Need recommendation for backpack left blower

[Djstorm100]

My pops has a Sthil BR350 that is awesome and I like alot but for my usage (blowing the driveway/pine needles/drying cars and bike) think it may be out of my budget for a while.

Been looking at the Huskie BT for $250 and the Sthil is $350. Just got married so I have gift cards to lowes and 10% off as well.

 

[cheechi]

I really like my 150BT. Bought it refurb; since I've owned it, starts first or second pull. Usually (unless its real cold out) it pops during the first pull, like the first full crank revolution starts it running. Can't ask for much more than that.

They make an extended handle for it, man is it worth it. Yes more money but so much easier to work for long periods of time. Think I got mine from ereplacementparts.

 

[Djstorm100]

Thanks Cheechi!

Is this the extension for the gutter you were talking about?http://www.husqvarna.com/us/accessories/blower-accessories/gutter-kit/

 

[tyjoja]

I bought a used Echo and it's been good

 

[cagullett1]

If I could find an excuse for one and did not live on a zero lot line, I would be buying a Stihl BR550. I ran a commercial landscaping business about 5 years ago and used them. Sold them all, with the nicest one going to my dad. If I ever am visiting while he is in the middle of mowing, I volunteer to clean up the mess. SO nice. I've used cheaper backpack blowers, and they don't compare. My Stihl handheld is better than a handful of big box store backpacks I've tried.

 

[Bighead38]

Red max imo.

 

[Djstorm100]

Red max imo.

Huskie is red max so I guess Huskie then

 

[lametec]

I've only owned one, but I don't have anything bad to say about it.

Redmax EB7000. Bought it used for $170, and it starts on the first or second pull every time.

 

[TM98]

I have the Echo pb-500. It starts easily every time. Has a big fuel tank on it also.

 

[cheechi]

Actually this page has the one I bought. it's labeled as a handlebar which I guess is accurate. Keep in mind I am frequently running the blower all day during fall weekends so you might not need this but I do.

 

[Bighead38]

I started working for a commercial company around 2000. Stayed there until last year but still help him out when I have free time. All we ever used were redmax backpacks and weed wackers. Started out with the EB 7000 iirc. Upgraded as years went on to EB 8000, EB 8001, etc. I wasn't a fan of the newest one that we had bought as I actually preferred the model before that. I liked that the tube was slightly smaller and I liked the back padding and shape better. The new one was stronger but just not as comfortable for me when wearing it for 12 hour days. I tried other manufacturer backpacks when I helped out other companies but I was always happy to get my redmax back. Honestly these days all the companies top back packs have really similar performance and durability from my experience. I will say that I prefer the 2-stroke back packs and weed wackers. Sure the 4 stroke you don't have to mix gas and oil but they just can't touch the 2 stroke performance from my experience. Honestly you don't need a top of the line machine for home use. I would forget about Lowes and find a local shop that the landscapers use. Any decent shop will have backpacks from several different companies. Go there and try some on and test them out. See what is comfortable for you. See what older models they have left in stock. Something like the older redmax EB 8000 or 8001 is more than enough for home owner use. I know there was slight differences in the redmax models besides performance, they had carburetor differences for example. The local shop will be able to tell you exactly. Also don't be afraid to look at the used market for one that is in good shape with low use. The local shop might even have some used trade in models or some refurbished models. Machines like a back pack or weed wacker it personally feel there is a night and day difference between shopping at a big box store compared to shopping at your local landscape supply. Hopefully this reply helps you out a little bit.