Set up first
- Fit the harness and adjust it so the machine hangs balanced at a comfortable height, with the head just off the ground.
- Choose the right head — line for grass, a metal blade for brambles and scrub. See our blade and line guides.
- Put on protection — eyes, ears, gloves, boots and long trousers. See our safety gear guide.
The correct cutting technique
Hold the machine with both hands and keep the head parallel to the ground. Sweep from right to left, cutting with the left side of the head — this throws debris away from you and drops cut material into the area you've cleared. Move forward in a steady arc, letting the cutter do the work rather than forcing it.
Long grass and brambles
- Long grass: cut in layers — skim the top, then lower the head in passes. This avoids wrapping and stalling.
- Brambles and scrub: fit a metal blade, keep engine revs up, and cut with controlled sweeps. Don't plunge the blade in — let the edge slice through.
- Near obstacles: slow down and use the line tip, keeping clear of stones and wire that damage the head or cause kickback.
Watch for blade kickback: if a spinning blade hits something solid it can throw the machine sideways. Keep a firm grip, cut with the correct part of the blade, and never cut above waist height.
Finishing up
Let the engine idle before switching off, and let a cordless machine stop fully before setting it down. Clean grass off the guard and head, and check the line or blade for the next session. See our maintenance guide.