DeWalt Cordless String Trimmer

As someone who's spent countless hours maintaining a yard, I know the value of a reliable string trimmer. My latest endeavor with the DeWalt Cordless String Trimmer, model DCST970B, has been quite the journey, offering a mix of powerful performance and a few notable frustrations.

Design and Ergonomics

First off, the design of this trimmer is commendable. Its lightweight and ergonomic build makes it easy to handle, even during extended use. The balance is well thought out, especially with a 9Ah battery attached, distributing the weight evenly and reducing forearm strain. The variable speed trigger with high/low speed control is a nice touch, giving me the flexibility to adjust the power based on the task at hand.

The 15-inch cutting swath is generous, allowing for efficient trimming over large areas. However, the debris guard is surprisingly small, which means you’re likely to get hit by clippings. This is a significant downside, especially if you're used to working in shorts during the hot summer months. I found myself covered in grass and debris more often than I’d like, which detracts from the overall user experience.

Performance and Power

When it comes to cutting power, the DeWalt trimmer does not disappoint. It easily slices through long grass and invasive weeds, thanks to the high-efficiency brushless motor. The ability to use both 0.080 and 0.095-inch lines provides versatility, especially when tackling tougher vegetation. I was particularly impressed with how it handled thick Bermuda grass and even some light brush.

However, the runtime is a mixed bag. While the trimmer is capable of handling a half-acre yard on a single charge with a 9Ah battery, those with larger properties will find the battery life insufficient. In my experience, the trimmer uses up a full 60V Flexvolt battery in about 20 to 30 minutes of continuous use. For extensive yard work, you will need multiple batteries, which adds to the overall cost.

Maintenance and Durability

One of the most significant issues I encountered was the durability of the motor. After just a few uses, I noticed a burning smell, followed by smoke emanating from the motor. This eventually led to the motor failing entirely. This wasn’t an isolated incident, as it happened with multiple units. It’s a glaring flaw that raises concerns about the long-term reliability of the trimmer.

The trimmer head also has its shortcomings. The bump feed head is convenient, but it tends to get clogged with debris, which can stop the line from advancing. Replacing the line isn’t as straightforward as advertised. I had to take the head off multiple times to thread new line because it kept getting stuck. This is far from the seamless experience I expected from a brand like DeWalt.

Noise and Vibration

One area where the DeWalt trimmer excels is noise control. It’s significantly quieter than gas-powered trimmers, making it a more pleasant experience for both the user and the neighbors. The reduced noise level doesn’t come at the expense of power, which is a major plus.

However, the trimmer does have a notable amount of vibration. While it’s not as intense as a gas-powered model, it’s still enough to cause discomfort during prolonged use. This is something to consider if you have a lot of trimming to do.

Practical Use and Recommendations

For small to medium-sized yards, the DeWalt trimmer is a solid choice. It offers the power of a gas trimmer without the hassle of fuel and maintenance. The quick and easy startup is a significant advantage, especially for those who want to get straight to work without fiddling with a carburetor.

However, for larger properties or more demanding tasks, the limitations become apparent. The short battery life and the need for multiple batteries can be a hassle. The motor’s tendency to overheat and fail is a serious concern that DeWalt needs to address. Additionally, the small debris guard and tricky line replacement process detract from the overall user experience.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the DeWalt Cordless String Trimmer is a powerful tool with a lot of potential, but it’s not without its flaws. If you have a smaller yard and already own other DeWalt 60V tools, this trimmer could be a convenient addition to your collection. Its cutting power, ease of use, and quiet operation are definite highlights.

However, if you have a larger property or need a trimmer for heavy-duty use, you might want to consider other options. The motor’s durability issues and the need for frequent battery changes can be frustrating and costly in the long run. DeWalt has some work to do in refining this model to make it a more reliable and user-friendly tool.

So, would I recommend the DeWalt Cordless String Trimmer? For light to moderate yard work, yes. It’s a powerful, convenient tool that gets the job done efficiently. But for heavy-duty tasks and larger properties, I’d advise looking for a more robust and reliable option.