Stihl HS87R Hedge Trimmer: The Professional Gardener’s Choice
When it comes to tackling hedges efficiently and with precision, having the right tool makes all the difference. As a professional gardener, I’ve used a wide range of hedge trimmers over the years, but few have impressed me as much as the Stihl HS87R. Built for heavy-duty work, this hedge trimmer has become my go-to for shaping, maintaining and refining hedges of all sizes — and here’s why.
Built for Professionals
The Stihl HS87R is designed with professional users in mind. With its single-sided 30” (75cm) blade, this trimmer is ideal for large-scale hedge work, allowing you to cover more area with each sweep. The R in its name stands for “reduction”, meaning it’s geared for powerful cuts on thicker growth — perfect for rejuvenating overgrown hedges or performing routine maintenance with ease.
Power and Precision Combined
Powered by a 2-MIX petrol engine, the HS87R delivers both strong cutting performance and fuel efficiency. The torque it provides allows you to cut through dense or woody growth without bogging down, while the low blade speed (3,100 strokes per minute) ensures precise, clean cuts. This slower blade speed also reduces vibration and kickback, making it easier to control and resulting in a neater finish.
For formal hedging or topiary, I prefer a faster blade speed, but for heavier trimming and general hedge maintenance, the HS87R strikes the perfect balance of raw power and controlled cutting.
Designed for Comfort
One of the standout features of this hedge trimmer is its ergonomic design. Despite its size, it’s surprisingly comfortable to handle thanks to the anti-vibration system, well-balanced weight and soft grip handles. For someone who uses hedge trimmers day in, day out, comfort and reduced fatigue are crucial — and Stihl has clearly prioritized this.
Durability You Can Rely On
As with most Stihl equipment, durability is a given. The HS87R feels solid and dependable — it’s built to withstand the rigours of daily professional use. I’ve used mine in all weather conditions and it continues to perform without fail. Regular maintenance (like cleaning the blade and checking the air filter) keeps it in top shape, but it doesn’t demand constant tinkering, which is a big plus.
Final Thoughts: Why It’s My Go-To Hedge Trimmer
The Stihl HS87R is a workhorse, plain and simple. It’s powerful enough to handle tough jobs, precise enough for clean results and comfortable enough for extended use. If you’re a professional gardener or serious about maintaining your garden to a high standard, this hedge trimmer is well worth the investment.
From dense conifers to sprawling mixed hedges, the HS87R delivers reliable performance, time after time. It’s earned its place in my van — and it’s a tool I recommend without hesitation.
Key Features at a Glance:
- Blade Length: 30” (75cm), single-sided
- Engine: 2-MIX petrol, powerful and efficient
- Blade Speed: 3,100 strokes/minute for clean, controlled cuts
- Anti-Vibration System: For comfortable, extended use
- Weight: Approx. 5.5 kg (easy to handle for its size)
- Fuel Tank: 0.7L for long run times between refills
👉 Check out our YouTube video on the Stihl HS87R to see it in action: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVQkg3LeCB8&list=PLyXMABEczy5UZX8bTMfqSfORzutADBMVE]