It definitely is! I’m actually using it right this second at one of my cemeteries that I maintain. I’m usually only using the first or second setting. It definitely has the power!
My son is a Stihl dealer (1year now) and knowing I was ready to abandon every small engine tool I have for the reasons you mentioned, gifted me the 135R, 300S battery and quick charger for Christmas!!! I can’t wait for all of our WI snow to melt to get out there and try it! Looks like I’m going to be very happy this year and no more mixed gas and endless fighting with my aging Husqvarna gas trimmer! Thanks for the review!
i just bought this machine yesterday at the full cost of $1143, plus free blade, still yet to try it, but looks very impressive for what i want it for, thanks for video, 8/10/2022
Took delivery of mine Monday. Very nice trimmer; quiet, smooth, and I can do all my lawn trimming and edging in the lowest speed range (residential use, not commercial). This is so far superior to the FSA90R; that one is horribly unbalanced because of the weight on the motor/head end. Incidentally, I attempted to mount the Echo speed-feed head on it; no dice. With the spacer, the line rotates below the line cutter on the debris shield. Without the spacer, the head will not snug up tight enough to secure that round shield properly. Maybe I'm doing something wrong, but I don't think so. That C26-2 head isn't bad; it's just that the speed-feed is easier to turn when loading new line. Thanks for your review.
Doug I just brought one today and I paid $1300.00 NZD and I got the same batteries and charger and I can't wait for your review and I am a commercial lawn care tree care landscaping an I'm over the repairs
In the US, I've been seeing a lot a TV commercials from Stihl promoting their battery-operated landscape line. They show professional lawn care crews using them so I guess that's who they're trying to attract as well as home owners.
I just bought the 135…we have 15 acres to manage and we got tired of the carb issues as well. I also bought the Stihl MS 220 electric chainsaw with a 16” bar - just need a second battery for continuous use. Great review! Haven’t used either saw nor trimmer yet but will soon. Thanks Man! 🍻 Made me feel I made a good choice.
Bought mine today. Really nice bit of kit - tough as old boots! Can't wait to run it. So happy not to be in the petrol engine business with all the mess, stale fuel and tough starting issues!
Yo good review. 2 years later what's the update now? You Sthl good with it or no? thanks nevermind i'm about to watch your latest review now hahaha! thanks again
Gator square line is the best by far. Lasts 10 times longer. Our crew were Changing line 3 times a day. We do lots of curbs and sidewalks. The gator line square has a core and it last 2 days. So much saved time and money
Hey man. I might buy the Stihl FSA 135(r). But im not sure if i should take the bicycle handle bar version or the other one? What do you suggest? Thank you!
I have 5 new gas rx 111 gas trimmers and 3 are vibrating like crazy The vibrations kills us and I hear you with all the adjustments and carb up issues.
The biggest problem is battery length. AP300 gets about 30 minutes they say with AP500S 20 % longer. Battery for AP500 about £150 And S is £200 so you would need a lot of batteries for a day's work unless you get the back pack battery at around £2,000....
The more I use it, the more the imbalance bugs me. With the 4 lb. 300S, the bulk of the weight is situated on the motor end of the tool, resulting in some right arm strain after awhile. My Honda HHT25 string trimmer is just about identical in weight to my FSA 135R, however with the loop handle adjusted correctly, the balance is perfect; no arm strain noticeable. I've tried moving the loop handle on the Stihl to compensate for the imbalance; doesn't help much. I popped an AP200 in it which is only 1 lb. less than the 300S, and it felt perfectly balanced. I'm hoping batteries might get lighter, however Stihl's introducing the new 500S soon, and it's a bit heavier than the 300S, so I guess lighter weight batteries aren't a priority for them anytime soon.
@@jmljml5065 I don't know if it helps any but the regular 300 battery is like 3/4 of a pound lighter than the 300s. And you would get longer than the 200.
I don't own a Stihl, but my trimmer has the motor near the trimmer head and it does tire your arms out when you've been at it for a while. I only do home maintenance, so not sure one of these expensive Stihl's would be worth it to me. They do look very good though.
Hi Douglas. Thanks for the great videos. I have to admit you've sold me! I was just wondering what line you are using? 0.095 or 0.105? (2.4mm or 2.7mm?)
How long did the battery last on level 3 power? I have an acre of land which my rental is on, this should be plenty to maintain? Or would you stay with a gas trimmer. How much trimmer time do you get on a tank of gas with your other Stihl trimmer?
Nice machine great power on all levels and probably very light but for that heavy price tag I will definitely pass. That's a little crazy for one trimmer and the support equipment to keep it charged. I'm good with my km-94r, Fs-250r with clearing blade and Husqvarna 525l. They have yet to give me any issues. Quick to start and loads of power. A little yearly maintenance and they keep on ripping through whatever I need them to do without any difficulty. My Fs-250r is twenty years old and Stihl ripping through anything green and growing.
thanks. No other u tuber wants to even mention the battery price or mention that it doesn't come with one. They come bare (no battery ). As of july 2022 the unit is $359. With battery and charger it's $750. Hell to the no
I’ve been using petrol Whipper Snippers for 13 years and I’m from Australia. I get sick of paying for petrol and maintenance and I’ve get sick of breathing fumes and it’s not good for my health and budget. But for me I’ve been using a battery Whipper Snipper in Makita brand for 1 year and I’ve used battery lawn power equipments for over 1 year and I running in professional use for my mowing business and home and I’ve got 6 Maktia batteries and 2 Maktia chargers and 3 STIHL batteries and 1 STIHL super fast chargers. And I always bring my battery lawn power equipments and Extra batteries and charges for my mowing jobs at customers and I always ask my customers to use power point to charge my battery’s and they said yes. And I ❤ my battery lawn power equipments and it’s better for my health and budget but I can put more petrol to my car that I liberally on my car for petrol and maintenance more important than my petrol lawn power equipments. Thanks for a video it gives me a brilliant idea. 🙂✅👍🏻
AP300S is not the best battery, there is AP500 already. And you Americans are lucky, here in Europe it costs more than 500 Euro. One more advice - buy the bike handle and install it instead of the ring handle and move the button joystick controls on it. That's what've made on my FSA 90 R - rebuilding it into FSA 90. It's much more comfortable for a long run work than the R (Rundgriff) handle version.
Thanks for the comment! While you are correct about the 500 battery, this video was made last year when the 300 was the biggest. My dealer is still waiting on the 500’s
Hi Douglas, Thank you for putting this video out. I need a grass trimmer/cutter (rechargeable) battery operated PLEASE. No gas or calibrator please since I can never get it to start. Do you have a brand and a series #? I have a tiny yard but I need to keep it cut low. I might just cover it all up and be done with grass. I dislike grass so much. I just want to have an alternative option, if possible,
That one is up to you! I love the 94r. Is the most comfortable trimmer that I have used. I just haven’t had much luck with the carburetor in them. I can’t comment on the longevity of the battery powered unit yet.
Personally I’d go with the 135. I haven’t ran the 90 but the 135 just seems to be a better built machine. I wasn’t a huge fan of the 90s motor being in the head of the unit either.
This is the link to the usage chart. It is going to all depend on how much your going to use it. Personally I’d go with at least two but that’s just me. www.stihlusa.com/WebContent/CMSFileLibrary/downloads/APSeries.pdf
Hi Michael, Thanks for the great video. Like you I'm totally over carb problems on my FS350 weed whacker so I'm looking for an electric alternative especially as we've recently put in 5kW of PV solar. Our lawnmower is also due for replacement so mindful of the full range of battery tools that any manufacturer has on offer. We have a large rural 'small holding' with almost half an acre of lawns and also rougher areas where a strimmer/clearing saw is better suited. Just disappointed that Shihl battery lawnmowers have a full bar type blade as a disc with swing back blades seems far better if there are rocks or stumps in the mowed area, and it also is better in protecting the motor from shock loads such as when a rock is hit. Presently we use a tri blade on the FS350 for long grass and light scrub management. I noted that you avoided some scrub which you didn't think the line head would handle so how well do you think the FSA135R would cope with driving a tri blade? I see Stihl offer grass blade options here in New Zealand so curious to know if you've tried these or similar.
check out the Darwin's Grip handle accessory, I saw it in some other videos. They look like a back saver. I really like the bike handle layout for trimmers but that grip accessory might bring me over. I always recommend the shoulder strap as well, taking some extra weight off the arms for big jobs.
I’ve tried it and I didn’t like it. I’m a lot faster without it! I just move the handle on the trimmer up about an inch and we are good to go. From what I gather about 60% of people that try it like it.
I just purchased an FSA 90 with a bike handle and may take it back on monday for a refund, due to the inability to get a balanced weight distribution. I have too lift up and pull back on the bike handle to get the cutting head off the ground. I once had a 2 stroke with bike handles that was perfectly balanced so that my shoulders took all the weight. Does anybody have any suggestions.
@@rogerjamespaul5528 interesting problem. The handles are adjustable on the main shaft right? The battery pack is already pretty heavy but you could add some weight to the side of the shaft that is still too light. Shortening the harness strap might help also. Looking forward to the final result
@@ullrsdream I extended the handles and harness closer to the cutting head and extended the length of the harness with a link. The whole thing now rests low on my hip but am ok with that. Thanks for your reply.
All depends on what setting your on, what your taking it through and what battery you have paired with it. I have the 300s and the m anywhere from 20-48 minutes depending on the situation. I’ve heard the 500 batteries are lasting 35-40 minutes on full throttle.
Hey Mike I was wondering how much battery life was left after you finished to the lake and how long did you run it for. I have the Toro flexforce 60v trimmer and the Greenworks 60v trimmer that I use around the house that get 30 to 40 mins run time on the 2.5mah batteries. I ended up purchasing the 4.0mah and the 6.0mah for extended runtime for the electric trimmers.
It all depends on what battery you go with. If you get the ap300s your at about 45 minutes of run time. That being said that’s on the lowest setting. If you’re doing weekly stuff the lowest setting should be fine. I’ve found that I like the second setting or the first setting and just use throttle control. Stihl should have a chart on there website that indicates all the times for the different batteries and trimmer. Hopefully that helped!
All depends on what setting and what you’re taking it through. If you’re using the ap300s batteries that will last you between 25-50 minutes. That’s trigger time. Not including the time you are walking to each spot.
Very nice video; thanks for creating, Doug. ! I am faced with deciding on the FSA 90R OR the FSA 135R; both of which were out of stock for months. I wanted to look at, pick up, etc. and do a side by side comparison so that I could make an intelligent decision on which to buy - I'm definitely getting one of them. You said you just felt the 135R was a better model. Could you please tell me some of the reasons/facts why? I would greatly appreciate it. The small price difference does not matter to me. I always look for a model that is built better so that it will last longer; ie. made with ball/roller bearings vs bushings, etc. As my wife and I would like to use this I do see the 135R is about 4 lbs heavier, which might not even be noticeable.?.? That is really the biggest issue, if it is noticeable. Although, I must say I like the 135R is 'better balanced' as you stated. We will mainly be cutting grass with this and am sure the 90R would meet that demand easily. However, as I've mentioned, if I'm getting a better build quality machine vs the 90R, I would certainly go with the 135R. Would love to hear your thoughts, opinions and factual information on them both. We just got a call that my dealer (about 1hr away) had just received an FSA 90R (for me to try) but didn't get an FSA 135R, so I can't compare them. I'm half tempted to just call and tell them to just let me know when a FSA 135R comes in. Thanks very much again!! (I should add that I've already got 2 AP300 batteries, AL300 charger, and a few other Stihl battery tools and absolute LOVE them!) so really only need the string trimmer itself.
When I was talking to my dealer we both didn’t think it was a good idea to have to motor to the trimmer right above the bump feed head. You’re constantly banging that head on the ground. Seems like you can damage the motor if you are constantly hitting it on the ground. I’d rather have the motor on the top. Also keep in mind that I don’t think the 90r can accept a Speed Feed Head. Not sure on that. If you wanted to run .105 trimmer line I don’t think the 90r can handle it. Honestly though if you don’t need that extra power I think In your situation I’d go with the 90. Just because you and your wife will definitely notice the 4 pound difference (if that’s what it is).
135 over the 90 any day. Biggest reason; balance. The 90 is ridiculously "head-heavy", obviously because of the motor placement. I have a smaller yard, and I use my 135 to trim and edge my lawn; about once a month I cut back some English Ivy with it. I've been running it with an AP200 battery lately, and even though it's only 1 pound lighter than the 300S, it makes a big difference in terms of balance. The lowest power setting is more than adequate for lawn trimming and edging, so the 200 provides ample runtime for my application. Initially I was not happy with the weight (using the 300S); with the 200, it's much more enjoyable to use. Fyi, I've also tried it using the battery adapter, battery bag with cord, and battery belt. In this configuration, the weight of the trimmer is about 12 pounds, since you're carrying the 4 pound 300S on your waist. Ultimately I decided the "grab-and-go" ability with the on-board battery is preferable to the more cumbersome connecting cord set-up.
@@douglaslawncare2843 Thanks for your feedback and comments. I greatly appreciate it. I think I've decided on the 135R over the 90R due to the motor being at the head and overall balancing. I'm having a bit of trouble, due to the 135 not available locally, to purchase the 135. Any ideas on how to procure one? or must I wait until it becomes available in stores around me? Thanks again!
@@jmljml5065 Thanks for your comments. Again, I really appreciate it! I can't seem to purchase one due to it being not in stock; although the 90R is available it 3 different stores. I was tempted, but will be waiting until I can get my hands on the 135R. I have the AP300 (not S) batteries, so will be curious how much that might through the 'ideal' balance off vs the AP200, which you use? If I can, I will give both batteries a try, once I find a 135R in stock. Thanks again!
@@douglaslawncare2843 yeah I agree. On setting one I’m getting closer to half an hour. In fairness to the Stihl though, it’s got more power than my Honda umk25 even on setting one, and the Honda is a a little beast.
On first impressions I think it has more power than the 91r. I will be testing it out more this week and I’ll get back with you on my thoughts about the power. Thanks for watching!
@@douglaslawncare2843 I just purchased an FSA 90 with a bike handle and may take it back on monday for a refund, due to the inability to get a balanced weight distribution. I have too lift up and pull back on the bike handle to get the cutting head off the ground. I once had a 2 stroke with bike handles that was perfectly balanced so that my shoulders took all the weight. Does anybody have any suggestions.
On my scale, mine weighs 15 pounds 3 ounces with a 300S, with most of the weight on the battery/motor end, not surprisingly. You should definitely heft it before buying it.
We use them when it’s sprinkling. If it’s pouring and we want to trim we put rain covers on them. I’ve cut the bottom of the cover so it doesn’t get too hot. amzn.to/3jvFdHo Usually don’t do allot of trimming when it’s pouring though.
You could have bought 3 gas machines instead of 1 electric with charger and 2 batteries. Whatever problems would have with the gas machines you could just use another of the 3. And you never have to wait for charging. The electric unit is 3 times more expensive if you want to use it without stopping for hours. Also you have only one charger so you can only charge one battery at a time. And the batteries will get worse over time. I just dont see the point.
I have three trimmers, two chargers and 8 batteries. I’m all in! Zero issues for three years! Zero down time, zero maintenance. No vibration, you can talk to employees when trimming cemeteries. I’ll never go back to gas.
Im selling my used for 3 hours KM 94r to get one of those just because Im tired of the noise and mixing fuel and oil , stihl oil is almost worthless anyway why they Force you to buy it is beyond me its garbage
Looks like the shaft is not long enough so you're slightly bent over, that will end in nothing but back pain after working for 30 minutes or longer. Over priced - paying for the name brand.
Well I am a UK based professional gardener and you were the first review I came across of this. Looks like its up to the job.
It definitely is! I’m actually using it right this second at one of my cemeteries that I maintain. I’m usually only using the first or second setting. It definitely has the power!
I was sick of the fumes in my face 24 7 and now I can sneak up on my customers early and get the work done before mowing
Exactly! We maintain lots of cemetery’s. It’s nice not to disturb the people in there. 😏
My son is a Stihl dealer (1year now) and knowing I was ready to abandon every small engine tool I have for the reasons you mentioned, gifted me the 135R, 300S battery and quick charger for Christmas!!! I can’t wait for all of our WI snow to melt to get out there and try it! Looks like I’m going to be very happy this year and no more mixed gas and endless fighting with my aging Husqvarna gas trimmer! Thanks for the review!
Nice! Hope you love it!
i just bought this machine yesterday at the full cost of $1143, plus free blade, still yet to try it, but looks very impressive for what i want it for, thanks for video, 8/10/2022
You’re welcome! Hopefully it works out for your needs!
Took delivery of mine Monday. Very nice trimmer; quiet, smooth, and I can do all my lawn trimming and edging in the lowest speed range (residential use, not commercial). This is so far superior to the FSA90R; that one is horribly unbalanced because of the weight on the motor/head end. Incidentally, I attempted to mount the Echo speed-feed head on it; no dice. With the spacer, the line rotates below the line cutter on the debris shield. Without the spacer, the head will not snug up tight enough to secure that round shield properly. Maybe I'm doing something wrong, but I don't think so. That C26-2 head isn't bad; it's just that the speed-feed is easier to turn when loading new line. Thanks for your review.
You’re welcome! I didn’t like the idea of banging the motor on the ground constantly.
Doug I just brought one today and I paid $1300.00 NZD and I got the same batteries and charger and I can't wait for your review and I am a commercial lawn care tree care landscaping an I'm over the repairs
Thank you for being the first USA video!
👍🏻👊🏻🔥
In the US, I've been seeing a lot a TV commercials from Stihl promoting their battery-operated landscape line. They show professional lawn care crews using them so I guess that's who they're trying to attract as well as home owners.
In my area I’m the only commercial guy I know using battery trimmers right now. It will eventually change.
It's really powerful tool. I just bought Stihl battery powered trimmer model V60. I have an intention to upgrade to this model.
Nice!
I just bought the 135…we have 15 acres to manage and we got tired of the carb issues as well. I also bought the Stihl MS 220 electric chainsaw with a 16” bar - just need a second battery for continuous use. Great review! Haven’t used either saw nor trimmer yet but will soon. Thanks Man! 🍻 Made me feel I made a good choice.
Bought mine today. Really nice bit of kit - tough as old boots! Can't wait to run it.
So happy not to be in the petrol engine business with all the mess, stale fuel and tough starting issues!
You will love battery I've had my Husqvarna for a year now 👍
Yeah, If you have a trimmer that is working well, no need to get another one.
Yo good review. 2 years later what's the update now? You Sthl good with it or no? thanks nevermind i'm about to watch your latest review now hahaha! thanks again
Nice trimmer no more 400 dollar repairs and fs94 r. Problems good luck with it😁
Thanks!
Gator square line is the best by far. Lasts 10 times longer. Our crew were Changing line 3 times a day. We do lots of curbs and sidewalks. The gator line square has a core and it last 2 days. So much saved time and money
Have you tried echo black Diamond?
Great review! You covered all the points I was concerned with and then some.
Awesome! Glad it helped!
Great review constant carb issues do get old. Thanks!
The fully charged gardener has some great videos on that machine.
I’ll have to check it out!
This machine can take attachments as well so its pretty versatile.
Yes! I just bought a hedge trimmer attachment for it. Also have a brush blade. I still love this trimmer.
Hey man. I might buy the Stihl FSA 135(r). But im not sure if i should take the bicycle handle bar version or the other one?
What do you suggest?
Thank you!
I have 5 new gas rx 111 gas trimmers and 3 are vibrating like crazy The vibrations kills us and I hear you with all the adjustments and carb up issues.
The biggest problem is battery length. AP300 gets about 30 minutes they say with AP500S 20 % longer. Battery for AP500 about £150 And S is £200 so you would need a lot of batteries for a day's work unless you get the back pack battery at around £2,000....
Buy an inverter for your truck and charge it while driving. 👍🏻👊🏻
Great product. Setting number one: 45 minutes. Setting number two: 30 minutes. Setting number three: 15 minutes. Approximately.
My favorite line is the redmax maxline twist.
ended up getting one of the FSA 135 r because I was sick and tired of snorting the fumes, the noise and the vibrations from the petrol trimmers...
👍🏻
The more I use it, the more the imbalance bugs me. With the 4 lb. 300S, the bulk of the weight is situated on the motor end of the tool, resulting in some right arm strain after awhile. My Honda HHT25 string trimmer is just about identical in weight to my FSA 135R, however with the loop handle adjusted correctly, the balance is perfect; no arm strain noticeable. I've tried moving the loop handle on the Stihl to compensate for the imbalance; doesn't help much. I popped an AP200 in it which is only 1 lb. less than the 300S, and it felt perfectly balanced. I'm hoping batteries might get lighter, however Stihl's introducing the new 500S soon, and it's a bit heavier than the 300S, so I guess lighter weight batteries aren't a priority for them anytime soon.
Really!? I had no idea ever were coming out with a new battery!
@@douglaslawncare2843 Second quarter of this year; $349.
@@jmljml5065 I don't know if it helps any but the regular 300 battery is like 3/4 of a pound lighter than the 300s. And you would get longer than the 200.
I don't own a Stihl, but my trimmer has the motor near the trimmer head and it does tire your arms out when you've been at it for a while.
I only do home maintenance, so not sure one of these expensive Stihl's would be worth it to me. They do look very good though.
I love the Stihl fsa135r. All my guys prefer it over gas and prefer it over the fsa91r. It is an expensive option, especially for a home owner.
For string i like max power twisted its all i use
Hi Douglas. Thanks for the great videos. I have to admit you've sold me! I was just wondering what line you are using? 0.095 or 0.105? (2.4mm or 2.7mm?)
This is the best that I’ve tried so far.
amzn.to/3DbYwJA
We have four of those at the college here in San Diego.
Nice!
Stihl needs to come down on price for these battery powered equipment.
They are definitely not cheap!
How long did the battery last on level 3 power? I have an acre of land which my rental is on, this should be plenty to maintain? Or would you stay with a gas trimmer. How much trimmer time do you get on a tank of gas with your other Stihl trimmer?
Nice machine great power on all levels and probably very light but for that heavy price tag I will definitely pass. That's a little crazy for one trimmer and the support equipment to keep it charged. I'm good with my km-94r, Fs-250r with clearing blade and Husqvarna 525l. They have yet to give me any issues. Quick to start and loads of power. A little yearly maintenance and they keep on ripping through whatever I need them to do without any difficulty. My Fs-250r is twenty years old and Stihl ripping through anything green and growing.
Totally understandable!
Hard to believe it's only 36 volts. I thought you needed at least 56V to cut through growth like that.
It’s a beast!
thanks. No other u tuber wants to even mention the battery price or mention that it doesn't come with one. They come bare (no battery ). As of july 2022 the unit is $359. With battery and charger it's $750. Hell to the no
Yeah, it’s a big investment for sure!
Very Good Whipper Snipper I’ll be picking up my STIHL FSA 135 R This Week. 🙂✅👍🏻
I’ve been using petrol Whipper Snippers for 13 years and I’m from Australia. I get sick of paying for petrol and maintenance and I’ve get sick of breathing fumes and it’s not good for my health and budget. But for me I’ve been using a battery Whipper Snipper in Makita brand for 1 year and I’ve used battery lawn power equipments for over 1 year and I running in professional use for my mowing business and home and I’ve got 6 Maktia batteries and 2 Maktia chargers and 3 STIHL batteries and 1 STIHL super fast chargers. And I always bring my battery lawn power equipments and Extra batteries and charges for my mowing jobs at customers and I always ask my customers to use power point to charge my battery’s and they said yes. And I ❤ my battery lawn power equipments and it’s better for my health and budget but I can put more petrol to my car that I liberally on my car for petrol and maintenance more important than my petrol lawn power equipments. Thanks for a video it gives me a brilliant idea. 🙂✅👍🏻
Nice!
Thanks 😊
AP300S is not the best battery, there is AP500 already.
And you Americans are lucky, here in Europe it costs more than 500 Euro.
One more advice - buy the bike handle and install it instead of the ring handle and move the button joystick controls on it. That's what've made on my FSA 90 R - rebuilding it into FSA 90. It's much more comfortable for a long run work than the R (Rundgriff) handle version.
Thanks for the comment! While you are correct about the 500 battery, this video was made last year when the 300 was the biggest. My dealer is still waiting on the 500’s
Hi Douglas, Thank you for putting this video out. I need a grass trimmer/cutter (rechargeable) battery operated PLEASE. No gas or calibrator please since I can never get it to start. Do you have a brand and a series #? I have a tiny yard but I need to keep it cut low. I might just cover it all up and be done with grass. I dislike grass so much. I just want to have an alternative option, if possible,
How would it go if you used a 36v Ebike battery either on a belt or backpack to run these Stihl electric power tools?
No idea! If you do it let me know how it goes!
Mate - how’s it holding up? I got rid of the 90R as I didn’t like the motor at the head end…otherwise, I’m all Stihl battery powered 😊
Holding up well so far! Haven’t used it much lately though because I’m still full swing into leaf cleanups.
Damn i just got myself a fs94r, should i keep it or return it fot this electric model?🤔
That one is up to you! I love the 94r. Is the most comfortable trimmer that I have used. I just haven’t had much luck with the carburetor in them. I can’t comment on the longevity of the battery powered unit yet.
Do you still recommend this unit over gas?
Yes. I love them. I’ll probably never go back to a gas unit.
So, I already have a charger and 2 batteries. I am using for residential, should I spend the extra and get the 135 over the 90?
Personally I’d go with the 135. I haven’t ran the 90 but the 135 just seems to be a better built machine. I wasn’t a huge fan of the 90s motor being in the head of the unit either.
would you recommend two batteries? My 90R can go for as long as I go, which is the whole day some days.
This is the link to the usage chart. It is going to all depend on how much your going to use it. Personally I’d go with at least two but that’s just me.
www.stihlusa.com/WebContent/CMSFileLibrary/downloads/APSeries.pdf
Which trimmer line do you use for this video (2mm section ? 3mm section ?) thanks !
amzn.to/3jLOGHV
Do u find it heavy and what battery do u prefer using ?
It’s not to heavy. I’d rather use this machine than a gas one that’s lighter. No vibration is a game changer!
Hi Michael,
Thanks for the great video. Like you I'm totally over carb problems on my FS350 weed whacker so I'm looking for an electric alternative especially as we've recently put in 5kW of PV solar. Our lawnmower is also due for replacement so mindful of the full range of battery tools that any manufacturer has on offer. We have a large rural 'small holding' with almost half an acre of lawns and also rougher areas where a strimmer/clearing saw is better suited. Just disappointed that Shihl battery lawnmowers have a full bar type blade as a disc with swing back blades seems far better if there are rocks or stumps in the mowed area, and it also is better in protecting the motor from shock loads such as when a rock is hit.
Presently we use a tri blade on the FS350 for long grass and light scrub management. I noted that you avoided some scrub which you didn't think the line head would handle so how well do you think the FSA135R would cope with driving a tri blade? I see Stihl offer grass blade options here in New Zealand so curious to know if you've tried these or similar.
I purchased a knockoff Stihl blade attachment for this unit. I haven’t had time to use it though. Too busy trying to get my leaf cleanups done. 😂
@@douglaslawncare2843 Any review on the blade attachment yet?
@@douglaslawncare2843 following for the blade update…
i might do stuff like that with a hedge trimmer. quicker/cleaner and i think less battery
Awesome video man! Thanks
You bet!
black diamond line stihl 91 and 240 montser
Tried all but the monster. Might have to give that a try!
Thank you for publishing a video in the States! How is the vibration at each power setting and is the handle comfortable?
Almost no vibration. It’s as comfortable as a normal Stihl trimmer. It is a little heavier than I’m use to but it’s not to bad.
check out the Darwin's Grip handle accessory, I saw it in some other videos. They look like a back saver. I really like the bike handle layout for trimmers but that grip accessory might bring me over. I always recommend the shoulder strap as well, taking some extra weight off the arms for big jobs.
I’ve tried it and I didn’t like it. I’m a lot faster without it! I just move the handle on the trimmer up about an inch and we are good to go. From what I gather about 60% of people that try it like it.
I just purchased an FSA 90 with a bike handle and may take it back on monday for a refund, due to the inability to get a balanced weight distribution. I have too lift up and pull back on the bike handle to get the cutting head off the ground. I once had a 2 stroke with bike handles that was perfectly balanced so that my shoulders took all the weight. Does anybody have any suggestions.
@@rogerjamespaul5528 interesting problem. The handles are adjustable on the main shaft right? The battery pack is already pretty heavy but you could add some weight to the side of the shaft that is still too light. Shortening the harness strap might help also. Looking forward to the final result
@@ullrsdream I extended the handles and harness closer to the cutting head and extended the length of the harness with a link. The whole thing now rests low on my hip but am ok with that. Thanks for your reply.
Отличный обзор спасибо !!
Добро пожаловать
How much the battery power for sthil electric brush cutter?
What’s a true comparison to a cc engine. Torque specs etc ?
To be honest I’m not 💯 % sure. It does have more power than my Stihl fs 94 and 91r.
Pulling, pulling and pulling
I'm going with the 135
I looked at the Kombi motor and it with one 🔋 is $800...
What’s the battery life like ie hour many hours on a full charge
Cheers dude just subscribed THE TATTOOED GARDENER from the UK 💪🏼🙌🏼
All depends on what setting your on, what your taking it through and what battery you have paired with it. I have the 300s and the m anywhere from 20-48 minutes depending on the situation. I’ve heard the 500 batteries are lasting 35-40 minutes on full throttle.
Looks short, I'm 6'2, is it to short for me?
It’s the same size as the gas model. Have you considered the Darwin’s grip?
amzn.to/3RH5HBo
I'll stay with my sthil fs 111- R
Hey Mike I was wondering how much battery life was left after you finished to the lake and how long did you run it for. I have the Toro flexforce 60v trimmer and the Greenworks 60v trimmer that I use around the house that get 30 to 40 mins run time on the 2.5mah batteries. I ended up purchasing the 4.0mah and the 6.0mah for extended runtime for the electric trimmers.
It all depends on what battery you go with. If you get the ap300s your at about 45 minutes of run time. That being said that’s on the lowest setting. If you’re doing weekly stuff the lowest setting should be fine. I’ve found that I like the second setting or the first setting and just use throttle control. Stihl should have a chart on there website that indicates all the times for the different batteries and trimmer. Hopefully that helped!
@@douglaslawncare2843 Thanks I appreciate it.
No problem!
Best battery over here is the AP 500s ..
They didn’t have the AP 500s when I made this video.
How long does the battery last for?
All depends on what setting and what you’re taking it through. If you’re using the ap300s batteries that will last you between 25-50 minutes. That’s trigger time. Not including the time you are walking to each spot.
Got one of these brand new. Had a meltdown almost rite away... Bad batch of glue on the motor windings apparently...
O man! That stinks!
Have you attempted to mount an Echo speed-feed head on it?
Nope. The Stihl speed feed head works just fine!
Very nice video; thanks for creating, Doug. ! I am faced with deciding on the FSA 90R OR the FSA 135R; both of which were out of stock for months. I wanted to look at, pick up, etc. and do a side by side comparison so that I could make an intelligent decision on which to buy - I'm definitely getting one of them. You said you just felt the 135R was a better model. Could you please tell me some of the reasons/facts why? I would greatly appreciate it. The small price difference does not matter to me. I always look for a model that is built better so that it will last longer; ie. made with ball/roller bearings vs bushings, etc. As my wife and I would like to use this I do see the 135R is about 4 lbs heavier, which might not even be noticeable.?.? That is really the biggest issue, if it is noticeable. Although, I must say I like the 135R is 'better balanced' as you stated. We will mainly be cutting grass with this and am sure the 90R would meet that demand easily. However, as I've mentioned, if I'm getting a better build quality machine vs the 90R, I would certainly go with the 135R. Would love to hear your thoughts, opinions and factual information on them both. We just got a call that my dealer (about 1hr away) had just received an FSA 90R (for me to try) but didn't get an FSA 135R, so I can't compare them. I'm half tempted to just call and tell them to just let me know when a FSA 135R comes in. Thanks very much again!! (I should add that I've already got 2 AP300 batteries, AL300 charger, and a few other Stihl battery tools and absolute LOVE them!) so really only need the string trimmer itself.
When I was talking to my dealer we both didn’t think it was a good idea to have to motor to the trimmer right above the bump feed head. You’re constantly banging that head on the ground. Seems like you can damage the motor if you are constantly hitting it on the ground. I’d rather have the motor on the top. Also keep in mind that I don’t think the 90r can accept a Speed Feed Head. Not sure on that. If you wanted to run .105 trimmer line I don’t think the 90r can handle it. Honestly though if you don’t need that extra power I think In your situation I’d go with the 90. Just because you and your wife will definitely notice the 4 pound difference (if that’s what it is).
135 over the 90 any day. Biggest reason; balance. The 90 is ridiculously "head-heavy", obviously because of the motor placement. I have a smaller yard, and I use my 135 to trim and edge my lawn; about once a month I cut back some English Ivy with it. I've been running it with an AP200 battery lately, and even though it's only 1 pound lighter than the 300S, it makes a big difference in terms of balance. The lowest power setting is more than adequate for lawn trimming and edging, so the 200 provides ample runtime for my application. Initially I was not happy with the weight (using the 300S); with the 200, it's much more enjoyable to use. Fyi, I've also tried it using the battery adapter, battery bag with cord, and battery belt. In this configuration, the weight of the trimmer is about 12 pounds, since you're carrying the 4 pound 300S on your waist. Ultimately I decided the "grab-and-go" ability with the on-board battery is preferable to the more cumbersome connecting cord set-up.
@@douglaslawncare2843 Thanks for your feedback and comments. I greatly appreciate it. I think I've decided on the 135R over the 90R due to the motor being at the head and overall balancing. I'm having a bit of trouble, due to the 135 not available locally, to purchase the 135. Any ideas on how to procure one? or must I wait until it becomes available in stores around me? Thanks again!
@@jmljml5065 Thanks for your comments. Again, I really appreciate it! I can't seem to purchase one due to it being not in stock; although the 90R is available it 3 different stores. I was tempted, but will be waiting until I can get my hands on the 135R. I have the AP300 (not S) batteries, so will be curious how much that might through the 'ideal' balance off vs the AP200, which you use? If I can, I will give both batteries a try, once I find a 135R in stock. Thanks again!
@@davidolchewsky5365 I ordered mine from my local Stihl dealer; had it in 4 days.
Dos it have variable throttle ?
Yes.
Think I would of used a brush hog or rented a flail mower but it looks like a good machine..
I was just testing it out to see what it could do.
Really interested to see your charging plan. Also, what type of warranty comes with this machine and batteries?
Charging it right in the truck. I believe it as a two year commercial warranty and a three year residential
@@douglaslawncare2843 Are you using an inverter to charge the battery? or do you have it plugged straight into the outlet in the truck?
Next video collab help me make a Onewheel track track through the back 60.
With what? The mower?
@@douglaslawncare2843 probably too wide of a path. I want something narrow. Like 2-3 ft max
I’m only getting 20 minutes on setting 2 with the ap300s battery.
This seems extremely low.
@@douglaslawncare2843 yeah I agree. On setting one I’m getting closer to half an hour. In fairness to the Stihl though, it’s got more power than my Honda umk25 even on setting one, and the Honda is a a little beast.
Can we get an update? Thanks
I’ll make a video soon! So far I like it. There are a couple things I don’t like but overall it’s a good unit.
How is the power vs your 91R
On first impressions I think it has more power than the 91r. I will be testing it out more this week and I’ll get back with you on my thoughts about the power. Thanks for watching!
What was the results
@@douglaslawncare2843 I just purchased an FSA 90 with a bike handle and may take it back on monday for a refund, due to the inability to get a balanced weight distribution. I have too lift up and pull back on the bike handle to get the cutting head off the ground. I once had a 2 stroke with bike handles that was perfectly balanced so that my shoulders took all the weight. Does anybody have any suggestions.
What’s the weight with a 300 s battery installed?
14.1 with the 300s installed.
On my scale, mine weighs 15 pounds 3 ounces with a 300S, with most of the weight on the battery/motor end, not surprisingly. You should definitely heft it before buying it.
👍
Are these weed eaters work on a rainy days or they get damaged with rain?
We use them when it’s sprinkling. If it’s pouring and we want to trim we put rain covers on them. I’ve cut the bottom of the cover so it doesn’t get too hot. amzn.to/3jvFdHo
Usually don’t do allot of trimming when it’s pouring though.
Thanks for replying. What’s the running time of the battery?
Just picked mine up today
Has it ever stalled on you?
Never
About how many lawns do you do every 2 weeks?
Just to see if it matches what I’ll be putting it to
You could have bought 3 gas machines instead of 1 electric with charger and 2 batteries. Whatever problems would have with the gas machines you could just use another of the 3. And you never have to wait for charging.
The electric unit is 3 times more expensive if you want to use it without stopping for hours.
Also you have only one charger so you can only charge one battery at a time.
And the batteries will get worse over time.
I just dont see the point.
I have three trimmers, two chargers and 8 batteries. I’m all in! Zero issues for three years! Zero down time, zero maintenance. No vibration, you can talk to employees when trimming cemeteries. I’ll never go back to gas.
echo and husqvarna are better in the battery technology I hate to say it they are behind hope they get with it
Do you have fact’s that support your statement?
@@douglaslawncare2843 I ve researched each brand many hours without bias from runtime to cutting speed it's out there
105 string?
amzn.to/3vf8oRQ
Im selling my used for 3 hours KM 94r to get one of those just because Im tired of the noise and mixing fuel and oil , stihl oil is almost worthless anyway why they Force you to buy it is beyond me its garbage
Why not use a bush hog
I will use a brush hog attachment on a bobcat. I just wanted to test out the trimmer in extreme conditions. 👍🏻
Looks like the shaft is not long enough so you're slightly bent over, that will end in nothing but back pain after working for 30 minutes or longer. Over priced - paying for the name brand.