When the leaves start piling up this fall, don't sweat it. Our high-powered yard-clearing arsenal stands at the ready to turn that age-old chore into, well, less of one
Type: Gas blower-vac Blower rating: Very good Vacuum rating: Excellent Impeller blade: Steel
Balance and comfort: Needs improvement. The bulky housing on the right side of the handle makes this unit uncomfortable for left-handed users. In blower mode it tends to rotate toward the user more than most. In vacuum mode the exhaust is directed toward the user, and the muffler becomes very hot and is uncomfortably close to one of the handles.
Overall: The Toro is one of the least-expensive models to include a metal impeller, and it includes an easy-to-read sticker that walks you through the starting process.
Specs: 9.7 pounds. 25.4 cc. 16-ounce fuel tank. Maximum blower speed/volume at tube end: 160 mph/420 cfm. 70 dB at 50 feet. 10:1 mulching ratio. 1.5-cubic-foot bag. Three-year warranty.
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