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Change is coming to powered outdoor equipment, just as it did in the construction industry; we’re seeing a transition to battery power in tools that have long been exclusively gas powered. Stihl is right on top of this trend, and this segment of the equipment market is only going to increase in size. Many exciting options are already available from Stihl with lithium-ion battery power.


New Technology

When was the last time you saw a construction worker using a corded drill? It started with screwdrivers and drills, and now just about any handheld power tool has a battery power option.

Early generation cordless tools were expensive and underpowered; the old nickel-cadmium batteries didn’t last long and had charge memory problems. Battery technology has been steadily improving since then, to the point where battery powered chainsaws and lawn mowers have become practical.

Commercial operators are always taking the lead with new technology, and we’ve had many inquiring about battery powered equipment. Stihl has many offerings designed just for them, and homeowners eventually follow suit when they see new, cleaner technologies in use.

Nine of our people have already had a course on the battery powered line, and we’re engaged in ongoing training with Stihl. If you have questions, giving us a call is a great starting point!


Clean, Light, Quiet, Powerful

Some people are intimidated by gas engines, or just aggravated by the upkeep they require. Face it, they’re dirty, noisy, smelly machines! The prospect of just charging a battery and pressing a switch can be very attractive.

These days– especially in residential work– there is pressure to reduce noise, reduce fumes & pollution, and make equipment lighter and easier to handle so that a wider range of people can operate it.

The new Stihl battery powered machines are always easy to start, quiet and lightweight, and can be operated by almost anyone regardless of age or physical strength. They’re robust and low-maintenance too, with no need for you to handle fuel or mix oil.


Comparison with Gasoline Power

Although customers frequently ask, direct comparisons between gas and electric power are difficult; they’re really different animals, and which one is right for you depends greatly on how you’re using them. For instance, while a small gas powered chain saw might have a higher maximum power, a comparable electric saw will have higher torque at lower speeds, and will at times seem more powerful than the gas model.


Battery Options

There are three different Stihl battery varieties– AK (small consumer grade), AP (larger commercial grade), and AR (backpack). Battery life and charging time varies according to the battery variety and the tool it’s used in, but it suffices to say it’s faster and better than you expect. These powerful lithium-ion battery packs are compatible across Stihl’s line of cordless machines.

This 36 Volt lithium-ion technology is coupled with a brushless, electronically controlled electric motor that is extremely energy efficient and subject to very low levels of mechanical wear. Power is optimized to achieve a high degree of efficiency and enhance performance. 

Voltage is commonly thought of as the most important factor in judging how powerful an electric tool is, but this is not entirely true. Voltage (power) is only meaningful in terms of amperage (current), and in a battery powered system what’s important is amperage over time (amp-hours). These batteries don’t peter out as they run down; rather they provide steady current for the entire duration of the battery’s charge.


Come See For Yourself!

We’re just on the verge of battery powered equipment taking over the market; it’s really gaining traction. We’re excited to show you what’s happening in this product segment, so drop in as soon as you can.









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