Hedge trimmers look simple: a blade, a gearbox and an engine. In practice they are one of the most specification-sensitive products in the garden range, and the differences show up in the first month of use.
Blade type decides the customer
- Single-sided blades — precision shaping, topiary, formal hedges. Preferred by gardeners and landscapers.
- Double-sided blades — faster work on long hedges and larger areas. The volume seller in municipal and contractor channels.
- Laser-cut, hardened teeth — stay sharp longer and cut cleanly instead of snagging.
Most ranges need both types. A dealer who only stocks double-sided loses the gardener; a dealer who only stocks single-sided loses the contractor.
Cutting capacity, not blade length
The number that decides whether a trimmer handles a hedge is the maximum cutting diameter — typically 18 to 30 millimetres. Blade length affects reach and speed, not capability. A long blade with a narrow gap snags on thicker branches and burns the clutch.
| Blade length | Typical use | Cutting capacity to aim for |
|---|---|---|
| 45–55 cm | Domestic hedges, detail work | 16–20 mm |
| 60–65 cm | General garden and landscape work | 20–26 mm |
| 70 cm and above | Long hedges, contractors, municipal | 26–30 mm |
Weight and balance
A petrol hedge trimmer is held at chest height for long periods. Two machines with the same specification can feel completely different depending on where the weight sits. Front-heavy units tire the operator quickly and get returned for that reason, even though nothing is broken.
Check the weight distribution as well as the total weight, and if possible hold the unit before committing to a container.
The gearbox is where claims come from
Blade and gearbox failures dominate hedge trimmer warranty claims. The causes are consistent: misaligned blades, undersized gears, and grease that cannot take continuous load.
- Ask whether the gearbox is run under load before packing.
- Check that blades are aligned, not just sharpened.
- Confirm the grease specification for continuous work.
Electric, battery or petrol
Corded electric covers domestic hedges near a power point. Battery now covers most domestic and light professional work and sells on convenience. Petrol remains the choice for long hedges, remote properties and heavy growth.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best-selling blade length?
60 to 65 cm covers most domestic and landscape demand. Add 70 cm for contractors and municipal buyers.
How many trimmers fit in a container?
Blade length drives carton length, so volume varies significantly. Ask for a loading plan with the quotation.
Do you supply spare blades?
Yes. Blades, gearboxes and switches are held in stock and can ship with the machines.
Our hedge trimmer and brush cutter range includes single and double-sided models with laser-cut hardened blades. Ask for a quotation with your blade lengths and quantities.