6 Best Stick Edgers For Reaching Under Fences That Prevent Weed Creep
Prevent weed creep from under your fence. This guide reviews the 6 best stick edgers with the reach and design needed to create a sharp, clean boundary.
Nothing defines a property line or a pasture quite like a good fence, but nothing ruins that clean look faster than weeds creeping underneath. That persistent grass creates a maintenance nightmare, harbors pests, and can even compromise electric fencing. The secret to winning this battle isn’t a string trimmer; it’s a dedicated stick edger that creates a barrier weeds can’t easily cross.
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Why a Stick Edger Beats a String Trimmer
A string trimmer is a tool for trimming, not trenching. When you turn it on its side to "edge," you’re just scalping the surface. This actually encourages aggressive weeds like Bermuda grass to send out more runners, making your problem worse over time.
A stick edger, with its vertical metal blade, does the opposite. It cuts a clean, deep channel into the soil, severing the root systems of creeping grasses. This mini-trench acts as a physical barrier, dramatically slowing down the invasion. Its long, straight shaft also gives you the reach and control to get right under the bottom wire or board of a fence without chewing up posts or insulators.
Stihl FC 91: Pro-Grade Power for Tough Sod
If your fence lines run through compacted clay or long-established, tough sod, you need power. The Stihl FC 91 delivers it. This is a professional-grade, gas-powered tool designed for relentless work, and it won’t bog down when the blade hits dense root mats.
This isn’t the lightest or cheapest tool on the list, but it’s an investment in performance. Its solid driveshaft and powerful engine mean you can cut a clean, deep edge in a single pass, saving you time and frustration. For a large property with challenging soil conditions, the FC 91 is the "buy it once, cry once" solution that will still be running strong a decade from now.
Echo PE-2620: Durability for Daily Farm Use
Echo has built its reputation on reliability, and the PE-2620 is a perfect example. It’s the dependable workhorse you can toss in the back of the UTV, knowing it will start on the second or third pull every single time. It has plenty of power for most farm conditions without the top-end price of other pro models.
What sets the Echo apart is its balance. It’s powerful enough for tough jobs but not so heavy that edging a few thousand feet of fence line becomes a workout. This is the edger for the farmer who values straightforward, no-fuss durability over bells and whistles. It’s built to withstand the bumps and bruises of daily farm life.
DeWalt 60V MAX: Cordless Convenience & Power
The idea that battery tools can’t hang with gas is outdated. The DeWalt 60V MAX edger proves it, delivering serious torque that rivals many gas-powered counterparts. The real advantage here is convenience—no mixing fuel, no fumes, and no wrestling with a pull cord. Just pop in a battery and go.
This is a game-changer for quick jobs or working near the house where noise is a concern. The main tradeoff is runtime; for vast properties, you’ll need a few fully charged batteries on hand. But for the hobby farmer with a few acres, the power and simplicity of the DeWalt system are hard to beat, especially if you already own other 60V MAX tools.
EGO Power+ Multi-Head: A Versatile System
For the hobby farmer trying to maximize their tool budget and shed space, a multi-head system is a brilliant solution. The EGO Power+ system is a leader in this space, and its edger attachment is surprisingly robust. You get one powerful, battery-operated power head and then swap attachments for edging, string trimming, hedge trimming, or even pole sawing.
This approach saves you money and clutter. The edger attachment itself is well-designed, with a guide wheel and plenty of power from the 56V motor to cut a clean line. While it might not have the brute force of a dedicated gas model like the Stihl, its versatility and performance make it an incredibly smart choice for managing a diverse property.
Craftsman V20: An Affordable Fencing Solution
You don’t always need a professional-grade tool for every job. For smaller homesteads or properties with loamier soil, the Craftsman V20 edger is a fantastic, budget-friendly option. It provides enough power to maintain a clean edge and prevent weed creep without the high cost of entry.
This is an ideal tool if you’re already invested in the Craftsman V20 battery platform. It may require a second pass in really tough conditions, and its long-term durability might not match an Echo or Stihl. However, for the price, it delivers excellent value and makes a daunting chore accessible to nearly any budget.
Greenworks Pro 80V: Lightweight & Ergonomic
Let’s be honest: farm chores can be physically demanding. The Greenworks Pro 80V edger focuses on reducing that strain. It’s noticeably lighter and has far less vibration than any gas model, which makes a huge difference when you’re edging a long fence line after a full day’s work.
The 80V platform provides ample power for most situations, easily slicing through typical turf. The real win is the user experience—it’s quiet, easy to start, and less fatiguing. If the thought of wrestling with a heavy, vibrating gas engine keeps you from getting the edging done, this tool is your solution.
Choosing the Right Edger for Your Farm’s Needs
The "best" edger depends entirely on your specific situation. Don’t just buy the most powerful or the cheapest. Instead, think through these key factors:
- Power Source: Do you prefer the go-anywhere power of gas (Stihl, Echo) or the quiet, low-maintenance convenience of battery (DeWalt, EGO, Greenworks, Craftsman)?
- Property & Soil: For large acreage with compacted, clay soil, you need the raw torque of a pro-grade gas model or a high-voltage battery system. For smaller plots with softer soil, a mid-range battery unit is more than enough.
- Existing Tools: If you’re already committed to a battery ecosystem like DeWalt, EGO, or Craftsman, buying a compatible edger is a no-brainer. You save money by not having to buy new batteries and chargers.
- Budget & Versatility: A dedicated, high-end tool is an investment. If your budget is tight or you value multi-purpose tools, a versatile system like the EGO Multi-Head offers the best long-term value.
Ultimately, the goal is to buy a tool you’ll actually use. The most expensive edger is the one that sits in the shed because it’s too heavy, too loud, or too much of a hassle to start. Be realistic about your needs and preferences, and you’ll find the perfect tool to keep your fence lines clean and your pastures contained.
A clean fence line is more than just curb appeal; it’s a statement of good stewardship and an essential part of property management. By choosing the right stick edger, you turn a reactive, frustrating chore into a proactive, satisfying task. You’re not just cutting grass—you’re defining your boundaries and taking control.
