Skil PWR CORE 20 Brushless 13" String Trimmer and 400 CFM Leaf Blower Kit

It's not every day that you come across a tool combo that promises to tackle both trimming and blowing with the ease and efficiency of a premium setup. When I first got my hands on the Skil PWR CORE 20 Brushless 13" String Trimmer and 400 CFM Leaf Blower Kit, I was eager to put it through its paces. The kit includes a 13-inch string trimmer and a 400 CFM leaf blower, both powered by a 4.0Ah lithium-ion battery. It seemed like a perfect solution for my small to medium-sized yard, so I set out to see if it could meet my expectations.

First Impressions and Setup

Straight out of the box, the Skil kit impressed me with its robust build quality and thoughtful design. The tools felt sturdy but not overly heavy, which is a big plus for extended use. The dual-line bump feed on the trimmer and the patented Twist Load head for easy line loading were features I was particularly excited about. They promised hassle-free operation, and I was keen to see if they delivered.

The setup was straightforward. The battery charged relatively quickly, and attaching it to either tool was a breeze. The inclusion of easy storage brackets was a nice touch, making it convenient to store the tools without cluttering my garage.

Performance and Usability

String Trimmer

The string trimmer was the star of the show. With a cutting width of 13 inches, it made quick work of my lawn edges and overgrown areas. The dual power levels—high and low—were incredibly useful. I found myself using the low setting most of the time, as it provided ample power for trimming grass and light weeds. The high setting was reserved for tougher patches, and it didn't disappoint.

One of the standout features was the bump feed mechanism. It worked flawlessly, allowing me to release more line with minimal effort. The trimmer was also well-balanced, making it comfortable to use for extended periods. At just over 6 pounds, it was light enough to maneuver easily but heavy enough to feel substantial.

Leaf Blower

The leaf blower, while not as impressive as the trimmer, still performed adequately for my needs. With an air volume of 400 CFM, it handled grass clippings and light debris without any issues. However, it did struggle with larger piles of leaves or heavier debris. For quick cleanups after mowing, it was more than sufficient, but it might not be the best choice if you need to tackle more demanding tasks.

The blower's noise level was within acceptable limits, and it was quieter than my old gas-powered model, which was a pleasant surprise. Weighing in at 4.4 pounds, it was easy to handle and didn't cause any fatigue even after prolonged use.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is often a crucial factor for cordless tools, and the Skil kit performed admirably in this regard. On a single charge, I was able to trim my entire yard and still have enough juice left to use the blower for cleanup. For small to medium-sized yards, the 4.0Ah battery should be more than adequate. However, for larger properties, you might find yourself needing an extra battery to avoid interruptions.

Charging the battery was relatively quick, and the charger included in the kit did its job efficiently. It would have been nice if the kit included a second battery for longer jobs, but for the price point, the single battery is a fair compromise.

Durability and Maintenance

Both tools felt durable and well-constructed. The brushless motors are a significant upgrade over older models, promising longer life and better performance. The trimmer's head and the blower's nozzle were both made of sturdy materials that should withstand regular use.

Maintenance was straightforward. The trimmer's Twist Load head made replacing the line a simple task, and the blower required minimal upkeep. The 5-year warranty provided peace of mind, ensuring that any potential issues would be addressed by Skil's customer service.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Powerful Trimmer: The trimmer's dual power levels and efficient bump feed mechanism make it a joy to use.
• Durable Build: Both tools feel robust and well-constructed, promising longevity.
• Battery Life: The 4.0Ah battery provides ample run time for small to medium-sized yards.
• Ease of Use: Lightweight and well-balanced, the tools are comfortable to handle.
• Quiet Operation: The blower is quieter than traditional gas-powered models.

Cons:

• Blower Power: The blower struggles with heavier debris and might not be sufficient for larger tasks.
• Battery Inclusion: A second battery would have been a valuable addition for extended use.
• Initial Issues: Some users reported battery issues out of the box, though this was not my experience.

Final Verdict

After thoroughly testing the Skil PWR CORE 20 Brushless 13" String Trimmer and 400 CFM Leaf Blower Kit, I can confidently say it's a solid investment for homeowners with small to medium-sized yards. The trimmer's performance is outstanding, and while the blower isn't the most powerful on the market, it handles everyday tasks with ease.

If you already own other Skil 20V tools, this kit is a no-brainer, as you can interchange batteries and chargers. Even if you don't, the trimmer alone makes this combo worth considering. The durability, ease of use, and overall performance exceed expectations, making it a valuable addition to any homeowner's tool arsenal.

I would recommend this tool kit for anyone looking for a reliable, efficient, and easy-to-use solution for their yard maintenance needs. Just be prepared to invest in an extra battery if you have a larger property or more demanding tasks.