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

Navigating yard maintenance can be a challenge, especially when you're balancing efficiency with convenience. Enter the Black & Decker 20V MAX* Lithium 10 In. String Trimmer/Edger + Hard Surface Sweeper Combo Kit. I had the opportunity to put this combo to the test in my own yard, and here's my experience with these tools.

First Impressions and Build Quality

The Black & Decker trimmer and sweeper arrived in a compact package, and the initial unboxing was straightforward. Both tools are lightweight, with the string trimmer weighing in at 4.5 lbs and the sweeper at 3.7 lbs. For someone like me, who isn’t a professional landscaper, the manageable weight made the tools easy to maneuver and handle for extended periods.

The materials felt somewhat plasticky, which initially worried me about the durability. However, the lightweight design also means less fatigue during use, a crucial factor for anyone who might be using these tools for longer sessions. The string trimmer comes with an Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) that feeds the trimmer line without the need for bumping, a feature that simplifies the trimming process significantly.

Battery Life and Performance

The 20V MAX* Lithium Ion battery is included in the kit, along with a wall-mountable charging base. Charging the battery from empty took about 60 minutes, which is fairly standard for tools in this category. However, the battery life was a mixed bag.

Using the string trimmer, I found that the battery lasted around 20-25 minutes on average. While this was enough to handle the edging and trimming for a small to medium-sized yard, for larger yards, you might find yourself needing an extra battery to avoid downtime. The sweeper, on the other hand, seemed to be more efficient with its power usage, allowing me to clear driveways and patios without requiring a recharge during the task.

One notable point is that the battery tends to heat up during prolonged use, and it sometimes required cooling down before it could be recharged. This was a minor inconvenience but worth mentioning for those planning to use the tools for extended periods.

Trimmer and Edger Functionality

The trimmer's performance was satisfactory for light to moderate yard work. It easily handled overgrown grass and weeds, and the cutting path of 10 inches meant I could cover ground relatively quickly. Converting the trimmer to a wheeled edger was simple, and it did a commendable job along sidewalks and driveways.

However, for tougher jobs, the trimmer struggled a bit. It didn’t have the power of more robust, gas-powered models, and the automatic feed spool, while convenient, sometimes fed the line inconsistently. When it worked, it was great, but there were moments when I had to manually adjust the line.

Sweeper Capabilities

The sweeper is best described as a hard surface sweeper rather than a leaf blower. It worked effectively on hard surfaces like driveways, patios, and decks, clearing dust, small debris, and dry leaves with ease. However, it's not designed for heavy-duty leaf blowing or for handling wet leaves and substantial yard debris.

The low noise operation was a pleasant surprise. Both tools operated quietly, which is a significant advantage for those living in neighborhoods with noise restrictions or simply for anyone looking to maintain a peaceful environment.

Usability and Comfort

One of the standout features of this combo kit is its user-friendly design. The adjustable height and handle on the trimmer allowed me to find a comfortable working position, reducing strain on my back and arms. This is particularly beneficial for those who might be using the tools for longer periods or have physical limitations.

The lightweight nature of both tools means they are easy to carry and maneuver, even in tighter spaces or on uneven terrain. This aspect alone makes them a great option for homeowners who need reliable tools without the bulk and weight of more industrial models.

Conclusion

The Black & Decker 20V MAX* Lithium 10 In. String Trimmer/Edger + Hard Surface Sweeper Combo Kit offers a practical solution for light to moderate yard maintenance. Its lightweight design, ease of use, and convenience make it an attractive option for homeowners with small to medium-sized yards.

However, there are some limitations. The battery life could be better, especially for those with larger yards or more demanding tasks. The build quality, while sufficient for occasional use, may not stand up to heavy, frequent usage. Also, the power of the trimmer and sweeper is adequate but not exceptional, which is something to consider if you need tools for more intensive yard work.

Would I recommend this combo kit? Yes, but with reservations. If you have a small to medium-sized yard and need tools for light to moderate maintenance, this kit is a solid choice. Its lightweight and user-friendly design make it particularly suitable for those who might find heavier, more powerful tools cumbersome. However, if you require more powerful, durable tools for extensive yard work, you might want to consider other options or be prepared to invest in additional batteries to extend the runtime.

In summary, the Black & Decker 20V MAX* Lithium Combo Kit is a dependable, user-friendly set of tools that excel in convenience and ease of use, making it a worthwhile investment for the right user.