Omar Khalid
Strimmers with plastic blades are a popular alternative to the traditional strimmer with a plastic cord. They are marketed as being able to deal with tougher grass and foliage. However, some users have expressed concerns about the safety of these devices, especially when used by inexperienced people. There are also mixed reviews about the effectiveness of these strimmers, with some users reporting that the blades are constantly flying off and not cutting as well as the cord.
Are strimmers with plastic blades any good?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic blades vs. line thread | Plastic blades are tougher than line thread, which often needs to be replaced or untangled. |
| Plastic blades vs. metal blades | Metal blades are more effective for cutting tougher foliage and thicker branches. Plastic blades are better for lighter tasks and can be more dangerous when used on rocks and concrete. |
| Safety | Strimmers with blades can be dangerous for both inexperienced and experienced users. Protective gear is recommended. |
| Cost | Strimmers with plastic blades can cost anywhere from £80 to £108. |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Plastic blades are a good alternative to a plastic cord
One user review states that they prefer blades for thicker/taller grass and weeds as they get more grass that wraps around the line head than the blade head. Another user review states that they have used a plastic head with three replaceable plastic blades that hold up quite well as long as they are kept away from rocks and metal fence posts.
However, some users have expressed concerns about the safety of blade strimmers, as they can be dangerous for both inexperienced and experienced users. One safety concern is the risk of hitting small stones or pebbles, which can be launched at high speeds. Additionally, some users have mentioned that the blades can break off and cause injury, especially to children playing in the grass.
Overall, while plastic blades offer advantages in terms of durability and cutting performance, it is important to carefully consider the potential safety risks associated with their use and take appropriate precautions.
Plastic Bumper Brackets: Understanding Their Composition and Material
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Plastic blades are not suitable for cutting grass
Additionally, plastic blades are less effective at cutting grass, especially when compared to metal blades or strings. Grass tends to wrap around plastic blades, making them inefficient and frustrating to use. In contrast, string trimmers are preferred by some for providing more control and the ability to cut without full speed.
Another concern with plastic blades is the environmental impact. As the blades break and wear down, they can leave behind microplastics in the garden, contributing to plastic pollution. This is particularly problematic for those with children or pets who play in the grass, as the small plastic shards can be a safety hazard.
Lastly, safety is a significant consideration when using any strimmer, and plastic blades are no exception. High-speed rotating blades, whether plastic or metal, pose a risk of injury if they come into contact with stones or pebbles, which can be launched at high speeds. Therefore, it is crucial to take necessary precautions, such as wearing safety gear and ensuring the area is clear of any potential hazards.
Plastic Visors vs. Masks: Which Offers Better Protection?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Plastic blades are not durable
One user reported that they went through 2 plastic blades while using their strimmer on heavy brush, indicating that plastic blades may not be durable enough for heavy-duty use. Another user mentioned that they had to replace the plastic blades on their strimmer multiple times over the years, suggesting that plastic blades may not be as long-lasting as other options.
The durability of plastic blades can also depend on the type of vegetation being cut. For example, plastic blades can be effective for cutting burdock and fleshy-type weeds, but they may not be as effective for cutting grass, as it tends to wrap around the blade. Additionally, plastic blades may not be suitable for use around rocks, concrete, or metal fence posts, as they can become damaged or worn more quickly.
Overall, while plastic blades may be a convenient option for some users, they may not be the most durable or long-lasting choice for a strimmer, especially for those with larger gardens or tougher vegetation. Users should consider the type of vegetation they need to cut and the frequency of use before opting for plastic blades, as other options, such as metal blades or wire, may be more suitable and provide better value in the long run.
The Many Uses of High-Density Polyethylene Plastic
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$129.99 $179.99
Plastic blades are a good option for cutting weeds
Plastic blades are also a good option for larger lawn areas. They exhibit lower material wear than string trimmers, which can be easily damaged by rocks and other objects. Plastic blades are more durable and can handle thicker and taller grass and weeds, although they may require a higher rpm to be effective. They are also safer for delicate plants, as they are less likely to cause accidental cuts or scrapes.
Cordless grass trimmers with plastic blades are a convenient option for tackling difficult spots in your garden. They are lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, with adjustable handles and rechargeable batteries. Some models come with a flower guard to protect sensitive plants, and they are also easy to store when not in use.
When using a plastic-bladed strimmer, it is important to keep the cutting head as close to the ground as possible and move it side to side to sever the stems. This technique is suitable for controlling annual weed species and can be used to scalp the soil surface, creating bare ground. However, caution is advised when using plastic blades near walls and stones, as they can be damaged.
GTStar BM50 Phones: Plastic Fantastic or Not?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Plastic blades are not suitable for heavy-duty trimming
While strimmers with plastic blades can be a good option for some, they are not suitable for heavy-duty trimming. If you are looking to trim tougher grass, thick branches, or dense foliage, plastic blades may not be the best choice.
Plastic blades are typically designed for lighter-duty trimming and are not as durable or strong as metal blades. They can be prone to breaking or flying off, especially when encountering rocks, concrete, or other hard objects. In such cases, metal blades are generally recommended as they are more robust and can handle heavier-duty tasks.
Additionally, plastic blades may not be as effective in cutting grass, especially if it is tall or thick. Grass can sometimes wrap around the plastic blade, reducing its cutting ability. This can be frustrating and time-consuming to deal with, as it requires frequent stops to untangle the grass from the blade.
For those with safety concerns, it is worth noting that strimmers with plastic blades can still cause injuries. While the plastic blades themselves may seem less intimidating than metal ones, the high-speed rotation of the strimmer head can launch objects such as small stones or pebbles at high speeds, potentially causing harm.
Overall, while plastic blades may be suitable for light trimming tasks, they are not ideal for heavy-duty or frequent trimming. If you anticipate encountering tough vegetation or need to cover a large area, opting for a more durable option, such as a metal blade or a line strimmer, may be a more efficient and effective choice.
Acid-Free Storage: Sterilite Plastic Boxes for Archiving
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Yes, strimmers with plastic blades are safe. However, some users have reported that they can be dangerous, especially when used by inexperienced users.
Yes, strimmers with plastic blades can be good for overgrown gardens. They are designed to cut through tougher grass and even brambles and thinner branches.
Strimmers with plastic blades offer advantages over those with a line. The blades are tougher and do not need to be constantly replaced, making them more convenient and easier to use.
It depends on what you are cutting. Plastic blades are good for thicker/taller grass and weeds but are ineffective for grasses as they wrap around the blade. Metal blades are better for cutting something heavy like briars.
Some good strimmers with plastic blades include the Garden Gear cordless strimmer and the GTECH strimmer.
