
( Brand: Toro ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 88713 ), ( Attachments Included: Hedge Trimmer ), ( Battery Included: No ), ( Power Source: Battery ), ( Country Of Origin: China ), ( UPC: 021038887135 )
The **Toro 88713 Flex-Force 60V Hedge Trimmer Bare Tool (16")** is a premium, high-performance cutting tool designed to deliver unmatched precision, durability, and efficiency for professional landscapers and serious homeowners alike. Engineered with Toro s signature **Flex-Force** technology, this hedge trimmer combines a lightweight yet robust 16-inch cutting deck with a powerful 60V cordless system, offering seamless maneuverability and extended runtime without the hassle of cords or frequent recharging. The **Flex-Force** system features a flexible cutting head that adapts to the contours of trees and shrubs, allowing for cleaner, more controlled cuts with minimal effort ideal for shaping hedges, topiaries, and ornamental plants with professional-grade results. Built with **high-carbon steel blades**, the trimmer ensures sharp, clean cuts while maintaining longevity, even under heavy-duty use. The **ergonomic handle** is designed for all-day comfort, with a cushioned grip and an adjustable angle to reduce fatigue during extended trimming sessions. Compatible with Toro s **60V MAX** battery platform, this tool integrates effortlessly with other power equipment in the lineup, providing versatility for landscapers who rely on a cohesive, high-performance toolkit. Whether tackling dense foliage, intricate designs, or large-scale hedging projects, the **88713 Flex-Force** delivers consistent performance, reliability, and the precision needed to elevate landscaping work to a professional standard. Its compact yet powerful design makes it a standout choice for those who demand both efficiency and quality in their outdoor maintenance tasks.
The Toro 88713 Flex-Force 60V Hedge Trimmer (bare tool) is a popular choice for homeowners and professionals who need a reliable, high-performance hedge trimmer. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
### **Pros:**1. **Powerful Performance** The 60V Flex-Force system delivers consistent power, making it suitable for thick hedges and dense foliage. The brushless motor ensures efficient energy use and longer runtime compared to traditional gas trimmers.
2. **Lightweight and Ergonomic Design** Weighing around 10 pounds, it is significantly lighter than many gas-powered alternatives, reducing user fatigue during extended use. The balanced design minimizes vibration, improving comfort.
3. **Versatility** The bare tool design means it can be paired with Toro s 60V Flex-Force battery system, which includes a range of tools (leaf blowers, edgers, etc.), making it a versatile addition to a power equipment lineup.
4. **Low Maintenance** Unlike gas trimmers, this electric model requires no oil changes, spark plug replacements, or fuel mixing. It also has fewer moving parts, reducing wear and tear over time.
5. **Quiet Operation** Electric trimmers are significantly quieter than gas-powered ones, making them ideal for early morning or late evening work without disturbing neighbors.
6. **Eco-Friendly** Produces zero emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment compared to gas-powered tools.
7. **Durable Construction** Toro uses high-quality materials, including a steel shaft and reinforced components, ensuring longevity with proper care.
8. **Adjustable Cutting Head** The 16-inch cutting head allows for precise trimming, and the adjustable blade settings (e.g., 1/4" to 3/4") accommodate different hedge densities.
9. **Easy to Start** Unlike gas trimmers, there s no need to pull a cord or deal with recoil mechanisms. Simply attach the battery, and it s ready to use.
10. **Warranty Coverage** Toro typically offers a limited warranty (often 2 3 years on parts and labor), providing peace of mind for the user.
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### **Cons:**1. **Dependence on Battery Life** The runtime is limited by the battery capacity (typically 40 60 minutes per charge for heavy-duty tasks). For large properties, multiple batteries or frequent recharging may be required.
2. **Battery Costs** While the initial purchase of the trimmer is affordable, replacing or upgrading batteries over time can add to the long-term cost. High-quality batteries (like Toro s own) are more expensive than generic alternatives.
3. **Limited Power for Very Thick Hedges** While powerful, it may struggle with extremely dense or thick hedges that require heavy-duty gas trimmers. Some users report that it may slow down under prolonged use on tough foliage.
4. **Charging Time** Recharging a 60V battery typically takes 1 2 hours, which can be inconvenient if you re in the middle of a project and need immediate power.
5. **Tool Compatibility** The bare tool requires purchasing a compatible battery pack and charger separately, adding to the upfront cost if you don t already own a Toro 60V system.
6. **Weather Limitations** Like most electric tools, it is not recommended for use in wet or rainy conditions, which could pose a safety risk.
7. **Less Powerful Than Gas Alternatives** For commercial or heavy-duty landscaping, some users prefer the raw power of gas trimmers, which can handle continuous use without losing performance.
8. **Potential for Overheating** Prolonged use without breaks can cause the motor to overheat, though this is less common with Toro s brushless technology.
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### **Conclusion:**The Toro 88713 Flex-Force 60V Hedge Trimmer is an excellent choice for homeowners and light-to-moderate professional use. Its lightweight design, low maintenance, and eco-friendly operation make it a practical alternative to gas trimmers for most residential tasks. The versatility of the 60V system also adds value if you plan to expand your tool collection. However, its limitations in runtime, battery costs, and power for extremely thick hedges may make it less ideal for commercial landscapers or those with very dense foliage.
If you prioritize ease of use, reduced maintenance, and environmental friendliness without needing maximum power, this trimmer is a strong recommendation. For heavy-duty or continuous use, a gas trimmer might still be preferable despite its drawbacks.
### **Recommendation:** Buy the **Toro 88713 Flex-Force 60V Hedge Trimmer (bare tool)** if:- You already own or plan to invest in Toro s 60V battery system.
- You need a lightweight, low-maintenance tool for residential hedging.
- You value quiet, emission-free operation and ergonomic comfort.
- Your hedges are of moderate density and you don t require commercial-level power.
Avoid it if:- You frequently work with extremely thick or dense hedges.
- You don t want to deal with battery management (charging, swapping, or purchasing additional batteries).
- You prefer the raw power and runtime of gas trimmers for professional use.
For most homeowners, this trimmer strikes an excellent balance between performance, convenience, and cost-effectiveness. Pair it with a high-quality battery pack (such as Toro s 6.0Ah or 8.0Ah) to maximize its utility.
16 blade means more coverage and fewer passes to save you time. Up to 3,000 strokes per minute of hedge thrashing power give you the cleanest cut on your shrubs. Part of the 60V Flex-Force Power System. Toro Flex-Force 60V Max Attachment Hedge Trimmer Bare Tool #88713 16 Brand New, All-metal gear housing offers long-lasting durability to get the most life out of your attachment.