The Best Leaf Blowers
HOW TO CHOOSE = The best leaf blowers will be relatively light-weight and quieter than most. You should check the local restrictions before you buy. There are some communities that ban leaf blowers altogether because of the noise. Others have noise restrictions of 69 or 65 decibels, and still others restrict the gas engine emission levels. If possible, try to compare the sound before buying. Electric models will be the right leaf blowers for most users. Corded electric blowers are just as powerful as the gas-powered models. They are generally quieter, cleaner, lighter and safer for the environment. Corded models typically can go 150 feet. You can always add extension cords, and the cordless models can go anywhere. Variable speed blowers are recommended because they can be regulated to protect plants and mulch. Lower speeds are also less noisy. Look for wide-mouth or flared blower nozzles that swivel. These are better at gathering leaves into piles. Models with tapered ends tend to scatter leaves. Swiveling nozzles make handling easier.
THE REVIEW = The Best Leaf Blower Vac for Small Yards is the Toro Ultra Blower Vac 51599. This is a 12-amp blower that has more power than most gas-powered models, but is quieter, lighter and more convenient to use. It has a good range of variable speeds which allows you to blow around plants without damaging them. When used as a vacuum, serrated metal blades chop leaves more finely than most blower vacs, and the magnesium impeller is very durable. The Toro comes with a two-year warranty and lists for $75.
Best Cordless Leaf Blower = Black & Decker NS118 @ $80. Best Electric Blower = Toro Power Sweep 51585 @ $35. Best Gas Leaf Blower = Stihl BG 55 @ around $140. Best Backpack Blower = Echo PB-265LC @ $260.
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found in Dec. ’09 and again in May, '10 = for all models.