The Outdoor Power Equipment roundup

The OPE Roundup

An industry’s message to the masses: ‘More power to you.’ By Andy Carlo

With outdoor living season in full bloom, lawn and yard maintenance is in high-gear. Here’s a breakdown of some of the latest new outdoor power equipment products, featuring more power and additional convenience.

STIHL Battery-Powered Trimmers Part of the new STIHL 135 professional battery platform, the FSA 135 and FSA 135 R battery-powered trimmers are assembled in America and are true game changers for professional landscapers. The trimmers feature an on-board battery slot that can support both an on-board battery or a backpack battery for even longer run times. Paired with a brushless motor and the same drive and cutting components used in proven STIHL professional gas trimmers, these units deliver professional cutting performance comparable to STIHL gas units with zero exhaust emissions and low noise. The trimmers are versatile for different cutting applications, including trimming and weed clearing. The STIHL AP Battery Series delivers professional-grade power, great for extensive use on a wide range of applications. With a commercial-grade brushless motor, the FSA 135 and FSA 135 R provides professional users an energy-efficient and lowmaintenance option that delivers ideal power run times and durability. Husqvarna 230iB Leaf Blower Husqvarna’s 230iB leaf blower is lightweight and delivers more than enough power to get the job done. The product offers the convenience of instant startups and simple-to-use controls, along with ultra-quiet performance and reduced vibrations. The 230iB provides homeowners with both power and convenience, as it features a 650 CFM, which delivers best-in-class blowing power, the company says. The new leaf blower offers a convenient scraper attachment on the end of the blowing tube to help with moving stubborn debris. The 230iB offers the lightest-inclass weight (under 9 lbs.) and a cruise control option that makes cleanup work more conducive and truly a breeze. The BLi22 battery and QC250 charger are included.

Makita LXT Self-Propelled Mower Makita is expanding the line of cordless outdoor power equipment to include the 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless 21” Self-Propelled Commercial Lawn Mower (XML08PT1). With zero emissions, lower noise and reduced maintenance, the 36V (18V X2) LXT Self-Propelled Commercial Lawn Mower is a welcome solution for efficient grass cutting. It’s powered by two 18V LXT batteries, but holds four batteries for twice the run time. There is no need to leave the 18V battery platform. The Makita-built motor delivers up to 2,800 RPM. The Quiet Mode setting reduces noise by providing constant speed control at 2,300 RPM. The mower offers ease-of-use features including quick height adjustments, mulching capability, and a commercial-grade steel deck. It features a 3-in-1 design for mulching, bagging, or side discharge. The XML08PT1 includes the mower, four fast-charging 18V LXT lithium-ion 5.0Ah batteries and an efficient 18V Dual Port Rapid Optimum Charger. The lawn mower features Makita Extreme Protection Technology (XPT). XPT is a protective seal inside the tool and is engineered for improved operation in harsh conditions by channeling water and dust from key internal components.

Milwaukee Tool M12 FUEL Hatchet The Milwaukee Tool M12 FUEL Hatchet 6” Pruning Saw delivers unmatched control & access, has the power to cut 3” hardwoods, and delivers up to 120 cuts per charge. This electric pruning saw is designed to meet the ergonomic, performance, and durability needs of landscape maintenance professionals. Weighing less than 5 lbs and featuring a compact design, the cordless pruning saw gives you increased control and maneuverability in tight access areas. The PowerState Brushless Motor delivers the power to complete cuts in demanding hardwood materials. The RedLink Plus Intelligence enables full-circle communication between the tool and battery, providing you with unmatched levels of performance, protection, and productivity. The advanced electronic package also delivers an instant throttle response and a variable speed trigger for ultimate control over the power range. The M12 RedLithium XC 4.0Ah Battery delivers best-inclass run time and performance. This pruning saw features a full house chain, easy access chain tensioner, automatic oiler, metal bucking spikes, and onboard storage for the scrench. WORX Nitro Self-Propelled Mower The WORX Nitro 40V 21 in. SelfPropelled lawn mower is the latest mower in the new WORX Nitro 20V Power Share Pro platform. It’s paired with a maintenance-free brushless motor for gas-like power and performance. The WORX Nitro mower also features a durable steel deck with superior mulching capability; and rear-wheel drive for positive traction and maneuverability. The self-propelled lawn mower represents the new WORX Nitro line of performance-driven outdoor power equipment engineered with brushless motors and high-performance batteries to run longer and work harder. The mower is powered by two, removable, 20V Power Share Pro 5.0Ah Max lithium-ion batteries to deliver 40V of power. When fully charged, the mower cuts lawns up to 1/4 acre. The batteries are compatible with WORX 20V Power Share batteries and fit all WORX 20V lawn and garden and DIY tools. A rear-wheel drive transmission improves traction and maneuverability, especially on hilly or varied terrain. The mower’s variable speed control allows the operator to set his or her own walking pace. Sensors adjust to higher torque for thicker grass and reduce torque automatically when it’s no longer needed for everyday mowing, maximizing battery run time.

NorthStar Electric Pressure Washer Northern Tool + Equipment has introduced its newest line of universal and professional quality pressure washers — the NorthStar Electric Cold-Water Pressure Washers. The new NorthStar Electric Pressure Washers are designed to hold up to the daily rigors and demands of a wide range of industrial applications including agriculture/lawncare, automotive, construction, commercial cleaning, plus maintenance and facilities management. Powered by electricity rather than a gas engine means these new NorthStar Electric Pressure Washers are workready for indoor use to support restaurants, factories and other enclosed spaces. The pressure washer features Total Start/Stop technology, which automatically starts the motor and pump when the trigger is pulled and stops operation when released. This start/stop technology prevents dangerous heat buildup and damage to the pump and seals caused when motors are left running without users actively spraying. Each pressure washer uses high-efficiency motors with dynamically balanced rotors to ensure low vibration, quiet operation and longlife performance. Of the four stationary units available in the line, three come in durable, steel enclosures that mount to floors or walls for maximum versatility and feature a reinforced gusseted steel base to help reduce vibration when in use, plus storage solutions for the hose, nozzles and lance.