ToolRev earns commissions on purchases made through out links.
As soon as it was released I picked up the DeWalt DCST970B Flexvolt 60 volt cordless trimmer to replace my 2 stroke gas powered, attachment capable, Toro. Now into its third season, the DeWalt is holding up very well.
Update: Jan, 2024. Going into 8th season now using the same 970 on multiple properties and it still runs like new.
Split Shaft
This is embarrassing, seeing how this is a tool review website, but I just assumed the split shaft meant this trimmer was attachment capable. Nope. Not only that, but DeWalt recommends not even hauling it around in half to avoid damage, which is how I do haul it around.
And as you can see here, the inner wire casing is starting to fray from the sharp edges of the shaft. Regardless, it’s the only way it will fit in the cab of my truck and not get stolen. C’est la vie, no?
2024 Update: Turns out the inner wiring is encased in another, thicker sheath. So, no worries mate! 🙂
Cordless Trimmer Power
This DeWalt cordless weed trimmer has as much power as my 2 stroke gas powered Toro, a 15” cutting swath, and a variable speed tigger that’s easy to cruise at different speeds.
The trimmer takes 0.08 to 0.095 line. I use the .095 because it lasts longer. I haven’t noticed the .095 line causing the DeWalt trimmer to bog down any more than on my gas trimmer.
Balance
The DCST970 is well balanced with the brushless motor at the front and the battery at the rear. I really like the battery guard which lets you to stand the trimmer on end without damaging the battery or terminals. And there is a hook underneath to hang it on the wall.
Bump Feed
The bump feed works well on this. The line can get caught up a fair amount but that may or may not be from my using the .095 line. And this is the same head for going on 8 years now so great quality.
DeWalt has released a quick-load bump-feed replacement head that may now come with the DCST970.
Edging and Guard
The DeWalt guard is much smaller than my Toro guard and not much protection from plant splatter and rocks. Probably why DeWalt says not to use the trimmer for edging, which I do.
But no worries because DeWalt offers a larger guard for this unit, part #N512929, which I have. It’s cheap, branded, and it works great.
Bottom Line
For a non attachment capable trimmer this one’s a winner. Good power, well balanced and fun to use. If you get one I hope yours lasts as long as mine has. See ya!
See it live in action here:
