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(More customer reviews)Over the years I've used many Black & Decker products. Everything from power tools to lawn care equipment, most are as advertised and effectively do the job just as good as the higher priced competition. I haven't used a gas powered tool in over 12 years now. I've also gone the electric route as well. My eleven year old 18 volt B&D trimmer has more then proved itself and finally was put out to pasture. I'm still surprised that I got that much running time from the two 18 volt batteries that came with the unit. For quick and easy trimming, its been a capable tool. That said, I picked up the Black & Decker LST220 Grasshog Trimmer at my local hardware store last weekend.
After a quick inventory, I scanned over the brief instructions. Its pretty much cut and dry as to what's in the box. There's the trimmer, instructions, two batteries, cord, and a charger. The company also tags on a two year limited warranty. The instructions on Black & Decker tools are still amusing to say the least. It doesn't take a degree in rocket science to put a piece of their gear together. Knowing what I know about battery powered lawn tools, I knew I would need both batteries to complete the tasks in my large front and back yards. So I charged both of the 20 volt batteries for about 8 hours each.
Now the test. First off, the B&D LST220 Trimmer has a nice light feel to it. Like my older trimmer, the handle has a good ergonomic feel to it. It easily moves up and down and rotates a full 360 degrees. Adjustment is easy. It didn't take me long to find out about the line's new auto feed system. Its much nicer then the old bump and feed system. On average I found myself using about four of the 30' line spools a year. Only time will tell if that number drops with this new system.
The trimmer does seem faster. I don't doubt the advertised 7500 rpm a bit. The 12" trim path has not changed from my older model. The trigger configuration hasn't changed either. Its still has a nice feel. Trimming wise, this model operates smoothly without any hiccups. It does a great job of getting under bushes and around the fence line. Just like my older unit, I was not surprised that I had to utilize both batteries to get the front yard trimming done. I noticed a drop off in power at about 15 minutes. Good thing B&D includes two batteries. One battery doesn't come anywhere near getting the job done.
The metal guard for edging has stayed much the same design as the original model. Like my older B&D trimmers, the LST220 Trimmer is not capable of doing a great job of edging because of the steady drain on battery power. Even with two 20 volt batteries, its just not enough juice. I always have to break out my electric powered edger or hand tools to complete the task. Why Black & Decker even promotes its lineup of battery powered trimmers as edgers is a mystery to me.
Even though I am user of many Black & Decker products, I find the company's website limited on up to date product information. Product registration is available via the site. It seems that it took them ages to post a toll free number. Now depending on the product, there is a toll free number posted for each line. When I did contact customer service for other tools that I've owned, I've always received outstanding service. Signing up for the company newsletter via email is nothing more then receiving an occasion survey on products.
Even with its battery limitations, the Black & Decker LST220 Cordless Grass Hog Trimmer is a useful working tool in clearing out ground not accessible by a mower. When it comes to edging that's a different story. Personally I don't think there is any battery powered tool out there that certifies as a true edging tool. I know I've not seen or used one. Still, this Black & Decker tool covers the bases as a good gas free trimmer.
Click Here to see more reviews about: Black & Decker LST220 12-Inch 20-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless GrassHog Trimmer/Edger
Offering Black & Decker's exclusive PowerDrive Transmission, the 12-Inch cordless GrassHog LST220 trimmer and edger delivers more power from the motor to the cutting string so you can get the job done faster. You'll be able to trim grass in hard-to-reach areas where mowers cannot cut while also maintaining a neat edging along hard surfaces.
Two 20-volt batteries for longer run time and better access to remote property areas (see larger image).
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