Powered hedge trimmers take some of the elbow grease out of keeping shrubs in shape.

But using them can still be hard work, since you're holding these machines aloft for extended periods. That makes a trimmer's weight, balance, and vibration as important as its performance. Safety is also important given the number of injuries that occur each year. Fortunately, you'll find several models that blend comfort, capable cutting, and features that help protect you while you work.

WHAT’S AVAILABLE

Black & Decker and Craftsman (Sears) dominate the corded and cordless-electric market; Craftsman also sells gas-powered models. Other brands include Echo, Homelite, Husqvarna, Little Wonder, Remington, Ryobi, Stihl, and Weed Eater.

Corded electrics. Plug-in trimmers account for the most sales, since they’re relatively light, quiet, and inexpensive, start with push-button ease, produce no exhaust emissions, and require little maintenance. The best also perform comparably to gasoline-powered models. But you’ll have to work within range of a power outlet and be sure not to cut the cord. Price: $30 to $100.

Cordless electrics. Battery-powered trimmers combine the mobility of gas models with the convenience, clean running, and easy maintenance of plug-ins, courtesy of an onboard battery (14.4 volt to 24 volt). But they offer relatively little power and no more than about 45 minutes’ run time per charge. They can also cost as much as gas-powered models. Price: $70 to $120.

Gasoline-powered trimmers. Landscapers favor these for their power and mobility. But gas models typically weigh more than electrics, and their two-stroke engines require fuel mixing, pull-starting, maintenance. Gas trimmers can also be expensive. Price: $130 to $450.

IMPORTANT FEATURES

Blade length typically ranges from 13 to 30 inches, though most are between 16 and 24 inches long. Blade gap—the distance between teeth—is also important, since it helps determine how large a branch you can cut. In general, the wider the gap, the larger the branch a trimmer can handle and the easier it is to push through a hedge. Gas-powered, professional-grade trimmers have blade gaps of 1 inch or more, while homeowner-grade models typically have 3⁄8- to 3⁄4-inch gaps, narrow enough to help keep fingers out. Double-sided blades allow cutting in both directions, letting you stand in one position longer than you can with single-sided blades, which cut in one direction only. Dual-reciprocating blades, where the top and bottom blade plates move back and forth, tend to cut faster and vibrate less than single-action blades, where only the top blade moves. Trimmers with a wraparound front handle let you keep your hands in one position as you pivot the trimmer to cut vertically or at odd angles. Safety features include tooth extensions, which are designed to prevent thighs and other body parts from coming in contact with the blade teeth. Some are part of the blades and move with them; separate, stationary tooth extensions tend to provide better protection. Trimmers also have a front-handle shield designed to keep your forward hand from the blade.

HOW TO CHOOSE

Any powered hedge trimmer should handle light-duty trimming. The most powerful can cut branches roughly 5⁄8 inches in diameter, while dense 1⁄4-inch-thick branches were enough to stop battery-powered trimmers we tested.

Choose a type. Corded electrics are relatively quiet and inexpensive. They deliver the best combination of cutting power, maneuverability, and ease provided you’re within range of a power outlet. Cordless trimmers add convenience, but little cutting power and limited run time make them best for touch-ups and other light-duty work. In either case, look for an Underwriters Laboratories (UL) seal, which means that the trimmers have crucial safety features. Gas-powered models are for heavier-duty trimming beyond the range of a cord.

Trim safely. Wear protective work gloves, goggles, nonskid shoes, and—with gas models—hearing protection. Trim on firm footing or on a steady ladder, and don’t try to work beyond your reach. With electric trimmers, use a GFCI outlet or extension cord that trails away from the blades so you don’t slice it. (Tuck a loop of the cord under your belt toward your back.)

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