There’s a moment every ambitious gardener faces. It’s that point when you step back, hands on hips, and stare up at a hedge that has transformed from a neat boundary into a towering green monster. My moment came last spring, staring at a colossal Leylandii hedge that was greedily stealing sunlight from the lawn and threatening to invade a neighbour’s airspace. My trusty electric trimmer was useless; its cord couldn’t reach, and its blade simply bounced off the thicker, woody growth. Balancing precariously on a stepladder with a handsaw was not just inefficient, it was an accident waiting to happen. This is the exact scenario where the need for a serious, long-reach, petrol-powered tool becomes undeniable. It’s about reclaiming control, ensuring safety, and doing a job that otherwise would require expensive professional help. The alternative is letting nature run rampant, which can lead to disputes, blocked light, and an unkempt garden that feels more like a burden than a sanctuary.
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What to Consider Before Investing in a Long Reach Petrol Multi-Tool
A petrol long reach hedge trimmer is more than just a garden tool; it’s a key solution for property maintenance, offering unparalleled power and freedom from electrical cords. It’s designed to tackle the most demanding jobs—sculpting tall hedges, pruning high branches, and clearing dense overgrowth that would overwhelm lesser battery or electric models. The main benefit is raw, untethered power. With a robust petrol engine, you can work anywhere on your property for extended periods, cutting through thick, mature wood with an authority that other power sources simply cannot match. This capability transforms daunting, day-long tasks into manageable afternoon projects, saving you significant time and the cost of hiring tree surgeons for routine maintenance.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone with a large garden, tall, established hedges, or numerous mature trees. If you’re facing thick branches (over an inch in diameter) on a regular basis and value speed and power above all else, a petrol multi-tool like the BU-KO 52cc Long Reach Hedge Trimmer and Pruner Saw is built for you. However, it might not be suitable for those with small, manicured gardens where noise could be an issue for neighbours. Likewise, if you are not comfortable with the maintenance that comes with a 2-stroke engine (mixing fuel, cleaning air filters, spark plug changes) or if the weight of a powerful engine is a concern, a lighter cordless electric model might be a better fit. For simple, low-level hedge trimming, a standard corded or battery trimmer remains a more practical choice.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Reach & Weight Distribution: The primary purpose of these tools is reach. Consider the maximum height you need to access and ensure the tool, with its extensions, can comfortably get there. Crucially, consider how the weight is distributed. A powerful engine is heavy, and when placed on the end of a long pole, the leverage can make it feel even heavier and more difficult to control. A good harness is non-negotiable for mitigating fatigue and ensuring safe operation.
- Engine Power & Performance: Engine displacement, measured in cubic centimetres (cc), is a direct indicator of power. A 52cc engine, like the one in the BU-KO model, is on the higher end for domestic tools, promising the ability to slice through substantial branches without bogging down. Consider the trade-offs: more power means more weight, more vibration, and higher fuel consumption. It’s about matching the engine’s capability to the toughness of your typical gardening tasks.
- Materials & Durability: Look for components made from high-grade materials like alloy steel for the blades and driveshaft. The quality of the shaft connections is also vital; they need to lock securely with no wobble, as this is a major point of stress during operation. A tool that feels solid and well-constructed will not only last longer but will also be safer and more pleasant to use.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Petrol engines require a specific starting procedure (priming, choke, pull-start). Look for models with easy-start systems. Also, consider the maintenance involved: you’ll need to mix 2-stroke oil with petrol, regularly clean the spark plug and air filter, and sharpen or replace the blades and chain. Access to spare parts and customer support can be a lifesaver for long-term ownership.
Understanding these factors will ensure you choose a tool that not only meets the physical demands of your garden but also aligns with your own comfort level and maintenance willingness.
While the BU-KO 52cc Long Reach Hedge Trimmer and Pruner Saw is an excellent choice for heavy-duty work, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, from petrol powerhouses to lightweight cordless options, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
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- Long Reach Hedge Trimmer: The Terratek telescopic hedge trimmer is ideal for clipping tall, awkwardly-sited or hard-to-reach hedges and shrubs thanks to the 1.3m extendable pole providing you with a...
- The Easy Garden Tools from Bosch – for small and medium-sized gardens
First Impressions: Unboxing a Serious Piece of Garden Machinery
The arrival of the BU-KO 52cc Long Reach Hedge Trimmer and Pruner Saw was an event in itself. The box is large and heavy, immediately signalling that this isn’t a toy. Inside, each component was securely packed and logically laid out. You’re greeted by the main engine unit, the hedge trimmer head, the pruner chainsaw head, the shaft sections, the 75cm extension pole, and a surprisingly comprehensive accessory kit. The latter includes a toolbag, a toolkit for assembly and maintenance, a fuel mixing bottle, and essential PPE like gloves, ear defenders, and a face shield. The inclusion of a full body harness was particularly welcome, as it’s an absolute necessity for a tool of this weight and power.
Assembling it for the first time took about 20 minutes, following the instructions. The quick-release connectors for the shaft and attachments feel robust and engage with a reassuring click. The bright red and black finish gives it a professional look, and the alloy steel used for the blades and pruner bar feels substantial. Holding the main engine unit, you feel its heft; this is a machine built around a powerful 52cc engine, and it makes no apologies for it. Compared to lighter, battery-powered alternatives, the initial impression is one of raw, industrial capability. It feels less like a domestic garden tool and more like something you’d see on a professional landscaping crew’s truck. You can immediately see the full kit and its specifications online to appreciate the completeness of the package.
Key Benefits
- Incredibly powerful 52cc engine cuts through thick branches with ease.
- Excellent reach of up to 15 feet, making ladders obsolete for most tasks.
- Versatile 2-in-1 functionality with both hedge trimmer and pruner saw attachments.
- Comprehensive package includes harness, PPE, toolkit, and extension pole.
Potential Drawbacks
- Significant weight can lead to fatigue, especially at full extension.
- As a petrol tool, it is loud and produces fumes.
Performance In-Depth: Unleashing the BU-KO in the Wild
A tool’s true character is only revealed in the thick of battle. We took the BU-KO 52cc Long Reach Hedge Trimmer and Pruner Saw to a property with exactly the kind of challenges it was designed for: towering conifer hedges, overgrown shrubs with thick, woody cores, and high tree branches encroaching on pathways. This is where we separated the marketing claims from on-the-ground reality.
The Heart of the Beast: The 52cc 2-Stroke Engine
The engine is the centerpiece of this machine, and its performance is nothing short of brutal. After mixing the fuel and priming the carburettor as per the instructions, the engine roared to life on the third pull of the starter cord. The sound is deep and throaty; this is not a quiet machine, and the included ear defenders are not just a recommendation, they are essential. The power delivery is immediate and impressive. There’s a tangible sense of torque that runs through the shaft as you squeeze the throttle. We started with some ground-level clearance of thick, overgrown bramble and woody shrubs, and the hedge trimmer attachment didn’t even flinch. It sliced through stems as thick as my thumb without any hesitation or bogging down, just pure, relentless cutting power.
This raw power is the main reason to choose a petrol model over an electric or battery alternative. While top-tier cordless models are convenient, they simply cannot match the sustained aggression of a 52cc engine when faced with truly neglected growth. The fuel tank provides a generous run time—we worked for over 45 minutes of heavy cutting before needing a refill. The trade-off, of course, is the vibration and emissions. While the anti-vibration handles do a decent job, you can definitely feel the engine working hard. It’s a physical experience, but for those who need to clear large areas quickly, the sheer effectiveness of this formidable power unit is a compelling trade-off.
Mastering the Reach: Extension Poles and Ergonomics
The real test began when we attached the 75cm extension pole to tackle the top of a 12-foot hedge. With the pole in place and the hedge trimmer attachment fitted, the tool has a formidable presence. This is where the included harness becomes your best friend. Clipping the machine onto the harness transfers the majority of the weight from your arms to your shoulders and core, making it possible to control the tool for extended periods. Without the harness, you would struggle for more than a few minutes.
Operating the BU-KO 52cc Long Reach Hedge Trimmer and Pruner Saw at full extension requires a specific technique. It’s less about muscling it around and more about finding the balance point and using a smooth, sweeping motion, letting the weight of the engine act as a counterbalance. The articulation on the hedge trimmer head is invaluable here, allowing us to cut the top of the hedge flat while standing safely on the ground. The control is surprisingly good, though it demands concentration. We were able to create a clean, level finish across a 30-foot length of hedge top in a fraction of the time it would have taken with a ladder and a standard trimmer. The system’s ability to eliminate ladder-related risks cannot be overstated—it’s a massive safety improvement. The hardened alloy steel pole sections connect firmly, with no discernible flex or wobble, which inspires confidence when the cutting head is 15 feet in the air.
The Business End: Hedge Trimmer and Pruner Saw Attachments in Action
The quality of a multi-tool rests on its attachments, and both the hedge trimmer and pruner saw delivered exceptional performance. The hedge trimmer features a 45cm double-edged blade made of hardened alloy steel. The teeth are sharp and well-spaced, allowing them to grab and cut foliage effectively rather than just pushing it around. On softer new growth, it glides through effortlessly, leaving a crisp, professional finish. Its real test was on the older, woody sections deep inside the hedge. Here, the combination of the sharp blades and the engine’s immense torque shone through, powering through branches up to 20mm in diameter without a struggle. The articulating head, adjustable via a simple lever, provides excellent versatility for shaping sides and tops from various angles.
Switching to the pruner saw attachment took less than a minute, thanks to the quick-release coupling. This miniature chainsaw on a pole is a game-changer for tree maintenance. We targeted several dead or overhanging branches on an old apple tree, some as high as 14 feet. The 10-inch cutting bar is perfectly sized for limbs up to 8-9 inches in diameter. The chain bites into the wood aggressively, and with a steady hand, you can make clean, precise cuts. It’s essential to let the tool do the work and not force it, allowing the weight of the engine and the sharpness of the chain to pull it through the branch. This is arguably a feature that really sets it apart from less powerful electric pole saws, which can struggle and bind on thicker hardwood. The ability to prune high branches safely from the ground fundamentally changes how you approach garden maintenance.
What Other Users Are Saying
While we conduct our own exhaustive hands-on testing, we always cross-reference our findings with the broader user community to ensure a balanced perspective. Since the BU-KO 52cc Long Reach Hedge Trimmer and Pruner Saw is a relatively new model, direct user reviews are still accumulating. However, based on feedback for similar high-power petrol multi-tools and our own experience, a clear picture emerges. The most common point of praise for tools in this class is invariably the sheer, unadulterated power. Users consistently report being amazed at how effortlessly it cuts through branches they previously thought would require a full-size chainsaw.
The versatility and reach are also frequently highlighted as game-changers, saving countless hours and the inherent danger of working on ladders. On the other hand, the most common critique is, unsurprisingly, the weight. It’s a physically demanding tool to use, especially at full extension, and the importance of using the supplied harness properly is a recurring theme. Some users new to petrol engines also mention a slight learning curve with the starting procedure and fuel mixing, but this is typical for any 2-stroke machine. Overall, the sentiment is that if you can handle the weight and are prepared for the noise, the performance and capability are in a league of their own.
How Does the BU-KO Compare? Top Alternatives on the Market
The BU-KO 52cc Long Reach Hedge Trimmer and Pruner Saw is a formidable petrol-powered beast, but the market offers excellent cordless alternatives for those with different priorities. If weight, noise, and emissions are your primary concerns, one of these three models might be a better fit for your needs.
1. Einhell GE-HH 18/45 Li T Cordless Long Reach Hedge Trimmer
- EXPERIENCE CORDLESS FREEDOM - The Einhell Power X-Change GE-HH 18/45 Li T battery powered Long Reach Hedge Trimmer is the perfect tool for outdoor cutting hedges, bushes and tree foliage at height
- TELESCOPIC ALUMINIUM HANDLE - Infinitely adjustable and extendable up to 2.5m. The length of the pole trimmer can be set from 1.6m (5 Feet 2 Inches) to 2.5m (8 Feet 2 Inches)
The Einhell GE-HH 18/45 is a fantastic choice for users already invested in the Power X-Change 18V battery ecosystem. Its main advantage over the BU-KO is its significantly lower weight and quieter, emission-free operation. This makes it far less fatiguing to use for extended periods and much more neighbour-friendly. However, it is purely a hedge trimmer, lacking the pruner saw versatility of the BU-KO. Its cutting power, while excellent for typical hedge foliage and smaller twigs, cannot compete with the 52cc petrol engine when it comes to thick, woody branches. It’s best suited for homeowners with moderately sized hedges who prioritise convenience and ease of use over raw power.
2. Makita DUN500WZ Pole Hedge Trimmer
- Brushless motor
- Electric brake for increased operator safety
Makita is a byword for professional-grade quality, and the DUN500WZ is no exception. This 18V cordless pole hedge trimmer boasts a high-quality brushless motor, which delivers impressive efficiency and a longer lifespan. Its balance and ergonomics are superb, feeling like a premium tool in the hands. Compared to the BU-KO, it is lighter, quieter, and much more refined. The key trade-off is, again, ultimate power and functionality. It’s a dedicated hedge trimmer that excels at its job but doesn’t offer the branch-cutting capability of the BU-KO’s pruner saw. This is a tool for the serious gardener or professional who needs a top-tier hedge trimmer for precision work and values the renowned Makita build quality and battery platform.
3. DEWINNER Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer 20V
- Light Weight: 2.4m telescopic pole, lightweight aluminum alloy design.
- Battery and Charger Include: Come with 20v Li-ion batteriy, fit most trimming jobs. With a 1 hour fast charger. Battery sharing for all DEWINNER power tools.
The DEWINNER 20V model represents a strong value proposition in the cordless market. It comes as a complete kit, including a battery and charger, often at a very competitive price point. It offers a good balance of reach (2.4m), cutting length (46cm), and manageable weight. For the average suburban garden with hedges that don’t have extremely thick, old wood, it’s a perfectly capable tool. Against the petrol-powered BU-KO, its main limitations are power and runtime. It will struggle with branches thicker than 16mm, and you’ll need to manage your battery life for larger jobs. It’s the ideal choice for someone stepping up from a corded trimmer who wants the freedom of cordless without the weight, noise, and maintenance of petrol.
Final Verdict: Is the BU-KO 52cc Long Reach Hedge Trimmer and Pruner Saw Right for You?
After hours of intensive testing, our conclusion is clear: the BU-KO 52cc Long Reach Hedge Trimmer and Pruner Saw is an absolute powerhouse of a garden tool. It is not for the faint of heart, nor is it for small, delicate jobs. This is a machine designed to declare war on overgrown, neglected gardens and win decisively. Its strengths are its immense power, which makes short work of thick branches, and its incredible reach, which eliminates the need for dangerous ladder work. The versatility of having both a high-performance hedge trimmer and an effective pruner saw in one package offers outstanding value.
The trade-offs are inherent to its petrol nature: it is heavy, loud, and requires maintenance. However, the included harness mitigates the weight issue significantly, turning a difficult task into a manageable one. If you have a large property with tall, tough hedges and mature trees, and you value performance and efficiency above all else, this tool is an investment that will pay for itself in time, effort, and safety. For those ready to tackle their garden’s toughest challenges head-on, the BU-KO is a more than capable ally. If you’re ready to bring professional-grade power to your garden maintenance, we highly recommend you check the latest price and availability for the BU-KO 52cc multi-tool.
Last update on 2025-11-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API