Black & Decker 20V MAX* Lithium 10 In. String Trimmer/Edger, Hard Surface Sweeper + 2 Battery Combo Kit

Owning a well-maintained yard often requires a combination of tools that can tackle various tasks efficiently. The Black & Decker 20V MAX* Lithium 10 In. String Trimmer/Edger and Hard Surface Sweeper Combo Kit (Model LCC222) aims to provide a versatile solution for trimming, edging, and sweeping needs. After putting this combo kit to the test, I have gathered my insights to help you understand its strengths and limitations.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that stands out about this combo kit is its lightweight design, making it highly maneuverable and easy to handle. The trimmer weighs just 4.5 lbs, and the sweeper comes in at 3.7 lbs. This is particularly beneficial for users who may struggle with heavier, gas-powered alternatives. The adjustable height and handle also add to the overall comfort, allowing you to customize the tool to your preference.

However, the build quality of the tools does feel somewhat lacking. The materials used seem to be on the cheaper side, which raises questions about long-term durability. While the lightweight design is a plus, it also means that these tools may not withstand heavy-duty use over extended periods.

Performance

String Trimmer/Edger

The string trimmer/edger features an Automatic Feed Spool (AFS), which is a convenient feature for continuous line feeding without the need to bump the trimmer on the ground. Transitioning from trimming to edging is straightforward, thanks to the easily convertible design.

In terms of cutting power, the trimmer does a satisfactory job for small to medium-sized yards. It handles typical grass and light weeds well but struggles with tougher vegetation. The 10-inch cutting path is relatively small, which means it takes more passes to cover larger areas. This is a trade-off between maneuverability and efficiency.

Hard Surface Sweeper

The sweeper is more suited for light debris on hard surfaces like driveways, sidewalks, and decks. It lacks the power to move larger piles of leaves or wet debris effectively. The low noise operation is a plus, making it less disruptive for you and your neighbors.

Battery Life and Charging

One of the most significant drawbacks of this combo kit is the battery life. The included 20V MAX* Lithium Ion battery has a capacity of 1.5 Ah, which translates to about 15-20 minutes of runtime per charge. This is barely enough to complete a small yard in one go. The charger type is a wall-mountable charging base, and it takes approximately 60 minutes to recharge the battery fully.

Given the limited battery life, having an extra battery on hand is almost a necessity. The combo kit does include two batteries, but even then, the total runtime might not be sufficient for larger tasks. The battery also tends to overheat, requiring cooling before it can be recharged, which further extends the downtime.

Usability

The Black & Decker combo kit is user-friendly, especially for those new to lawn maintenance tools. The lightweight design, combined with the adjustable handle and height, make it easy to operate. The tools are cordless, eliminating the hassle of dealing with power cords and offering more freedom of movement.

The low noise level is another advantage, making these tools more pleasant to use compared to their gas-powered counterparts. The automatic feed spool feature on the trimmer simplifies the trimming process, allowing you to focus on the task at hand without frequent interruptions.

Maintenance

Maintenance for this combo kit is minimal, primarily involving battery care and occasional cleaning of the tools. The cordless design means there are no gas engines to maintain, and the electric operation reduces the risk of mechanical issues. However, the long-term durability of the tools is questionable due to the seemingly cheaper build quality.

Value for Money

The Black & Decker 20V MAX* Combo Kit is reasonably priced, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. However, the value proposition diminishes if you need to purchase additional batteries to extend the runtime. The tools are best suited for light, occasional use, and may not offer the same value for those with larger yards or more demanding tasks.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

In conclusion, the Black & Decker 20V MAX* Lithium 10 In. String Trimmer/Edger and Hard Surface Sweeper Combo Kit offers a convenient, lightweight solution for small yard maintenance tasks. Its ease of use, low noise operation, and adjustable features make it appealing for casual users or those with physical limitations.

However, the limited battery life, lack of power for tougher jobs, and questionable build quality are significant drawbacks. If you have a larger yard or need a more robust solution, this combo kit may not meet your needs. For small, light-duty tasks, it performs adequately and offers good value for the price.

Would I recommend this tool? It depends. If you have a small yard and need a lightweight, easy-to-use tool for occasional maintenance, then yes, this combo kit could be a good fit. However, for more extensive or demanding yard work, you might be better off investing in a more powerful and durable option.