How to choose a brushcutter: a buying guide

The brushcutter is the most versatile tool in the garden and out on the land: it finishes edges, clears boundaries, knocks down long grass and cuts back undergrowth. But they range from €150 to €900, and that gap is not for show. Here is how to choose well.

First: what will you actually be doing?

• Finishing edges and corners in the garden: a light battery machine or a 25 cc petrol one with a line head is plenty.
• Long grass and boundaries a couple of times a year: look at 30-35 cc and the option to fit a three-tooth blade.
• Brambles and undergrowth: 40 cc minimum, a blade or disc, and a double-shoulder harness.
• Daily professional use: the 40-50 cc professional range, with serious anti-vibration — your back will thank you.

Battery or petrol?

For domestic use, today's battery brushcutters are quiet, light and start every time. For long days or tough vegetation, petrol is still the benchmark. We go into it properly in our battery vs petrol comparison.

The details that make the difference

• Handlebars: a bike-type handlebar for long sessions on open ground; a loop handle for manoeuvrability around obstacles.
• Harness: from 35 cc upwards, a padded double-shoulder harness is essential.
• Cutting head: a "tap and go" line head is the most practical; for tough growth, use a blade.
• Spare parts: choose a brand with guaranteed parts availability — that is exactly why we work with Honda, ECHO and Husqvarna at Tecomac.

And for really large areas?

Once you are measuring in hectares, a handheld brushcutter is not enough: take a look at wheeled brushcutters, which do the same job without wrecking your back.

The best advice is still to try one: come to the shop in Palafrugell, pick up a couple and you will know straight away which one suits you.