Skil Brushless 40V 14 IN. String Trimmer Kit

When maintaining a lawn, having the right tools can make all the difference. Recently, I had the chance to test out the Skil Brushless 40V String Trimmer, and I must say, my experience was a mixed bag. This trimmer combines several promising features with some notable drawbacks, making it a tool worth discussing in detail.

First Impressions and Assembly

Straight out of the box, the Skil 40V String Trimmer makes a solid first impression with its lightweight design. Weighing in at just 6.8 pounds, this trimmer is significantly lighter than many other 40V models on the market. The assembly was straightforward, thanks to the Twist Load Head, which simplifies the process of inserting the trimmer line. However, I found that the provided allen key/phillips head tool was not particularly useful for tightening the shaft screws, so I recommend using a standard screwdriver instead.

Battery and Charger

One of the trimmer's standout features is its PWRCORE 40 lithium battery technology. The kit includes a 2.5Ah battery and an Auto PWRJUMP charger, which is supposed to provide a 15-minute charging capability. In practice, the battery did charge relatively quickly, though not always in 15 minutes. The run time was impressive, allowing me to tackle my entire yard without needing a recharge. However, if you have a larger property, you might find yourself needing a second charge to complete the job.

Performance and Usability

The digital brushless motor delivers efficient power, and the cutting width of 14 inches is sufficient for most residential trimming tasks. The trimmer easily handled grass and weeds, and the dual-line bump feed mechanism worked well for the most part. However, I did encounter some issues with the bump head. While it initially worked smoothly, over time, I noticed that the line would sometimes get stuck, requiring me to manually fix it. This was particularly frustrating during longer jobs.

The trimmer's balance is another point worth mentioning. Despite its lightweight design, the trimmer felt somewhat unbalanced, with the battery adding noticeable weight to the back. This made it slightly awkward to maneuver, especially during extended use. Adding a support strap helped alleviate some of this discomfort, but it's something to consider if you plan to use the trimmer for long periods.

Durability and Build Quality

Durability is where the Skil 40V String Trimmer shows some weaknesses. Within a few months of use, I noticed some wear and tear on the handle, which felt flimsy under the weight of the tool. The string head unit also posed durability concerns, as I had to replace it multiple times within a short period. The plastic components, particularly around the string head, seemed prone to breaking, which is disappointing given the overall promising performance of the motor and battery.

Safety and Additional Features

Safety is always a concern with power tools, and the Skil 40V String Trimmer includes some thoughtful features. The variable speed trigger allows for better control, and the quiet operation means you won't disturb your neighbors during early morning or late evening use. However, I would have appreciated a trigger lock feature to reduce hand fatigue during prolonged use.

Customer Service and Warranty

Customer service is an area where Skil could improve significantly. I encountered some issues with a defective part and found the process of getting a replacement to be cumbersome and time-consuming. Despite registering the product for the advertised five-year warranty, I faced delays and a lack of communication from Skil's support team. This is a critical area for potential buyers to consider, as reliable customer support can make a significant difference in the overall ownership experience.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

The Skil Brushless 40V String Trimmer has several strengths, including its lightweight design, efficient battery technology, and powerful motor. It's easy to use and offers a good balance of power and convenience for residential lawn care. However, the durability issues, particularly with the string head unit and handle, along with the less-than-stellar customer service, are significant drawbacks.

Would I recommend the Skil 40V String Trimmer? It depends on your needs and expectations. If you have a smaller yard and prioritize ease of use and battery efficiency, this trimmer could be a good fit. However, if you require a more robust and durable tool for larger or more demanding tasks, you might want to consider other options. The trimmer shows promise, but it needs some improvements in durability and customer support to become a top contender in its category.