Trimmer doesn't cost more than models with the same power that are more polluting, and its quality is just as high.
Review: Lehr Eco Trimmer Review, Allyn Paul, May 21, 2009
Dusty Overby doesn't specify which Eco Trimmer model he's reviewing, but since all four use the same engine, the review still has value. Overby says the Eco Trimmer is just as powerful as his gas trimmer.
Review: Lehr Eco Trimmer, Dusty Overby, April 22, 2009
7. Amazon.com
Amazon.com sells the two detachable-shaft models of the Eco Trimmer, one with a curved and one with a straight shaft. The curved-shaft ST025DC earns 3.5 out of 5 stars from nearly 40 owners. The primary complaints are about its weight; a few people say it is awkward to carry and operate. However, most people are quite satisfied with their Lehr trimmer.
Review: Lehr ST025DC 25 cc Propane Powered 4-Stroke Detachable Curved-Shaft Eco Trimmer, Contributors to Amazon.com
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