(This is not regarding repairs; if you wish to relocate the post go ahead)
I just wondered what your thoughts are on a few things regarding line (grass) trimmers:
I've worked for a landscaping company for about a year and tried different kinds of trimmers. Shindaiwa and Stihl were the two brands and I was surprised that different people had split opinions on their favourite trimmers.
I observed a different pattern in the two brands. I'll explain w/out technical terms, just my impression. The Shindaiwas (made in Japan) tended to be lighter and more versatile, in terms of power they seemed to always ask for more, like a furious Tasmanian Devil. The Stihls (Made in USA) were also powerful but more austere and seemed kind of cheaper. One of them had those tap-and-go feed line -didn't always work but was kind of cool.
I called a dealer today to order parts for my Shindaiwa I'm overhauling and he offered me a new Stihl for U$S150. I knew there were Stihls for very low prices and know that they are made in China but I highly doubt that they are up to the standards of Stihl professional equipment. It is my experience that these kind of product manufactured in China turns out to be garbage that you have to throw out within a year so I just wanted to know if anyone has tried them?
By the way, Shindaiwa is my favourite brand and it's considered one of the best brands for outdoor equipment in Canada. The trimmer I have is made in Japan and it's from 1990 (with original cylinder with that date as well), it's in great shape and I've seen completely neglected ones older than mine still working!
What's the present of the industry? Is the pro stuff still manufactured in developed countries or did most outsource to China? What are your favourite brands and experiences?
