BLACK+DECKER LST136B 40V MAX String Trimmer REVIEW: A Long-Term User’s Perspective

For years, I battled unruly weeds and overgrown edges with a cumbersome, gas-powered trimmer. The fumes, the noise, the constant maintenance—it was a nightmare. I knew a BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX String Trimmer (LST136B) would have made my life significantly easier, offering a cordless, lightweight alternative to the gas guzzler I was using. The thought of a quiet, efficient trimming experience without the hassle of gas and oil was a dream.

Cordless string trimmers are a game-changer for anyone tired of wrestling with gas-powered models. They offer convenience, reduced noise pollution, and a lighter weight, making them far easier to maneuver. However, before you invest in a BLACK+DECKER LST136B or any cordless trimmer, you should consider a few key factors. The ideal customer is someone with a moderately sized yard who prioritizes ease of use and reduced noise. If you have an extremely large property or consistently battle incredibly dense, tough weeds, a more powerful, possibly gas-powered, option might be better suited to your needs. Think about the size of your yard and the density of your vegetation before making your purchase. Battery life is another crucial factor; ensure the model you choose offers sufficient runtime for your needs. Also, consider the availability and cost of replacement batteries and cutting strings.

Introducing the BLACK+DECKER LST136B 40V MAX String Trimmer

The BLACK+DECKER LST136B 40V MAX String Trimmer is a tool-only model (battery and charger sold separately), promising powerful trimming and edging capabilities. It boasts a 13-inch cutting swath, a Power Command dial for adjusting power and runtime, and automatic feed spool for uninterrupted operation. The easy conversion from trimmer to edger is a handy feature. While it doesn’t quite match the raw power of some top-tier gas trimmers, it surpasses many other cordless models in its price range. This trimmer is perfect for homeowners with average-sized yards who prefer a lightweight, easy-to-use option. It’s not ideal for professional landscapers or those with exceptionally large or overgrown areas.

  • Pros: Lightweight, easy to use, converts to edger, automatic feed spool, relatively powerful for cordless.
  • Cons: Battery and charger sold separately, battery life can be limited depending on usage, some reports of premature gear failure.
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A Deep Dive into the Features and Benefits of the BLACK+DECKER LST136B

Power Command Dial: Control at Your Fingertips

The Power Command dial is a game-changer. It lets you seamlessly switch between “MAX Power” for tackling tough weeds and “MAX Runtime” for longer operation on less demanding tasks. This feature is incredibly useful; I’ve found myself using MAX Power for the initial trimming of overgrown areas, then switching to MAX Runtime for the final cleanup. The ability to customize power based on the task at hand significantly extends battery life, making the most of each charge.

Power Drive Transmission: Enhanced Cutting Performance

BLACK+DECKER’s Power Drive Transmission efficiently transfers power from the motor to the cutting string, resulting in superior cutting performance. This was particularly noticeable when trimming thick weeds and tough grasses. The trimmer tackled even the most stubborn vegetation with ease, something my old gas trimmer often struggled with. The increased efficiency also contributes to extended battery life.

Automatic Feed Spool: Hassle-Free Trimming

The automatic feed spool is a small but significant feature. It eliminates the need for constant bumping, keeping the trimming process smooth and uninterrupted. This simple feature saves time and frustration, a welcome change from the manual bump-feed systems on my previous trimmers. The continuous cutting action made quick work of trimming the edges of my lawn and flower beds.

Easy Conversion to Edger: Versatility in One Tool

The ability to quickly convert the BLACK+DECKER LST136B from trimmer to edger is invaluable. A simple twist of the shaft transforms it into an efficient edging tool, ideal for creating crisp, clean edges along sidewalks and driveways. This versatility makes it a highly practical and space-saving tool for any homeowner.

Battery Compatibility: Expanding Your BLACK+DECKER Ecosystem

The compatibility with both 36V and 40V MAX* Lithium Ion batteries is a major plus if you already own other BLACK+DECKER 40V tools. This eliminates the need for multiple chargers and batteries, streamlining your outdoor power equipment setup. Being able to use my existing batteries with this trimmer was a huge advantage, avoiding the added expense of purchasing a new battery system.

Real-World Experiences with the BLACK+DECKER LST136B

Many online reviews echo my positive experience. Users praise its lightweight design, ease of use, and surprisingly powerful performance for a cordless trimmer. However, several reviewers also noted shorter-than-expected battery life under heavy use and some instances of premature gear failure. These issues seem to be isolated cases, but it’s a factor to consider.

Final Verdict: Is the BLACK+DECKER LST136B Right for You?

The BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX String Trimmer (LST136B) solves the problem of cumbersome, noisy, and polluting gas trimmers. It offers lightweight operation, effortless switching between trimming and edging modes, and powerful cutting performance – all without the mess and hassle of gasoline. It’s a great choice for those seeking a cordless option, although the battery life could be a limitation for very large properties or heavy users. For average-sized yards, however, this is a fantastic trimmer. To learn more and see if it’s the right tool for your needs, click here to check it out !

Last update on 2025-09-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API