Looking for a good manufacturer is the first step in finding a brush cutter or whipper snipper that will last and get the job done quickly and safely. Stihl is a German manufacturer of chainsaws, brush cutters (whipper snippers), and other heavy-duty outdoor and gardening equipment.
They’ve been in the business of supplying quality commercial and residential equipment for almost 100 years, so they’re a good bet when you’re looking for lasting quality.
In our buying guide, we reviewed the best Stihl whipper snippers and brush cutters available in Australia. Check out what other whipper snipper brands have to offer here.
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Why Choose Stihl?
Started in Germany in 1926, Stihl now has headquarters all over the world – including Australia. Here’s why they’re a good brand to consider:
- Strong national network for customer service
- Easy availability of parts
- Voted #1 for quality tools
- Good customer service
- Known for innovation, build quality, and product performance
Stihl Whipper Snipper and Stihl Brush Cutter Reviews
We are currently reviewing new models and will update this post shortly.
Stihl Whipper Snipper Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a line trimmer and a whipper snipper?
There’s no difference between a line trimmer and a whipper snipper. The only difference is the name. Whipper snippers are the common name for line trimmers and brushcutters in Australia and Canada.
Is a Stihl whipper snipper 2-stroke?
Stihl produces both 2-stroke and 4-stroke whipper snippers, and depending on your needs, each will have its advantages, but the majority of Stihl whipper snippers are usually produced as 2-stroke whipper snippers.
What can I put in a 2-stroke whipper snipper?
Stihl 2-stroke whipper snippers should be filled up with a mix of Stihl 2-stroke oil and unleaded petrol. The ideal mix is 50:1, so 1 litre of petrol to 20 ml of Stihl 2-stroke oil.
Is a 4-stroke whipper snipper better than a 2-stroke?
4-stroke whipper snippers have more torque, and more power than 2-stroke whipper snippers, but 2-stroke whipper snippers are faster and lighter, making them more efficient for most gardens, and more comfortable to use.
What does FS stand for in Stihl?
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A Must Have Complete Guide for Every Australian Garden
FS is short for ‘Freischneider’, which translates from German as ‘Line Trimmer’. All of the coding on Stihl products is from German translations.
What brand is comparable to Stihl?
Stihl is the world’s most famous garden power and cutting tool brand, but Husqvarna is a reputable alternative, with excellent attention to manufacturing detail and quality.
Both brands produce excellent tools which are often produced to similar specifications.
Do 2-stroke engines last longer than 4-stroke?
4-stroke engines tend to last longer than 2-stroke engines as they are less likely to suffer against tough obstacles. In whipper snippers, this can mean anything from stones and soil to long wet grass.
Check out our guide to whipper snippering to learn how to use a whipper snipper correctly.
What does the R mean in Stihl?
Stihl uses the code ‘R’ to label its products as ‘Rapid’. They have fast engines, but low torque, so are better for typically homes and gardens. Rapid Stihl products tend to be 2-Stroke engines.
What does C stand for in Stihl?
On all Stihl products, the ‘C’ refers to comfort, and will usually indicate anti-vibration features, or ergonomic handles for better balance. In whipper snippers, it can also refer to the handlebar type.
What does E stand for on Stihl products?
‘E’ is used by Stihl to indicate ‘Easy2Start, a trademarked feature of most of their modern engines, which start with spring pulls, or simple key and button motors.
What do Americans call a whipper snipper?
Americans call whipper snippers string trimmers or line trimmers or weed whackers. The tools are identical and often just rebranded versions of what we buy in Australia.
What handles are most comfortable on Stihl whipper snippers?
Bull horn handles or bike handles are the most comfortable handles for any whipper snipper, especially if you’re using them for prolonged periods. Stihl whipper snippers come with all sorts of handles, but the balance and control of their bike handle whipper snippers are second to none.
Get the Best Stihl Whipper Snippers and Brush Cutters in Australia
Whether you’re maintaining an established garden, working the land, or clearing a firebreak, you need equipment that you can depend on. Stihl brush cutters are designed for comfort, durability, and performance, making them ideal for homeowners, landscapers, and council operations alike.
Check out our Best Husqvarna Brushcutters reviews for 2025 and our whipper snippers buying guide for Australia (not including Stihl or Husqvarna) for more options.
Remember, petrol offers plenty of power but still produces emissions, while electric corded models give you quiet, endless run time, and battery models are fully portable.
When looking for the best Stihl whipper snipper or brush cutter for you, remember to consider what you are going to work on, how remote your work will be, and your price point.
Published on January 26, 2023 by Gary Clarke
Last Updated on December 23, 2024
