The Husqvarna 326HDA55x is an articulating hedge trimmer that lets you adjust the cutting bar at an angle so you can cut both bush tops and sides with comfort. It's on the expensive side, but offers cutting versatility in a solidly built model. This model is used by professionals, but it also fits the needs of some homeowners.

The cutting bar on this Husqvarna gas hedge trimmer rotates from 55 degrees forward to 10 degrees backward to let you choose the best cutting angle for your chore. The 1.2-hp 2-cycle gas engine teams up with a Zama C1Q carburetor to provide great cutting power. The 21.7-inch blades, with teeth gapped at just more than 1 inch, trim hedges and bushes easily. The air purge system means easy starting.

We found that being able to angle the cutting bar to fit the task really did make the task easier to complete; it saved time and was not as tiring as using some other models that require that you hold the trimmer at awkward angles for some cutting chores. The distribution of weight between the two soft handles of the 326HDA55x also seemed to help in maneuvering the tool into position. The long shaft extends the reach of the cutting bar. We trimmed bushes at several angles without ending up with kinks in our backs or aches in our shoulders. The hedge trimmer started easily and quickly, and ran smoothly, but it is rather noisy.

The Husqvarna 326HDA55x weighs 12.8 pounds. Its translucent fuel tank holds up to 1 pint of gas. The trimmer's exhaust is vented away from the operator so you don't have to breathe all the fumes.

If you have lots of awkward angles of greenery to groom, the Husqvarna 326HDA55x may be worth its price to you. It can make your task easier with its articulating cutting bar and extended reach.


Pros: Articulating cutter bar, well-built, extended reach
Cons: Higher price, noisy

Warranty
2 years, limited