Metabo FSB 36-18 LTX BL 40 Review

What it’s good at

The Metabo FSB 36-18 LTX BL 40 takes a different route to 36V power than most cordless brush cutters: instead of one large proprietary battery, it draws from two 18V LiHD packs shared with Metabo’s wider power-tool range. For anyone already invested in that ecosystem, that’s a real practical advantage — no need to buy into a separate outdoor-only battery format, and spare packs can be borrowed from a drill or grinder in a pinch.

The brushless motor is the other headline feature. It delivers steadier power under load than a brushed equivalent, runs cooler, and should need less maintenance over its life. Combined with blade capability at a 40 cm cutting width, this isn’t a trimmer pretending to be a brush cutter — it can genuinely tackle brambles and rougher growth in addition to line-head grass work, which puts it a step above many battery-only competitors that are line-only.

Build quality follows Metabo’s usual German-engineered standard: solid fit and finish, and a bike-style dual handle that should suit most users comfortably for the sort of jobs this class of machine is meant for.

Where it falls short

The twin-18V design is a double-edged sword. It’s clever if you already own Metabo 18V batteries, but if you’re starting from scratch, buying two LiHD packs plus a charger pushes the real cost well above the headline tool price — and most listings sell it bare. Buyers should check exactly what’s included before ordering.

It’s also worth setting expectations on weight and balance: running two batteries in the head or backpack position typically makes twin-18V machines a touch heavier and more front- or rear-loaded than a single-battery 18V trimmer, though still lighter than most petrol equivalents. And while Metabo’s core power-tool range is well known, its outdoor/garden line doesn’t have the same dealer network or accessory depth as Stihl, Husqvarna or Makita in every market, which can matter for spares and servicing down the line.

Who should buy it

This suits existing Metabo 18V tool owners first and foremost — the shared battery logic is the strongest reason to choose it over a dedicated 36V rival. It also fits buyers who want genuine blade-cutting capability rather than a line-only trimmer, but don’t want the weight, noise, and maintenance of petrol. Anyone starting a cordless collection from zero should weigh the cost of two batteries against a single-battery 18V trimmer or a bundled 36V kit before committing.

Verdict

A well-engineered brushless brush cutter that makes the most sense as part of the Metabo 18V family — genuinely capable of more than grass, but not the cheapest way in for a first-time cordless buyer.