Why I Don't Use A String Trimmer To Edge (And Why I Never Will)

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Some folks have been inquiring about supporting the channel. You can do so by shopping our Amazon storefront, which will be adding new products soon! www.amazon.com/shop/coppercreekcutslawncare

[@travelingdude33914]

Add a sponsorship button. The Amazon store is ok but if your not in the business there is nothing to buy there to support the channel.

[@juniormazariegos7324]

Man you better be careful someone is going to steal your things man

[@a-town-04liljay79]

The video I'm looking for is what's better the edging blade that your referring to or the edging wheel not the string trimmer

[@vincentpasceri8981]

I understand what you're saying, and, I agree. I've been landscaping for 41 years, and, I feel that, though you make very valid points, lawns that are cut once a week don't need a manual edging for, 1) the grass is neither so thick ,nor overgrown 2) it is not cost effective , with regard to the time it would take. Great vids ! Just discovered your Channel- KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK !👍 Also, I'm in PA.

[@zaineridling]

Been a trimmer-only guy all these years, but your well-reasoned argument convinced me to get my first edger before next spring. Thank you!

[@CopperCreekCuts]

I hope it works well for you, thank you for sharing!

[@stevenkahn8816]

I used a trimmer for a long time and finally got a edger attachment and your right it’s much easier and give a better result as well

[@scooterprint]

There’s something oddly satisfying about watching an edger. Probably just the perfect edge that it makes.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

I would have to agree with you there!

[@CarterMatthew504]

Copper Creek Cuts Lawn Care I was wondering what you cut your grass at because my brothers and I have a lawn care service and I was wondering what you cut it at.

[@Frompushmowertoprofits]

I 100% agree with you. The learning curve is way better on a edger. New workers will take forever to string edge a yard. Great video Fam. Cut On!

[@CopperCreekCuts]

VIC! What is going on my man? Very nice to have you in the comments, thanks for taking the time!

[@robbiegraham9536]

I literally just used my string trimmer yesterday for the first cut of the season. Had to go back and change the line 3 times in the process, this way looks flawless.

[@kennethslaughenhaupt1681]

I agree with everything you have said about using an edger as opposed to a string trimmer. I specifically use an attachment system, but I use a steel pancake head straight shaft for edging and a regular bump feed for trimming. I save short pieces of left over line just for that hand load steel head, which I also use for trimming on Bermuda lawns because it is much lower to the ground than any bump feed. And I NEVER take the guard off ever. I'm just starting out in gardening again and don't have everything I need yet which is why I use my trimmer for edging, but I have done it so long and so many times that I am very good at it. I will be getting an edger attachment as soon as I can because of these reasons. It's neater, straighter, easier and cleaner. I also agree with the exhausted arm syndrome in that aspect. Thank you for the video. I have subscribed. Awesome.

[@kennethslaughenhaupt1681]

I love the click link, or so now called expand it system because it gives my options and versatility. I just need an edger attachment. And I can go from steel head to bump feed to curved shaft, my curved shaft hasn't been used in years, but if I need to.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thank you for all the feedback and comments, I appreciate it! :)

[@cedricwebb5576]

Awesome video sir. I've been doing lawn care for nearly 20 years and to my embarrassment,, I've been using a string trimmer to edge with also. Well, yesterday I tried the edger and I must say that it's much more consistent and safer than the string. I really respect the way you gave positivity toward string users. Like you said, there's different strokes for different folks. Well, to make a long story short, I love your video and I've decided to roll with the edger. I think I'm going to purchase a dedicated edger thought. Thanks again

[@CopperCreekCuts]

I appreciate the kind words, they mean a lot to me! I am also glad you found the edger easier, I know it has saved me a ton of effort!

[@MrCynan4812]

Stumbled upon this at the perfect time as I've been considering buying an edger for my trimmer, I'm sold gonna pick one up in the morning.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

I am very glad it helped! Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@gregau21]

I agree with you on all your points. The only time I use my string trimmer as an edger is when I'm too lazy to head back to the trailer to grab it...which is most times 😁

[@JsCrazyCutzLLC]

Ditto

[@CopperCreekCuts]

LOL Hey man, like I said, whatever works for you is most important. I know the feeling of not wanting to go back to the truck for whatever reason.

[@sdgdfgdasdgsdf7354]

For the last 18 months I've not let the lawn crew edge or use a weed eater in my back yard. kzbin.infoUgkx_rBCFuDW1zD6blTGhLkvAkxU657uR_lG I didn't like the fact that they just kept cutting the edge of the lawn further and further from the rock lining the flower beds and leaving bare ground. And the grass was trimmed or scalped several feet around trees, etc. It was a constant battle with them so I told them to just mow and no trimming. I have Zoysia grass so it grows pretty slow. Obviously after a while it could use some trimming. I'm in my 80's so I can't do much of it myself.Finally I decided that if I could find a lightweight battery powered trimmer I might be able to do some light trimming. I decided to buy the LST201 20V trimmer. And it works great for my needs. I have back yard with about 150' of flower beds and several trees to be trimmed. I can lightly trim the whole yard with a single charge! The grass I trimmed was only a few inches high but the trimmer was more powerful than I expected.

[@neildoherty2001]

There was a customer who fired a company for chipping 2 pavers on a walkway to the front door with a bladed edger. This could be used as a tip for anyone considering edging alongside paving stones.

[@MrKonKarnage]

Our company refuses to edge along brick side walks without telling them first that it can Crack them. Always gotta let them know

[@arngreencare8955]

If you're chipping walkways with an edger, you're extremely careless. I've done it, and employees have for 21 years and never an issue...

[@privateprivate8366]

Yes, I’m inheriting my mother’s home and I just finished buying a string trimmer and a pole trimmer. While I am glad to have watched this video as, I know that string trimming the edge wasn’t what was done years ago, I do remember my mother complaining that the concrete was being chipped and she wasn’t about to pay for it being replaced. I don’t know if that’s a natural consequence of using a normal edger or the person she hired didn’t just wasn’t good at what they were doing. At least for the time being, because I do have some rather ginormous costs headed my way, I may also be using the string trimmer to mow the lawn. While I know that the image of a newbie doing so sounds horrific, again, I have to consider costs. But, in addition, I also consider the condition of the lawns of other nearby neighbors - they don’t look so hot. In that neighborhood, despite it being a good neighborhood, I think the economy has taken precedence. So, there’s no landscaping completion going on and no one’s lawn looks like a golf course. So, at least in the area of the country it’s in, it appears that I’ll just simply need to do touch up every few weeks. It won’t be until next year that I’ll do more landscaping and that may even include pulling up the lawn and planting micro clover.

[@christinadilly1240]

Just came across your channel. I'm just a homeowner, not working a lawn business. I edge with a string trimmer. It never occurred to me to remove the guard, which I wouldn't do. My trimmer actually has a wheel on the front edge, so when I flip it over to use it as a edger, the majority of the weight is supported by the wheel. I did find that wearing pants, rather than shorts is preferred, since I do get some debris, and I always wear big sunglasses to cover my eyes. But, I like my trimmer, cuts down on the equipment I have to store, and still gives me a good edge. Love your channel.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

That is awesome it works well for you. Those wheels make it much easier! Thanks for watching and commenting! :)

[@JsCrazyCutzLLC]

I use both depending on the yard and how I feel. I always use an edger to get a yard in shape though.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Would be a death sentence to try and clean up an overgrown yard with a trimmer! :)

[@NikkosExperience]

I just picked up a great deal on a Ryobi 40v String Trimmer Blower package and watching your video just helped so much on deciding on edger no edger and watching this video helped me decide thank you

[@herbbrown1705]

Herb Brown I have just started doing some yard care "commercialy" in the mobile home park where I live. The Chinese Virus shutdown cost me my one man business and I got no loans from the government. I had some yard tools that I have sold off and bought an EGO system that included a string trimmer and bladed edger. I agree that it is safer and easier to use the edger rather than a string trimmer. I am an old man 81 and don't have the strength I used to have in my hands and arms, so an edger works better for me. Thank you for your video, it is a help for a "new kid" on the block.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Good for you Mr. Brown! I love you comment, thanks for sharing!

[@Tyler-dn8wn]

I really appreciate when I hire somebody to this. I really think edgers give you the best look overall.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

To me they are like the icing on the cake!

[@kplandscapinglawncare563]

I use an edger but when it's over ground I use an edger to cut down and then I use a weed eater to clean up the overgrowth that has been left over from the edger. Great video

[@CopperCreekCuts]

I usually blow it back onto the lawn and mulch it up. I loathe string trimming, so the extra time getting the blower and putting it back up is worth it! ;)

[@kplandscapinglawncare563]

Agree with you on that. Have a great Easter.

[@robertgarcia4117]

From Steve. Thank you for all your help. I learned a lot from you Thank you once again, BRO.

[@CALVINLNIKONT]

I'm a retired homeowner with (including neighbors) 200' of curb edging and 400' (total) of sidewalk edging in Northern South Dakota where the grass doesn't grow as fast as most other parts of America. I bought the Stihl KM131R Kombi system with a trimmer, edger, and blower and I couldn't be happier. I use the string trimmer after I use the edger just to get the dirt and stragglers off of the sidewalk. It makes for a cleaner job. It doesn't cost much more to go first class and you'll feel good about yourself!

[@LawnCareRookie]

Agreed, now that I've used both. I can edge with a trimmer in my sleep, but that doesn't mean the people I hire can. Plus, occasionally I get those calls for a property that hasn't been edged since the house was built 20 years ago... Much easier to cut some strips of "sod" with an edger! Good points 💪

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Haha, I appreciate you sharing your experience! I bet you are never more nervous than when the new hire is edging with the string trimmer! :)

[@JARLandscapingLLC]

We love the edger attachment on our string trimmer. It's so much easier and with a string trimmer, we always had to put new line in. 👍

[@JARLandscapingLLC]

@phuc ewe we have a Ryobi trimmer with the Ryobi edger attachment. But, we can also use it on our Toro and Husqy 128LD trimmers. We have just been using the blade that came with it, but just bought gator blades to use

[@CopperCreekCuts]

I completely agree that the edger attachment is the way to go!

[@ricepadi29]

Very thorough explanation.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thank you, I appreciate you watching and commenting! :)

[@edwinwalker2723]

I think that a stick edger gives a cleaner and crisp and professorial look to the property. Thanks for all your videos.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

I appreciate it!

[@ThriftyGarage]

Great video! No need to be so defensive with the way you do things. You bring some valid points to the argument. I run an edger for many of the same reasons.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thanks for the comment, Carson! Much appreciated! :)

[@ACMEMowing]

There are two camps of thoughts on this.....I'm with you....I prefer the blade edger. It just looks sharper to me.....and give a more consistent edge width and depth. Good vid Brad.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thanks Ben, much appreciated! :)

[@mr.kaladeen2530]

I agree with you Brad 100% for me personally safety is my number one concern.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thank you for the feedback, much appreciated!

[@georgemyers6518]

Great video brad. I completely agree with you. In my opinion,the safest and easiest way to edge is with a straight shaft edger attachment.due to the high torque they have the slowest turning blade spindle. Please keep the videos coming

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thank you for the support and feedback, I appreciate it!

[@bobkeeler5964]

I half agree with you...I have been cutting grass for 15yrs or so and I have mastered edging with a string trimmer so because of that I save money and time using a string trimmer to edge. You are correct soil conditions, types of grass, etc.. determine the method you will have to use to edge the concrete, but for me I've got it down and I make more money because of it. I do understand that most people can't edge with a string trimmer and it LOOK GOOD, so for that reason I agree with you when you say its the best way. The beauty about running your own lawn care business is as long as you get the job done and your customer is happy you can do it however you want. As for myself, I like making more money and using a trimmer.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Very fair points! Thank you for sharing and watching!

[@rullawncaresiteservicesga.6650]

i dont even train my guys to edge with weed eater. on 98 percent of my residential sites that the first thing they do -edge first - weedeat and blow while i cut. i cut the back first then work my way back to truck and they follow so all they have to blow street off when mowing is complete

[@MD-cd7em]

LOVE YOUR STRAIGHT HONESTY...I FEEL SAME WAY

[@christianisaac9327]

I use a combination. Mainly I bring out the blade edger if I haven't edged their lawn yet like it's a new customer or start of the season, for many of the reasons you mentioned like flying rocks, it being easier to cleanup overgrown edges with a blade etc. After you edge it once with a blade edger it's easy to edge quickly with a string trimmer the week or two thereafter since the edge is already deep and established.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thank you for the feedback! You bring up a great point that goes to geography. Some areas have soil that hold edges for a while, down here they are washed out after a week! ;)

[@christianisaac9327]

Copper Creek Cuts Lawn Care yup but either way, a blade edger will benefit anyone anywhere !

[@nafelowcostyardmaintenance7353]

People ask me why i use the edger when i could just use string but them runners chew through string and time ive got areas with exposed agregate footpaths an the edger is needed 1 in 3 times just for them runners then i can maintain that gap with the string 3 years ago i couldnt use a whipper snipper it takes experience the edger saved me a lot of time an gave me that straight edge the customers love the extra time spent on first time customers is what makes them become regulars an the effort that first time with the edger etc will make it that little bit sweeter if u get it as a regular good explanation brad i get so many bad ones as u would expect with a motto like long grass specialist hope you have a good weekend break

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate you sharing!

[@jameshalleron7484]

I totally agree with your use of an edger for actually edging. A line trimmer is a PITA and I have had the worst luck with them in the past. I am in the market for a new edger. I use to use cordless but I am thinking of going back to gas mainly for the shear power. Cost is always a factor. I want to get a good line trimmer so that I can adapt the head to wire wheels, saw blades and may even an edger set up I could quickly put on and off depending on the need. Love your videos. You really represent the Florida Landscaper.

[@billosborne3152]

Good points Brad, the edger just does it better clean cut and a lot safer than a string trimmer. cheers

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thanks for watching, Bill, I appreciate the comment! :)

[@garywheatle2239]

I use a string been doing so 3 years. And i agree with you 100%. Using string to edge one needs to be careful and have steady hands. Safety wise you have to be very careful. I continue cause i am a home owner dont need the extra equipment in house. Great video.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thanks for the feedback and kind words!

[@sdelony]

I use both . Edger first and clean it up with string trimmer if it needs it

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate you watching!

[@Jameswallace21]

Thankyou I needed to hear this video...it’s confirms my decision not to use a string trimmer. And hello from New Zealand

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thanks for watching! :D

[@AMindInOverdrive]

I like the sign-writing on your truck -really nice colours on the black truck

[@Grifter371]

I absolutely agree with you on edging. I have four lawns in a row that are all on the sidewalk side, I'd go through a ton of string and be exhausted by the time I did both sides. With the edger the line comes out cleaner and I basically just walk it down the sidewalk. I'll use a trimmer occasionally when there hasn't been much growth and I just need to touch up spots. A good edger is a great investment.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thank you for sharing your experiences! I appreciate it and agree with you! ;)

[@Twiistedpyro]

I use both it just depends on the yard and where im at... I always use an edger to get a yard in shape but sometimes on small yards its just easier to flip the trimmer over when you walk past an area that needs edging and doing it that way... I also feel that the thicker edge you get by using a string trimmer looks better

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Very fair, I appreciate the feedback! Thanks for watching! :)

[@JoshVice]

Well said my guy. I've done both and edger always looks better. Just subscribed here to support my fellow lawnman.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thank you for the kind words, Josh! Very thankful to have you along for the ride! :)

[@jodimiller7931]

i started using an edger on are yard because the string would break and hit me and it hurt, plus the edger in my opinion makes the edge look crisp

[@CopperCreekCuts]

That is no good, we don't want you getting injured! :( Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@christoffersundin1815]

Hello Copper Creek.. Love your channel..!! In my country Sweden.. (IKEA / VOLVO) NOBODY is edging.. we don't have the concrete walk-zone u got in Florida, I've been a lot of times in FT: Lauderdale at vacation at my relatives, I'm so impressed by the job you do. It looks so damn nice, here everyone own their own lawn mower and string trimmers, your job doesn't exist. And it looks terrible vs Florida.. But soon the bad gardens is only a memory, me and my family move to Florida in October -22 Keep doing your good business and I will follow you, because it looks so much more nice when you give a whole yard the attention it needs. I will contact you when we move, I will be your "next" customer 😎👍🌞🍊🌻⛱

[@paulmalatesta3222]

Great video and excellent points your videos are the best keep up the good work

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thank you very much! :)

[@yota87truck]

Great thoughts. Very valid points.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thank you for watching and commenting, I appreciate it!

[@toddbehrends1373]

Thanks for the info Brad! Mow on brother! My season here in Central Illinois is going to start soon.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Get ready for it, it will be here before you know it! :)

[@RomeroLawnServicevloggs]

Great video bradd i totally agree with u and like using the edger instead of weedeater... i use string trimmer when is not bad..

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Gracias mi amigo! As long as you are comfortable with it, that is most important!

[@roadstar499]

my guard is on when i edge with string trimmer.. it really is safer.... once a driveway is done right..it is very easy to keep it nice with line rather then a steel blade... i have over 20 years... but do what you want... everyone has their own way of doing things... the main thing is customer is happy with your job and you get paid..

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@jonhpf07]

I’m a big supporter of ongoing maintenance of my lawn and in addition I think that customers could appreciate long term solutions when it comes to their beds or lawn edges. I think that while most lawns could probably benefit from a clean edging, most would or could benefit from a quick, maintenance trim and on an ongoing basis, especially if it’s the summer when people are more prone to put the money into those kinds of conveniences. I have not a lot of experience in particular with edging on an ongoing basis but I have seen that there can be potential mishaps with someone who does not know what they are doing. For one, if you can’t see your feet Before you start edging, maybe get some sheers or use a trimmer to actually form a semi straight line because if you start from get go trying to edge, you risk not seeing your feet which could potentially be very unsafe. Second, once you start edging hopefully if you’ve developed enough control you can really get into it and get the job done but if you don’t maintain control of the edger or have someone that doesn’t have good control, then it could prove kinda messy and could take more time to clean up in the end. I agree that both methods might not be the best in any situation, but I generally like to think of edging and trimming like I do most home maintenance projects, do things differently and make judgement calls based on what’s more appropriate at any given time. Sometimes it’s appropriate to edge and sometimes it can be even more appropriate to trim. That’s an additional point. Trimmers are pretty versatile. A lot of times if I trim, I like to check and see if other yard things have gone crazy and take care of them too. Spending money on trimmer line can be worth it if you can trade the time spent winding the line and tackle the yard but it’s also more worth it if you regularly maintain your yard or even someone else’s but can finish them in the fraction of the time and cost!

[@rrome6178]

Amen! I have always preferred an edger over a string trimmer for all the reasons you’ve mentioned. I will never master the string trimmer as many I have seen on KZbin. The unfortunate truth however is that one still needs a string trimmer for those areas against a wall or fence unless you have a great alternative to suggest. Thanks for this video!

[@leeb.7188]

Who is “we?” Why, you and your cat, of course! 🐱

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Ahhh, it all makes sense now! ;)

[@maggarlion]

You are so correct boss. I am a DIY homeowner and sometimes I am just darn lazy to grab the edger and also the time to change it. Each time I use the trimmer for edging its never satisfying so I just stopped. At the moment I am working from home so I have the time. However whenever I have to go back to the office I am going to have to depend on day laborers and I will just tell them to use the edger for edging. The only advantage I see is that the string trimmer gives better edging on curves and thats subjective if you know what you are doing and not a novice like me. LOL

[@captjack8133]

I agree with several of your points! The string trimmer is my choice for regular clients as I know the edge will just need maintenance. I always go with the edger for overgrown properties, its so much easier to get it back to where it needs to be. An experienced user can use a string trimmer with amazing consistency but you are so right... it will make your arms feel like jelly at the end of the day.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

More effort than I want to spend! I have learned I don't want to beat my body up if I don't have to! :)

[@SuperOrangeSauce]

I work on a lot of lakeside properties where wind becomes an issue while using a string trimmer to edge. You end up with some interesting edges.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

That is wild, you mean the wind affects the way the string moves? I never would have guessed that!

[@SuperOrangeSauce]

Copper Creek Cuts Lawn Care Actually, it blows the entire trimmer head around.

[@RedRockMaintenance]

This is great info. No one edges here, but I have tried edging some lots with the string trimmer and its hard.

[@Sara-L]

What seems to work for me, Especially with a guard on, is positioning the trimmer head at a 30 degree angle, so that the leading edge lifts up the grass, cuts it, and throws it into the lawn, not the asphalt. I've had zero luck with edging at a 90 degree angle, and any more than 15 to 30 degrees, I end up wearing the clippings. Edging flower beds with s trimmer is a real challenge for me!

[@CopperCreekCuts]

I guess it would depend a lot on your local area, too. I know on some city lots where there isn't a curb I don't edge along the road, just the driveway.

[@alfaromeo6985]

I am a homeowner and almost all lawn services in my neighborhood use string trimmer to edge. I got tired of the messy edging they did. One guy destroyed my lawn with his string trimmer....not just the edging along the curb but also around flower bed. I let him go and did the lawn myself with a 4-wheel McClane edger. I hardly ever see anyone using that McClane anymore. I got it 40 years ago. So, now at age 70 I am happy cutting my lawn myself. I use the McClane for the curb only once at the start of each season and the rest of the season I use the string trimmer.

[@Tractors_Trucks_And_Pups]

First, always love watching your videos Brad

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thank you, much appreciated! :)

[@Tractors_Trucks_And_Pups]

@@CopperCreekCuts no. Thank you for posting videos.

[@Hahehhwgajshah72726..]

Greetings from Sydney Australia. If you like edging with a edger nothing beats an Atom lawn edger.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

That thing looks crazy! :D

[@Hahehhwgajshah72726..]

@@CopperCreekCuts I'm pretty sure Atom exports to the USA.If they do and you can justify the cost you will never look at edgers the same ever again.Keep up the great work.

[@MorenoLandscapingMaintenance]

Good stuff!! I believe your right. an edger is safer especially around rock and mulch beds . Me personally I like to edge with the string trimmer around sidewalks and driveways in my opinion it just looks sharper but around landscape beds I like to use and edger for safety reasons.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Like I said man, no hate from me for someone who uses string trimmer! Your work speaks for itself, too, so no one can say you are doing something wrong! 💯👌

[@afa6361]

Thank you man. I will go with an edger.

[@rullawncaresiteservicesga.6650]

Dude Your so correct - i will only use stick edger for edging as well. i have some properties that are 1/4 mile of pristine edging yard edge both sides of the sidewalk and then road edge

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thank you for the feedback, I appreciate you watching. I think for longer properties like that it makes even more sense to use the edger.

[@Sara-L]

I'd like to add another point: I've tried to hold my trimmer at an angle while using it to edge, and as a result I've had to support the back end of the machine against my arm - and I received severe burns as a result. It happens so fast while you're giving the motor a little extra juice - that you can't react in time to avoid a quick second-degree burn. It takes a little extra effort to hold it away from your body and not support the weight against your forearm. Watching any number of videos on here, you can find countless lawncare 'pros' using their trimmer without a guard, and 9 times out of 10 they also used it without any sort of eye protection. When the pros are doing it, it can be so easy to forget personal safety by taking your own guard off to get the same kind of high performance they do. One thing I really hate doing, is trimming weeds that are growing in loose gravel. Those stones have plenty of zing to them, even with the guard on I've had to be extremely careful. I had one rock hit off a building with a good old western bullet ricochet twang sound effect.Yikes.

[@Lion_Rey]

Weeds in loose gravel are the worst!

[@Genesis385]

We just spray them when we can 😆 but we’re also a licensed company so i understand when people can’t do that cause it’s very pricey to get licensed and I’ve heard the test is very difficult.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

I smashed the clear coat and paint right off a spot in my truck where a rock kicked up when string trimming and did the same 'sound effect' you mentioned! Scared me to death and broke my heart! ;)

[@JWNLawnCare]

I agree with your points mate, very detailed explanation. Might as well give you a few points from my side then from across the pond. Over here we have no dedicated stick edgers available as far as I know of, and the few you can get for multi tool systems aren't that cheap either (if I wanted to get the KM94 and curved edger attachment without anything else here I would be up for $750, and $800 if I wanted the straight edger model). A lot of grasses in my area they are quite thin, and so using an edger doesn't normally do much apart from whacking aside a few blades of grass, where a trimmer will normally cut through a lot better, so I often get a better finish with a trimmer than I do with an edger. As you say, it does take time and practice but once you get the feel for it you can do pretty good. As I really only have 1 day a week to mow, I'm pretty constrained on time so everything I can do to save a couple of extra minutes per job (pre cutting trimmer line, edging with a trimmer etc.) I will take onboard. I can edge with a trimmer just as fast, if not faster, than with an edger as I don't have to go back over stuff to properly cut it with a trimmer where I do with an edger due to aforementioned issues. Of course I always take safety into consideration as well, which means using low throttle wherever possible and taking note of which direction debris gets thrown by the trimmers in order to aim them away from cars etc. as best we can. And whenever any pedestrians approach us we always stop what we are doing and wait for them to pass. For the record after all this though yes I do have 2 edgers, a stick one and a 4-stroke wheeled one, both of which get used on thicker grasses where they can lay a nice edge at the customer's request or in particular for overgrown cleanups. So for us at the end of the day with all that trimmers work better but I have noticed that edgers do nicely for a lot of US guys, and so be it.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

James, thank you so much for that feedback, that was awesome! For $700/$800, that makes using a string trimmer a LOT more compelling!

[@richardrussell5128]

Totally agree....I'm good with a stringer but nothing gives a razor edge consistently as a edger as well as safety.

[@scott1564]

I cut yards growing up. If there were small, 2 cycle type edgers, I never saw them back then. Even if there were, I couldn't buy one. The only edger I saw was the 4 cycle walk behind kind that my dad never let me use until I was like 12. By then, I didn't have a way to push that thing around with me and later put it in my car. So I used the old manual stick edger! When I finally did get a trimmer for trimming, I had to use it for edging. I had no choice, but I hated it. You're right on all fronts. Luckily i never had any real problems but with the tools that are out there now, landscapers should never use anything but the right tool for the job.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Awesome feedback, thank you!

[@polecatfan1627]

Those are some pretty darn good reasons.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thank you, I appreciate it! :)

[@Cool58F250]

Hey Brad, Hope all is well, I do keep my Guard on My StringTrimmer, for that very Reason, Safety. Now I do use my Blade Edger On most of my Properties because they are Bigger and Require Allot of Edging and Yes it does Feel Physically Easier Plus Aesthetically it Looks Crisper and Better. Now on my Really small Properties Where Their is very minimal Edging, I Do Edge with my String Trimmer so I can just keep going into String Trimming on the Property and it Feels Easier to me to just keep Going. It’s Cool, Everyone has their Own Style and way of doing it, and what makes them Feel Comfortable, and that Ok 👍🏻Thanks for Sharing & Be Safe Out Their 🇺🇸

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Completely agree, and well said! ;)

[@Cool58F250]

👍🏻

[@rellmonger7935]

I use the string trimmer & people love it it. But I do make the edge so deep and good it last for 8 months. Now I never realized the fatigue part, but U are right. When I used a stick edger it's easier, less weight I'm holding up, also easy on never been touched yards. The stick edger is better

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thank you for the feedback! You bring up a good point. I some places an edge might last 8 months. Where I am it is gone in a week or two!

[@blueribb99]

Back in the 1950's and 60's, my parents had a manual edger. It looks like a pizza cutter with a long handle. I'm sure it would take some muscle to use it today ☺

[@Lion_Rey]

I have one of those.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Too funny! I might have to get one to try it out! ;)

[@jpippinator]

Those things beat power edgers and weed eaters any day. It takes forever, but the edge will look perfect.

[@stevef.9659]

They still work great on well maintained edges. I use mine for a good workout and good for newbies to learn to appreciate gas powered equipment. You break the power tool and u do it by hand again

[@NealB123]

I use one. Takes a little elbow grease but it works.

[@amyjorgensen2876]

I was given a combination trimmer/edger and I wish I hadn’t I had a hidden rock kicked up in my face today and if I hadn’t been wearing safety glasses it could have blinded me. If I had been able to purchase one myself I would have bought just an edger! I agree with you!

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thank goodness you were wearing the glasses! Bet you won't ever do work without them now! :)

[@amyjorgensen2876]

I got very lucky I was only wearing them because they came with the bundle of yard equipment my dad brought me.

[@WSG23]

It’s ok to use a metal/blade edger to get a initial overgrown edge under control. After that, you should only use a string trimmer to clean up the edge, never continue to trench the edge with a metal blade as you will continue to kill back grass allowing weeds to fill in around the edge of the lawn. Over time you will need to kill weeds and reseed edges. Mist importantly, if you continue to deepen or reach the edge you will allow more water to find its way under the concrete, where to you think the cracks in sidewalks and driveways come from? Yeah maybe you get away with it but talk to concrete companies, they love it when lawn guys over edge driveways and walks. Most lawn care companies give this no thought. Edgers should only be use once or twice a year, slightly edge with string trimmer weekly to keep it looking nice. As far as safety? You shouldn’t be digging in with the string trimmer just cleaning up the shaggy edges.

[@RichardFallstich]

Nope, NOT true. I edge all my concrete sidewalk (200+ feet) for 25 years now. It's April 2019 here in Eastern Pennsylvania. The grass is well over the edge of the concrete again, after being edged back several times a year - year after year. We've had about double our normal April rainfall, grass is growing like crazy. I have never had to reseed. I use a spring weed & feed fertilizer, late spring pre-emergent crabgrass preventer, and a fall "winter-guard" product. My grass is thick, no weeds, no bare spots. My house was built in 1920 and sidewalks mostly look that old. No concrete has been damaged or displaced by water infiltration due to edging. I use a Black & Decker Edge-Hog. It does not make a trench, just a narrow slit along the concrete. Before that I had a Craftsman edger. [Can't get Craftsman parts any longer.] Maybe "lawn companies" get this result because they carelessly cause large trenches, and don't properly fertilize for you. They just do as fast a job as they can and move on. They get paid by the job, not by the hour. The only downside, if you want to call it such, is that I use a corded electric edger. [The B&D] I suppose it might be somewhat less 'destructive' than a gas powered unit.

[@WSG23]

We will have to agree to disagree. If you are doing your own property with a corded edger weekly then yeah you probably won’t have problems. I’m talking about commercial companies using gas powered stick or the push stye edgers. We’ve serviced hundreds of clients over the years. I’ve heard more concerns about over edging than the opposite. You can fertilize all you want but when if you have a 2-3 inch gap of dirt it doesn’t matter. Like I said, you taking care of your own in a specific way is different than having guys out on multiple jobs, if they are using power edgers every week you will have problems by mid summer. But glad your method works for you ✌️

[@CopperCreekCuts]

There is a lot going on in this thread and I am not wading in too deep, but the several things I will touch on are 1) like I mentioned in the video, soil conditions play a large role, so no, the sandy soil we have here is not going to stay put and leave a permanent edge. Once I leave any gap will fill in within a day or two. 2) The edger blade can only go so deep and wide. The idea that if I edge every week, each time the gap is getting wider or deeper is inaccurate. That being said, I do appreciate you watching and the time and effort into sharing your opinions.

[@WSG23]

Sorry, probably came off a bit crass. We all have variances in our approach to doing things. I think this video stuck out to me because I just had a new client stop me yesterday during the first mow to make sure I didn’t edge to heavy and that I wasn’t using a metal type edger due to the issues I mentioned before. However , you can mess up and edge pretty easy with a string trimmer if you don’t know what you’re doing. I’ve had a few clients asked the same. On the other hand, I’ve had clients that request the edger be used all the time, even though it’s not my preference. It’s really all about training and being aware of each situation. I appreciate the video and enjoy the responses! ✌️

[@CopperCreekCuts]

I don't think you came off as crass. VERY detailed and indepth, maybe, but not crass ;) I appreciate civil discussions even when myself and someone else disagree, so no need to apologize. I also appreciate you watching and commenting, thank YOU! :)

[@ouarkie]

Brad, nice video. On the examples you were showing it would take a lot longer to use a string trimmer to edge. I don’t think anyone could argue that point. Most people will use a string trimmer to keep up the edge once it has been edged with a blade. I personally just like the look of a blade better than string trimmer edge. Plus I am definitely not talented enough with a string trimmer to make the edge look decent. Thanks for posting.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thank you for the comment! I believe I, too, would butcher an edge with a trimmer! I have not a lick of experience with it.

[@__Diaz__]

I did edging yesterday with a string trimmer and i was replacing the line constantly. For that reason alone I'm mainly using a proper edger

[@jasmineleopard7593]

I’m just a joe shmo homeowner who mows my own lawn and no one else’s but I agree with all your points. I hate string trimmers. I have the guts on it and it still shoots stuff back at me and I always have to hit spots multiple times because I guess I just haven’t got the hang of it. The trimmer is way easier and I feel like it makes a more defined edge too

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thanks for watching and commenting, great feedback!

[@1228carlito]

Until I came across your channel, I had no clue that there was an affordable stick edger. I figured I would have to buy one of those old school 3 or 4 wheel edgers. I had no problem with that but, i didn't want to spend $1,000 for a high quality one. Thank you for showing me a less expensive alternative.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Glad I could help!

[@rccrazy30]

I see/have the use for both methods. Where I am in PA it's very rare to have concrete driveways everything is asphalt. Typically you cant really edge that. Mostly what needs to be edged is sidewalks and beds. I just picked up an echo PAS with a string trimmer and edger. I've got enough concrete sidewalks that it is worth having the edger head. I, however, have not seen anyone use a stick edger on flower beds... which leads me to believe it's not a good idea to use them on that so I'll use a string trimmer to maintain beds

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Asphalt is a great point, edging is impossible on that!

[@SAHamel_]

I'm just learning this stuff, thanks for sharing

[@CopperCreekCuts]

You are very welcome!

[@davidmoran4471]

Thank You. You did exactly what I was looking for when I started this video, provided sound reasons for your choice of method. I would like to see similar from someone for the opposing choice, it would make for an informed decision.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

I agree! Hopefully one day one is made and we can supercut the two into a debate! ;)

[@ArkansasDawgFan]

Great video buddy!!!!👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thank you very much, I appreciate it! :)

[@B.E.Greatful]

Hello from Petoskey Michigan Edger's are for edging Trimmers are for trimming nuff said thank you for the videos and God bless

[@ratoneJR]

Bought an edger, last year. Much better and no getting hit with broken string.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

OUCH, I bet that stung!

[@Woodland26]

after mowing my yard for many years finally bought an edger. Very please with the clean cut. Worked hard on some overgrown area and that chewed up the battery. I expect once cut right it would be a lot easier from now onward. Used string trimmer before but too weak and too slow to do a large area.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Glad to hear it!

[@donnarizzo3510]

I agree with you. Can you tell me the best edger to get as a senior petite female diy’er?

[@asetico2031]

Totally agreed with you on that, I used to work for my sister and her husband, they do have a Lawncare business down in Port Saint Lucie, FL, down South from you, and they have this really really sharp and hard workers mexicans and they were good man, trimming with the string instead of the edger, but I always use the edger, I just love the sharp and crisp look that edger leave when you're done with the yard, don't you think?

[@funnyfluff123]

i usually use the stick edger once every 4-6 months on my maintenance accounts, on cleanups or overgrowns i always stick edge

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Whatever works best for you and keeps you safe/comfortable! Thank you for the feedback!

[@funnyfluff123]

Exactly! Nothing to argue about.

[@donjaun540]

I agree with you. I just wonder if I can put an attachment on my shindaiwa T 120?

[@ebinecksdee9872]

I work for my school district and we use a string trimmer to edge. Even with the guard stuff goes flying and you'll get chewed out if you don't wear some sort of eye protection.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Completely agree. When I just string trimming yards I am always pelting my glasses with stuff, and I have the guard on as well!

[@47f0]

I use a blade - and follow it up with a string trimmer. The blade edger gets you an edge consistent with the concrete, but it's a lower speed tool, and leaves the grass a little "blurry". A string follow up, not to trench, but to make the grass edge a bit more precise, makes a difference. I'll also string-trim things like meter covers, and some garden borders. The blade edger is an essential tool for me, but I think developing some string trimmer skill is a worthwhile investment.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Very nice, I like that idea!

[@BigdaddiZ]

Last season I got into the bad habit of just hitting the edges with the string trimmer. I noticed over time, my edges were not nearly as crisp as in the beginning of the season when I was using the edger every time. I’m sticking with the edger this year.

[@BigdaddiZ]

I did that because I hated switching my Kombi system attachments every yard. So this year I got a dedicated Edger 😀 it’s not too bad switching now. Just pick up the edger and go

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Haha, yeah if you hate swapping then the dedicated edger will make your life much easier!

[@auracruz6211]

Most definitely I would go with the edger, it's a much cleaner job and it looks much better. 👍😊

[@CopperCreekCuts]

A good choice in my book! ;)

[@dustynnorton4943]

I’ve just found that if the edges are overgrown you can’t clean it out with a trimmer... but, I’ve also found on southern turf here, especially the centipede that’s so common here where I am... if you run an edger through, and clean the rut out... the string from trimmer will usually fall in that rut and kinda pull you along the edge you want to cut... and I’ve just found that if I run the edger through once a month I’ll say on the property the rest of the time I’m there all I have to do is flip my trimmer and go down the run and it kind of cleans the grass that grows sideways around that run ... I never run a trimmer full force in that rut but.... I do swipe through it to make the edge look a little more “crisp” I guess is the word for it. I have a walk behind edger and a stick edger and I do use both but it’s another one of those to each their own things... all I could say is try it once and you may see a reason to rotate and use both

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Nice tips, thanks!

[@timraber6575]

I have only one customer that likes the looks of the clean line the edger makes. She like the crisp clean lines on her walks. I was spending too much time with the trimmer trying to get the clean lines. The combo kit from Echo did the trick. I also never remove the guard on my trimmers. Ive been cut one to many times with trimmer line. Recently I bought the brush cutter attachment for my Echo trimmer. That works very well instead of using trimmer string.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Awesome feedback, thanks for sharing! I love the PAS system myself!

[@ajwilliams9570]

Totally agree with all points. As a part time mower I was getting really pissed my trimmer edging skills with a guard ON were taking so long to perfect but I guess the edger was designed for a purpose.

[@crf50crazy]

WOOOOW. 100% right. I’ve been string trimming and have never used an edger. I have been hit in the face and eyes (while having safety glasses on). It’s super dangerous, one of my guys slung a rock through a window last year. So this year I’m not edging 👍

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Oh jeez, well at least you had the safety glasses on, that is what they are there for!

[@crf50crazy]

Indeed! But they can bounce off your cheek and glasses then the EYE

[@douglasschmidt6873]

Love my 1969 Jacobson edger ! You have complete control with a edger and it gives you a clean look you can not get a clean cut edge with a weed eater that’s why it’s call a weed eater I’m with you 100%

[@CopperCreekCuts]

I have to agree with you, Sir! :)

[@kyleknight8267]

I agree, I prefer to edge with an edger, and I prefer the attachment systems. I use the STIHL KombiSystem and I prefer the straight shaft edger over the curved shaft edger

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Same here, the straight shaft is my preferred to use, but is a little messier for your feet.

[@kyleknight8267]

@@CopperCreekCuts true

[@rexmcneil9707]

Have you heard of the golden edge edger blade? If not I recommend looking it up on KZbin. I notice in your videos you have to run the edger back and fourth a lot to get a good cut. You won’t have to with that blade. I bought one and love it. Plus it lasts as long as 50 regular edger blades.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

I have seen it but never tried it! I was always worried it did too thick an edge (but I haven't tried it, so haven't proved that to myself) I will have to look into it more!

[@CA34562]

Ive got the golden edge. Its great for those really overgrown edges with grass hanging over the sidewalk as it cuts through quicker. But it’s a bit too thick to use on maintained properties. I think regular clients would prefer the thinner edge blade overall. In saying that, i only really edge with a string trimmer and golden edge the really overgrown sidewalks. But its a different standard here in Australia.

[@rexmcneil9707]

It’s not to bad. I like the wider edge. It stays longer and it kinda helps the water run off from my driveway.

[@thekingscourtyardlawncares9324]

Awesomeness, I just purchase mine and am adapting to it pretty quickly and the first thing I've notice is that its much safer to edge with a edger that a string trimmer. Wish I would have bought mine sooner.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Gotta love the limited liability and risk! I know I do, at least! :)

[@thekingscourtyardlawncares9324]

@@CopperCreekCuts Yeah man, great video.

[@xSiC84]

I prefer an edger as well and my edger blade of choice is the Golden Edge. Only downside is some houses I take care of , their sprinklers are to close to the sidewalk to use the golden edge blade so I have to use the normal thinner blade.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

I have a few houses like that too, where the edger blade is JUST squeaking by!

[@gregstickler3798]

Are you moving over to battery as opposed to 2 & 4 stroke power equipment If so why and if not why It looks appealing I’m still concerned about the power and time you get from a battery

[@CopperCreekCuts]

I am not! I do love using the 58V PAS with the new mid-reach hedge trimmer attachment I got, and I even played around with the pole saw attachment on the same 58V PAS base and loved that, too. The batteries still aren't there for all day use, though. Unless you want to dump $$$$ in 5 or 6 4AH batteries, which I don't! ;) So for me, electric definitely has a place in the mix (I don't anticipate using gas hedge trimmer any more, for instance), but isn't ready to take over yet (JUST MY OPINION!)

[@gregstickler3798]

Copper Creek Cuts Lawn Care thanks

[@danav3387]

Agree.. for me the edger cuts the deep groove separating the edge from the grass. The edger leaves a better looking, cleaner edge and in every aspect.

[@CopperCreekCuts]

Thanks for watching and I appreciate the feedback!

[@billbrasky1288]

I totally agree. I just use a trimmer for touch ups. My cheap little black and decker edger does the job easily, provided it’s not overgrown(so it’s important to do it at least once every 2 weeks)