What Are Dual-Action Hedge Trimmers And What Are The Benefits Of Using Them?

When you walk into a supplier of outdoor power products, you will probably find that hedge cutters are classified according to the action of their blades. The operation of dual-action trimmers comprises two blades that run in opposite directions to each other. The homeowner will actually receive a number of benefits when choosing this machine over single-action ones, which consist of only one moving blade, including:

• Cutting efficiency: A dual-action trimmer will actually increase the efficiency of your blades because you have the power of two saws instead of one, making the machine much easier to use. The movement of the blades also helps to reduce the chances of jams and snags occurring during cutting.
• Multi-directional cutting: A dual-action hedge trimmer allows the homeowner to move the machine back and forth across the foliage without the need to turn it. A single-action machine much be moved in a certain direction to ensure that the foliage is pressed against the stationary bar.
• Reduced vibration: The way that dual-action blades move creates a counteractive effect that actually balances the vibration experienced by the trimmer. This means that your cuts will be more precise, even though some people believe that the increased weight of the machine will counteract this.

When it comes to choosing a hedge trimmer for use on your property, you will need to decide whether you prefer single- or dual-action machines in the process of making your choice. Whilst single-action trimmers are, more often than not, the more popular choice, there are plenty of benefits provided by the dual-action model that make it a hard machine to pass up.

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Can You Use Your Hedge Trimmers To Cut Grass?

Sometimes it may be necessary for you to remove a small section of overgrown grass, a task that would seem pointless to pull your lawnmowers out for. If you find the use of machetes, scythes or sickles to be dangerous or highly strenuous, you may be wondering whether you can use your hedge trimmers to get rid of the grass for you. In actual fact you can, and here’s how:

First, you will need to give the overgrown grass a thorough look over and remove any potentially harmful obstacles, like rocks and sticks. Then, put on the appropriate safety equipment (including safety glasses and long sleeved clothing). You may also like to put on knee guards, as you will be cutting the grass whilst kneeling.

Before cutting, you will need to ensure that you have firmly planted yourself on your knees in front of the grass you wish to cut, holding the hedge trimmers out in front of you. Turn the hedge trimmers on, being sure to grip the handles tightly, and slide it into the grass to one side of where you’re kneeling. Make sure that you keep the blade horizontal and parallel to the ground, bringing it through the growth in a steady motion.

Once you have cut all of the grass within your reach, turn the hedge trimmer off and set about removing the growth you have already cut. You can then reposition yourself (if you need to) to cut the next area of grass.

Keep in mind that hedge trimmers have been designed for cutting shrubs, bushes and hedges, so only an experienced gardener should attempt to use them for cutting anything else. Take your time and move at a slow pace, and you will be able to avoid unnecessary injury.

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How To Remove Rust From Your Hedge Trimmers

Many homeowners invest in hedge trimmers to keep their unruly plants and hedges in check – there is nothing more unattractive in a garden then a scraggly bush that could do with a good trim. Unfortunately, as the blades of these trimmers are made out of metal, they are known to rust when exposed to large amounts of moisture or water.

To remove the rust that has formed the blades of your hedge trimmer, you will need to begin by scrubbing off the surface corrosion. You can use a steel wool pad to do this – simply rub it along the blades in a back and forth motion that scrapes the rust off.

To remove the more ingrained rust, you will need to apply a lubricant (such as mineral oil) to the blades of your hedge trimmer, as this will soften the remaining corrosion. Wait 10 to 20 minutes, then scrub at the rust again with a steel wool pad. Once you’re finished, you will need to wipe the trimmer clean with a cloth.

If the rust has still not been entirely removed from your hedge cutters, you can make a paste by combining 2 parts table salt with 1 part lime or lemon juice. Use a paper towel to apply this paste to the rust stains on the trimmer, leaving it to sit for at least 2 hours before scrubbing once more with a steel wool pad. Use a damp cloth to remove the paste and dry the blades.

To prevent rust from re-forming on your hedge trimmer, you should ensure that the equipment is always properly stored indoors and that, if the metal blades come into contact with moisture (through rain or damp hedges, for example) that you dry them immediately.

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