A great video Nathan, trapped with Stihl petrol. Would love to buy lots of battery equipment, unfortunately it’s just too expensive, especially when I have all the petrol kit. Good luck with your new toys.
Cheers Rob, battery gear is worth a go when you feel the time is right. Petrol is still a must tho on a load of jobs. It's never a simple decision when it come to kit. Have a good week 👍
While working for Companies that only used Stihl, It's all I know. But since working for myself this past year I've been forced to look at more affordable brands. I've seen and researched so many and just couldn't make a decision. Then just by chance last week I was watching Martin the Garden guy's channel and he pulled out an echo strimmer and commented he bought it 10 years ago as an ex council tool that was already 4 years old when he bought it. 14 years old and still going strong! That sold Echo for me 👍
I like husqvarna it’s all been reliable for me and build quality is solid, and yes I’m a full time gardener/ tree service not someone that has a blower that comes out once a year 😂. Keep up the good work with your content 👍
Glad it's working for you, I've had strimmers and hedge trimmers and saws in the past. Never gave me too much trouble although didn't last as long as the Stihl equivalent back then. Cheers for watching 👍👍
Hello there. I have always used Sthil stuff and I am very happy with them. There is probably better brands but touch wood I have never had any major issues with Sthil. It can get addictive though buying stuff lol😅 Thanks for the video mate
Glad it's working for you mate, it's never been anything major to be fair and they've definitely earned their keep. I've just been slightly more impressed with echo . Thanks for watching 👍
Great chat mate. Easily get trapped in the battery gear and kombi kit. I will buy any brand if it serves a useful purpose and the price is right 😅. I'm probably more on the stihl side of things just because of how easy parts are to obtain and i've found stuff at a bargain price. The older stihl stuff was solid. No issues with my km131 4 mix either, great power but i wouldnt want to use it all day so only used on meaty jobs, the little km94 is great and is the lightest kombi engine across the brands i think. Jealous of your shiny new kit, makes me want to go spending now. Let us now how the echo kombi kit performs. 👍
Cheers, hopefully the shiny kit will earn it's keep now it's out the box 😅 I think you've the skills to sort all different brands on the service and repair, I like to suss one out and keep to that, as long as it's not too many repairs. Older Stihl stuff was quality 👌
I’ve been using STIHL since I got my chainsaw ticket many years ago. I must admit they have never let me down. Maybe I’m lucky! Starting to go down the battery route, best investment, MS160 ,that just lives in the truck, paid for itself in the first week! Cheers for the videos,
so much truth in what you've said here, glad to hear someone say what I've been thinking. I was getting sucked into the Stihl world but managed to hold myself back, truth is that with the work I do some bits of kit will get almost daily use whilst others may only see daylight once a month. I've had to resist getting top kit for the rarer jobs, so cheap brands like Titan actually do the job well enough if looked after and only come out on the odd occasion, whilst Stihl Honda etc. are the choice for daily use. knowing what you really use and don't is the key and not becoming a "tool snob" is difficult but vital. Thanks for this vid, I loved it.
Cheers for that and thanks for watching 👍 you're right, the kit you use every day has to be quality to get the job done. As long as the tools used less often do the job when needed then that's fine . I have that Hyundai weed brush, it's only used occasionally so can't budget for some kit that's maybe 6k. Cheers
I’ve always liked Echo. Got a couple of PAS engines and now the battery version. 100% reliable. I do also have a Stihl brushcutter for heavy duty work. I’m not all that brand-loyal really. Good gear is good gear.
Got a mix of makes but i do like Echo, and not a fan of 4 mix its an odd idea i know they can wear valves out if they are not adjusted and they are only men't to be run on the top end expensive Stihl ultra oil which most people don't know. great vid hope the vans on the mend 👍
I run the green Stihl oil, that the one? Vans waiting on a water pump to hopefully sort it ready for the when we're back in the new year. Thanks for watching 👍
Great video mate👍🏼 I think we all get sucked into one particular brand to start with until we find what suits our needs along the way. Have a great Christmas Nathan & I look forward to many more of your videos next year 🎅🏼🎄🍻
Cheers mate👍 one brand seems the way for a lot. I must make more effort on sensible videos next year 🤔😅 You too mate, hope you and the family have a great time🍻
Been using the exact echo combi tools you have for years Nathan and I can’t fault them ! Echo connection system is better than stihl and the engine is bomb proof .Love the hand blower as well 😁 I do run them on echo 2 stroke oil (power blend x ) and they run sweet as a nut 👍
Those hand held blowers are great, only had a loose then sheered bolt in the fan mounting but that's it. Engines tho do keep going in very little maintenance, again only one carb replacement under warranty on a strimmer and that's the only issue. Cheers for watching 👍
Last couple of years I've just had petrol echo, strimmer hedge cutters and blower. They've been used alot and never let me down. Looking into getting etesia hydro 80 next season as the next big investment.
Alright Nath, I’ve got husky battery combi kit, husky hedge trimmers ( very unrealiable on my 4th one ) but keep going back to them as I’ve got all the batteries and chargers … it’s hard to k ow what to do. Never done stihl used my mates battery combi kit and wasn’t impressed. Keep up the good shizzle
The 4 mix engines have their use, pole pruner attachment and strimming heavy grass. The 2 mix 94s are light and perfect for the longreach hedge trimmer. So stihl have it covered imo. I also think the hand held hedgetrimmers 82rc are unmatched with anything for cutting thick hedges and reductions. I use and own husqvarna and stihl equipment, the husqvarna x torq engines are great as well. Havent tried echo but in the U.S theres a big Stihl vs Echo argument.
The 4mix definitely has some grunt, I've had continuous issues with leaking fuel into air filter from faulty breather valves, engine mounting clamp breaking, bolts shearing/ stripping etc. nothing major just lots of niggles that have put me off, plus I'm finding them too heavy...that's a me problem tho😅 Echo does seem popular in the U.S. tho. Thanks for watching and your comment 👍
I used to just buy whatever brand I thought was best when on petrol. Now moving into battery I’m locked in to Stihl with AP battery. I had this conversation with Honda & Makita reps at Saltex a few years ago, they holding move to battery back by all having different batteries, but they are a business too. It does frustrate me as I don’t always get what I might if buying battery gear. Have a great Christmas 🎅
Battery gear is definitely something where you buy into one brand, once you have the batteries you're in. Have a great Christmas yourself 🍻 thanks for watching 👍
We're in with stihl for battery equipment, I dont feel trapped per se because I haven't seen anything that makes me want to change. They all have their pros & cons, was very very close to going with Milwaukee after looking at saltex last year but decided against.
I'm pretty happy with the Stihl battery gear to be honest, a few things I'd change but nothing is perfect. Milwaukee kit does look tempting and guess they have the battery technology down now. Cheers for watching 👍
Ooh difficult one used stihl most of my self employed life , did sway onto another Japanese brand a few years back but the emissions were terrible, I just find stihl my comfort zone never really me down , as with the kombi engine or attachments I've just replaced when worn out plus with other stihl equipment the service kits are readily available now , even my second back up mower is a stihl 😮 oh well maybe I like being trapped 😅 but what ever works for others then fair enough , anyone else on here signed up to landscape juice , there's always interesting discussions and reviews on equipment etc , cheers Nathan and a blessed yule
I think whatever works for you is the one to stick with, I tend to stick with something even when I'm not 100% on it but it's convenient or a cost saver. It was time to try the echo combi tho I think. Used to look on landscape juice, always chat about something on there. Cheers for watching 👍
I agree Nathan I’ve been a stihl man for years. Like you say once you have a few bits of kit you feel like you have to keep buying! I’ve always liked it because generally it’s been reliable with maybe like yo say the exception of the 4mix unit! They have good power but not as reliable as the good old 2 stroke engines that started of the long reach equipment. I now started the move over to battery as it’s much lighter and nicer to use all day long(not getting any younger😅) Had the hla 66 almost a year now and I’ve been very pleased with it. I still use my petrol gear for heavy stuff but love a day now when I can trim all day and don’t touch a fuel can!😄👍
Those days when you don't touch petrol are great 👍 I think a year out of the 66 before they move onto a bit heavier work means they've more than paid for themselves. You got plenty on this week or winding down? My vans waiting on work so catching up on stuff this week . Cheers mate 👍
absolutely spot on Nathan, i bought into the brand with a kombi and battery gear… like the Stihl kit however so all is good, seriously tempted with an etesia pro 46 but am concerned about power in wet against honda hrx 537 with 200cc engine 🤷🏼
I avoid the 4 stroke too. It seems excessively heavy and loud to me. Also I have had a few of problems with stihl gear tbh...batteries, new blowers needing new carbs etc. I'll be interested 8n watching your upcoming videos and hearing your opinion on the echo. Love the channel BTW.
Thanks for watching and the support, I've been using echo for a few years now. The Stihl combi hedge trimmer I felt was better quality than my stand alone line reach echo so looking forward to seeing the improvements the hd version has over the older one. Cheers 👍
Great video Nathan! I've only been running my own little maintenance business since April, and have all sthil equipment. I recently bought a strimmer with the 4 mix engine, ran it on e10 unleaded and some cheap 2 stroke, all good except when on full throttle and then it sounded like it was struggling. Spoke to a local repair shop, they said to run it on sthil premixed fuel(bloody expensive) but sure enough it started to run perfectly. But yesterday, it sounded like it was struggling again 😕 I'm interested to know what specifically you don't like about the 4 mix? And do echo have a battery range?
Hi, thanks for watching. The 4mix have always earned their money and done well but the noise & vibration have always put me off, usually run the long reach hedge trimmer with them tho. Smaller repairs, breather valves, clamps poor quality bolts etc. They still are one of the best brands obviously but I've had better luck with echo which do battery gear but mine is all Stihl for battery. Hope the business does well 👍👍 cheers
Thanks for watching 👍 echo doing well for me. I wouldn't be without my battery hedge trimmers but there are many things battery won't match petrol for yet. Plenty coming up content wise soon so hopefully you'll get to see that too👍 cheers
I feel slightly trapped after watching your video. I'm stihl petrol with the attachments and was thinking about getting the kombi electric and the batteries for the very same attachments but I would be even more trapped. So now I'm in a dilemma 🙃
It's the petrol I've moved away from Stihl, the attachments haven't given too many issues but I'm sure you think the same if going for the battery power unit for them. Battery always worth it I'm my opinion, cheers 👍👍
Looks like Santa visited you early😅 food for thought. ive still not verntured down the electic rabbit hole...yet.... but with crackpot councillors in edinburgh calling a ban on petrol leaf blowers who knows... id probably invest first in a diesel generator to charge batteries up when im on site😂😂😂 deffo think old stihls are better. find the four mixes heavy and hard on the arms if cutting all day Thanks for your time making the videos. Have enjoyed watching them. Still hoping to see a sulky make an appearance at some point😅. Have a good christmas and a great new year!
Mate that sulky is in the list, got this echo gear in march and I've only just found time to do this video on in....2026 for the sulky😅 there are some good charging set ups for vans but I haven't gone down that route. I think it won't be lond before there are a lot of restrictions on petrol gear. California have a 70% discount grant to switch over but can see anything like that over here. Cheers mate 👍
yeah 2026😂😂😂 you sound about as efficient as i am😅 look forward to it. you will wish you had made one earlier😊 im going to hold off till last minute tbh for lekkie kit. i just cant get my head around the green credentials of the batteries .. read about california, thats good of them
@scottishgrasscutter4488 I'll try not to be so shit 🤣 battery I think is only environmentally sound for the end user unfortunately. Must pump loads of crap etc out to make those batteries
I've always bought Stihl where I can and on a whole they've been decent. But I've definitely noticed a difference in quality in the new stuff recently. Might be worth trying something else next time a machine needs replacing 👍
Good Points there Nathan defiantly in the Brand trap with 18v Hitachi /Hikoi drills etc Sthil battery combi any think battery your buying into the battery platform Have a good week Thanks again
@@LewisgardenservicesLtd I like every think on the same battery's used a lot of different brands over the years had the Hitachi tools for 6 or 7 years buying one tool at a time now doing the same with the sthil battery gear Thanks again
I've got all Stihl petrol and battery and have no intention of changing. Yes you could say I'm trapped but I'm happy enough with the kit. Stihl availability of parts (had a HLA 66 in the dealer for a month waiting on a warrenty part at 18months old) and also often no or low stock of various battery tools is annoying though. KM94 Is the best combi engine in my opinion. How many seasons do you get out of an echo blower? I get two seasons out of a still BG 86 though it gets used a lot day in day out.
Your very correct Nathan. I purely go with the tool that suits my gig. Stihl still have me too amigo😂 the batteries are the big hold✌️ deffo looking into buying the new echo stuff is meant to take serious heat✌️ great topic Nathan👊
The kombi & 4mix trap reads like my biography😂 Currently have 2 131’s and all attachments, last hedgecutter head went into the wheeliebin in digust. Haven’t bothered replacing, hiring one when needed 💩 one engine runs like a bag of shit no matter what I change, the other I’ve had to Frankenstein to my bike handle brush cutter after that engine blew up🤣 that is now starting to misbehave🙈 Going echo if I do bother replacing, also inclined to perform a ceremonial burning of my two Honda mowers after the washout this year 🔥
Started my business with Stihl AK system, but moved up to the AP professional and bought a combi with ALL the attachments. Love it because I take it all on the back of my bicycle using a trailer. No need for parking permits. No ulez bull----. No 20 mph nonsense. Lots of bungee cords and customers who tend to be close. Don't know why you switched to Echo, Mister, and would be keen to know since I admire and learn from your channel. Over!
Sounds like you have a real sustainable business there mate, local work and low transport costs 👌move to echo was for the petrol range, I'm more than happy with the Stihl battery kit, most of it is now stand alone rather than the combi. The hla 66 is my favourite to use. Cheers for watching 👍
Sounds like it's served you well mate, you know how good things are when you feel the job is abusing the kit and it doesn't miss a beat. Cheers mate 👍 thanks for watching
You make some fantastic points Nathan, you can get trapped very quickly That's why I asked and did a good segment in my most recent video about the brand! My eyes are all over the echo stuff! I'm currently using mainly Hyundai. Everyone in my comments seems to think echo are a brilliant investment. The Americans seem to swear by the echo so it must be good kit. In regards to Stihl 4 mix everyone seems to think they more of a pain then there with I've been told to stick 2 storm for Stihl. This is all subjective to my experience and the convocations I have had. Great video nathan. Have a fantastic week!
Hey mate, just subbed and watched your question. What you think is spot on regarding parts machines and that's why I always try and follow one machine with the same but then we do get stuck with them. I've definitely been more impressed with echo than Stihl over the past 5/6 years. I've run their petrol strimmers and long reach trimmers but just changed to their combi. I had doubts over the long reach blades but this hd version is hopefully as good. Cheers mate 👍 Keep up the good work, nice to see a grafter👌
They are beasts, no doubting that. I've just had various issues and was time to move. I bet they've earned some money in their time tho. The 4mix all day is too much for me know. Cheers for watching 👍
@paulraymondstamp4111 makes total sense, both my local dealers steered me away from the 94 saying it wasn't up to the job, a lot use tho so must do well. They kept having them back in with issues apparently
I use echo strimmers as there best bye far! Got a nice single sided 40inch hedge trimmer which I think they stopped making or not 40inch! But yep defo is easy to stay with same brand especially once you commit to buying batteries and charger
Nice one👍 my last 2 petrol strimmers were both echo, I killed the first one...well the van did😅 but the second one has been great, mainly a back up for my battery one which is Stihl. Yes the battery platform you choose is a commitment usually. Cheers mate 👍
@@LewisgardenservicesLtd yep I can’t remember what model echo strummers I’ve got! A smaller one and that biggest loop handle one that looks like one in your video! Best strimmer out that one from what I’ve used personally! Stihl ones seems to vibrate massively. Well combi one I used to have years ago was shocking! I think In general though stihl have best hedge cutters bye far!
I'm trapped with Stihl battery because I don't have to buy a new battery when I buy a new machine. I tend to buy echo when petrol. Have a good day, Nath
Hi mate, yea once your in with the batteries your in... usually. Have noticed your echo on the petrol, did you switch or always run them? Hope you and the family are keeping well. Cheers 🍻
@LewisgardenservicesLtd I'm the same as you. Find the echo more reliable even though I do have a stihl petrol we use for rough stuff. We are well, thanks. Hope you are too
Can't beat proper 2 stroke... light, less moving parts, more reliable. Stihl 4 mix definitely have their issues. And you are right to choose Echo... Can't beat Japanese engineering and reliability. I'm using Makita XGT 40v for my battery kit and it's been great so far.. the rest is petrol (Blower, strimmer, chainsaw)
@@LewisgardenservicesLtd yeah absolutely, The Makita battery stuff is great. I think it's a bit overlooked actually... It's also a bit cheaper than the Stihl and husqvarna equivalent
@@LewisgardenservicesLtd my little Honda Izzy is spot on for little lawns. Ive had it years and its never let me down. I use my Toro Turfmaster for the bigger lawns just using side discharge and its ok but a bit heavy. I used to love my Lawnflight 21 inch and its a good mower but a bit heavy so this year i bought an Husqvarna LC551VBP and i love it. My best ever buy was the Toro Grandstand 36. I love it.
I run a mix of Stihl and echo tools. My long reach hedge cutters are just simple 2 stroke. I’ve never felt a need for big 4-mix engines for hedge cutting so run the Stihl hl94, enough power and lightweight. I have noticed whenever I need parts and new kit in general the echo are generally more money than Stihl. Whether that means it’s made better I’m not sure, (the echo blades however stay sharp for much longer than Stihl so maybe the case). Both great brands but you could argue echo are more reliable nowadays. Stihls history and reputation with chainsaws is what draws people to continue buying their stuff even if it has dipped a bit in reliability over recent years. Nice video 👍🏼
Perfect comment for how it is with me too, run the both a while but Stihl built quality slightly less reliable at the moment I find. Maybe I should have stuck with the 94 instead of the 4mix🤔 The chainsaws seem to always maintain their build quality on all brands. Thanks for watching and your comment. 👍
@@LewisgardenservicesLtd everyone has their own preferences with tools and their requirements for them. The 4-mix Kombi are perhaps more versatile as they’ve got more torque than the 94 so they would do better on long grass etc, so u could say buy the more powerful unit that can do a wider range of work more comfortably. Yeah chainsaws seem to be great across the board, I’ve heard Stihl, echo and husqvarna all have great kit. Have a great week👍🏼
I’m trapped with stihl unless I change I’ve tried echo in the past not owned but tried and think I preferred stihl for comfort Equally I’m wanting to try new brands we have a huge range to choose from now lol Great video mate
All of my kit is 2 stroke stihl...apart from Alko and Hayter mowers. Did invest in a stihl battery long reach hedge cutter and it is brilliant. I will admit if i changed brand id feel like i was cheating 😅 However one of my jobs is a 3 acre garden and they have an echo long reach tree pruner (i have not justified buying one yet) and i am very impressed with it...light..excellent reach...very effective. I find the battery debate interesting...there is no way mowers/strimmers would do some of the work my petrol ones do...but the stihl long reach battery hedge cutter is amazing. Note to all...quality tools are an investment in your business and dont forget what you can achieve in a clients garden as opposed to how they would see the task with their kit or what/how long another gardener who has inferior kit wiuld take/achieve. Price accordingly. The right customers will know when they are onto a 'proper' gardener. Happy New year to all.
Thanks for the comment 👍 battery gear definitely has it's place, as you say hedge trimmers are a no brainer in my opinion and wouldn't be without one. You'd need a good charging system to run battery mowers full time I think unless it was some of the bigger stuff. I've got on well with my battery strimmer but again the battery doesn't last on heavy work. The reduction in vibration tho is a huge plus. Echo for me at the moment with petrol gear. The right kit in the right hands can do in an hour what a homeowner would take all day. Thanks for watching 👍
Once you find something you like, in your case, estesia. Then stick with them. But your bang on about brand "eco systems" especially with battery. Because the batteries are so expensive your sort of forced to stay with that one brand so you can use the same batteries on other kit. I too have gone over to battery. Apart from my mowers, Ego equipment. Good kit imo. Not cheap. But for me the benefits out way the costs.
Definitely with you on the battery front, both that they get you but alway the health benefits outway the cost and their possible lack of longevity against petrol kit. Cheers for stopping by mate👍
I’m stuck in my ways and after 25 years doing what we do nothing will stop me from using Stihl equipment 😂😂😂 I have recently started to change my equipment to battery and I wish I had years ago it’s so much easier on your body
Got my girlfriend to by me the Milwaukee Quik-lok unit for Christmas purely because I’m a Milwaukee fanboy, I looked at Stihl but have batteries for Milwaukee so stuck with that, like you say they trap you in 😁
Milwaukee...you must have been good this year 😅 seriously tho, their kit looks good and have the history with the battery technology. Enjoy the unwrapping of all that. Cheers for watching 👍
i find the brand trap is harder when brand makes somthing the other dont have but each brand has the better thing than the other and viceversa with another attachment
Brand trap is real, especially for battery kit or multitools. Have a go with other peoples' kit wherever you can to see what you like. No loyalties for me though. I have a backup multitool that sits in the van, its a right Frankenstein. Basic stihl strimmer engine, kombi drive shaft, with various cheap Screwfix titan poles and attachments. Vibrates alot but for some reason that thing just keeps going when whichever tool im supposed to be using plays up on the day.
Cheers mate, they have a good warranty too👌 haven't had much trouble with echo, a carb replacement under warranty and that's it on quite a few bits of kit. Have a good week mate, hopefully winding down now for Christmas 🤞
I buy what my very close, very good shop sells. All from those folks. Why? Because they have parts and the technicians know the gear, also they look at my invoice numbers and charge contractor prices and prioritize my repairs.
That sounds perfect and I'd love that, old fashioned values that keep customers and friends happy and up and running with the right gear. Unfortunately my local place will sell you what they have in stock to make a sale rather than the correct tool from my experience and any sort of value you on a customer isn't rewarded in any way. Kind of a dying thing around here, if you're regular somewhere they barely recognise you let alone remember your name etc. Not everywhere but most. Thanks for watching 👍
@@LewisgardenservicesLtd The new young women at the parts counter dated my Nephews son years ago. When she asked how long I had been coming to that store, I replied since 1990 and she howled with laughter as it was before she has born.
things i hate the USA all the major brands have a 5 year guarantee the Uk if the dealer tells you to register your product its 3 years , if they dont tell you to register its 12 months
I have abit of everything because I think Stihl, Echo and Husqvarna ecxel in different areas. Echo are definitely have much better engines over Stihl, especially their carbs and coils. Stihl really cheap out on those and alway fail in time. I've got some Echo attachments I've altered to my Stihl combi system with abit of fettling.
Yea I can see how that would work, especially with saws and stuff. The attachment to fit and brand is the way forward, I need those fettling skills😅 cheers 👍
You can’t beat a titan … 😮.. yes it’s good to diversify with tools … one thing I must say is I have a Stihl ( other makes available) 131 polesaw and it’s been fantastic…. Husky are good also .. obviously Echo have upped their game .. Id certainly take your advice Nathan as like me we use our tools commercially so have a good idea …. Thanks 👍🏴
Totally agree you can get stuck in one ecosystem of tools. On one level I have ended up with all Aldi kit for my own use around the house due to the battery system and range of tools you can get for it and these being almost throw away at the price they are at. For business I have seen many people get locked into the Stihl battery ecosystem. It's a shame they don't force them all to do universal battery fittings so you can buy different batteries for different bits of kit. They did it with mobile phones, forcing even Apple to use a universal charging system (usb C). This would massively help everyone except the manufacturers as you may end up just buying their batteries as they are the best but going elsewhere for the kit as you prefer others or they are just cheaper.
A great video Nathan, trapped with Stihl petrol. Would love to buy lots of battery equipment, unfortunately it’s just too expensive, especially when I have all the petrol kit. Good luck with your new toys.
Cheers Rob, battery gear is worth a go when you feel the time is right. Petrol is still a must tho on a load of jobs. It's never a simple decision when it come to kit. Have a good week 👍
While working for Companies that only used Stihl, It's all I know. But since working for myself this past year I've been forced to look at more affordable brands. I've seen and researched so many and just couldn't make a decision. Then just by chance last week I was watching Martin the Garden guy's channel and he pulled out an echo strimmer and commented he bought it 10 years ago as an ex council tool that was already 4 years old when he bought it. 14 years old and still going strong! That sold Echo for me 👍
Many are the same, only use Stihl but I find echo great. Thanks for watching 👍
I like husqvarna it’s all been reliable for me and build quality is solid, and yes I’m a full time gardener/ tree service not someone that has a blower that comes out once a year 😂. Keep up the good work with your content 👍
Glad it's working for you, I've had strimmers and hedge trimmers and saws in the past. Never gave me too much trouble although didn't last as long as the Stihl equivalent back then. Cheers for watching 👍👍
Hello there. I have always used Sthil stuff and I am very happy with them. There is probably better brands but touch wood I have never had any major issues with Sthil. It can get addictive though buying stuff lol😅
Thanks for the video mate
Glad it's working for you mate, it's never been anything major to be fair and they've definitely earned their keep. I've just been slightly more impressed with echo . Thanks for watching 👍
Great chat mate. Easily get trapped in the battery gear and kombi kit. I will buy any brand if it serves a useful purpose and the price is right 😅. I'm probably more on the stihl side of things just because of how easy parts are to obtain and i've found stuff at a bargain price. The older stihl stuff was solid. No issues with my km131 4 mix either, great power but i wouldnt want to use it all day so only used on meaty jobs, the little km94 is great and is the lightest kombi engine across the brands i think. Jealous of your shiny new kit, makes me want to go spending now. Let us now how the echo kombi kit performs. 👍
Cheers, hopefully the shiny kit will earn it's keep now it's out the box 😅 I think you've the skills to sort all different brands on the service and repair, I like to suss one out and keep to that, as long as it's not too many repairs. Older Stihl stuff was quality 👌
Happy Christmas pal
Cheers 👍Same back at you mate, hope you and yours have a good one🍻
I’ve been using STIHL since I got my chainsaw ticket many years ago. I must admit they have never let me down. Maybe I’m lucky!
Starting to go down the battery route, best investment, MS160 ,that just lives in the truck, paid for itself in the first week!
Cheers for the videos,
I absolutely love my Stihl battery top handle saw👌👌 great when kit pays for itself straight away. Cheers for watching 👍
so much truth in what you've said here, glad to hear someone say what I've been thinking. I was getting sucked into the Stihl world but managed to hold myself back, truth is that with the work I do some bits of kit will get almost daily use whilst others may only see daylight once a month. I've had to resist getting top kit for the rarer jobs, so cheap brands like Titan actually do the job well enough if looked after and only come out on the odd occasion, whilst Stihl Honda etc. are the choice for daily use. knowing what you really use and don't is the key and not becoming a "tool snob" is difficult but vital. Thanks for this vid, I loved it.
Cheers for that and thanks for watching 👍 you're right, the kit you use every day has to be quality to get the job done. As long as the tools used less often do the job when needed then that's fine . I have that Hyundai weed brush, it's only used occasionally so can't budget for some kit that's maybe 6k. Cheers
I’ve always liked Echo. Got a couple of PAS engines and now the battery version. 100% reliable. I do also have a Stihl brushcutter for heavy duty work. I’m not all that brand-loyal really. Good gear is good gear.
The Echo powered sweeper attachment is garbage, mind you!
100% mate, good gear is what we're after. Cheers 👍
I'll give that a miss👍
Have yourself a good Christmas love the videos.
Thanks, I do waffle on sorry 😅 cheers for the support tho👌👍 have a good one yourself
Got a mix of makes but i do like Echo, and not a fan of 4 mix its an odd idea i know they can wear valves out if they are not adjusted and they are only men't to be run on the top end expensive Stihl ultra oil which most people don't know. great vid hope the vans on the mend 👍
I run the green Stihl oil, that the one? Vans waiting on a water pump to hopefully sort it ready for the when we're back in the new year. Thanks for watching 👍
Great video mate👍🏼
I think we all get sucked into one particular brand to start with until we find what suits our needs along the way.
Have a great Christmas Nathan & I look forward to many more of your videos next year 🎅🏼🎄🍻
Cheers mate👍 one brand seems the way for a lot. I must make more effort on sensible videos next year 🤔😅 You too mate, hope you and the family have a great time🍻
Been using the exact echo combi tools you have for years Nathan and I can’t fault them ! Echo connection system is better than stihl and the engine is bomb proof .Love the hand blower as well 😁 I do run them on echo 2 stroke oil (power blend x ) and they run sweet as a nut 👍
Those hand held blowers are great, only had a loose then sheered bolt in the fan mounting but that's it. Engines tho do keep going in very little maintenance, again only one carb replacement under warranty on a strimmer and that's the only issue. Cheers for watching 👍
I've got that exact system, it's brilliant you won't regret it
Thanks for that, will look forward to cutting a load of hedges in the new year now🤔😅 cheers for watching 👍
Last couple of years I've just had petrol echo, strimmer hedge cutters and blower. They've been used alot and never let me down.
Looking into getting etesia hydro 80 next season as the next big investment.
Same here, not many issues from the echo kit. Get a demo on the hydro 80, they are tidy too👍
Alright Nath, I’ve got husky battery combi kit, husky hedge trimmers ( very unrealiable on my 4th one ) but keep going back to them as I’ve got all the batteries and chargers … it’s hard to k ow what to do. Never done stihl used my mates battery combi kit and wasn’t impressed. Keep up the good shizzle
Hi mate, it's difficult deciding what to go for sometimes. Hopefully they all can do a good day's work 🤞 thanks for watching the shizzle😅 cheers 👍
The 4 mix engines have their use, pole pruner attachment and strimming heavy grass. The 2 mix 94s are light and perfect for the longreach hedge trimmer. So stihl have it covered imo. I also think the hand held hedgetrimmers 82rc are unmatched with anything for cutting thick hedges and reductions. I use and own husqvarna and stihl equipment, the husqvarna x torq engines are great as well. Havent tried echo but in the U.S theres a big Stihl vs Echo argument.
The 4mix definitely has some grunt, I've had continuous issues with leaking fuel into air filter from faulty breather valves, engine mounting clamp breaking, bolts shearing/ stripping etc. nothing major just lots of niggles that have put me off, plus I'm finding them too heavy...that's a me problem tho😅 Echo does seem popular in the U.S. tho. Thanks for watching and your comment 👍
Merry Christmas Nath. Looking forward to the jolly video! 👀
You'll love it I'm sure...🤔😬🤣
I used to just buy whatever brand I thought was best when on petrol. Now moving into battery I’m locked in to Stihl with AP battery. I had this conversation with Honda & Makita reps at Saltex a few years ago, they holding move to battery back by all having different batteries, but they are a business too. It does frustrate me as I don’t always get what I might if buying battery gear. Have a great Christmas 🎅
Battery gear is definitely something where you buy into one brand, once you have the batteries you're in. Have a great Christmas yourself 🍻 thanks for watching 👍
@@LewisgardenservicesLtd day off tomorrow , Christmas Do 🍻🍻🍻as I work on my own I take my lovely wife to thank her for putting up with me 🤣🤣
@mattbentley993 enjoy that👍👍😅
All Stihl, Mowers blowers and Hedge cutters but had a few issues with the battery hedge cutters lately🧡
I've had less issues with the Stihl battery kit but definitely a few things I'd change. Cheers for watching 👍
We're in with stihl for battery equipment, I dont feel trapped per se because I haven't seen anything that makes me want to change. They all have their pros & cons, was very very close to going with Milwaukee after looking at saltex last year but decided against.
I'm pretty happy with the Stihl battery gear to be honest, a few things I'd change but nothing is perfect. Milwaukee kit does look tempting and guess they have the battery technology down now. Cheers for watching 👍
Ooh difficult one used stihl most of my self employed life , did sway onto another Japanese brand a few years back but the emissions were terrible, I just find stihl my comfort zone never really me down , as with the kombi engine or attachments I've just replaced when worn out plus with other stihl equipment the service kits are readily available now , even my second back up mower is a stihl 😮 oh well maybe I like being trapped 😅 but what ever works for others then fair enough , anyone else on here signed up to landscape juice , there's always interesting discussions and reviews on equipment etc , cheers Nathan and a blessed yule
I think whatever works for you is the one to stick with, I tend to stick with something even when I'm not 100% on it but it's convenient or a cost saver. It was time to try the echo combi tho I think. Used to look on landscape juice, always chat about something on there. Cheers for watching 👍
I agree Nathan I’ve been a stihl man for years. Like you say once you have a few bits of kit you feel like you have to keep buying!
I’ve always liked it because generally it’s been reliable with maybe like yo say the exception of the 4mix unit! They have good power but not as reliable as the good old 2 stroke engines that started of the long reach equipment.
I now started the move over to battery as it’s much lighter and nicer to use all day long(not getting any younger😅)
Had the hla 66 almost a year now and I’ve been very pleased with it. I still use my petrol gear for heavy stuff but love a day now when I can trim all day and don’t touch a fuel can!😄👍
Those days when you don't touch petrol are great 👍 I think a year out of the 66 before they move onto a bit heavier work means they've more than paid for themselves. You got plenty on this week or winding down? My vans waiting on work so catching up on stuff this week . Cheers mate 👍
I’m behind due to work load and weather so busy all week!😅
Have a good week👍
absolutely spot on Nathan, i bought into the brand with a kombi and battery gear… like the Stihl kit however so all is good, seriously tempted with an etesia pro 46 but am concerned about power in wet against honda hrx 537 with 200cc engine 🤷🏼
The pro 46 👌get a demo on one to check it out first. Cheers mate👍
I avoid the 4 stroke too. It seems excessively heavy and loud to me. Also I have had a few of problems with stihl gear tbh...batteries, new blowers needing new carbs etc. I'll be interested 8n watching your upcoming videos and hearing your opinion on the echo. Love the channel BTW.
Thanks for watching and the support, I've been using echo for a few years now. The Stihl combi hedge trimmer I felt was better quality than my stand alone line reach echo so looking forward to seeing the improvements the hd version has over the older one. Cheers 👍
Great video Nathan! I've only been running my own little maintenance business since April, and have all sthil equipment. I recently bought a strimmer with the 4 mix engine, ran it on e10 unleaded and some cheap 2 stroke, all good except when on full throttle and then it sounded like it was struggling. Spoke to a local repair shop, they said to run it on sthil premixed fuel(bloody expensive) but sure enough it started to run perfectly. But yesterday, it sounded like it was struggling again 😕 I'm interested to know what specifically you don't like about the 4 mix? And do echo have a battery range?
Hi, thanks for watching. The 4mix have always earned their money and done well but the noise & vibration have always put me off, usually run the long reach hedge trimmer with them tho. Smaller repairs, breather valves, clamps poor quality bolts etc. They still are one of the best brands obviously but I've had better luck with echo which do battery gear but mine is all Stihl for battery. Hope the business does well 👍👍 cheers
Hi mate! Iam new to ur channel...Echo!! Yes...sthil i think way over priced/ rated!! Battery stuff for me not yet. Ty. Good subject
Thanks for watching 👍 echo doing well for me. I wouldn't be without my battery hedge trimmers but there are many things battery won't match petrol for yet. Plenty coming up content wise soon so hopefully you'll get to see that too👍 cheers
I feel slightly trapped after watching your video. I'm stihl petrol with the attachments and was thinking about getting the kombi electric and the batteries for the very same attachments but I would be even more trapped. So now I'm in a dilemma 🙃
It's the petrol I've moved away from Stihl, the attachments haven't given too many issues but I'm sure you think the same if going for the battery power unit for them. Battery always worth it I'm my opinion, cheers 👍👍
@@LewisgardenservicesLtd thanks for the advice.
Looks like Santa visited you early😅 food for thought. ive still not verntured down the electic rabbit hole...yet.... but with crackpot councillors in edinburgh calling a ban on petrol leaf blowers who knows... id probably invest first in a diesel generator to charge batteries up when im on site😂😂😂 deffo think old stihls are better. find the four mixes heavy and hard on the arms if cutting all day
Thanks for your time making the videos. Have enjoyed watching them. Still hoping to see a sulky make an appearance at some point😅. Have a good christmas and a great new year!
Mate that sulky is in the list, got this echo gear in march and I've only just found time to do this video on in....2026 for the sulky😅 there are some good charging set ups for vans but I haven't gone down that route. I think it won't be lond before there are a lot of restrictions on petrol gear. California have a 70% discount grant to switch over but can see anything like that over here. Cheers mate 👍
yeah 2026😂😂😂 you sound about as efficient as i am😅 look forward to it. you will wish you had made one earlier😊 im going to hold off till last minute tbh for lekkie kit. i just cant get my head around the green credentials of the batteries .. read about california, thats good of them
@scottishgrasscutter4488 I'll try not to be so shit 🤣 battery I think is only environmentally sound for the end user unfortunately. Must pump loads of crap etc out to make those batteries
I've always bought Stihl where I can and on a whole they've been decent. But I've definitely noticed a difference in quality in the new stuff recently. Might be worth trying something else next time a machine needs replacing 👍
Things seem to have a built in lifespan now and I'm sure it's to increase sales. Echo petrol has done ok tho for me. Thanks for watching 👍
Good Points there Nathan defiantly in the Brand trap with 18v Hitachi /Hikoi drills etc Sthil battery combi any think battery your buying into the battery platform Have a good week Thanks again
Battery platform is definitely the one that gets you. Hitachi should be doing you well tho🤞 cheers and have a good week yourself 👍
@@LewisgardenservicesLtd I like every think on the same battery's used a lot of different brands over the years had the Hitachi tools for 6 or 7 years buying one tool at a time now doing the same with the sthil battery gear Thanks again
I've got all Stihl petrol and battery and have no intention of changing. Yes you could say I'm trapped but I'm happy enough with the kit.
Stihl availability of parts (had a HLA 66 in the dealer for a month waiting on a warrenty part at 18months old) and also often no or low stock of various battery tools is annoying though.
KM94 Is the best combi engine in my opinion.
How many seasons do you get out of an echo blower? I get two seasons out of a still BG 86 though it gets used a lot day in day out.
If you're happy stick with that 👍 same here, maybe 2 years on the blower. The echo has done 3 now I think with no real issues. Cheers for watching 👍
Your very correct Nathan. I purely go with the tool that suits my gig. Stihl still have me too amigo😂 the batteries are the big hold✌️ deffo looking into buying the new echo stuff is meant to take serious heat✌️ great topic Nathan👊
Cheers mate, yea the battery platform you choose definitely is difficult to get away from once committed. All good over with you? Enjoy the wind down🍻
The kombi & 4mix trap reads like my biography😂
Currently have 2 131’s and all attachments, last hedgecutter head went into the wheeliebin in digust. Haven’t bothered replacing, hiring one when needed 💩
one engine runs like a bag of shit no matter what I change, the other I’ve had to Frankenstein to my bike handle brush cutter after that engine blew up🤣 that is now starting to misbehave🙈
Going echo if I do bother replacing, also inclined to perform a ceremonial burning of my two Honda mowers after the washout this year 🔥
🤣love it, I have a few honda mowers to add to the pile if needed. I hope they burn better than they collect damp grass🤣 cheers 👍👍
Started my business with Stihl AK system, but moved up to the AP professional and bought a combi with ALL the attachments. Love it because I take it all on the back of my bicycle using a trailer. No need for parking permits. No ulez bull----. No 20 mph nonsense. Lots of bungee cords and customers who tend to be close. Don't know why you switched to Echo, Mister, and would be keen to know since I admire and learn from your channel. Over!
Sounds like you have a real sustainable business there mate, local work and low transport costs 👌move to echo was for the petrol range, I'm more than happy with the Stihl battery kit, most of it is now stand alone rather than the combi. The hla 66 is my favourite to use. Cheers for watching 👍
I went with Makita multi tool. Straight petrol engines. Had mine for 3 years with no problems at all.its been tho some abuse over the years.
Sounds like it's served you well mate, you know how good things are when you feel the job is abusing the kit and it doesn't miss a beat. Cheers mate 👍 thanks for watching
Going invest some echo machines. Like oleo mac
Have heard they are pretty good. Plenty out there to choose from now. Cheers for watching 👍
You make some fantastic points Nathan, you can get trapped very quickly That's why I asked and did a good segment in my most recent video about the brand! My eyes are all over the echo stuff! I'm currently using mainly Hyundai. Everyone in my comments seems to think echo are a brilliant investment. The Americans seem to swear by the echo so it must be good kit.
In regards to Stihl 4 mix everyone seems to think they more of a pain then there with I've been told to stick 2 storm for Stihl.
This is all subjective to my experience and the convocations I have had.
Great video nathan. Have a fantastic week!
Hey mate, just subbed and watched your question. What you think is spot on regarding parts machines and that's why I always try and follow one machine with the same but then we do get stuck with them. I've definitely been more impressed with echo than Stihl over the past 5/6 years. I've run their petrol strimmers and long reach trimmers but just changed to their combi. I had doubts over the long reach blades but this hd version is hopefully as good. Cheers mate 👍 Keep up the good work, nice to see a grafter👌
Stihl km 130 has been good for us , handles the toughest hedge and tree jobs with ease , also have the lighter km94 and just bought the km 131 .
They are beasts, no doubting that. I've just had various issues and was time to move. I bet they've earned some money in their time tho. The 4mix all day is too much for me know. Cheers for watching 👍
Yea , that's why i have the 94 too , different tools for different jobs
@paulraymondstamp4111 makes total sense, both my local dealers steered me away from the 94 saying it wasn't up to the job, a lot use tho so must do well. They kept having them back in with issues apparently
Hi i have had a lot of trouble with the 4max and have a echo and love it trading for a good 25years from Mark 👍
Glad the echo is working out for you. Thanks for watching 👍
I use echo strimmers as there best bye far! Got a nice single sided 40inch hedge trimmer which I think they stopped making or not 40inch! But yep defo is easy to stay with same brand especially once you commit to buying batteries and charger
Nice one👍 my last 2 petrol strimmers were both echo, I killed the first one...well the van did😅 but the second one has been great, mainly a back up for my battery one which is Stihl. Yes the battery platform you choose is a commitment usually. Cheers mate 👍
@@LewisgardenservicesLtd yep I can’t remember what model echo strummers I’ve got! A smaller one and that biggest loop handle one that looks like one in your video! Best strimmer out that one from what I’ve used personally! Stihl ones seems to vibrate massively. Well combi one I used to have years ago was shocking! I think In general though stihl have best hedge cutters bye far!
I'm trapped with Stihl battery because I don't have to buy a new battery when I buy a new machine. I tend to buy echo when petrol.
Have a good day, Nath
Hi mate, yea once your in with the batteries your in... usually. Have noticed your echo on the petrol, did you switch or always run them? Hope you and the family are keeping well. Cheers 🍻
@LewisgardenservicesLtd I'm the same as you. Find the echo more reliable even though I do have a stihl petrol we use for rough stuff.
We are well, thanks. Hope you are too
Can't beat proper 2 stroke... light, less moving parts, more reliable. Stihl 4 mix definitely have their issues. And you are right to choose Echo... Can't beat Japanese engineering and reliability.
I'm using Makita XGT 40v for my battery kit and it's been great so far.. the rest is petrol
(Blower, strimmer, chainsaw)
Heard good things about the Makita gear, Japanese cars and kit👌 thanks for watching 👍
@@LewisgardenservicesLtd yeah absolutely, The Makita battery stuff is great. I think it's a bit overlooked actually... It's also a bit cheaper than the Stihl and husqvarna equivalent
@joshuabush2569 they've been producing battery kit for years so will have all the technology all in place for the ground maintenance sector 👍
I use all stihl hand held equipment but as for mowers i buy whatever i like. Toro, hondas, husqvarnas and a Lawnflight.
What is your favourite one of those mowers? Thanks for watching 👍
@@LewisgardenservicesLtd my little Honda Izzy is spot on for little lawns. Ive had it years and its never let me down. I use my Toro Turfmaster for the bigger lawns just using side discharge and its ok but a bit heavy. I used to love my Lawnflight 21 inch and its a good mower but a bit heavy so this year i bought an Husqvarna LC551VBP and i love it. My best ever buy was the Toro Grandstand 36. I love it.
@@darrenupton5500 Izzy have a great reputation, nearly bought a grandstand years ago, they look so much fun too. Have looked at the Ferris ones too👌
Interested in stihl a p kombi battery just because it's local dealers..
The stand alone Stihl battery gear has done me well and the ap300 last ls ages on the hla 66 etc. Good luck with what you go with. Cheers mate 👍
I run a mix of Stihl and echo tools. My long reach hedge cutters are just simple 2 stroke. I’ve never felt a need for big 4-mix engines for hedge cutting so run the Stihl hl94, enough power and lightweight. I have noticed whenever I need parts and new kit in general the echo are generally more money than Stihl. Whether that means it’s made better I’m not sure, (the echo blades however stay sharp for much longer than Stihl so maybe the case). Both great brands but you could argue echo are more reliable nowadays. Stihls history and reputation with chainsaws is what draws people to continue buying their stuff even if it has dipped a bit in reliability over recent years. Nice video 👍🏼
Perfect comment for how it is with me too, run the both a while but Stihl built quality slightly less reliable at the moment I find. Maybe I should have stuck with the 94 instead of the 4mix🤔 The chainsaws seem to always maintain their build quality on all brands. Thanks for watching and your comment. 👍
@@LewisgardenservicesLtd everyone has their own preferences with tools and their requirements for them. The 4-mix Kombi are perhaps more versatile as they’ve got more torque than the 94 so they would do better on long grass etc, so u could say buy the more powerful unit that can do a wider range of work more comfortably. Yeah chainsaws seem to be great across the board, I’ve heard Stihl, echo and husqvarna all have great kit. Have a great week👍🏼
@andrewkensett5863 the 4mix definitely have some grunt
I’m trapped with stihl unless I change
I’ve tried echo in the past not owned but tried and think I preferred stihl for comfort
Equally I’m wanting to try new brands we have a huge range to choose from now lol
Great video mate
Cheers mate 👍 you're right... plenty of choice out there now
All of my kit is 2 stroke stihl...apart from Alko and Hayter mowers. Did invest in a stihl battery long reach hedge cutter and it is brilliant. I will admit if i changed brand id feel like i was cheating 😅 However one of my jobs is a 3 acre garden and they have an echo long reach tree pruner (i have not justified buying one yet) and i am very impressed with it...light..excellent reach...very effective.
I find the battery debate interesting...there is no way mowers/strimmers would do some of the work my petrol ones do...but the stihl long reach battery hedge cutter is amazing.
Note to all...quality tools are an investment in your business and dont forget what you can achieve in a clients garden as opposed to how they would see the task with their kit or what/how long another gardener who has inferior kit wiuld take/achieve.
Price accordingly. The right customers will know when they are onto a 'proper' gardener.
Happy New year to all.
Thanks for the comment 👍 battery gear definitely has it's place, as you say hedge trimmers are a no brainer in my opinion and wouldn't be without one. You'd need a good charging system to run battery mowers full time I think unless it was some of the bigger stuff. I've got on well with my battery strimmer but again the battery doesn't last on heavy work. The reduction in vibration tho is a huge plus. Echo for me at the moment with petrol gear. The right kit in the right hands can do in an hour what a homeowner would take all day. Thanks for watching 👍
Once you find something you like, in your case, estesia. Then stick with them. But your bang on about brand "eco systems" especially with battery. Because the batteries are so expensive your sort of forced to stay with that one brand so you can use the same batteries on other kit. I too have gone over to battery. Apart from my mowers, Ego equipment. Good kit imo. Not cheap. But for me the benefits out way the costs.
Definitely with you on the battery front, both that they get you but alway the health benefits outway the cost and their possible lack of longevity against petrol kit. Cheers for stopping by mate👍
I’m stuck in my ways and after 25 years doing what we do nothing will stop me from using Stihl equipment 😂😂😂
I have recently started to change my equipment to battery and I wish I had years ago it’s so much easier on your body
Battery is my first choice every time where possible too👍 definitely easier on the body. Thanks for watching 👍
Just When I Thought I Was Out, They Pull Me Back In! They made you an offer you couldn't refuse
I'd love an offer where I could get off all the tools😅 always some offer tho that makes you buy stuff I guess. Cheers for watching 👍
some body needs to make a connector that changes the sthil to a echo attachment gearbox that fits all kind of thing
👍👍👌
Most of my stuff is Echo switced 10+ years ago from Stihl. Found it to be more reliable
Nice one, yea I've found less issues with it and less maintenance needs than the Stihl. Maybe just my luck with kit tho😅 cheers for your comment.
@@LewisgardenservicesLtd my experience exactly
Got my girlfriend to by me the Milwaukee Quik-lok unit for Christmas purely because I’m a Milwaukee fanboy, I looked at Stihl but have batteries for Milwaukee so stuck with that, like you say they trap you in 😁
Milwaukee...you must have been good this year 😅 seriously tho, their kit looks good and have the history with the battery technology. Enjoy the unwrapping of all that. Cheers for watching 👍
i find the brand trap is harder when brand makes somthing the other dont have but each brand has the better thing than the other and viceversa with another attachment
Yea, nobody has everything 100% so it's a difficult decision sometimes.
Brand trap is real, especially for battery kit or multitools. Have a go with other peoples' kit wherever you can to see what you like. No loyalties for me though. I have a backup multitool that sits in the van, its a right Frankenstein. Basic stihl strimmer engine, kombi drive shaft, with various cheap Screwfix titan poles and attachments. Vibrates alot but for some reason that thing just keeps going when whichever tool im supposed to be using plays up on the day.
The battery kit does seem to lock you in. Those back up tools are a must have in the van. Cheers for watching 👍
good point about being trapped nathan.echo good gear & probably better value than stihl at the minute.atb
Cheers mate, they have a good warranty too👌 haven't had much trouble with echo, a carb replacement under warranty and that's it on quite a few bits of kit. Have a good week mate, hopefully winding down now for Christmas 🤞
Trapped by batteries now & chargers. Stihl & i have got Ego
It's hard to move away from one brand once you've invested in batteries for sure. Cheers for watching 👍
I don't feel the brand trap, but that's mostly because I deal with petrol chainsaws. As soon as I buy the first battery saw, I'll be brand trapped.
They'll have you then😂 what's your preferred manufacturer for saws? Cheers for watching 👍
I buy what my very close, very good shop sells.
All from those folks.
Why?
Because they have parts and the technicians know the gear, also they look at my invoice numbers and charge contractor prices and prioritize my repairs.
That sounds perfect and I'd love that, old fashioned values that keep customers and friends happy and up and running with the right gear. Unfortunately my local place will sell you what they have in stock to make a sale rather than the correct tool from my experience and any sort of value you on a customer isn't rewarded in any way. Kind of a dying thing around here, if you're regular somewhere they barely recognise you let alone remember your name etc. Not everywhere but most. Thanks for watching 👍
@@LewisgardenservicesLtd The new young women at the parts counter dated my Nephews son years ago.
When she asked how long I had been coming to that store, I replied since 1990 and she howled with laughter as it was before she has born.
@wayneessar7489 1990....seems like a few years ago right 🤔😅 happy new year to you👍
things i hate the USA all the major brands have a 5 year guarantee the Uk if the dealer tells you to register your product its 3 years , if they dont tell you to register its 12 months
I never understood the registration thing, if you have the original invoice surely that'll do. USA style sounds good. Cheers for watching 👍
I have abit of everything because I think Stihl, Echo and Husqvarna ecxel in different areas.
Echo are definitely have much better engines over Stihl, especially their carbs and coils. Stihl really cheap out on those and alway fail in time.
I've got some Echo attachments I've altered to my Stihl combi system with abit of fettling.
Yea I can see how that would work, especially with saws and stuff. The attachment to fit and brand is the way forward, I need those fettling skills😅 cheers 👍
i find echo is better lighter easier to work on japenese steel blades that stay sharper longer
They've served me well for a few years, although the blades I wasn't so convicted about. I really should look after them better too😅 cheers mate
Stihl every day!
I think I pick up a Stihl machine nearly every day too😅 cheers 👍
You can’t beat a titan … 😮.. yes it’s good to diversify with tools … one thing I must say is I have a Stihl ( other makes available) 131 polesaw and it’s been fantastic…. Husky are good also .. obviously Echo have upped their game .. Id certainly take your advice Nathan as like me we use our tools commercially so have a good idea …. Thanks 👍🏴
Anything used commercially really does need to be up to the standard I think. I bought a Titan hedge trimmer once, did ok for a bit. Cheers mate👍
You get more trapped when you invest 1500 in battery's 😅
Definitely, I am😅 I do more work tho with the battery kit now too. Cheers 👍
Totally agree you can get stuck in one ecosystem of tools. On one level I have ended up with all Aldi kit for my own use around the house due to the battery system and range of tools you can get for it and these being almost throw away at the price they are at. For business I have seen many people get locked into the Stihl battery ecosystem. It's a shame they don't force them all to do universal battery fittings so you can buy different batteries for different bits of kit. They did it with mobile phones, forcing even Apple to use a universal charging system (usb C). This would massively help everyone except the manufacturers as you may end up just buying their batteries as they are the best but going elsewhere for the kit as you prefer others or they are just cheaper.
Gotta love the Aldi middle isle👍😅 universal battery system would be good. Like vehicles tho, they like everything slightly different 🙄 cheers