Brush cutters allow us to trim and clear vegetation that lawnmowers and weed eaters can’t cut. String trimmers may do a good job, but they use a string that is no match for some types of thick grass and even trees. On the other hand, lawnmowers can only clear relatively short vegetation. Lawnmowers may also have some trouble trimming yards with numerous obstacles. Brush cutters are a versatile alternative. They can easily maneuver the barriers, cut down small trees within your lawn, and cut down even the harshest types of grass.
Don’t worry about choosing the right one, for we have reviewed some of the best based on functionality, safety, customer reviews and budget. Also, since these are very powerful, they pose some safety risks to the users. Keep reading to find out the best ways to use the brush cutter without exposing yourself, or anyone around you, to potential accidents.
Brush Cutter Reviews
Best Overall
Key Features
Rating: 4.2/5
For heavy-duty lawn maintenance activities, you could never go wrong with Husqvarna machines. We may have mentioned that trimmers may not effectively clear brush, but not a Husqvarna String trimmer. It has a relatively powerful engine. It also features a 17-inch cutting width to ensure you cut larger areas at a time.
Our Verdict
This machine is quite robust. If you have overgrown grass, tough weeds, or any other tough undergrowth, this cutter is an ideal choice. It’s also very affordable.
Premium Pick
Key Features
Rating: 4.3/5
Our second entry is a premium version from Husqvarna. It features a powerful engine, x-Torq technology for fuel-saving, and it’s a 3-in-1 tool. It comes with a line, a saw blade, and a grass blade. These blades allow you to cut through undergrowth and trees within your yard. By tilting the trimmer, you can use it as an edger along driveways and pavements.
Our Verdict
If you have a wooded yard, this would be a great choice. The saw blade and grass blade are strong enough to cut through small trees and severe overgrowth. Better yet, Husqvarna has included safety mechanisms and gear to make it more comfortable amid the vibration.
Budget Pick
Key Features
Rating: 4.5/5
The Poulan Pro 967228401 is a versatile gas trimmer thanks to the 28cc 2-stroke engine. Even the toughest weeds don’t stand a chance. It’s also lighter and more flexible than most yard maintenance tools.
Our Verdict
If you have a smaller yard, you don’t want to spend a lot of money on a brush cutter; this one works great. It’s strong enough, easy to use, and relatively durable.
Key Features
Rating: 4.1/5
Iglobalbuy is one of the most potent landscaping tools. It has a 52 cc engine that allows it to effectively work as a grass trimmer, brush cutter, pole saw, chainsaw and hedge trimmer. It delivers high-quality performance while ensuring the safety of the user.
Our Verdict
We recommend this tool for it has excellent functionality, at a very affordable price. It’s also a 5-in-1 powerful tool, making it an ultimate yard maintenance tool.
Key Features
Rating: 4/5
The PROYAMA 2-in-1 is designed to get work done. The main reason it didn’t make it to the top is because of the maintenance costs and weight issues. However, it’s overall a must-have tool for maintaining a clean, healthy-looking yard.
Our Verdict
We recommend this tool for its affordability and functionality. However, it’s not the best for beginners. You need some basic knowledge in assembling and working with brush cutters for you to get the most out of it.
Key Features
Rating: 4.1/5
Ryobi RY4CCs is an innovative gardening tool. For starters, unlike other trimmers that feature a straight shaft, it has a slightly curved one that’s more effective. It’s also powered by a 4-stroke engine that eliminates the hassles of having to mix gas and oil.
Our Verdict
This is a cheaper version that features a 4-stroke engine. Most of the tools we’ve reviewed have 2-stroke engines. It is quite powerful and requires less maintenance. It’s the best when you have to clear weeds over a smaller yard since it lacks shoulder straps and other weight distribution mechanisms.
Key Features
Rating: 4/5
For moderate to strenuous farm maintenance tasks, you can rest assured that the Troy-Bilt TB42 has you covered. A 27 cc stroke engine powers it, and it can also be easily compared to 10 other lawn maintenance tools. It has some flaws, as we’re going to see below, but it’s one of the best upgrades for regular string trimmers.
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a machine that’s more powerful than a basic trimmer, without breaking the bank, this one’s an ideal choice. However, it tends to bog down when used in wet conditions, and it may not be as reliable as the more priced brush cutters.
Key Features
Rating: 4.5/5
The Makita EM2650UH may be on the lower side when it comes to power, but it has some advanced features that set it apart from the rest. One of them is the Automatic Engine Decompression, which makes it easy to start. Others have been listed below.
Our Verdict
Due to the limited cutting width, this may not be the best cutter for larger yards. Since it’s easy to attach other blades, it’s still great for cutting all types of undergrowth, including small trees around your home, or on smaller yards.
Key Features
Rating: 4.3/5
The Husqvarna 129R is yet another heavy-duty cutter for a wide variety of tough weeds. It features a 27 cc 2-stroke engine, which is on the robust end in its price range. It also has a unique stop switch that makes it easier to start.
Our Verdict
This cutter is still capable of clearing thick weed overgrowth. With proper maintenance, you can bypass the cheap chassis issue. It’s also effortless to start, making it favorable for new users.
Key Features
Rating: 4.1/5
For its price range, the Remington RM2700 Ranchero exceeds our expectations. With the 27 cc engine full-crank engine, you can go through saplings, wildflowers, and any other thick weeds on your farm.
Our Verdict
We would recommend this tool for small scale to medium-scale lawn maintenance activities. Since it’s cheap, it may not last long when used for heavy-duty tasks such as cutting down trees.
Buying Guide
Safety Precautions to Observe When Using a Brush Cutter
Before using a brush cutter, make sure that you read and understand the manual. Manufacturers include relevant information on how to start, assemble, and use the tool. If there’s no manual or they didn’t cover some aspects, you can call them, or research on reputable sites.
Ensure that the cutter you purchase has anti-vibration mechanisms. This helps reduce potential fatigue that you’d experience after using this tool for a very long time.
You should ensure that the cutting tool, whether a blade or a string, is firmly attached. If the line is about to die, you can install another line. Some cutters come with dull blades. So make sure you look for a blade that is compatible with your model. You can also sharpen it regularly. A sharp edge ensures that grass doesn’t die after you cut.
You should always wear protective gear when operating this tool. Preferably, purchase the item from a dealer that includes protective clothes as part of the package. Some of this gear includes eyeglasses to protect your eyes, non-slip boots, ear-mugs to protect you from the noise, and overalls. DO NOT operate this machine on barefoot, or when wearing a short.
Ensure that the area you’re working on is free from twigs, stones, glass, or any other debris. This debris could damage the tool or be thrown at you, leading to severe injuries.
It is vital to maintain a distance of at least 15 meters from other people within the yard.
A brushcutter is more of a heavy-duty tool. Therefore, it needs resilient guards. Ensure that these guards are fastened and tight to prevent them from coming off as you work.
Most of the cutters come with shoulder straps, and other mechanisms to distribute the weight. Weight distribution ensures that you’re comfortable when using the tool, and it saves you from fatigue and soreness by the end of the day.
After using the tool, clean the blade and place it back in a casing, if it has one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a Brush Cutter Used for?
A brushcutter helps in cutting large weeds, overgrown grass, and small trees. It comes in handy when you can’t use a lawnmower or a grass trimmer.
How Can You Keep the Brush From Growing?
The weed killer is effective in killing brush for good. When using the cutter, cut as low as you can, then apply the weed killer on the fresh (wound), or the stamp.
What’s the Best Engine for a Brush Cutter?
This depends on your needs. 2-stroke engines are cheaper but could be unstable if you’re not familiar with them. They also involve mixing oil with gas. 4-stroke engines, on the other hand, are less noisy, easier to maintain, and more expensive.
Final Thoughts
We believe that the Husqvarna 128LD 17″ is the ideal brush cutter for all types of weeds, and all sizes of yards. It features a 28cc engine and a 17-inch cutting width. It’s also a 4-in-1 tool that allows you to convert it to a trimmer, cutter, edger, and cultivator. Husqvarna also offers a 2-year warranty and safety gear.
They also offer a lot of technical support and how to safely use their products. It’s affordable, easy to use, and maintain. The Smartstart technology saves you from starting frustrations.