The best backpack brushcutters in the UK 2023

The backpack brushcutter is a revolutionary garden tool that allows you to get rid of weeds without getting tired. Practical, efficient and functional, it is suitable for all terrains (sloping or uneven) extending up to 5000 m². If you want to take advantage of the power of a 2 or 4-stroke engine, take a look at our selection of the best backpack brushcutters.

Oleo Mac BCH400BP
9/10

Editor's Choice

Oleo Mac BCH400BP

Best backpack brushcutter in 2021

It's not easy to maintain a large garden when you don't have the right equipment. That's why this maneuverable backpack brushcutter is so useful. Its lightness and performance on all types of terrain will impress you.

295 £ on Manomano

The Oleo Mac BCH400BP is one of the most powerful backpack brushcutters. It is equipped with a 2-stroke engine with a power of 1500 W and a displacement of 40.2 cm³. It weighs only 5.7 kg, which is very light for such a device. Moreover, this characteristic makes it particularly easy to handle. Its tank has a capacity of 750 ml, ensuring a good autonomy. As accessories, you will receive a tap'n Go nylon head with a diameter of 130 mm and a 2.4 mm thread.

For added comfort, the Oleo Mac BCH400BP has a harness with padded shoulder straps. This will make gardening work, previously considered difficult, a real pleasure. Note that it can access difficult areas such as undergrowth with ease. Whether you use it on steep or uneven terrain, its bearings coupled with its air filter promise constant efficiency.

Silex France 2 en 1
8/10

Best cheapest

Flint France 2 in 1

Best entry-level backpack brushcutter

Equipped with a 52 cc engine, the Silex France 2 in 1 backpack brushcutter will help you work in narrow areas and on slopes in the best conditions.

119 £ on Amazon

The Silex France 2 in 1 model consists of a solid safety harness. You will feel very little of its weight, the load distribution being homogeneous. The arrangement of the straps, like the backrest, has been studied in great detail to minimize the strain on your back muscles. The backpack brushcutter is equipped with a 3-tooth blade and a 2-wire head, thanks to which it can easily mow all the grass in its path.

In addition to its French manufacturing quality, the Silex France 2 in 1 is remarkably reliable and convenient. Its new backrest provides greater comfort while simplifying the execution of your maintenance work. The coupling, also an innovation of this model, seems relatively solid. Its ergonomic D-shaped anti-vibration handle makes it easy to grip and handle. And for those who wish to own an all-in-one equipment, you can purchase additional extensions to transform your Silex France 2 in 1 into a pruner or a hedge trimmer.

Makita EM4350RH
9/10

Best high end

Makita EM4350RH

Best high-end backpack brushcutter

The quietest of this comparison, the Makita EM4350RH is also the least polluting thanks to its 4 stroke engine. If you want to reduce your fuel consumption, this is the one you need.

517 £ on Manomano

The EM4350RH is distinguished by its advanced Makita MM4 4-stroke engine. With the same power, this type of engine promises low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to its 2-stroke counterpart. Its sound level seems more pleasant and does not hammer the eardrums. Its service life is significantly improved. The engine has a solid construction with a chrome-plated cylinder. The brushcutter also features a double-bearing connecting rod, a metal cam and a fluoride rubber packing.

The Makita EM4350RH requires very little maintenance on your part. As for the valve clearance, you don't have to adjust it frequently. Once every 200 hours is enough. The priming pump will work in harmony with the automatic decompressor to facilitate the starting process. When unloaded, the 255 mm diameter 4-tooth blade rotates at a speed of 10,500 rpm. The spindle has a speed of 7200 rpm.

Scheppach BCH53000BP
8/10

Excellent choice

Scheppach BCH53000BP

Best multi-function backpack brushcutter

What better way to limit your garden tool expenses than with a multifunctional brushcutter? In addition to its basic function, it can also be used as a hedge trimmer, pruner and edger.

233 £ on Conforama

The Scheppach BCH53000BP has a 2-stroke engine with a displacement of 51.7 cm³. This is what gives it its 1300 W power, which is more than enough to carry out the usual gardening work such as brush cutting. The back harness, supporting the engine, is fully adjustable. Its shoulder straps are perfectly padded to absorb the maximum amount of vibrations emitted when the backpack brushcutter is in operation. And of course, low vibration means long life.

Best of all, this model is far more versatile than you might think. Through its various attachments, it can easily replace a pruner, hedge trimmer and edger. The compact pruner version has a cutting capacity of 254 mm. The 2-wire trimmer head has a cutting diameter of 450 mm. In hedge trimmer mode, this device allows a cutting capacity of 24 mm for a length of 40 cm via its double action blades.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best backpack brushcutter

Any specific needs?

Best backpack brushcutter in 2021

Best entry-level backpack brushcutter

Best high-end backpack brushcutter

Best multi-function backpack brushcutter

Your guide : Samuel

Rate this buying guide :
0/50 votes

By rating this buying guide, you are helping us to reward our best writers. Thank you!

Comparison table of the best backpack brushcutters

THE BEST LESS EXPENSIVE TOP OF THE RANGE Multifunction
Oleo Mac BCH400BP
9/10
Silex France 2 en 1
8/10
Makita EM4350RH
9/10
Scheppach BCH53000BP
8/10
OUR SELECTION
Oleo Mac BCH400BP
Flint France 2 in 1
Makita EM4350RH
Scheppach BCH53000BP
It's not easy to maintain a large garden when you don't have the right equipment. That's why this maneuverable backpack brushcutter is so useful. Its lightness and performance on all types of terrain will impress you.
Equipped with a 52 cc engine, the Silex France 2 in 1 backpack brushcutter will help you work in narrow areas and on slopes in the best conditions.
The quietest of this comparison, the Makita EM4350RH is also the least polluting thanks to its 4 stroke engine. If you want to reduce your fuel consumption, this is the one you need.
What better way to limit your garden tool expenses than with a multifunctional brushcutter? In addition to its basic function, it can also be used as a hedge trimmer, pruner and edger.
Engine
2-stroke
2-stroke
4 stroke
2-stroke
Power
1500 W
2200 W (3 HP)
1500 W
1.3 kW (1.8 HP)
Weight
5.7 kg
7.5 kg
12 kg
-
Tank capacity
0.75 L
1.025 L
0.8 L
1 L
Cylinder capacity
40.2 cm³
52 cm³
43 cm³
51.7 cm³

Help us improve this table:
Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!

Buying guide - backpack brushcutter

Primary Item (H2)Sub Item 1 (H3)

Why can you trust us?

Why you can trust us
Our mission
How to support us
We do NOT accept any sponsored posts or advertising.

We spend thousands of hours each year studying the major specialized websites, analyzing products of hundreds of brands and reading user feedback to advise you on the best products.

Our mission is to simplify your purchasing decisions.

We are a product review company with a single mission: to simplify your buying decisions. Our research and testing helps millions of people every year find the best products for their personal needs and budget.

We are a small team of geeks and enthusiasts.

To support us you can: use our links to make your purchases (which often earns us a small commission), share our articles on social networks, or recommend our site on your blog. Thanks in advance for your support!

How to choose your backpack brushcutter

Choosing a backpack brushcutter is not something you do on a whim or a whim. You need to look at certain technical features before you make your choice. With this in mind, base your choice on these 5 key criteria:
choisir débroussailleuse à dos

#1 - The power supply

Electric backpack brushcutters are becoming increasingly rare in favor of thermal backpack brushcutters. This is certainly due to the fact that the thermal model, which runs exclusively on fuel, is more powerful. Very popular with professionals, this machine also allows for a great deal of freedom of movement and can get rid of both brambles and brush. Thanks to its engine, 2 or 4 strokes, with a displacement oscillating between 40 to 65 cm³, the equipment covers a maximum of 5000 m² of land.

#2 - The cutting system

The power of your future backpack brushcutter will determine its use. It varies, in general, from 1000 to 2200 W. As soon as it passes the 1300 W mark, the motorized equipment can already be considered powerful. The higher the value, the more you can uproot thick branches and brambles. Therefore, pay particular attention to the type of vegetation invading your green space.

#3 - The cutting width

As far as the cutting system is concerned, you have the choice between nylon wires, grass knives and blades. This parameter will be based, like the previous one, on the type of vegetation observed in your garden.

  • Nylon line : You will be able to remove fine grass, lawn and brambles more easily without much effort. However, the cutting heads, whether they have 2, 3 or 4 threads, wear out quickly.
  • Grass knives : A backpack brushcutter equipped with grass knives is best used when vegetation such as brush, brambles and reeds is fairly dense and tall.
  • The blades : are perfectly suited for intensive use. The performance and durability of this cutting system will leave you amazed. Make sure that no obstacle will get in the way of your backpack brushcutter. Otherwise, you risk getting rock thrown at you. Also, remember to match the cutting width to the different types of work you need to do.

#4 - The comfort options

The duration of your work depends mainly on the cutting width of your backpack brushcutter. Also, don't forget to take into account the total surface area of the yard as well as the volume of grass to be treated. The cutting width of this type of machine usually ranges from 25 to 43 cm. Be aware, however, that the wider it gets, the quicker you will finish clearing your garden.

#5 -

It is normal for the backpack brushcutter to be heavy. This is largely due to its heat engine. Since you'll be carrying it on your back throughout the brush-cutting process, try to find a model with moderate weight. Also, look for harnesses with adjustable shoulder straps. It's even better if they are padded.

Finally, consider the ease of handling the backpack trimmer. Its handle should be ergonomic and its arm telescopic. And why not go straight for a model with dual adjustable handlebars? The starting mechanism and safety features such as the wide protective cover should also be checked.

Some tips for maintaining a backpack brushcutter

avis débroussailleuse à dos

The backpack brushcutter is a relatively powerful cutting tool. In order to maintain its performance and good working order, it is important to take good care of it. That said, it must be recognized that this type of machine requires time for maintenance. At the same time, you must be thorough and adopt a precise discipline to simplify the task. How do you properly maintain your backpack brushcutter? Follow our advice!

Before you even start the machine, make sure the tank is full and that every part is in the right place. If you use a fuel mixture, make sure you use it up within 2 months. Avoid storing it longer than that or it will lose its quality. Fuel can clog engine components and cause engine failure.

Do you use your backpack trimmer on a regular basis? If so, check the condition of the parts, including the cutting head, from time to time. This is usually done every 3 months. You'll see if anything needs replacing or if it just needs cleaning.

And if your machine is leaking or making strange noises that sound suspicious, don't hesitate to inspect the inside of the motor and any other components that may contain fluid. If you don't have the heart to do it, ask a competent person or a professional to help you. Of course, you can avoid these problems by periodically cleaning parts such as filters (air and fuel) and the spark plug. A properly done oil change, following the manufacturer's instructions, will protect the engine in the long run.

The different types of backpack brushcutters

Backpack brushcutters require a good autonomy and a correct power for a medium weight. They can be classified according to their motorization. In this context, here is how to distinguish the 2-stroke model from the 4-stroke model with a special mention to the multi-function backpack brushcutter.

2-cycle backpack trimmer

Débroussailleuse à dos 2 temps

The 2-stroke engine is characterized by its lightness compared to the 4-stroke engine. Gasoline and oil are mixed here. Air is then added as fuel. The 2-stroke backpack brushcutter is classified as a lost lubrication model. The moving parts are not automatically lubricated. For a complete cycle, the crankshaft is driven only once by the piston.

This type of model requires very little maintenance. However, its power is still adequate for all garden maintenance work. This is why it is one of the most popular models of the moment. The 2-stroke backpack brushcutter does have a few shortcomings, however. Among its shortcomings is the fragility of its engine. Less resistant, it is only intended for occasional use. The 4-stroke engine is powered strictly by pure gasoline, i.e. unleaded premium fuel. Its main advantage is its permanent lubrication. The oil, more precisely conventional engine oil, not being in contact with the fuel, will serve as lubricant. In this sense, 2 revolutions made by the crankshaft will constitute a complete cycle. The 4-stroke engine is easily recognizable because, unlike the 2-stroke engine, it has an oil pan and valves and is relatively heavy.

The oil contained in the crankcase will lubricate the moving parts. Therefore, it is imperative to check the oil level and to change it regularly. It is this amount of oil combined with additional parts such as valves and controls that make the 4-stroke backpack trimmer heavy, among other things.

4-cycle backpack trimmer

Débroussailleuse à dos 4 temps

The multi-functional backpack trimmer can take care of an area of up to 5,000 square meters. The considerable power deployed by this cutting tool allows you to clear tall grass effortlessly. Apart from its initial role, the device also functions as an edger, pruner and hedge trimmer.

Dealing with small bushes, removing weeds, reaching small branches high up and making beautiful finishes will no longer be a secret for you. The best part is that everything can be done with one piece of equipment. To do this, the backpack brushcutter comes with various accessories such as a telescopic pole, chains and guide bars, cutting heads with blades and knives.

Multi-function backpack trimmer

Débroussailleuse à dos multifonction

Backpack or towed brushcutter?

Backpack brushcutter

As its name suggests, this brushcutter is worn on the back. It is used for the maintenance of a large garden composed in its majority of dense vegetation, that is to say a space of a maximum surface of 5000 m². And even though it will make you look a little like a schoolboy, the scope of the work it can do is not childish.

This family of brushcutters has the advantage of being practical. The way you hold it keeps you from getting tired. It also takes up less space. With a backpack brushcutter, you can traverse steep terrain and access underbrush, slopes and difficult areas with ease. It is important to note that it is available in 3 versions: 2-stroke engine, 4-stroke engine and multifunction.

Towed brushcutter

Known as wheeled brushcutters or mobile brushcutters and belonging to the category of thermal brushcutters, the towed model is usually equipped with a 4-stroke engine with a displacement ranging from 150 to 200 cm³. The machine has a power of 3.5 to 6.5 HP. It has been designed to maintain large areas up to 10,000 m² in good condition with a cutting width of up to 65 cm.

If the machine manages to cut brush, brambles and tall grass without difficulty, it is mainly due to its chassis equipped with a profiled bow, which allows it to get through the immense vegetation. Its large wheels guarantee optimal traction on uneven terrain.

Verdict

The two types of thermal brushcutters can be very complementary. If you want to work on uneven surfaces, the backpack brushcutter is the best choice. Multi-functional models will save you the extra expense of hedge trimmers, edgers and pruners. Access to slopes and undergrowth will be a breeze. Beware, however, of the weight of its engine, which can rise to 10 kg.

If, on the other hand, you want to work on a large area of between 5,000 and 10,000 m², it is better to opt for a towed brushcutter. Its high power is made for that, as well as its cutting capacity. It's a pity that it is not suitable for steep slopes, undergrowth and coppice.

Why buy a backpack brushcutter?

pourquoi acheter débroussailleuse à dos

Reliability and performance

The backpack brushcutter offers a number of advantages. It is not lacking in performance. Its high and constant power allows efficient clearing of brambles and bushes. With its long handle and cutting head, you can reach coppice, undergrowth and other difficult areas without effort.

Handling

The backpack brushcutter is also a handy and fast piece of equipment. Most models are lightweight. To make it easier to hold and handle, the machine has an ergonomic D-handle or double handlebars. The engine block, the heaviest part of the brushcutter, is placed on the back by means of a harness. This will spread the load over both shoulders.

Smart design

The design of the backpack brushcutter has been studied. This way, it is predestined to be used on different types of surfaces, including irregular terrain. Steep slopes are not an obstacle at all. The engine, located on the back of the carrier, limits vibrations. Its handle, on which the trigger is mounted, simplifies the maneuver.

Resistant to intensive use

Unlike an electric brushcutter, the thermal backpack model is powerful enough to last for long hours without flinching. It can handle a multitude of tasks while providing ample autonomy. If the tank capacity does not match the size of your green space, simply bring a full can of gasoline.

Reasonable price

The cost of purchasing a backpack brushcutter differs depending on the brand, the engine and the power of its motor. However, you should keep in mind that you will not pay more than 1500 € for such equipment. On average, a 2-stroke brushcutter with a power of 1 to 3 kW is worth about 150 to 1300 €. A 4-stroke model with a power of 1 to 2 kW will cost you between 500 and 1200 €.

The best brands of backpack brushcutters

In our opinion, the best brands of backpack brushcutters in 2022 are :

Oleo Mac
Silex France
Makita
Scheppach
GT Garden

Like Nibbi, Efcon or Bertolini, Oleo Mac is a subsidiary of the Emak group. It specializes in the production and sale of a wide range of products that give you the opportunity to take care of your green space. The brand enriches its catalog with innovative tools such as hedge trimmers, lawn mowers, pruners and backpack brush cutters that are specifically appreciated for their excellent quality/price ratio.

Silex is a French brand expert in garden maintenance tools and DIY essentials. It caters to both professionals and amateurs and offers them a range of good quality equipment. Its backpack brushcutters are very popular because of their affordable acquisition cost.

Makita was born in the 15s in Japan. As for the French branch, it was created around 1971. Specialized in portable electric tools, the brand targets first and foremost professionals. Its backpack brushcutters are renowned for their performance, but also their ergonomics and reliability.

Scheppach is a major player in the field of garden tools. Possessing almost 100 years of experience, the brand has been able to highlight all its know-how in designing practical and functional equipment without compromising on price. Its multi-function backpack brushcutter is currently among the references in the world of electroportable.

Since its creation in 2012, the French brand GT Garden has never ceased to offer its customers efficient and effective gardening equipment. This ranges from chainsaws to pruners, backpack brushcutters, lawnmowers and hedge trimmers. It covers all price ranges in order to better understand all needs.

What is the price for a backpack brushcutter

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
125 £ to 350 £
Mid-range
350 £ to 600 £
High-end
more than 600 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Use your backpack brushcutter properly

Improper handling of the backpack brushcutter will cause irreparable damage. To avoid them, always try to start your equipment on level ground. Brush in an arc, sweeping from left to right. Assuming you want to work around a tree, tighten the protective cover as close to the obstacle as possible so you can mow the grass properly.

Think about your safety

There's no denying that using a cutting tool is dangerous if it's mishandled. The backpack brushcutter is no exception. But you can equip yourself to prevent the risks. In this area, wearing protective clothing with good coverage, especially made of heavy fabric, is a must. Gloves, a helmet, non-slip safety shoes and safety glasses will complete it. Don't turn on the machine until you have moved both your children and your pets at least 15 to 20 m away from the area to be cleared.

Take the time to understand your equipment

That's it! You've finally received your backpack brushcutter. But be careful! It's not advisable to use it right away. Take your time and study the manual to understand the basics of the power tool. The most important thing is to have access to the emergency stop button at all times. Also, never work on a soft, wet surface. Wait until the ground is dry before you start clearing brush.

Prepare the ground before you clear brush

Don't start the backpack brushcutter in the garage or other enclosed space. The toxic gas released upon ignition will surely choke you. Also, study the terrain beforehand. Remove any obstacles such as branches, rocks, etc. If you step on them, a moment of imbalance could cause you to fall, which can only be dangerous.

The right cutting technique for the terrain

Brush clearing is accessible to anyone. You just need to adopt the right techniques. To do this, move back and forth across the vegetation following the direction of rotation of the cutting system (blade or wire). If there are sloped areas, using the strip method will be effective. Working from the outside to the inside in a square format would be practical for flat areas.

FAQ

How to increase the power of a backpack brushcutter?

If your backpack trimmer is losing power, the diaphragm may be punctured. Replacing the needles will solve this problem. On the other hand, check the gas exhaust pipe for clogged carbon residue. If it has, you have two options: either change the entire gas filter or retune the fuel.

Why does my backpack brushcutter choke when I accelerate?

Choking on a backpack trimmer is very common. It most often occurs when accelerating and when the level of fuel in the tank is excessively low. This inevitably causes a cut. To overcome this problem, you simply need to add fuel. In fact, it is recommended that you always check the fuel level before using a thermal appliance.

How to start a 2-stroke backpack brushcutter?

Prepare the fuel and pour it into the tank of the 2-stroke engine. Once ready, set up the cutting tool that you feel is best suited to the area to be maintained. Adjust the safety harness straps. Do the same for the handles if you want to work in comfort. Point the launcher upward with the body of the unit flat on the ground. Turn on the backpack brushcutter with the on/off button.

How to brushcut without a backpack brushcutter?

It is possible to brushcut without tools. Start with a chemical brushcutting technique. A total weed killer may work well for heavy vegetation. Give the product time to work, obviously respecting the manufacturer's instructions. Use an axe or even a pickaxe to remove brush and dead wood. This method may seem like a lot of work, but it is economical and environmentally friendly.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. How to choose your brush cutter, manomano.fr
  2. How to choose your brush cutter?, leroymerlin.fr
  3. Combustion brush cutter or electric brush cutter: how to choose?, jardinage.lemonde.fr
  4. My brush cutter chokes when accelerating what to do?, bricoconseil.fr
  5. How to start a brush cutter?, cdiscount.com
  6. How to start a brushcutter or edger with a 2-stroke engine, blog.pieces-mcculloch-chs.com
  7. The Best Brush Cutter of 2021, pricerunner.com
  8. 2021 Best Professional Brush Cutter: Top Reviews, gardeningethics.com
  9. Choose your brushcutter, gammvert.fr
  10. Choose a brushcutter, prodestravaux.com
  11. Amazon.co.uk : backpack brush cutter, amazon.co.uk
  12. Professional Backpack Brush Cutter - 20 models ..., agrieuro.fr
  13. Best Backpack Brush Cutter (2021) | Maisonae, maisonae.fr
  14. Backpack Brush Cutter - Oleo-Mac, oleomac.fr
  15. Backpack Brush Cutter | Handy & Comfortable | Honda FR, jardin.honda.fr
  16. Backpack Brush Cutters - ECHO | ECHO France, echo-france.fr
  17. Backpack Brush Cutters 2 in 1 - Silex France, silexfrance.fr
  18. Professional Backpack Brush Cutter at the best price ...., leroymerlin.fr
  19. Backpack brushcutters : our comparison and buying guide ..., debroussaillez.fr
  20. Backpack brushcutters : battery powered thermal ..., castorama.fr
  21. Backpack brushcutters Silex France., silexfrance.fr
  22. Backpack Brushcutter FR 460 TC-EM | STIHL, stihl.fr
  23. Best Brushcutters 2021 - Test and Comparison, futura-sciences.com
  24. Backpack Brushcutter 4 in 1 2-stroke engine 49 HP, euro-expos.com
  25. Backpack Brushcutter | Bricomarché, bricomarche.com
  26. Backpack Brushcutter at mini price - ManoMano, manomano.fr
  27. Backpack Brushcutter STIHL Backpack Brushcutter or ...., jardins-loisirs.com
  28. HUSQVARNA 553RBX Professional Backpack Brushcutter, husqvarna.com
  29. Our opinion on the Backpack Brushcutter ..., maisonae.fr
  30. Brushcutter parts cheap and discount ..., webmotoculture.com
  31. Brushcutters - McCulloch, mcculloch.com
  32. Brushcutter | Leroy Merlin, leroymerlin.fr
  33. Backpack Brushcutters - AgriEuro, agrieuro.fr
  34. Backpack Brushcutter VR540ME - KAAZ, sabre-france.com
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
Oleo Mac BCH400BP
Oleo Mac BCH400BP
Silex France 2 en 1
Flint France 2 in 1
Makita EM4350RH
Makita EM4350RH
Scheppach BCH53000BP
Scheppach BCH53000BP

Lecteurs

Every month we help more than 1 000 000 people buy better and smarter.

Copyright © 2022 - Made with by buyingbetter.co.uk

Your reviews and buying guides 0% advertising, 100% independent!