Black+Decker LST136W String Trimmer: A Research-Based Review
The Black+Decker LST136W is a lightweight, cordless string trimmer designed for light-duty lawn maintenance. It targets homeowners with small to medium yards who prioritize ease of use and low cost over raw power or extended runtime. This review synthesizes owner feedback, spec-sheet analysis, and common usage patterns to provide an honest assessment of its capabilities and limitations.
Performance
Cutting Power and Grass Type
The LST136W runs on an 18-volt lithium-ion battery. This is a critical spec: it is not a 40-volt or 60-volt machine. For regularly maintained grass, such as fescue or bluegrass, the trimmer cuts cleanly. Its 13-inch cutting swath is adequate for typical edge work and light trimming. However, owner reports consistently indicate that the motor struggles with heavy weeds. When encountering tall crabgrass, thistle, or thick vegetation over 18 inches, the trimmer bogs down and the line snaps frequently. It is not designed for thick brush, vines, or woody stems. For such conditions, a gas-powered or higher-voltage electric model is necessary.
Battery Life
Black+Decker claims up to 30 minutes of runtime. In real-world use, owners consistently report between 20 and 25 minutes of continuous trimming on a full charge with a new battery. As the battery ages over dozens of charge cycles, runtime typically drops to around 18 minutes before the trimmer slows and stops. For a small yard (under a quarter acre), 20 minutes is generally sufficient for fence lines, patio edges, and tree bases. For larger properties or extensive detail work, a second battery is recommended. The charger takes 4 to 5 hours to fully recharge the battery, so quick top-offs are not possible.
Automatic Feed Spool
The automatic feed spool is a standout feature. It senses when the line is short and advances a new length automatically, eliminating the need to bump the head on the ground. Owners find this very convenient, as the line stays at the optimal cutting length without manual intervention. The downside is that the automatic feed consumes more line than a bump-feed system, as it sometimes advances when moving the trimmer through the air. Hitting hard objects like rocks or concrete curbs causes the line to snap and immediately advance, which is productive but uses the spool faster. Replacing the spool is straightforward: press two tabs on the head, pull it apart, and swap the spool. It takes about 30 seconds, and replacement spools are inexpensive and widely available.
Handling and Ergonomics
At 7.5 pounds, the LST136W is exceptionally light. Owners report that it can be held in one hand without fatigue, even during a full battery charge. The handle is a standard D-grip with a trigger switch, comfortable for most hand sizes. The adjustable auxiliary handle slides up or down the shaft to accommodate different heights. The straight shaft provides good reach under bushes and around obstacles. One common ergonomic complaint is the trigger lock: a small button on the side of the handle must be held while pulling the trigger to start the trimmer. Some owners find this button stiff, causing thumb soreness after extended use. It is a safety feature but not a deal breaker.
Build and Value
Construction Quality
The LST136W is constructed primarily of hard plastic, including the shaft, motor housing, and trimmer head. It feels solid for light-duty use and can withstand occasional drops on grass without cracking. The plastic guard around the cutting head is thin but functional, deflecting most debris, though some small pebbles may still reach the user’s ankles. The battery slides onto the base of the motor housing with a secure click and does not wobble. The battery features a three-LED charge indicator, allowing users to check remaining charge with a button press. Some owners have reported that after about 10 uses, the automatic feed mechanism occasionally fails to advance the line unless the trimmer is shaken. This suggests the internal springs and gears may not be built for heavy or frequent use. For weekly trimming, it should last a few seasons; for daily use, failure is more likely.
Value for the Price
This trimmer is priced between $60 and $80, including the trimmer, one battery, a charger, and a pre-wound spool of line. This is a very low entry point for a cordless electric trimmer. Compared to a gas trimmer, which often costs $150 to $200 and requires fuel, oil, and maintenance, the LST136W is much cheaper to own and operate. There is no need to mix gas, clean a carburetor, or pull a starter cord. The main trade-offs are battery life and power. For users who need only 20 minutes of trimming on normal grass, this trimmer offers tremendous value. For those needing more runtime or cutting power, a higher-voltage model or gas trimmer is necessary.
Who Should Buy It
- Homeowners with small to medium yards. If the lot is under a half acre and trimming sessions are 20 minutes or less, this trimmer will handle the job.
- People who prioritize weight and ease of use. At 7.5 pounds, it is one of the lightest trimmers available. It is a great option for those with arthritis, back problems, or who simply want a lightweight machine.
- Budget-conscious buyers. The low price makes it accessible, providing a functional tool without a significant investment.
- Users who already own Black+Decker 18-volt tools. The battery is compatible with other Black+Decker 18-volt products, allowing users to buy the trimmer as a bare tool and save money.
This trimmer is not recommended for:
- Anyone with a large property. If trimming sessions last 45 minutes or more, the battery will die halfway through. Multiple batteries or a corded electric trimmer are needed.
- Users who cut heavy weeds or thick brush. The trimmer lacks the torque to power through dense vegetation, stalling and snapping line frequently.
- Professional landscapers or commercial users. The plastic construction and limited runtime are not built for daily heavy use.
- People who dislike waiting for batteries to charge. The 4- to 5-hour charge time is slow, making same-day re-trimming inconvenient.
Verdict
The Black+Decker LST136W is a solid entry-level cordless string trimmer. It is designed for trimming the edges of a small, well-maintained lawn with minimal effort. Its light weight and automatic feed spool make it very easy to use, and its low price makes it a practical choice for basic trimming needs. However, its limitations are clear: short battery life and insufficient power for anything beyond standard grass. For yards with thick weeds or large areas to cover, this trimmer will leave users wanting more. There are also concerns about the long-term durability of the automatic feed mechanism. For light-duty work on a small property, it gets the job done at a low cost. For more demanding needs, a 40-volt model or gas trimmer is recommended.
