make sure that whatever model you get has big (wide) handlebar-style grips
on the shaft instead of the little 'D'-shaped handle. plastic strings give
when they hit something hard, but metal blades do not. without sufficient
leverage to control the thing, it will be bouncing and kicking all over the
place...which is decidedly *not* safe.

an excellent alternative to the rotating blade is a model with
interchangeable attachments (as previously mentioned). i have one (a stihl
fs85r) which accepts a reciprocating hedge-clipper blade. you can use it as
a long-handled hedge-clipper (excellent for big bushes without having to get
up on a ladder while weilding this scary tool), or you can angle it slightly
and use them down by the ground like a powered scythe. they'll cut 1/2"
brush easily, and will handle up to maybe 3/4" with a little 'gnawing'.

fwiw,

dookie


"Nagaraj" wrote in message
...
I am new to gardening and looking to buy a trimmer/edger. I was told
that you can also buy a brush cutter blade from local homedepot and
replace the string with the blade to cut small bushes and weeds in my
backyard.
Can anyone give me advice on what kind/make to buy? Can I buy electric
trimmer/edger's like black and decker for 50$ and buy the extra blade
or do I need to buy a gas trimmer?

Thanks,