When tackling substantial hedges, petrol-powered trimmers have the edge over cordless alternatives: they deliver more cutting power, handle tougher growth without losing momentum, and never leave you stranded with a flat battery halfway through a large hedge.
Quick Comparison Table
|
Model |
Engine (cc) |
Blade (cm) |
Price |
Best For |
|
Husqvarna 122HD60 |
21.7 |
59 |
Check dealer |
Overall best |
|
STIHL HS 45 |
27.2 |
60 |
Check dealer |
All-rounder |
|
Husqvarna 522HDR75X |
21.7 |
75 |
Check dealer |
Professional |
|
McCulloch HT 5622 |
22 |
56 |
See card for current price |
Budget option |
|
Makita EH5000W |
22.2 |
50 |
See card for current price |
Compact and lightweight |
|
Makita EH6000W |
22.2 |
60 |
See card for current price |
Mid-range |
Detailed Reviews
1. Husqvarna 122HD60 – Best Overall
The 122HD60 strikes an impressive balance between power and usability, with a 21.7cc engine and 59cm cutting width. The rotating rear handle lets you work at different angles without constantly repositioning your body. Sold through Husqvarna dealers in the UK rather than Amazon.
Key specs: 21.7cc, 59cm blade, rotating rear handle
Pros: – Exceptional balance and low vibration transmission – Rotating rear handle increases versatility and comfort – Fuel-efficient despite solid power output – Excellent warranty and spares support across the UK
Cons: – Premium pricing limits budget shoppers – Dealer purchase only
Best for: Overall best choice for most UK gardeners
2. STIHL HS 45 – Best Reliable All-Rounder
The 27.2cc engine is genuinely powerful, giving it an edge over similarly-priced competitors, and 2-MIX engine technology is reliable and relatively easy to maintain. Bought through STIHL dealers.
Key specs: 27.2cc, 60cm blade, 2-MIX engine
Pros: – Powerful engine delivers genuine cutting force – 2-MIX engine is proven, reliable and well supported – Excellent warranty and service network nationwide – Dual-action blades reduce vibration during use
Cons: – Slightly heavier than the Husqvarna – Can produce more vibration than premium models during extended use
Best for: Dependable all-purpose performance
3. Husqvarna 522HDR75X – Professional Grade
For maximum cutting capacity, the 75cm blade is exceptional, letting you tackle larger hedges and thicker growth far more quickly. Dealer supplied.
Key specs: 21.7cc, 75cm blade, rotating rear handle
Pros: – Exceptional 75cm cutting width accelerates large jobs – Rotating rear handle and low vibration technology – Built for demanding professional use – Excellent edge retention and cutting performance
Cons: – Significant investment – Heavier and more demanding physically than smaller models
Best for: Large-scale work and professional requirements
4. McCulloch HT 5622 – Budget-Friendly
A capable, keenly priced petrol trimmer for owners of small to medium hedges, with dual-action blades and an anti-vibration system.
Key specs: 22cc two-stroke, 56cm dual-action blade, 22mm blade gap, soft-start handle
Pros: – Excellent value for money – Dual-action blades and anti-vibration system – Simple to start and easy to maintain – 56cm blade suits most domestic hedges
Cons: – Less refined vibration control than premium models – Not as robust as professional machines
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers and small-to-medium hedges
5. Makita EH5000W – Compact and Lightweight
Makita’s 22.2cc petrol range is well regarded, and the 50cm EH5000W is a compact, manageable option for those prioritising comfort and lower fatigue.
Key specs: 22.2cc two-stroke, 50cm blade
Pros: – Compact 50cm blade is easy to manoeuvre – Makita brand reliability and aftercare – Good spare parts availability – Handy size for tidy-ups and lower hedges
Cons: – Smaller blade means slower progress on large hedges – Older design with fewer features than newer models
Best for: Users prioritising comfort and reduced fatigue
6. Makita EH6000W – Mid-Range Solid Performer
The 60cm sibling of the EH5000W offers the same 22.2cc engine with a longer blade, a practical balance of power and cutting width.
Key specs: 22.2cc two-stroke, 60cm blade
Pros: – Longer 60cm blade for faster progress – Makita brand reliability and aftercare – Good spare parts availability
Cons: – Heavier than the 50cm EH5000W – Fewer distinctive features than purpose-built competitors
Best for: Mid-range buyers seeking reliable brand performance
How to Choose a Petrol Hedge Trimmer
Blade Length
A 45-50cm blade suits small to medium hedges and reduces fatigue. A 60cm blade is the sweet spot for most UK domestic properties.
Engine Size and Power
Engines range from 20cc to 28cc. Smaller engines (20-22cc) are lighter and perfect for occasional use and thin growth.
Weight Matters
Weight directly affects how long you can comfortably work. Anything over 5kg becomes noticeably fatiguing if you are trimming for more than an hour.
Single-Action vs Dual-Action Blades
Single-action blades move in one direction and are simpler but produce more vibration. Dual-action blades move in both directions, significantly reducing vibration and fatigue.
Petrol vs Cordless: When Petrol Wins
Petrol excels when handling very thick or mature growth, working on extensive hedges without recharging concerns, or when you need sustained power across large properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I maintain my petrol hedge trimmer?
A: Check the spark plug annually and clean or replace the air filter seasonally. Clean the blades after each use to prevent sap buildup. Professional servicing every 2-3 years keeps everything running smoothly.
Q: What fuel should I use?
A: Use unleaded petrol (95 RON or higher) mixed with two-stroke oil in the correct ratio, typically 50:1 or 40:1 depending on your model. Pre-mixed fuel from garden centres eliminates manual mixing.
Q: How do I achieve clean, straight hedge lines?
A: Mark your guide line with string or chalk before starting. Work slowly and methodically, keeping the blade parallel to your target line. Multiple passes prove more effective than rushing.
Q: What safety gear do I need?
A: A helmet with face shield, ear defenders, cut-resistant work gloves, sturdy boots and long sleeves.
Q: Can I hire a petrol hedge trimmer instead of buying?
A: Absolutely. Hire centres across the UK rent petrol trimmers for reasonable daily or weekly rates.
Our Final Verdict
The Husqvarna 122HD60 is the optimal choice, combining genuine cutting power, excellent build quality, low vibration and practical features like the rotating rear handle. If you would rather buy online, the McCulloch HT 5622 is the budget pick, and the Makita EH6000W is a dependable mid-range option. The STIHL HS 45 is an all-rounder that will serve any property size, the Husqvarna 522HDR75X suits large-scale work, and the Makita EH5000W suits those prioritising minimal exertion.
