Because I converted my asphalt driveway to a "Dixie Pink" gravel driveway, giving my drive a 19th Century look, I needed a better way to collect my leaves, which a mainly compost. My prior method, a rake, was likely to be more time-consuming and more difficult (separating leaves from gravel).
Corded Electric Vs Gas Powered and Battery Electric
I did not want a VOC, gas driven blower because of environmental negative effects. I did not want a battery operated unit because they can be weak, and one has to keep them charged. After researching the corded electric models, I chose this one.
Results
I have used the unit twice and was impressed. I liked the variable speed, the power, the light weight, and storage bag (could be a little larger), and ability to separate the leaves from the gravel. I easily blew leaves into a tarp, which I could slide over to my leaf storage area for composing. The sound level was relatively low, but I still wore ear protection.
Pros: no vocs, ability to separate gravel & leaves, variable speeds, low noise
I've only used this leaf blower once and it's the first one I've owned. I liked the variable speed and the power it yielded. It's easy to use and not too noisy. All-in-all, I'm pleased.
Just purchased this product. Haven't used it all that much but it's a powerful blower but the vac I've not tried out yet. Was a very good value for the money.
my 2nd unit in 4years has just died i will never buy this brand again its only been used it 2 times last year an for the first time this year i used the vac. it lasted 2hrs.
The main unit is solid. In blower mode the unit is well balanced - just aim and walk along to herd the leaves into a general pile. The adjustable speed makes the blower and vacuum ideal for getting leaves out of rock covered and bark covered areas without rearranging or sucking up your landscaping (don't put the vacuum end on the ground and drag it, just hover above the leaves). Only downside I've found so far is the bag attachment for the vacuum. If there were an accordion style connector about a foot long that went into the bag at least half the width of the top of the bag it would allow greater movement of the vacuum unit without impeding the flow of air to the bag. If you don't keep the vacuum and the bag lined up fairly straight, you will create an over pressure that pushes little pieces of shredded leaves out along the connection between the bag and the hard plastic adapter.