Black & Decker CHT500-2 14.4-Volt Cordless Hedge Hog Trimmer

There are lots of reasons to choose electric power tools over gas: they’re cleaner, quieter, and all-around better for the environment. There’s one big reason not to: tripping over (and perhaps cutting) the cord. This compact but surprisingly tough little trimmer solves the cord problem with a powerful 14.4-volt rechargeable battery that runs up to 40 minutes between charges. (That’s enough time to trim up to 1000 square feet of hedge and shrubs.) Without a cumbersome electrical cord to drag around, even big jobs feel easier, and you’ll never need to mess with oil, gas, or tune-ups. The extended 22-inch trimming blade provides a smooth, level cut and features dual action to minimize vibration, increase user comfort, and diminish fatigue. Weighing only 6 pounds, this unit feels even lighter, and it’s superbly balanced in the hand. Despite being battery-powered, the motor provides plenty of torque to chew handily through branches up to 3/8 of an inch in diameter. This trimmer is covered by a full two-year warranty. --Mary Park

• Lightweight and cordless electric trimmer is quiet, clean-running, and easy to use

• 22-inch cutting blade with dual action to minimize vibration and increase comfort

• 14.4-volt battery runs up to 40 minutes between charges

• Cuts through branches up to 3/8-inch in diameter

• Weighs 6 pounds; 2-year warranty