Building the Lightest String Trimmer EVER!

String TrimmerMary Clementi
Building the Lightest String Trimmer EVER!
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Building the Lightest String Trimmer EVER: A Look at What’s Possible

What if you could shave off a whole pound from the string trimmer you use every day? A pound might not sound like much, but when you're carrying it for hours across yards and landscapes, that difference can transform both comfort and productivity. That’s exactly what we set out to explore: building the lightest string trimmer possible using existing STIHL components and seeing if it’s something people want to see on the market.

Below, we’ll walk you through the process of creating this ultra-light prototype, why it matters, and how you can help make it a reality.

 

Why a Lighter String Trimmer Matters

Let’s be real: yard work is tough. When you're trimming for hours, a heavy tool can take a serious toll on your back, shoulders, and arms. For pros out there running string trimmers all day, even a small weight reduction can make a massive difference. It’s the difference between ending the day drained or ready for the next job.

While STIHL already makes impressively lightweight models, we saw an opportunity to push things further by combining the best features of two models: the FS 111 RX and the FS 94 R. Each brings unique advantages to the table, but together, could they form the ultimate lightweight trimmer? That’s what we set out to test.

Looking at the Baseline Models

Before diving into building a super-light trimmer, we first set benchmarks using three existing STIHL models. Here’s what we found:

The FS 91 R

  • Weight: 13.6 lbs (no fuel)
    This popular model is reliable but not the lightest option available. Built for power, it’s great for heavy-duty tasks but can feel a bit heavy after extended use.

The FS 111 RX

  • Weight: 12.39 lbs (about 1.2 lbs lighter than the FS 91 R)
    This model is specifically designed to be lighter than the FS 91 R. Thanks to lightweight components such as the guard and gearbox, it’s a solid step forward in the weight department without compromising power.

The FS 94 R

  • Weight: 11.34 lbs
    While the FS 94 R offers slightly less power than the FS 111 RX, it’s loved for being lightweight and maneuverable. It’s the go-to option for regular yard trimming, especially on smaller properties.

The Plan: Combining the Best of Both Worlds

Here’s the idea: take the lighter motor of the FS 94 R and pair it with the lightweight components of the FS 111 RX. By merging these existing parts, could we create a next-level lightweight trimmer?

Spoiler: yes, we could.

Steps to Build the Lightest String Trimmer

Swapping the Parts

  1. Motor: The FS 94 R motor is significantly lighter (6.56 lbs vs. FS 111 RX’s 8.36 lbs). This massive weight savings formed the foundation of the project.
  2. Outer Shaft & Inner Shaft: The FS 94 R’s outer shaft is lighter, but we used the FS 111 RX’s inner shaft for its durability.
  3. Handle: The FS 111 RX handle was the clear choice for its lightweight design.
  4. Gearbox: The FS 111 RX gearbox has more plastic components, making it lighter while still holding up to tough jobs.
  5. Guard: The FS 111 RX guard is thinner and lighter, shaving off even more ounces.

Reducing What’s Not Needed

In addition to combining components, we streamlined the setup, removing unnecessary extras. Every ounce counts when building the ultimate lightweight tool.

The Results: Weighing the Super-Light Prototype

After assembling what we now call the "FS 94 RX hybrid," we placed it on the scale for its final weigh-in. The result? 10.31 lbs. That’s a full pound lighter than the FS 94 R and more than 3 pounds lighter than the FS 91 R.

What does this mean in practical terms? Imagine carrying a whole pound less for hours of yard work. Your shoulders and back will thank you.

Why This Innovation Matters

STIHL already makes fantastic, durable tools, but there’s always room for improvement. By combining their existing parts, we proved that ultra-lightweight gas-powered trimmers are possible without developing entirely new pieces.

This project goes beyond string trimmers, too. Imagine lightweight versions of edgers, hedge trimmers, or pole saws. The more weight saved, the more manageable—and enjoyable—these tools become for everyday use.

How You Can Help Make This a Reality

We think this prototype shows serious potential, but STIHL needs to know it’s something people want to see in stores. If you think this lightweight trimmer—or other lightweight gas tools—should exist, here’s how you can help:

  1. Like the Video: Show your support by liking the video at the top of this post.
  2. Leave a Comment: Share which lightweight tool you’d love to see STIHL create.
  3. Spread the Word: Share this post with fellow landscapers or yard enthusiasts who’d appreciate a game-changing lightweight tool.

By letting STIHL hear your voice, you’re helping shape the future of outdoor tools.

Conclusion

From combining motors to trimming ounces on guards and gearboxes, we showed there’s a way to make gas-powered string trimmers even lighter without sacrificing performance. The lightweight trimmer we built might just be the beginning of a new category of gas tools: powerful but easy to carry all day long.

So, are you ready for STIHL to take this concept further? Let them know, and who knows—one day you might find yourself holding an FS 94 RX and saying, “I helped make this happen.”

For more about the tools mentioned in this post, check out the links below:


 

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Tags: String trimmer, Trimmer

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