Best Garden Multi-tool

[holland_patrick]

I'm torn between the Stihl and the Echo


http://www.stihldealer.net/category...oplvl-14-catid-14-subcat-14-catprods-147.aspx

http://www.echo-usa.com/Products/Pro-Attachment-Series


does anyone else use either system or have another brand they really want to put in.. i did look at the other and these two seem to have the most tools i could use

 

[hifi_hokie]

I've never used the Stihl, but I have about 5 years on the Echo version; using the string trimmer, blade brush cutter and pole saw attachments.

Other than a replacement of the clutch assembly that holds the flexible shaft, it's been free of any problems outside of regular maintenance. The rotary blades are laughably expensive - if you can live with a little smaller diameter, it's a perfect use for those circular saw blades that are too worn to make accurate rips anymore.

I don't know if they upgraded the handle, but the stock hardware was pretty cheap-feeling and broke some years ago. I reattached it with stainless hardware leftover from antenna projects and haven't had any issues since.

I'd probably buy whatever you can get better local support for. My local guy carries more Echo, so that weighed into the decision...

 

[crewchief888]

wife just bought me the echo pas225, and (unfortunately) the curved shaft trimmer.
i'll probably wait till fall to pick up any other attachements.

starts on the 3rd pull every time.

 

[Farmall450]

I used to be a Stihl guy...but everything we bought from yardbosses to farmbosses was extremely hard starting. Unless it was the highest "grade" comercial use, they're great saws/trimmers but very very hard starting.

So picked up a Echo (much cheaper) weedeater, after listening to an Uncle ravish about how good his echo saw was...and was impressed.

Super easy pull, starts right away everytime and runs like a champ.

 

[rlitman]

I have the Stihl KM-110, and love it.
The straight shaft trimmer head, straight shaft edger, pole pruner, adjustable angle hedge trimmer, blower, and carbon fiber extension pole.

 

[woody 73]

Don't think along the lines of "BEST" think more along the lines of which dealer will give me the best service.

 

[holland_patrick]

Ok both have great service and both have dealers close. The Stijl dealer is where I buy all my chains and any parts I need. The echo dealer is where I bought my mower and my FIL have been using them for years.


I would be looking at the pro stuff as my stihl 026 pro starts every time in three pulls