Black & Decker Leaf Blower and String Trimmer Combo Kit

The Black & Decker Leaf Blower and String Trimmer Combo Kit (model BCK279D2) brings a convenient and lightweight solution to your yard maintenance needs, especially for smaller properties. As someone who values ease of use and portability, I found these tools quite appealing for their cordless operation and compact design. However, some aspects of their performance left me with mixed feelings.

Design and Portability

First and foremost, the cordless nature of both the leaf blower and the string trimmer is a significant advantage. No more tripping over extension cords or being limited by the nearest power outlet. Both the blower and trimmer are powered by a 20V MAX lithium-ion battery, making them exceptionally portable. The kit includes two batteries and a charger, which is a thoughtful addition. The tools are lightweight, with the trimmer weighing just about 13 pounds, making them easy to handle and maneuver, especially beneficial for users who need to cover a lot of ground quickly.

Performance and Usability

String Trimmer

The string trimmer is equipped with an automatic feed system, which theoretically eliminates the need for bumping. In practice, however, I found that the line advancement was not always reliable. Occasionally, I had to stop and manually adjust the spool, which was a bit frustrating. The cutting radius felt slightly smaller than I anticipated, which means more passes are needed to cover the same area, particularly in denser patches of grass and weeds.

On the positive side, the trimmer's adjustable height is a welcome feature, allowing users to find a comfortable working position. The 20V battery lasted around 20-25 minutes, which is adequate for light trimming tasks. For larger or more demanding tasks, having spare batteries on hand is essential. Fortunately, the batteries are compatible with other Black & Decker tools, adding to their versatility.

Leaf Blower

The leaf blower, while compact and easy to use, has a limited capacity. It offers up to 320 CFM and 90 MPH, which is sufficient for clearing light debris, dust, and dry leaves from smaller areas like patios and driveways. However, it struggles with heavier debris or larger spaces. The two-speed control is useful for switching between different tasks, but the overall power of the blower felt underwhelming for anything beyond light-duty cleaning.

Battery life for the blower is another consideration. The same 20V battery also powers the blower for about 20-30 minutes, depending on usage. Given that both tools share the same battery type, juggling battery life between the trimmer and blower can be a bit of a balancing act. Charging the batteries takes a reasonable amount of time, but it’s something to plan for if you have multiple tasks in one session.

Build Quality and Durability

The build quality of both tools is generally good. They feel sturdy and well-constructed, though not particularly heavy-duty. The materials used are lightweight but seem durable enough for regular use. However, I did encounter some concerns regarding the durability of the trimmer line mechanism and the blower's overall power. The trimmer line occasionally got stuck or did not advance smoothly, which could indicate a potential longevity issue.

Ease of Assembly and Storage

One of the standout features of this combo kit is its ease of assembly. Setting up both the trimmer and blower was straightforward and took only a few minutes. The telescoping handle of the trimmer makes it easy to adjust for different user heights and also allows for compact storage. This is especially useful for those with limited storage space.

Value for Money

Priced affordably, the Black & Decker Leaf Blower and String Trimmer Combo Kit offers good value for homeowners with smaller yards who require light maintenance tools. The inclusion of two batteries and a charger adds to the overall value, as it allows for extended work periods without waiting for a recharge.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

In summary, the Black & Decker Leaf Blower and String Trimmer Combo Kit is a practical choice for those needing lightweight, easy-to-use tools for light yard maintenance. The cordless design and included batteries make it particularly convenient for small to mid-sized properties.

However, if you have a larger yard or need tools with more power and durability for tougher jobs, you might find this combo kit somewhat lacking. The limited battery life and occasional issues with the trimmer line can be frustrating for more intensive tasks.

Would I recommend this tool? For homeowners with modest yard maintenance needs and a preference for cordless convenience, yes, this combo kit is a solid choice. It’s easy to handle, reasonably priced, and comes with the reliability of a trusted brand like Black & Decker. For those with more demanding requirements, it might be worth exploring more powerful options.