DEWALT DCKO86M1 Cordless Pole Saw and Hedge Trimmer Combo Kit Review Uncovered

Description

Performance and Cutting Power

I’ve had the chance to put the DEWALT DCKO86M1 20V MAX Cordless Pole Saw and Pole Hedge Trimmer Combo Kit through its paces, and this tool really shows its muscle in handling tall limbs and dense hedges. The 8-inch bar-and-chain pole saw, with its ability to reach up to 15 feet, makes cutting high branches feel surprisingly manageable without lugging out a ladder. The up to 96 cuts per charge spec isn’t just marketing fluff; I genuinely experienced solid run time before needing to recharge. The pole hedge trimmer attachment, with a 22-inch steel, laser-cut, dual-action blade operating at 2800 strokes per minute, slices through overgrowth quickly and cleanly. Switching between the saw and the trimmer heads is straightforward, and the 7-position, 180-degree articulating pole provides excellent versatility to tackle awkward angles.

Design and Ergonomics

This combo kit weighs around 5 pounds, which I found to be a good balance between sturdiness and ease of use. The yellow/black color scheme screams DEWALT, giving it a professional look that feels durable. The pole extends nicely without feeling flimsy, and the classic style is thoughtfully designed to reduce fatigue during extended use. I noticed the grip was comfortable, though it might not suit those with smaller hands perfectly. The blade material being alloy steel adds to the tool’s robustness, promising longevity even under heavy-duty tasks. However, the overall length of 40 inches means it’s a bit bulky to store in tight spaces, so I had to find a special spot in my garage for it.

Battery Life and Charging Experience

Battery-powered tools sometimes disappoint on runtime, but this combo kit surprised me. The DCPS620 Pole Saw delivers solid battery endurance, managing nearly a full session of pruning without slowing down. The 4.0Ah battery included seemed well-matched to the demands of both the pole saw and the hedge trimmer head. Charging was relatively quick, and the charger felt reliable without overheating. Although I would have preferred a spare battery in the package for continuous work, the included charger and battery combo is a neat setup for tackling medium-sized yard tasks. Efficiency in power delivery definitely stands out here.

Positive Features

• Impressive reach up to 15 feet for the saw and 12 feet for the trimmer, removing the need for ladders.
• Strong cutting performance with the 8-inch bar and 22-inch dual-action blade for clean and fast results.
• Versatile 7-position, 180-degree articulating pole ensures access to tricky angles.
• Comfortable grip and balanced weight for better handling during long sessions.

Drawbacks to Consider

• Bulkiness makes storage somewhat of a challenge, especially in small garages or sheds.
• No spare battery included, which can slow down work on larger properties without pauses.
• The grip design may not be perfect for all hand sizes, potentially leading to discomfort for some users.
• Some users might find the unit slightly heavy for extended overhead use, causing arm fatigue.

Competing Products

Comparing this combo kit to other popular cordless pole saws and trimmers, it competes well in terms of power and reach. Tools like the Greenworks 24V Pole Saw offer lighter weights, but often at the expense of cutting performance and battery longevity. The DEWALT model’s alloy steel blade and bar give it an edge in durability over some rivals using lesser materials. On the flip side, brands like Makita sometimes excel with slightly quicker charging times or additional battery options in their kits, which DEWALT’s package lacks. Safety features on this tool are solid but nothing revolutionary compared to competitors who might add anti-kickback or advanced chain brakes as standard. Price-wise, this combo kit lands in a mid-to-high range, justified by its quality but less attractive if you only need one of the functions.

Value for Money

Looking at the price-performance balance, this pole saw and hedge trimmer combo delivers affordable quality for homeowners who want a reliable, cordless solution without stepping up to commercial-grade gear. The convenience of having both attachments in one kit adds significant value, especially if you maintain various types of foliage. Considering the 3-year limited warranty, 1-year free service, and 90-day satisfaction guarantee, this tool feels like a smart spending choice for those who want dependable yard equipment with robust power. It’s not the cheapest out there, but the combination of features and build quality suggests it’s worth every penny if you need both a pole saw and hedge trimmer.

User Experience and Practical Insights

My family chipped in to test this combo during a particularly wild spring growth spurt. The pole saw made quick work of stubborn branches that had been teasing the roofline, while the hedge trimmer attachment transformed unruly bushes into neat hedges without fuss. My neighbor, who’s more of a casual gardener, appreciated how easy it was to swap heads and how the tool’s reach saved him from scrambling up ladders. On the downside, after a good amount of trimming, I could feel the weight in my arms, especially when holding the pole extended overhead for long stretches. If you have a large property or complex landscaping, investing in an extra battery or breaks during use might be necessary.

Features Breakdown and Settings

The combo kit includes the DCPS620 Pole Saw and the DCPH820 Pole Hedge Trimmer head, a battery, and charger. The pole hedge trimmer’s 22-inch cutting width is ample for most hedges, and the laser-cut, dual-action blades reduce vibration and deliver smoother cuts. The pole’s 7-position articulation allows it to pivot up to 180 degrees, letting me trim awkward angles with precision. The saw’s 8-inch bar and chain is powerful enough for medium branches, but I’d hesitate to tackle anything larger than 8 inches in diameter since it could strain the motor. The tool’s blend material construction balances durability and weight, while the battery-powered source eliminates the hassle of cords. All components feel thoughtfully designed for ease of maintenance and replacement parts availability.

This combo kit suits a wide range of users, from weekend warriors to serious gardeners, thanks to its unisex-adult suggested user design and straightforward controls. The 3-year limited warranty offered by the manufacturer adds peace of mind, showing confidence in the product’s longevity.

Additional information