When comparing Black & Decker LST136 vs Poulan Pro PP25CFA, the Slant community recommends Black & Decker LST136 for most people. In the question“What are the best string trimmers?” Black & Decker LST136 is ranked 3rd while Poulan Pro PP25CFA is ranked 7th. The most important reason people chose Black & Decker LST136 is:
This lightweight trimmer is extremely easy to use: just pull it out of the shed, check if the string is loaded, attach the battery, and you are good to go without any power cords, oil mixing, or spark plug cleaning.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Hassle-free operation
This lightweight trimmer is extremely easy to use: just pull it out of the shed, check if the string is loaded, attach the battery, and you are good to go without any power cords, oil mixing, or spark plug cleaning.
Pro Requires little maintenance
Contrarily to what happens with gas string trimmers, there is no need to worry about oil, spark plugs, engine wear, or keeping extra gas.
Pro Converts into an edging tool
With a quick turn of the shaft, the trimmer can quickly become an edger, complete with height guard to keep your edges even. Additionally, a built-in guide helps to keep the edge straight and even. It flips up out of the way when the unit is in trimming mode. Versatility like this eliminates the need to buy another tool just for edging.
Pro Easy to repair, if needed
Black & Decker provides spare parts and plans for this trimmer, so you can just order a new part and replace it yourself.
Pro Easy to wind trimming line
Since it is a single-line trimmer it is easier to wind in the line without any unnecessary tangles that can happen with dual line trimmers.
Pro Automatic line feed
The line feeds itself, depending on the resistance detected, as you trim along.
Pro Wide cutting path
The trimmer has a 13" cutting path, so you don’t have to swing it around as much as with trimmers with a narrower path.
Pro Adjustable power level
The trimmer has six different power settings, allowing the operator to adjust the speed that's best suited to the current scenario.
Pro Tells you how much battery power is left
The LED indicator on the battery tells you how much power is left, so you don’t have to do any guessing.
Pro Batteries work with other Black & Decker tools
You can use batteries from other Black & Decker tools that use 40V lithium-ion elements, allowing you to swap batteries between tools whenever necessary.
Pro Adjustable to the most comfortable shaft height
Because of the adjustable shaft height, you can optimize the trimmer to a comfortable level, avoiding unnecessary back pain. However, due to its short length, it may no be very suited for tall users.
Pro Lightweight design
Weighing under 8 pounds, it can even be used by teenagers and seniors without risk of back pain.
Pro Can do the work of several devices
This trimmer can replace a variety of other instruments, if you have the right accessories: it can be used as a leaf blower, hedge trimmer, edger, and brush cutter. This can save you money in the long run.
Pro Can handle thick strings
This trimmer can handle thick 0.095" strings, that will not wear out quickly, compared to the thinner lines that can be found on cheap trimmers.
Pro Accepts Ryobi accessories
You can use attachments not only from PoulanPro, but also from Ryobi.
Pro Easy to control
Because of the lightweight design and curved shaft, it is easy to reach tight spots while working with this trimmer. The bent shaft also allows you to see the rotating head much better.
Cons
Con Battery life is limited
In typical conditions, the trimmer will last almost half an hour, but if you use it at full power non-stop, it will last only around 15 minutes.
Con Not very comfortable for tall people
It is not the longest trimmer on the market, so it may be uncomfortable for very tall people (over 6').
Con Only uses one string
One string trimmers cut slower than two string alternatives.
Con Engine requires special attention
Since this is a two-stroke trimmer, you can’t just pull the string and hope that it starts. First of all, it requires a mixture of gas and oil to run. Additionally, you need to pump the mixture to the carburetor to start it.
Con May fail to start while warm
Some users have been complaining that it is hard to restart the engine when the trimmer is warm. A badly regulated carburetor causes this.
