Cordless cord trimmers are popular with homeowners and, increasingly, some working professionals. One hurdle for Pros is performance, and the Stihl FSA 135 R String Trimmer is designed to overcome that particular hurdle.
Stihl's professional cordless cord trimmer is available in two versions. The 135 R has a standard D-handle. 135 with bike handles. That's it. The brushless motor, shaft and performance are the same.
Editor's note: Check out our best gas line trimmers article for our top recommendations.
Stihl FSA 135 Professional Battery Operated Cord Trimmer… Seriously
Brands have been claiming professional performance from their cord cutters for some time now. That's reality with any of the Stihl professional battery-operated cord trimmers in the 135 series. They are gas matched to the FS 91/91 R – professional mowers with 28.3cc engine.
Just like the gas models, these trimmers have a 16.5-inch cutting cord and are best suited for 0.095-inch cords. It can also handle mowing blades (230-4, 230-8) or Stihl's brush knives (250-3)
In terms of run time, expect the AP 300 battery to run for 25 – 45 minutes. Three settings help you match the trimmer's speed to what you're cutting. That's not quite what the FS 91 R did on its 24-ounce tank (just over an hour), but it's certainly on par with what we've come to expect from cordless.
Another point worth mentioning is weight. The bare FSA 135 R weighs 10.1 pounds, while the AP 300 battery adds another 3.8 pounds (for a total of 13.9 pounds). Gas-powered FS 91 R? Full tank and tank weigh just over 14 lbs. Unlike some previous battery cord trimmers, you don't have to sacrifice extra weight to get professional performance.
Sithl manufactures both models in the USA using domestically and globally sourced parts.
other highlights
- Certified Zero Emissions Equipment (ZEE)
- Technopolymer housing
- Interlock Throttle Trigger Safety
- Rubberized soft-touch handle
- battery level indicator
- car air filter
- weather resistant design
Stihl FSA 135/135 R String Trimmer Prices
Prices will vary slightly depending on which 135 series cord cutter you want. The D-handle FSA 135 R retails for $409.99, and the bike grip FSA 135 retails for $459.99 bare.
STIHL FSA 135 R/135 Specifications
- Power: Stihl 36V battery (AP 300 recommended)
- Cutting Tape: 16.5 inches
- Wire Diameter: 0.095 inches
- Net Weight: 10.1 lbs (FSA 135 R), 10.9 lbs (FSA 135)