Cordless hedge trimmers explained

Handle

In some models this can rotate through 180° to make working in different positions easier

Front hand grip

A hand hold and start button in one, this is squeezed together with the finger switch to start the trimmer

Charger

Charging can take anything from 40 minutes to five hours. Most have indicator lights to show when the battery is charging and charged, and some brands offer fast chargers at an extra cost

Cutting blade

Length varies between brands but is generally between 45cm and 55cm

Hanging hook

A handy hole at the end of the blade for safe, easy storage

Lithium-ion battery Voltage and ampere capacity vary and will dictate power and run time. Some have level indicators so you can check how much charge is left as you work

Finger switch A second safety start trigger. The trimmer won’t start until both this and the hand grip are engaged, and if either is released, the trimmer stops immediately

Hand guard Protects the hands from falling trimmings and debris

Blade cover An essential safety feature, placed over the blade when not in use.

Tooth spacing Dictates the cutting capacity and therefore the thickness of the stems that can be cut

Tip protector Protects the end of the blade from damage and wear and tear when working near fences, walls and the ground