In a nutshell

With a strong, efficient cut this quiet, comfortable cordless hedge trimmer handles well, comes with a two-year warranty and is great value for money.

What we tested

  • Set up/storage
    A star rating of 4.0 out of 5.
  • Handling
    A star rating of 5.0 out of 5.
  • Performance
    A star rating of 5.0 out of 5.
  • Value for money
    A star rating of 5.0 out of 5.
Overall Rating
A star rating of 4.8 out of 5.

Pros

  • Efficient, wide blade
  • Blade tip protector and stout guard
  • Hanging storage facility
  • Top-loading battery

Cons

  • Instructions generic so not very clear
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Buy the Stihl HSA 56 hedge trimmer on Just Lawnmowers

What is the Stihl HSA 56 hedge trimmer?

This cordless hedge trimmer is part of the Stihl Compact Cordless Power System. Powered by 36V lithium-ion batteries, there are three Ah size batteries to choose from and two fast chargers and all are compatible with any of the tools in the range. The batteries have a charge indicator signalling how much charge is left via four LED lights and the chargers have lights to indicate when the batteries are charging and when they're fully charged.
The hedge trimmer can be bought on its own or in a set with a battery and charger and has 45cm-long blades.

What is the Stihl HSA 56 hedge trimmer like to use?

With a wide, 30mm tooth spacing on the blade this hedge trimmer cuts efficiently and can cope with even mature, woody growth well. It's quiet, comfortable and well balanced and is easy to use, with good safety features. It has a safety lock on the handle and the battery is top loading, with a neutral locking position. The battery is held securely but is not connected so you can safely carry it around the garden and it won’t start accidentally. When the battery is pushed in fully it's ready to go.

The handle doesn’t rotate but the blade has a tip protector to prevent it getting damaged or cutting fences and walls that are nearby. The blade guard is stout and sturdy and feels built to last. Only the instructions, which are generic and not very clear, let it down.

Who is the Stihl HSA 56 hedge trimmer most useful for?

This is ideal for trimming larger, more mature hedges and shrubs and for working in larger gardens for extended periods of time.

Is the Stihl HSA 56 hedge trimmer good value for money?

This costs £199 for the hedge trimmer, battery and charger or £109 for the tool on its own. Both the battery and charger are compatible with all the other tools in the range, saving you money in the future when you expand your tool kit. This hedge trimmer cuts efficiently, is light and easy to use and comes with a two-year warranty. We think it's excellent value for money.

Buy the Stihl HSA 56 hedge trimmer on Amazon

Buy the Stihl HSA 56 hedge trimmer on Just Lawnmowers

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Hedge trimmers - Buyer's Guide video

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Product Specifications

Product
BrandStihl
NameStihl HSA 56
ModelHSA 56
Price£199.00
Hedge trimmer typeCordless
Features
Powered byLithium-ion battery
Blade length45cm
Noise91dB
Weight3.7kg
Warranty2YEAR
Feature notes

Battery size: 36V 59Wh

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