This most recent of the Hedge Trimmer types has also seen probably the most development work on the part of manufacturers, and the greatest improvement in machine capabilities.
At the heart of this innovation lie the new types of battery that are available. The types used now are either Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) or Lithium Ion (Li-ion). Former problems of 'memory effect' that used to shorten effective battery charge life have been banished. They are lighter, more powerful, charge quicker and last longer.
Lithium Drills
Generally speaking NiCd is used in cheaper models and the more expensive and powerful Li-ion batteries are deployed in higher-specification machines: but this is not an infallible guide to performance.
The small Bosch 16" has a 14.4V (NiCd) power rating rather than the 18V normally found on others but it boasts the longest running time of its class at 55 minutes (others manage less than 30 minutes).
A feature worth looking for when choosing a cordless hedge trimmer is a pivoting head or rotating handle, which allows you to cut precise angles or vertical faces easily. This sort of function is built in to the Black & Decker 20" model and the Gardena 19" Ergo Cut.
Because batteries are expensive and more and more cordless tools are appearing, it is high time that there was some standardisation in the power packs and their charging apparatus. Two manufacturers that have grasped this nettle are Ryobi and Bosch, who offer units that will power not one but many compatible machines of different functions, such as drills and chain saws. Ryobi call their initiative the ONE + concept. Their latest charger will work on either type of battery.
Check, by the way, that your chosen machine does include a battery: if you do not read the advertisement closely you may find that the surprisingly good headline price for a smart machine may in fact be because it is battery-free.
Weight may be an issue for some users who do not pump iron and would rather avoid repetitive strain injury. The latest designs from Bosch have aimed for weight reduction and have gone down by 30%: they are achieving as low as 2.2kg, whereas others weigh in at more than 4kg in the same sub-18" category.
Other nice-to-have features in your trimmer are good ergonomic design that incorporates soft-grip handles: low vibration (such as Black & Decker offer with their asymmetric blade design) and it is worth checking that the blades are laser-cut and diamond ground for maximum effectiveness.
Be aware that after your cutting session of (usually) 30 to 50 minutes, you are in for a lengthy charging period. You can of course avoid this problem by acquiring another battery and charging it offline. However you should also see how long your planned machine requires for a recharge. Most manufacturers quote 3 hours for their 18V units. One notable exception is Bosch, which offers two different novel solutions.
Their 20.5" machine carries a twin pack of 14.4V (1.5 amp-hour) batteries. By this means it achieves a running time of 70 minutes (2 x 35 minutes per battery) and a recharging is made easier using standard Bosch units charged offline while you work.
Cleverer still is the 21" premium model that has a 36V Li-ion battery, a 50 minute run time and charges itself in just 45 minutes: if you are really in a hurry it will be 80% recharged in 25 minutes. Barely enough for a coffee break.
This same Bosch model adds features like 20mm blade spacing and a sawing function at its tip which means that branches of up to 25mm diameter can be despatched, something that previously was unthinkable from a cordless hedge trimmer. An electronic anti-blocking feature protects the machine from damage. There is also an extra protector for safe cutting along edges of walls or near the ground.
Right at the top end of the cordless market, in terms of size, specification and price, is the professional 21.5" Makita. This achieves the same 36V as the Bosch by packing two 18V Li-ion batteries. It claims a lower than usual noise level of 86.5dB (these are not quiet machines even in electric form due to their high-speed reciprocating blade mechanisms). It also carries features that include a battery protection circuit, and protection from over-discharge, high temperature and overloading. These are very wise precautions because Li-ion batteries are more prone to damage as a result of such abuses.
Most machines sold in this market are the smaller ones with blade lengths of under 20 inches. In this mainstream sector it is worth mentioning the models from German garden equipment specialist Gardena. In addition to their typically well-designed and constructed Easy Cut 19.5", which has a large starting button for easy operation, they have an Ergo Cut version with relatively wide blade spacing of 16mm to deal with thicker growth than you can normally tackle. (Most competing models are for light duties and have tooth spacings of 10mm to 12mm). The same model has a blade protector.
For most users in the hedge trimmer market, there is a cordless model that will suit: and when you add into the equation the extra safety of not trailing a live cable near a cutting device, and it makes the cordless route a very attractive one.
Cyber Monday DEWALT DCK275L 18-Volt XRP Lithium-Ion Drill/Impact Combo Kit 2011 Deals
Dec 06, 2011 13:42:17
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Cyber Monday DEWALT DCK275L 18-Volt XRP Lithium-Ion Drill/Impact Combo Kit Feature
- DCD970 XRP 18-volt cordless hammerdrill with patented 3-speed all-metal transmission and 1/2-inch self-tightening chuck
- High power, high efficiency motor delivers 450 unit watts out of max power for superior performance
- DC827 18-volt impact driver delivers 1,330 in-lbs of torque and 0-2,400 rpms
- Heavy-duty impacting mechanism directs torque to fastener without kickback
- 18V XRP Li-Ion batteries offer long battery life and durability: 2,000 recharges
Cyber Monday DEWALT DCK275L 18-Volt XRP Lithium-Ion Drill/Impact Combo Kit Overview
Featuring a pair of cordless tools that are both powerful and versatile, the DEWALT 18-Volt XRP Lithium Ion Hammerdrill/Impact Driver Combo Kit makes it easy to get to work and get jobs done quickly. Both tools feature balanced bodies that are easy to control, smart design details that allow for application-specific performance, and DEWALT's XRP extended run-time battery system.
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 The cordless hammerdrill delivers up to 34,000 beats per minute for large hole drilling and framing. View larger. |
 Take on a wide variety of fastening applications with this impact driver. View larger. |
 LED sight indicates cut line |
Built to deliver fast, dependable results, the DCD970 XRP 18-Volt Cordless Hammerdrill/Drill/Driver offers 450 unit watts out for effective drilling and fastening in a wide variety of materials. Its patented, three-speed, all-metal transmission matches the drill's performance to the task at hand, resulting in quicker completion of stubborn jobs, along with improved run time and reduced wear and tear on the tool's motor.
This tool also offers a heavy-duty, 1/2-inch, self-tightening chuck with bit-gripping strength. When placed in hammerdrill mode, the tool delivers 8,500 to 34,000 beats per minute for making holes in masonry. In addition, an L.E.D. work light near the trigger provides increased visibility when you're working in dark or confined spaces, and the tool's well-balanced body and mid-handle, comfortable grip help keep you in control at all times.
Compact, Heavy-Duty Impact Driver
The DC825 18-Volt Impact Driver is capable of delivering 1,330 inch-pounds of torque for superb performance in a wide range of fastening applications. Its variable-speed trigger allows you to move between speeds ranging from 0 to 2,400 rpm and to deliver 0 to 2,700 impacts per minute for quick, results with minimum effort pushing in the fastener as it sinks into the material.
In addition, this impact driver's frameless motor features replaceable brushes for improved durability and extended tool life. A durable, magnesium gear case and an all-metal transmission also contribute to the tool's exceptional durability. And the driver's heavy-duty impact mechanism directs torque to the fastener without causing the reactionary torque kickback seen when using a drill. This protects you, your tool, and your work.
Trademarked XRP Extended-Life Battery System
Two XRP Lithium Ion extended run-time batteries keep all of these tools running at optimum levels. They provide up to 40 percent more run time than standard batteries and over 2000 cycles for nearly 2-1/2 times the life of traditional nickel-cadmium batteries. Any XRP battery can be used with any 18-volt DEWALT tool, which allows you to expand your system by adding other DEWALT cordless tools (sold separately) as the demands of your job grow. In addition, the one-hour Lithium Ion charger helps maintain power to your packs all day long.
This 18-Volt XRP Lithium Ion Hammerdrill/Reciprocating Saw Combo Kit comes with a DEWALT warranty package that includes a three-year limited warranty, a one-year free service contract, and a 90-day money back guarantee.
What's in the Box
DCD970 XRP 1/2-inch 18-volt hammerdrill/drill/driver, DC827 XRP 18-volt impact driver, one-hour yellow top Lithium Ion charger, two 18-volt XRP Lithium Ion batteries, 360 degree side handle, and contractor bag.
 Keep the combo kit's tools secure in the durable contractor bag. |
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