STIHL launches powerful and versatile battery brushcutter

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STIHL launches powerful and versatile battery brushcutter: STIHL has unveiled its latest addition to the AP System range, the FSA 110 R battery-powered brushcutter, offering professional users a powerful yet lightweight solution for maintaining green spaces, all with the added benefit of quiet, low-vibration performance.

Engineered with landscapers, groundskeepers and facilities maintenance teams in mind, the FSA 110 R combines exceptional cutting performance with impressive ease of use and ergonomic design, making it ideal for tackling everything from grass trimming to tougher clearing tasks, even in noise-sensitive areas.

STIHL launches powerful and versatile battery brushcutter

STIHL launches powerful and versatile battery brushcutter

At the heart of the tool is a high-efficiency EC motor that delivers consistent power across two speed settings. ECO mode is designed for lighter work such as edging and clean-up tasks, helping to extend battery run time, while the higher speed setting delivers maximum cutting performance for tougher tasks. Users can also fine-tune the speed within each mode for maximum control and energy efficiency.

Supplied with the STIHL AutoCut C 12-2 mowing head, the FSA 110 R makes line changes quicker and more intuitive thanks to the Advanced EasySpool system. The new mowing line can be inserted from one side and wound with a simple twist of the wear-free rotary knob with no need to dismantle the head.

Additionally, STIHL’s Rapid Click quick-change system allows operators to swap between mowing heads, such as the optional PolyCut 12-2 blade head, at the push of a button, making it faster to adapt to changing conditions on site.

Weighing just 3.6 kg (without battery), the brushcutter features a soft-grip, tool-free adjustable loop handle for a secure hold and easy customisation to suit different user heights. An integrated anti-vibration system further reduces strain on the arms and hands during extended use, ideal for professional applications where productivity and comfort are key.

Power comes from STIHL’s 36 V AP battery system, designed for professional landscaping and maintenance work. STIHL recommends pairing the tool with the AP 200 S battery, which delivers up to 60 minutes of run time with a nylon mowing line and up to 130 minutes with the PolyCut head, while also providing excellent tool balance when inserted into the housing.

Thanks to IPX4-rated splash protection, the FSA 110 R is suitable for use in wet conditions, while its low operating noise makes it compliant for work in residential, urban or public spaces where noise restrictions apply.

For more information on the STIHL FSA 110, visit www.stihl.co.uk.

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STIHL introduce the MS 400.1

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STIHL introduce the MS 400.1: Setting new standards in the 60cc class, the new MS 400.1 forestry chainsaw offers professionals the best power-to-weight ratio of any professional chainsaw on the market.  

Sitting in between the MS 261 C-M and MS 462 C-M, the new MS 400.1 replaces the existing MS 362 and MS 400.0 models in the lineup. The MS 400.1 has been re-developed from the ground up and is a completely new machine, building on the strengths of the original MS 400 and taking it to the next level.  The MS 400.1 weighs 5.5kg, 300g less than the original MS 400, and has a smaller engine displacement of 62.6cc. Despite this, the MS 400.1 still maintains an impressive power output of 3.9 kW, resulting in the best power-to-weight ratio of any petrol chainsaw available.

STIHL introduce the MS 400.1

STIHL introduce the MS 400.1

A second advantage of the MS 400.1 is the 4.3Nm of torque. When cutting large timber, the saw is less pressure sensitive and less likely to bog down mid-cut. Like all STIHL professional petrol chainsaws, the MS 400.1 uses the latest M-Tronic technology, resulting in easy starting and super-fast acceleration.

As well as technical improvements to the engine, a larger magnesium flywheel and improved muffler help to keep the saw cool during operation. A new larger HD2 filter keeps the saw running in tough conditions and cuts down on maintenance and downtime during the working day.

The geometry of the rear handle has been improved for more comfortable handling, and the end profile has been widened to rest securely on the operator’s leg, resulting in easier plunge cutting. This, combined with the new compact design, makes the MS 400.1 exceptionally easy to handle.

The rib pattern on the underside has been optimised to make cleaning faster. It also helps the saw to glide along the trunk when snedding, preventing bark and twigs from getting caught.

Located on the petrol tank, the new 50% marker gives a quick indication of the total fuel level, helping the operator to keep track of their consumption and fill up efficiently.

STIHL have also improved access to the oil pump control bolt, meaning adjustments can be made with a standard combination tool rather than a specialist screwdriver.

For more information on the MS 400.1, visit www.stihl.co.uk.

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Toro Teams Up with Commonwealth War Graves Commission

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Toro Teams Up with Commonwealth War Graves Commission: The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) has recently upgraded its grounds maintenance equipment with the acquisition of a Toro® Z Master® 8000 Series direct collect ride-on mower, supplied by Mowers & More.

The latest development in a decades-long relationship between Toro and the CWGC, this addition is set to enhance the upkeep of the Brookwood Military Cemetery near Woking, the largest Commonwealth war cemetery in the United Kingdom, covering 37 acres.

Toro Teams Up with Commonwealth War Graves Commission

Toro Teams Up with Commonwealth War Graves Commission

Matthew Coleman, Sales Manager Professional Landscape Contractor & Site Works Equipment at Toro U.K., commented: “The Commonwealth War Graves Commission has chosen the Toro Z Master 8000 Series for its advanced features, which are well-suited to the maintenance needs of their cemeteries. The 37-acre grounds at Brookwood Military Cemetery are meticulously maintained by the CWGC’s grounds team, and this machine’s features will make their job simpler and quicker than ever.”

The Toro Z Master 8000 Series is designed to provide efficient and effective maintenance, ensuring the cemetery grounds remain in pristine condition. The mower delivers low ground pressure, minimising turf damage, while the outfront mower deck allows for precise cutting in tight spaces. A high-capacity hopper reduces the need for frequent emptying, while zero-turn manoeuvrability is perfect for the cemetery’s varied terrain.

Reinforcing the relationship between the two partners, Toro UK invited the CWGC to spend a day at their Spellbrook facility. The day provided an opportunity to experience Toro’s broad portfolio, learn more about Toro and Hayter’s groundscare innovation and share further feedback and information.

The CWGC’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care for its cemeteries is evident in its choice of equipment. The Toro 8000 Series is designed to provide efficient and effective maintenance, ensuring that the grounds remain in pristine condition for visitors and to honour the memory of those who served.

For more information about the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and their work, visit www.cwgc.org. For details on the Toro Z Master 8000 Series and other products, visit www.toro.com/en-gb.

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It’s Baroness from tee to green at Ilkley GC

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It’s Baroness from tee to green at Ilkley GC: What started as just one hand mower purchased close to 30 years ago has blossomed into a full fleet of mowing equipment from Baroness for the team at Ilkley Golf Club.

Today, the 18-hole parkland course is mown from tee to green with 11 machines from the Baroness precision fine turf range, bringing not just cut quality but outstanding reliability to operations at the third oldest club in Yorkshire.

It’s Baroness from tee to green at Ilkley GC

It’s Baroness from tee to green at Ilkley GC

It isn’t only the Baroness brand that has been a stalwart to proceedings, Head Greenkeeper Duncan Campbell has chalked up over 43 years of loyal service – today supported by a team of six. “Our approach has always favoured hand mowing the greens most mornings which was why we purchased our first Baroness (formally Saxon) back in the mid 1990’s” explains Duncan. “From the off, the build quality of these machines was evident and the team enjoyed using them so one quickly became two, before becoming five which is what we continue to run today on a turnover programme.”

Alongside the five Baroness LM56 pedestrian greens mowers are an LM66 hand mower for tees, an LM315 greens mower, an LM331 for surrounds and approaches, an LM2700 and LM551B for the fairways and a GM2810A semi-rough mower – the latest purchases delivered by local dealers GGM in early April.

“There’s a lot to like about the Baroness machines starting with the build quality and simplicity of operation.” He emphasises, “We have a highly skilled team that don’t need to rely on fancy gadgets or a computer to do an incredibly good job. Then there’s the cut quality which is consistent throughout the range, both rotary and cylinder. With fewer chemical controls we get a lot of worms and wormcasts here at Ilkley which is, unfortunately, another thing to bear in mind with mowing equipment. The Baroness cylinders deal with this incredibly well, retaining sharpness for a quality cut.”

Duncan goes on to further note the support from GGM and Baroness’ own Andrew Darley. “While we’ve barely had any issues over the years, the back up support and advice we’ve had from Andy and the team at GGM has been brilliant. It helps to make Baroness the ‘complete package’.”

The recent delivery of the GM2810 five-deck rotary mower, together with Duncan’s LM551B are also equipped with the optional Baroness weather cabs. Providing a cost-effective alternative to a full cab, the windscreen and wiper utilise the existing roof, while the soft back and sides provide protection from the elements when needed or can be simply rolled up to optimise airflow in the warmer weather.

For more information on the Baroness range, or to find your local dealer, visit www.baronessuk.com

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Kubota LX401 pairing pull their weight at AFCB

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Kubota LX401 pairing pull their weight at AFCB: Continued investment in the facilities at AFC Bournemouth has seen the purchase of two new LX401 compact tractors from Kubota.

With a Kubota ST401 already based at the club’s Vitality Stadium, the two new additions will be shared between the existing training ground and brand-new state-of-the-art training complex – where they’ll be key to executing the year-round maintenance on the four sand-based, desso pitch constructions.

Kubota LX401 pairing pull their weight at AFCB

Kubota LX401 pairing pull their weight at AFCB

The investment off the pitch appears to be paying dividends on it with the club, nicknamed ‘The Cherries’, at the end of one of the most successful seasons in Bournemouth’s history. In charge of facilities is Head of Grounds Ian Lucas who is, currently, maintaining four sites assisted by a team of 11. In equipping the new 24-hectare training ground with its own machinery fleet, Ian explored all the options when it came to compact tractors – with Kubota proving more ‘compact’ than others…

“No groundsman wants to be putting more weight on their pitches than they need to – it’s critical to find the balance of retaining a low footprint but having enough lift capacity for all the implements we use” Ian explains. “We compared a number of options in the mid-compact arena and found that not only was the Kubota specification better, it had a slightly higher lift capacity and was half a tonne lighter. When the competition indicated it was down to build quality, I told them I’d never had a Kubota break down on me!”

“Just like our ST401 at the stadium, the new LXs are incredibly comfortable to operate and have demonstrated their capability on a range of maintenance tasks at the two training grounds including aeration and regular drag-brushing.”

With time a precious commodity for the team, and the cost of materials ever-increasing, Ian made the decision to have all three tractors equipped with GPS systems. “Initially we thought this would be useful for seeding, where it can be difficult to monitor accuracy when passing on bare sand. However, we now utilise the technology to optimise our spraying and fertiliser programmes and improve efficiency on tasks that can otherwise be quite monotonous.”

The adaptations on the tractor fleet, together with all sales, support and service, is delivered by local Kubota dealer E G Coles. “We’ve always had fantastic back up from the team at E G Coles, particularly Andy Frost who always goes out of his way to help us out when we need information or assistance.”

Ian adds, “It feels like an incredibly exciting period for AFC Bournemouth. With the three Kubota compact tractors at our disposal, we’re in a much better position to deliver surfaces not just fit for the first team, but for players of all ages and abilities across the club, putting us in great stead for the future.”

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