EGO Rolls Out Carbon Fiber On Newest Battery-Powered Hedge Trimmer
Just a glance at the name “EGO Carbon Fiber Rail 26-Inch Hedge Trimmer” immediately raises questions. We haven’t seen anyone apply carbon fiber to a hedge trimmer so far. How does it work? What are the advantages? Are there any negative consequences? We’re taking a closer to see what we can discover.
EGO Carbon Fiber Hedge Trimmer Performance
- No-Load Speed: 3,400 SPM
- Cut Capacity: 1.2 in.
- Handle Rotation: 180°
- Runtime: 60 minutes
For starters, this is EGO’s longest hedge trimmer at 26 inches. Its previous versions are 25 inches and 24 inches (two models), plus they have a 25-inch commercial model and one for the commercial pole system.
The brushless motor powers the dual-blade system up to 3,400 strokes per minute to give you fast, clean cuts. The blade capacity is right at 1.2 inches which is great for the majority of the trimming tasks you’re likely to encounter. Plus, it’s strong enough to trim stalky shrubs like Screening Podocarpus or clearing out small branches and saplings.
EGO Carbon Fiber Hedge Trimmer Design
- Model: EGO HT2601
- Power Source: EGO 56V battery
- Weight: 7.6 lbs (bare), 10.5 lbs(with 2.5Ah battery)
- Tool Length: 46.5 in.
- Bar Length: 26 in.
- Rail Material: Carbon fiber
The major draw for this hedge trimmer is the fact that the rail is made of carbon fiber. This is an industry first, and EGO tells us that the carbon fiber design makes it lighter but still durable enough to stand the test of time. EGO even backs the rail with a lifetime warranty, so there’s some confidence behind the build. At just 10.5 pounds with the kitted 2.5Ah battery, your arms are definitely going to thank you!
One big advantage this trimmer has over others in its class is the 180-degree handle rotation. Simply pull up on the lower trigger to rotate the handle 90 degrees left and right to any one of the five available positions. This allows you to orient the bar and handle in an optimal position for trimming vertically and horizontally with ease.
EGO Hedge Trimmer Quick Comparison
Here’s a look at some of the features offered by the three most recent models side by side.
| HT2411 | HT2501 | HT2601 (new) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 24 inches | 25 inches | 26 inches |
| Motor | Brushless | Brushless | Brushless |
| No-Load Speed | 3000 SPM | 3200 SPM | 3400 SPM |
| Handle Positions | 1 | 5 | 5 |
| Handle Rotation | None | 180° | 180° |
| Cut Capacity | 1 inch | 1 1/4 inches | TBA |
| Rail | Metal | Metal | Carbon Fiber |
Additional Features
- IPX4 weather resistant
- Plastic scabbard
EGO Carbon Fiber Rail 26-Inch Hedge Trimmer Price
This carbon fiber hedge trimmer retails for $249 as a kit that includes a 2.5Ah battery and charger. EGO offers a five-year warranty on all of its outdoor power equipment.
The Bottom Line
The EGO 56V 26-Inch Carbon Fiber Hedge Trimmer has plenty of power, cut capacity, and blade length to tackle extensive trimming quickly and efficiently. With its larger capacity, excellent top speed, and lightweight profile, it cuts more like a professional-grade trimmer without the Pro-level price tag.
