Outdoor Equipment, Projects and Ideas | Family Handyman https://www.familyhandyman.com/outdoors/ Do it Yourself Home Improvement: Home Repair Sat, 07 Dec 2024 13:53:54 +0000 en-US hourly 6 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2 https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/cropped-fhm-favicon.jpg?resize=32,32 Outdoor Equipment, Projects and Ideas | Family Handyman https://www.familyhandyman.com/outdoors/ 32 32 Garden Path Ideas That Are Easy, Cheap and Low-Maintenance https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/garden-path-ideas-affordable-easy/ Fri, 06 Dec 2024 18:30:50 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=652457 Here are three kinds of affordable garden paths you can build in a weekend. All you'll need are a few simple tools and some elbow grease.

The post Garden Path Ideas That Are Easy, Cheap and Low-Maintenance appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Instead of an expensive, labor-intensive formal path, save money and time with one of these casual garden paths. These walkway ideas will blend in better and will look like theyve been in your garden forever.

Required Tools for these Walkway Ideas

Have the necessary tools for thisDIY projectlined up before you startyoull save time and frustration.

  • Bucket
  • Drywall saw
  • Garden rake
  • Spade
  • Wheelbarrow/Dolly
  • Tamper
  • Garden trowel

Mulch and Gravel Garden Paths

This windinggravel pathreflects the informality and ease ofmaintenance of the garden. Mulch and gravel are the cheapest pathway materials you can buy for rock walkways, and they make construction simple, too, making them two of our favorite walkway ideas. All you have to do is remove the sod, roll out landscape fabric and spread the mulch or gravel.

Mulch and gravel paths can be meandering, wood chipcovered trails or carefully planned designs, and they range from casual to formal depending on the design and edging material. You can choose from a wide variety of loose materials including coarse bark, decorative mulch, washed stones and crushed gravel or shells.

Mulch garden path

As stated above, the three commontypes of mulchsuitable for garden paths are wood chips, cocoa bean and cypress bark. Since these path materials are lighter than stone, theyre easier to haul and spread. Mulch is also a bit cheaper than gravel or stone pebbles. Remember, though, that organic paths decompose over time, so youll have to rejuvenate them every two to five years with new material. Also, dont use bark, wood chips or mulch for paths that run through areas with poor drainage or that are wet. Itll lead to a soggy path.

Youll find bags of mulch at home centers, but for the best selection of organic materials for a path, check your local nursery or landscape supplier. Depending on how big your path is, it may be cheaper to have bulk material delivered than to buy bags. Plan on a 3-in.-deep layer of mulch about 3 ft. wide as an alternative to grass. Call the public works department at your city hall or check with localtree trimmingservices. They often have piles of wood chips or mulch that are free for the hauling.

Gravel walkways

Several types of inexpensive landscaping gravel are available for paths. Common types are: crushed gravel, crushed limestone and pea rock. For a path thats more formal or longer lasting than a mulch path, consider washed gravel, crushed stone or crushed shells. These materials last indefinitely and only need occasional weeding to look their best. If you want to run a wheelbarrow or lawn mower along the path, choose crushed stone rather than smooth pebbles. The jagged edges of crushed stone lock together to form a firm surface. Crushed stone is also less likely to get kicked out into the yard.

Gravel for paths is sold by type and size. Smaller stones, averaging under 1/2 in., are best for paths because they offer more comfort underfoot and pack together better. Visit your local nursery or landscape supply specialist to see whats available in your area. Gravel is usually sold by the ton. Measure the length and width of the path. Take these measurements to the supplier and ask for help to figure out the quantity of gravel you need. Unless your path is very short, it usually makes sense to have the material delivered. Gravel for a path 3 in. deep and 3 ft. wide will cost about the same as mulch.

Gravel paths do have a few limitations, though. The stones can get tracked into the house, so dont use them near entries. And gravel paths are a bad choice in areas where you have to shovel snow off them. The gravel can end up in your lawn orflower beds.

Tips for making mulch and gravel garden paths

  • Rent a gas-poweredsod cuttertoremove grassif the path is long. For short paths, use a garden spade to slice off the sod.
  • Set edging so it ends up about an inch above the fill material.
  • Use a spacer stick cut to the width of the garden path as a guide when you set the edging or border. You wont have to keep pulling out the tape measure to make sure the edges run parallel.
  • Cover the soil with landscape fabric todeter weedsand prevent the fill material from mixing with the soil. Dont use plastic. Itll catch water and create a soggy path.
  • Have gravel delivered, especially if you need more than a half ton.
  • If you want a path thats firm enough to roll a wheelbarrow on, use crushed stone and tamp it after leveling it. (Pea rock or other rounded stone wont compact.) Use a hand tamper for short paths. Rent a vibrating-plate tamper for long paths.

Garden Path Borders and Edging Ideas

metal edging on a gravel path

Gravel or mulch paths require some type of edging to keep the material from spreading out onto your lawn or flower bed. You can also add a border or an edge as a design element. Here are some common types of edging you can use for walkway landscaping:

  • Plasticlandscape edgingis cheap. And its fast and easy to install. If you object to the look of the rounded top edge, hide it with a border of plants.
  • Steel or aluminum edging forms a crisp edge that gives the path a neat appearance. It costs more than plastic, though, and is less forgiving on sloped terrain. It also keeps gravel or mulch from overflowing into the yard or garden.
  • Brick, stone or paver borders are attractive and versatile, but theyre more expensive and a lot more work to install.
  • Concrete edging is less expensive than brick or stone but has the same advantages. Newer types that look like random pieces of tumbled stone are a great lower-cost alternative to a real stone border.
  • Landscape timbers are an economical alternative to stone or brick borders. Theyre especially useful for building shallow steps on gradually sloping terrain.

Stone Paths

Stepping-stonesare the fastest, easiest way to build a path, and another one of our favorite walkway ideas. Theres very little digging involved. And although the stone is heavy, a little goes a long way. Since theres distance between the stones, you dont have to worry about leveling them with one another. Stepping-stone paths also cost less because youll cover more distance with less stone. Stones that are flat and about 18 in. across and 2 in. thick are ideal. Check your local landscape supplier or quarry to see whats available. If youre building a short stepping-stone path, you can usually pick the stones you want from the pallet or pile of stones on hand at the supplier. For longer paths, ask for help to figure out the quantity and have the stone delivered. If youre lucky enough to live in an area with naturally occurring outcroppings of stone, you may find stepping-stones free for the hauling.

You can also make attractive stepping-stone paths using 12-in. square or round concrete patio blocks. These are available in a wide selection of colors and textures from home centers, landscape suppliers and masonry dealers. Search online for patio blocks to see the variety.

Stepping-Stone Path

How to build a stone path

  • Arrange stones so the distance from the center of one to the center of the next one is 20 to 24 in.
  • Set the stones in place and cut around them with a spade or rock saw. Then lift the stone and dig out the grass and a little soil.
  • Spread a 1/2- to 1-in.-thick layer of sand under the stone if you want to make leveling the stones easier. Sand is easier to work with than soil. A 60-lb. bag of sand is enough for about four to six stones.
  • Set the top of the stepping-stones about 1 in. above the soil level. This will give you a dry place to step while still allowing you to run alawn mowerover the path.

Using Ground Cover Plants with Stone Paths

Ground cover attractively fills the space around and between pieces of yard stones such as flagstone. Includingground cover plantsin your garden path makes a stone walkway easier in two ways: First, you can skip the thick, compacted gravel base underneath. That eliminates the backbreaking digging, plus the hauling and compacting of gravel. Without the solid base, the stones will shift and become uneven, but the plants will hide that. The second advantage is that you dont have to spend extra time laying the stones perfectly. The plants will hide wide gaps.

There are quite a fewperennial plantsthat can withstand foot traffic and will grow between stones. Check with your local nursery to see whats available that will grow in your area. Here are some ground cover plants that can tolerate some foot traffic: Creeping Thyme, Blue Star Creeper, Brass Buttons, Creeping Mazus and Sedum.

Planted Paths moss

The post Garden Path Ideas That Are Easy, Cheap and Low-Maintenance appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
8 Must-Know Tips to Drought-Proof Your Lawn https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/how-to-drought-proof-your-lawn/ Fri, 06 Dec 2024 18:08:28 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?post_type=listicle&p=651948 Prepare your lawn to withstand the next drought with these simple, effective tips.

The post 8 Must-Know Tips to Drought-Proof Your Lawn appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>

How To Make Your Lawn Drought Proof Gettyimages 1530547001

Plant a Drought-Tolerant Grass

One effective way to drought-proof your lawn is by choosing drought-tolerant grass varieties. In warm climates, grasses like Zoysia, Bermuda, and Buffalo thrive on minimal water. For cooler regions, Tall Fescue and Fine Fescue are resilient to both drought and cold. These grasses are perfect for dry spells and require less water than other varieties.

The post 8 Must-Know Tips to Drought-Proof Your Lawn appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Why You Might Want to Stop Raking Your Leaves https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/should-you-stop-raking-your-leaves-this-fall/ Tue, 19 Nov 2024 17:09:08 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=648687 Discover the pros and cons of raking leaves to determine if this seasonal chore is really necessary.

The post Why You Might Want to Stop Raking Your Leaves appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
As a lifelong New Englander, I know that raking leaves in the fall is an expected part of life. It’s commonly understood that you should clean up every last leaf from your yard before the snow arrives. But in recent years, this practice has faced scrutiny. Some now advocate for a more environmentally friendly approach that involves leaving leaves in place. So, with another fall upon us, what’s the right choice?

In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of both options, featuring insights from Shawn Doucette of Facility Maintenance Solutions.

Benefits of Raking Your Leaves

Before you stop raking leaves, consider the benefits of leaf cleanup.

  • Aesthetics: A well-raked lawn looks neat and tidy, improving your home’s curb appeal. Plus, there’s nothing as satisfying as getting every last leaf.
  • Prevent plant fungus and disease: Unraked leaves can develop mold and fungus, which could spread to bushes and shrubs in your landscaping.
  • Lawn health: Keeping leaves raked promotes a healthy lawn, as thick layers of leaves will smother and kill your grass. “It’s good to have oxygenated soil, and you’ll end up with dead, yellow spots on your lawn in the spring if you don’t rake,” Doucette says.
  • Safety: Leaves can hide uneven ground or trip hazards for you and your family, as well as guests. Some leaves, like oak, are also very slippery.

Benefits of NOT Raking Your Leaves

If you think you might stop raking leaves, there are some advantages.

  • Natural fertilizer: As leaves break down and decay, they return nutrients to the soil.
  • Preserves biodiversity: Many microorganisms, insects and small animals rely on decaying leaf litter as a habitat or a safe place to overwinter.
  • More free time: Letting leaves lie will give you more time to enjoy fall weekends with friends and family.
  • Less allergen exposure: Leaves contain pollen, dust and dirt. Avoid this added allergen exposure by not raking your leaves.
  • Natural weed management: Group leaves into piles or thick layers around shrubs in landscaping beds to inhibit weed growth. The leaves will block sunlight and prevent any airborne weed spores from taking root in the soil.

Should I Stop Raking My Leaves?

Whether or not you rake your leaves really comes down to personal preference. But if you’re thinking you might stop raking leaves, you’ll want to consider a few points.

If you live in a wet climate, unraked leaves can easily get damp and moldy. It’s important to rake them up to reduce air allergens and prevent infecting landscape plantings. Also, in drier climates, or areas prone to forest fires, you’ll want to rake leaves to reduce flammable leaf litter.

If you live in a Homeowner’s Association (HOA), you likely have to rake your leaves. HOA’s often have rules that govern the outside appearance of your home. Some provide landscaping services, which include fall cleanup. Those that don’t will have guidelines and even deadlines when you’re expected to have your leaves cleaned up.

About the Expert

  • Shawn Doucette is the owner of Facility Maintenance Solutions, a full-service property maintenance company offering exterior and interior services, in Amherst, Massachusetts.

The post Why You Might Want to Stop Raking Your Leaves appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Fiskars Pruners Review: We Tried It and Got the Most Bang for Our Buck https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/fiskars-pruners-review/ Tue, 19 Nov 2024 17:04:38 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=648477 The Fiskars pruners are the best value pruners thanks to their performance, cut quality and affordable price tag.

The post Fiskars Pruners Review: We Tried It and Got the Most Bang for Our Buck appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
When it comes to pruning your garden, one thing is certain:the best pruning shears will help keep everything neat and tidy. Most of these heavy-duty plant scissors are designed to snip and snap stems up to one-inch in diameter and are a must-have item for every gardening shed. In order to find the best shears for your tree trimming needs, we put 11 pairs to the test. We were especially impressed by these Fiskars pruners.

These universal pruners can be used on everything from harvesting fresh flowers and veggies to trimming rogue stems and dead wood. During testing, our team appreciated the fact that they were easy to grip and produced clean cuts. And the best part? They are super affordable. Here’s everything you need to know about the Fiskars pruners before adding them to your cart.

What are Fiskars Pruners?

When it comes to scissors, Fiskars is a household name. The brand is known for its quality crafting tools and school supplies as well as its line of pruners and loppers. In other words, the maker of these Fiskars pruners knows a thing or two about powerful and precise blades.

The Fiskars pruners feature a cushioned grip for safety and comfort. They measure 8.75-inches long and have a 5.25-inch handle spread. Theyre equipped with a curved bypass blade made from alloy steel and have a one-inch cutting capacity. They are suitable for right- or left-handed use and have replaceable blades.

Fiskars Bypass Pruning ShearsEMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

We Tried It

Fiskars Bypass Pruning Shears

These budget-friendly pruning shears feature a cushioned grip, replaceable blades and can be used either right- or left-handed.

Fiskars Pruners Features

Left-handed Compatibility

According to our testers, the locking mechanism on these Fiskars pruners is positioned to be used either left- or right-handed. This worked out well for our testers as one of them is right-handed while the other is left-handed.

Replaceable Blade

The manufacturer’s website states that the blade on this set can be sharpened for long-lasting value. Or you can simply replace the blade for continual cutting performance.

Softgrip Touch Points

The upper handle, where you rest your thumb, has a cushioned grip. The bottom handle is plastic.

How We Tested It

Fiskars Pruners Review Softgrip Touch Points

During testing, our team focused on cut quality, the amount of force required and the consistency of the pruners’ performance across all plant types. They were also be on the lookout for signs of hand fatigue as they evaluated the pruners’ ergonomics and overall comfort.

Backyard Testing

After noting the Fiskars pruners weight, measurements and callout features, associate product testers Sheri KazandDylan Fischer took these Fiskars pruners into Sheri’s backyard for testing. They had gathered three sizes of wooden dowels, three sizes of deadwood branches and stems and three sizes of greenwood branches and stems, including cherry wood and an asparagus plant.

Before they began cutting, our team noticed that the handle spread didn’t fully open without a little help. “The spring is a little sticky and doesn’t spread entirely on its own,” notes Kaz. Although they noted that the Fiskars pruners were easy to grip, the sticky handle led to initial concerns about performance and hand fatigue.

Quarter-Inch Stems

The first test was with a series of 0.25-inch stems. Both Sheri and Dylan attempted to cut through a green tree branch and wood dowel. The Friskars pruners cut through the green tree branch with no issue whatsoever and left a nice, clean cut. Next up was the dowel. Sheri needed two hands to complete the cut while Dylan was able to do it with one hand. The wood was a bit squished at the end, but overall it was a neat cut.

Fiskars Pruners Review Final Verdict

Half-Inch Stems

Our testers moved onto 0.5-inch stems for the next test. The pruners easily cut through a piece of green cherrywood. However, Dylan had to use two hands to cut through the dowel and the deadwood, calling the task “pretty difficult.” Moreover, the ends of the dowel were squished rather than clean cut.

Three-Quarter-Inch Stems

For the final test, Dylan used the pruners to cut through a 0.75-inch dowel, deadwood branch and asparagus. He was unable to cut through the dowel or the deadwood, but had less trouble cutting through the asparagus. “It cut through easily, but we were struggling a bit to fully fit the stem in between the blades,” he explains. “The packaging claims it can fit 1-inch branches and stems, but we’re not entirely sure how true that is.”

After cutting a variety of stems, our team agreed that although the Fiskars pruners feel a bit stiff and tight compared to others they tested, they are a good value. “Because the spring action is so tight, it could cause fatigue after constant use, but for the price and performance, we recommend the Fiskars pruners as the best budget buy,” says Kaz.

Pros

  • Produces clean cuts
  • Affordable
  • Replaceable blades
  • Cushioned grip
  • Can be used right- or left-handed

Cons

  • Spring is stiff and uncomfortable to use

Why You Should Trust Us

AtFamily Handyman, our goal is to help you find quality products that will enhance your life and your space. In order to help you shop with confidence, we personally test the products we recommend. From electric pruning shears to pruning saws, our expert product testers have gotten up close and personal with hundreds of items.

For this article, our product testing team spent 45 hours examining and testing 11 pruners. They performed 14 tests on each pair and collected roughly 300 data points overall. Out of the 11 we tested, only 7 made our list of recommended pruners, including these Fiskars pruners. We will never recommend a product we don’t love regardless of a brand’s popularity or price point.

FAQ

Where are Fiskars pruners made?

Many Fiskars products are designed, manufactured and tested in Finland. Others are produced in the United States.

Can you sharpen Fiskars pruners?

Yes. The blade on these Fiskars pruners can be sharpened or replaced.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

The Fiskars pruners are a beloved product with over 37,200 five-star ratings on Amazon. Overall, users are impressed by the pruners’ quality, value and performance.

Amazon user Lokiamus calls these pruners a good quality tool that will deliver on performance. “Ive been using them for a few weeks now and have been cutting through a variety of woody, and non-woody stems measuring maybe an 1 inch or less diameter with ease: small/underdeveloped tree branches (elm, bougainvillea & crape myrtle), vines (smilax/greenbriar/wisteria/morning glory) and any other undesirable growths that have sprung up,” they write. “I have small hands and weak wrists so I appreciate the light weight and not having to apply a great amount of force when cutting.”

And while our testers found the spring on these pruners stiff and uncomfortable, Lokiamus insists that they “function smoothly like shock absorbers on a car.”

Gretty’s Gadgets Galore, another verified Amazon user, calls the Fiskars pruners the perfect pruning shears for any gardener. Gretty especially appreciates their cutting power, comfort, durability, precision and value. “In summary, the Fiskars Bypass Pruning Shears are an excellent choice for both amateur and experienced gardeners. They combine cutting efficiency, comfort, and durability in a way that makes gardening tasks more enjoyable and less of a chore,” writes Gretty. “I highly recommend these shears to anyone looking to upgrade their gardening tools. Five stars!”

And LaLa credits these pruners for their abundant tomato harvest. “I came across a YouTube video suggesting I aggressively prune tomato plants to make more fruit grow. Mine weren’t doing well this season, so it was the perfect time to experiment,” writes LaLa. “I bought these clippers and went to tomato town. I clipped all the leaves and branches that didn’t have any fruit. (That was a lot!) Within one week, I had more tomatoes growing than I did all summer. I found these shears easy to use with one hand (I have small-ish hands). The blades don’t seem to be dull after using these for a couple months. Very happy with these and with my yield.”

Fiskars Pruners vs. Felco 2 Pruners

Fiskars Pruners Review Final Verdict

In addition to the Fiskars pruners, Kaz and Fisher also tested the Swiss-made Felco 2 pruners. Both pruners are easy and comfortable to use and provided clean cuts. When tested on branches and stems 0.5-inches or thicker, both pruners required the use of two hands and a considerable amount of force. In fact, neither set of pruners were able to cut through our testers’ 0.75-inch dowel or deadwood branch.

While both pruners performed similarly, they are priced quite differently. The Fiskars pruners have an MSRP of $23.50, making them our tester’s top budget pick. The Felco 2 pruners retail for around $70.

Final Verdict

According to our testers, the Fiskars pruners are a great choice for gardeners on a budget. They offer a solid performance at an affordable price and you can’t beat that.

Where to Buy the Fiskars Pruners

The Fiskars pruners are available on Amazonand Lowe’s. They have an MSRP of $23.50 but we have seen the price range from about $15 to $30.

Fiskars Bypass Pruning ShearsEMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

We Tried It

Fiskars Bypass Pruning Shears

Because of the price and performance, our testers recommend the Fiskars bypass pruners as the best budget buy.

The post Fiskars Pruners Review: We Tried It and Got the Most Bang for Our Buck appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
I Tried the New Battery-Powered Toro Leaf Blower, and Here’s How It Went https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/battery-powered-toro-leaf-blower/ Tue, 19 Nov 2024 16:37:19 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=648412 I tested the new Toro leaf blower with 900 CFM and was blown away by the amount of power provided by this handheld electric leaf blower.

The post I Tried the New Battery-Powered Toro Leaf Blower, and Here’s How It Went appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
I tried the all-new Toro leaf blowerthe Toro 60-volt Max 900-CFM 165-MPH leaf blower, to be exactand I was (literally) blown away. This was my first experience with the Toro leaf blower, and I am quite impressed.

I have used dozens of leaf blowers in my day and can confidently say I’ve experienced a wide range of performances from blowers. I started my leaf blower journey with the classic handheld Stihl BG86C blower. Since then, I have personally owned and tested five handheld gas blowers, nine backpack leaf blowers (both battery and gas), three handheld corded electric leaf blowers, and 11 handheld battery-powered blowers.

What Is the Battery-Powered Toro Leaf Blower?

When Toro designed their new battery leaf blower, we were shocked to see how much thought went into the design and the performance. You can easily tell that the team that pulled this blower together included people like me, who have used dozens of blowers and knew that Toro needed to push the envelope to stay competitive in the battery-powered leaf blower space.

I admit that I was skeptical when I first received this blower. Toro, a brand with an amazing reputation for providing some of the most powerful zero-turn mowers, has long been known for its success with golf course management tools and a wide range of commercial products. However, they have only recently begun to dip their toes in the battery-powered space, starting with their classic lawnmowers, which I have come to know and love.

Toro Flex Force 60 Volt Max 900 Cfm 165 Mph Battery Handheld Leaf BlowerTYLER GRAHAM FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

I Tried It

Toro Flex-Force 60-volt Max 900-CFM 165-MPH Battery Handheld Leaf Blower

Toro Leaf Blower Features

The blower boasts a whopping 900 CFM (cubic feet per minute) and 165 MPH air speed, both of which are at the top of the game in the leaf blower world. You can reach the maximum airspeed by using the “Turbo” button, which is meant for temporary blasts of air that help remove wet leaves and grass from surfaces.

This blower also comes with a concentrated nozzle, which helps further focus air and increase overall air speed for targeted clean-up. The Toro battery-powered blower also comes with several easy-to-control measures, including a textured grip, a well-balanced body, variable speed and cruise control so that you don’t tire out your hand, and an aggressive design that helps hold the blower down and forward.

You can use the 60-volt battery on the Toro leaf blower on other 60V Max products from Toro, which saves you money on buying new batteries for these tools in the long run. As Toro continues to build out the 60V Max lineup, this can result in huge savings for the average homeowner who doesn’t have to buy a new battery with each tool.

How I Tested the Toro Leaf Blower

Toro Flex Force 60 Volt Max 900 Cfm 165 Mph Battery Handheld Leaf Blower Features

Assembly

The new Toro battery-powered leaf blower was very simple to put together. It comes in two or three pieces that easily snap together. I quickly snapped the nozzle onto the base of the blower and excitedly rushed out the door to start eviscerating leaves.

Job Site Test (Commercial Landscaping)

I used the Toro battery-powered blower on the job site first. Having recently re-started a landscaping company, I had about eight lawns back-to-back on my first day with the Toro blower. I was excited to see how it would perform relative to other handheld battery blowers. My first stop was mowing my friend Chase’s house. He lives in a nice neighborhood with lots that are about acre or less.

This presented the ideal opportunity to see how the Toro blower would perform on a typical lawn. Another positive of using the battery-powered Toro blower is that Chase has two small kids that I knew napped at various points throughout the day. My gas-powered backpack blower could wake the dead with its high noise levels, so having an electric tool was great for making sure I could maneuver around their home without waking the kids.

I will also caution that most handheld battery leaf blowers aren’t used for commercial landscaping purposes. They aren’t designed to last all day, and I knew that going into this round of testing. Other blowers, including electric ones, are designed to go with you on the job site. Toro designed this blower for residential homeowners looking to crush leaves and debris in their backyard, put the battery back on the charger and get on with their life. That doesn’t mean I am not going to push the blower to its limits and use it however I can.

Toro Flex Force 60 Volt Max 900 Cfm 165 Mph Battery Handheld Leaf Blower

Home Test

I used the Toro on my yard after the first time mowed again after a week straight of rainfall here in middle Tennessee. The grass clippings were still a bit moist. If you have ever used a leaf blower after mowing a moist lawn, you will understand that this situation is headache-inducing. Wet grass sticks to concrete like nothing you have ever seen. In order to get it off, you generally have to either wait until it dries, use a push broom, or have a blower that can somehow lift it off of the concrete.

Most leaf blowers put out about 400-500 CFM. Even some of the most powerful backpack leaf blowers will put out 700 CFM or so of air. At 900 CFM, the Toro 60V Max may be one of the most powerful handheld leaf blowers I have ever seen. The combination of tremendous air volume output with wind speeds of 165 MPH means that very few blowers on the market come close to this amount of power.

So naturally, I had to use this on the famous wet grass clippings to see how it would do. It was an absolute demolition. The leaf blower removed almost every blade of grass from the concrete driveway. I was so impressed that I wanted to ring the doorbell and tell my friend all about it. I have never seen a blower, especially a handheld battery-powered leaf blower, push this much air and perform so well.

Blowing Heavy Debris

I set this blower back in the trailer and moved on to the next house. At the next job, I was looking at a garden bed that had been washed out with water and spread mulch all over the lawn and sidewalk leading up to the front door. The mulch was a shredded hardwood mulch and was mostly dry by this point. Before I mowed the yard, this needed to be cleaned up. It presented a perfect opportunity to give the Toro 60V blower a chance to run wild by blowing mulch in the grass (which is notoriously difficult) and pushing it across a sidewalk.

The blower accomplished both of these. Moving mulch across concrete was a breeze, and I was shocked to see how easily it lifted the mulch out of the thick, long grass and placed it back into the garden bed.

I moved onto the third house of the day, which was just like the first one. The grass was slightly dryer, and the clippings blasted back into the grass easily. At this point, I was texting my wife, telling her I couldn’t believe it.

As a second reminder, this blower was not designed for professional landscapers in the same way that gas-powered leaf blowers are. Those can run all day because you can keep buying and pouring gas into the blower for as long as you need. Toro’s new blower obviously requires you to recharge the batteries.

Long-Term Performance

Toro Flex Force 60 Volt Max 900 Cfm 165 Mph Battery Handheld Leaf Blower Final verdict

In my personal use of this blower around my house, which seems to be more and more neglected the more I work on other people’s lawns, I continued to be impressed with the Toro leaf blower. In the course of my normal weekly lawn maintenance, I found the blower to have consistent, extremely powerful performance.

One downside I noticed relatively early is that when you use the turbo button off and on, there is a noticeable drain on the battery life. I expected extremely high power to reduce battery life, but I was a bit disappointed to see how quickly it reduced battery life. Without using the turbo button, I still had more than enough battery life to care for my yard (and then some).

As the weeks passed and leaves began falling from the trees, I retested the Toro battery blower once more. Leaves were absolutely light work for this blower. The blower is an absolute bully for drying leaves, easily launching them across my yard. The turbo button was unnecessary, but I had to use it for the sake of science. It was total and absolute destruction of the leaves.

Pros:

  • Extremely high power with 900 CFM
  • Ergonomic grip with easy maneuvering
  • 60V Max battery system used across Toro’s 60V lineup
  • Finger-saving cruise control function
  • Much quieter than gas blowers
  • Turbo button to toggle maximum speed

Cons:

  • Battery life drains with Turbo usage
  • Fewer tools in Toro’s battery lineup than some other brands

Why You Should Trust Us

As I mentioned at the beginning of this article, I have personally tested dozens, if not hundreds, of leaf blowers, including backpack blowers, corded electric blowers, cordless blowers and gas-powered handheld blowers.

As a landscaper, I developed a unique love for lawn tools after using them every day for years. Now, I spend my days testing lawnmowers, string trimmers, leaf blowers and more. Much of my time is spent using new leaf blowers and comparing them to see which one reigns supreme.

FAQ

How long does a Toro leaf blower last?

The Toro leaf blower advertises a run time of 120 minutesbut this is generally on a low-speed setting under ideal conditions. In my experience, the blower can run for about an hour for typical use around the house, where you may maximize the power for a longer time. Introducing the turbo button drops the run time to about 30 minutes.

How do you use the Toro battery-powered leaf blower?

The Toro battery leaf blower can be easily controlled using the variable speed trigger, which changes the amount of power coming from the battery. It also has a cruise control function that holds a certain speed in place, allowing your hand to relax and hold the blowerno more cramping.

This is a handheld leaf blower, meaning you simply pull the trigger and point it at whatever debris you want to blow away.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

While the Toro 60V Max Battery-Powered Blower is still relatively new, the few who have used it have agreed with meit rocks. One reviewer at Lowe’s felt similarly, calling the blower a “powerhouse” with “the size and weight of the blower working perfectly to balance the blower when used in turbo mode.” Another reviewer at Lowe’s had the same experience as me, using this blower on “1/2 acre of concrete around their farm” and mentioned that the blower “gets rid of those pesky leaves and grass clippings.”

Toro Battery-Powered Leaf Blower vs. Ryobi Battery-Powered Leaf Blower

I’ve had the distinct privilege of using the Toro and Ryobi battery-powered leaf blowers. The Ryobi battery-powered leaf blower is a great blower. Ryobi’s new Whisper series produces quiet, powerful tools that can be found at The Home Depot for a great price. Ryobi’s Whisper series blower was the cat’s meow when it was released. It had one of the highest CFM and MPH ranges on the market and was advertised as the quietest blower.

Times have changed in the last two years. There are a number of other blowers in a similar power range that also exhibit quiet run times. The Toro battery blower simply outguns the Ryobi blower. I have used both side-by-side, and the Toro is the better blower.

Final Verdict

I can confidently say that this is hands down the best combination of price, power and performance on the market. I am excited that Toro will continue to build out their electric lineup with the 60V Max batteries so that I can achieve better cost efficiency in the future. I also think Toro can keep refining their battery technology so that the batteries last longer.

All in all, this blower has set a new standard for power in handheld electric blowers.

Where to Buy the Toro Battery-Powered Leaf Blower

Toro Flex Force 60 Volt Max 900 Cfm 165 Mph Battery Handheld Leaf BlowerTYLER GRAHAM FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

I Tried It

Toro Flex-Force 60-volt Max 900-CFM 165-MPH Battery Handheld Leaf Blower

You can grab the Toro battery-powered blower from Lowe’s with the battery for just under $350, and you can use the battery with other Toro lawn tools.

The post I Tried the New Battery-Powered Toro Leaf Blower, and Here’s How It Went appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Think Adirondack Chairs Are Uncomfortable? You’re Using Them Wrong https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/how-to-use-adirondack-chairs/ Mon, 18 Nov 2024 16:55:01 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=648750 Adirondack chairs are popular, but some people find them uncomfortable. If you're one of those folks, you may be using the chair wrong.

The post Think Adirondack Chairs Are Uncomfortable? You’re Using Them Wrong appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
If you’ve been looking to furnish your outdoor area, you’ve likely been browsing for lawn chairs. Or perhaps you’re planning on replacing old or uncomfortable chairs. Either way, you’ve likely looked at several popular styles of outdoor chair. But if you’ve seen negative reviews about the comfort of Adirondack chairs, or you dislike your own, don’t count them out just yet.

Most people who complain that Adirondack chairs are uncomfortable are just using them wrong.

What Are Adirondack Chairs?

Adirondack chairs are a distinct style of outdoor chair. They have tall backs and wide arms, so they look like a fantastic choice for lounging in your yard. What separates them from other lawn chairs out there, however, is the legs. On an Adirondack chair, the rear legs are much shorter than the front legs. They also attach to the seat at an obtuse angle, whereas the front legs form a right angle. This means that when the chair is sitting on flat ground, the seat pitches back

@watchautumn Thank you, Adirondack Chair.. Sorry I doubted you.. #adirondacks #adirondackchair #themoreyouknow original sound – Autumn | Millennial Money

Why Are Adirondack Chairs So Uncomfortable?

To put it bluntly, if your Adirondack chairs are particularly uncomfortable, it’s most likely because you’re using them wrong.

As TikToker Autumn (@watchautumn) explains in her video above, the design of the legs pushes the seat up at an awkward angle. And it’s exactly this odd angle that makes so many people write off these chairs as uncomfortable. But fear not! It’s very easy to use these chairs the right way. And once you do, you’ll understand why they’ve been a staple of yards for such a long time.

How to Properly Sit on Adirondack Chairs

Autumn begins her video by explaining that she bought some Adirondack chairs and immediately found them uncomfortable. She says that her backyard is flat, and so the shorter back legs left her sitting in a very uncomfortable position. But then someone alerted her to the fact that Adirondack chairs get their name from the Adirondack range in New York, a famously mountainous and hilly part of the country. These chairs are designed to accommodate hills and mountains, letting people still sit out and enjoy the scenery.

Autumn then explains that when she moved her Adirondack chair to the hill in her backyard, with the rear legs higher up on the hill, the design choices suddenly became clear. Now, those shorter legs balance out the slope of the hill, leaving you sitting upright at a right angle, just like other lawn chairs do.

So, if your Adirondack chairs have been sitting on flat ground, move them onto a slope so they’re angled downward. Suddenly, you’ll find that they’re much more comfortable than you originally thought.

The post Think Adirondack Chairs Are Uncomfortable? You’re Using Them Wrong appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Corona Pruners Review: We Tried It and Were Not Impressed https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/corona-pruners-review/ Fri, 15 Nov 2024 02:44:15 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=647055 We tested the Corona pruners and were left with tired hands and messy cuts. Here's why we can't recommend this pair.

The post Corona Pruners Review: We Tried It and Were Not Impressed appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Whether you’re a casual gardener or a full blown horticulturist, you need a good pair of pruning shears. Both manual shears and electric pruning shears allow you to trim, cut and shape your outdoor plants with ease. There are dozens of pruning shears on the market so we set out to find the best of the best. We tested 11 pairs of these essential trimming tools, including the Corona pruners.

Designed for larger hands, these Corona pruners are said to be capable of cutting everything fromflower stems to dead branches. In order to determine whether or not these are worthy of pruning for your garden, our testers put them up against a variety of stems, birchwood dowels and dead wood ranging from 0.25, 0.5 and 0.75 inches wide. Their findings may surprise you. Here’s everything you need to know before adding the Corona pruners to your cart.

What Are the Corona Pruners?

The Corona Classic Cut Pruners measure 8.5-inches long, have a 6.5-inch handle spread and are designed for larger hands. Theyre equipped with a curved bypass blade made from high-carbon steel and have a cutting diameter of up to one inch. A non-slip textured grip and weight of just 12.5-ounces makes them easy to carry around the garden.

We Tried It

Corona Classic Cut Pruners

These Corona pruners are supposed to cut branches and stems up to 1-inch in diameter. Our testers insist this is overstated.

Corona Pruners Features

Sharpenable Blade

You can sharpen the blades on these pruners, allowing you to use them year after year.

Wire-Cutting Capabilities

These pruners feature a tiny notch toward the base of the blade designed for wire-cutting.

Lifetime Warranty

Corona guarantees that these pruners will be free of material and workmanship defects for the life of the tool. Just be sure to save your receipt as you will need an original proof of purchase for any and all returns.

How We Tested the Corona Pruners

Associate product testers Sheri KazandDylan Fischer began the testing process by noting the pruners weight, measurements and callout features. Right away, they noted how wide and heavy these pruners felt in their hands. They did point out that the brand’s website indicates that these pruners are made for larger hands. However, they worried that these pruners would quickly cause fatigue.

Once they concluded their observations, our testers took these Corona pruners into Sheris backyard for testing. They gathered three sizes of wooden dowels, deadwood branches and stems in various sizes, and greenwood branches and stems, including cherry wood and an asparagus plant, in various sizes.

Corona Classic Cut Pruners being tested on branches

Our testers ran the first test with a series of 0.25-inch stems. Unfortunately, the pruners did not meet our testers’ expectations. “It took a surprising amount of force just to cut through the smallest dowel,” says Kaz. “We thought that it would at least cut with good force considering how unwieldy it is.” Moreover, these pruners left jagged edges on the stems.

During the second test, these pruners could not cut the birch dowel without maximum force and several tries. “It took a lot of force and two hands to cut an actual dead branch,” explains Kaz. Once the dowel had been cut, our testers noted that the dowel had been split and the sides had been smooshed.

For the final test, Dylan attempted to cut through a 0.75-inch dowel, deadwood branch and asparagus. He noted good cut quality on the asparagus, but it did not cut through the dowel or deadwood. “It couldn’t cut through deadwood or dowel although the specs says it can cut up to 1 inch,” he explains. “The packaging emphasizes getting the branch into the blades are far as you can. But once you have the handles open all the way it’s near impossible to wrap your hand around it, let alone have enough strength to cut through.”

Pros

  • Priced under $40
  • Designed for large hands
  • Packaging allows you to test it in the store
  • Replacement parts offered on the brand’s website
  • Lifetime warranty with proof of original purchase

Cons

  • Poor cutting quality
  • Handles are too wide
  • Caused hand fatigue
  • Overstated product specs
  • Grip is not cushioned

Why You Should Trust Us

AtFamily Handyman, our goal is to help you shop with confidence. This is especially true for gardening tools, which help enhance your home’s curb appeal. Our editors and testers have years of experience testing hundreds of products from pruning saws to tree trimming tools, allowing us to bring you the most comprehensive guides on tree pruners and loppers.

For this series on pruners, our product testers spent a total of 45 hours closely examining 11 pairs, including these Corona pruners. They performed 14 tests on each pair and collected roughly 300 data points overall.

FAQ

How do you sharpen Corona hand pruners?

For best results, Corona recommends using their carbide sharpening tool.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Out of 50 reviews, these Corona pruners received 4.5 stars. Many purchasers are impressed by how sturdy they feel and their overall ease of use.

One verified buyer is especially appreciative of the high quality construction. “They are built to last with a replaceable blade that’s easy to sharpen…The older pair I have is still functional except that the spring and keeper wore out after 5 years of heavy use. No plastic parts in this model!”

“They are strong, sharp and a little heavier than I expected,” writes another verified buyer. “Very useful for small pruning.”

Corona Pruners vs. Felco 2 Pruners

Our team tested 11 pruners including the Corona Pruners and the Felco 2 pruners. Both pruners are almost identical in size and are rated for large hands. However, our testers found the Corona pruners to be unwieldy and cumbersome.

Corona Classic Cut Pruners

During testing, our team struggled with the Corona pruners. They required two hands and a lot of force to cut through all of the branches, stems and dead wood. And once cuts were made, they were jagged, smooshed or split the wood. Our team found no reason to recommend the Corona pruners, insisting they are going to cause fatigue more quickly than other pruners.

On the other hand, our testers loved the Swiss-made Felco 2. The Felco 2 features an ergonomic form and contoured finger grips for comfort and safety. Better yet, our team described the Felco 2’s cuts as clean, excellent and like butter. And while they cost around $20-$25 more than the Corona pruners, the Felco 2 is the better choice. Read our full Felco pruners review to learn more and see where to buy them.

Final Verdict

Unfortunately, not every product we test is a winner. Such is the case with these Corona pruners. “These are extremely unwieldy for even Dylan’s hands, and this doesn’t even pay off with any kind of heavy-duty performance,” says Kaz. “The only good thing we can say is that the packaging allows you to test it at the store, so you can at least tell right away if your hand is large enough to hold it.”

Where to Buy the Corona Pruners

These Corona pruners retail for $38.99 and are available at Ace Hardware, Walmart and Tractor Supply Co.

We Tried It

Corona Classic Cut Pruners

An unwieldy grip and poor cut quality prevented our testers from recommending these pruners.

The post Corona Pruners Review: We Tried It and Were Not Impressed appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Should You Mulch Leaves or Bag Them? https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/bag-leaves-or-mulch-leaves/ Mon, 11 Nov 2024 19:45:22 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=647288 What should you do with all those leaves? We weigh the pros and cons to help you choose the best option for your lawn.

The post Should You Mulch Leaves or Bag Them? appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Fall is here, and with it comes the task of leaf cleanup. If you’re in New England like me, that often means several weekends of raking, piling and bagging leaves. This year, I’m considering mulching them with my lawn tractor instead. Both bagging and mulching have their pros and cons, each affecting your lawn’s health in different ways. In this article, we’ll break down the benefits and drawbacks of each method, with expert insights from Jeremy Martin of Willow Gates Landscaping.

What Is Mulching Leaves?

Mulching leaves means to cut them into small pieces to reduce their volume and hasten decomposition. Mulched leaves are typically returned to the soil, but can be bagged up and removed.

How to Mulch Leaves

You can use a lawn mower or leaf mulcher to mulch leaves.

With the bag off your lawn mower, go over the leaves as though cutting the lawn. The blades will shred the leaves into small pieces, then distribute them across your lawn. Mulching works well for light leaf litter that doesn’t exceed the mower deck, but thick layers can overwhelm the blades and cause the mower to shut down. To avoid this, mulch regularly as leaves accumulate.

A leaf mulcher is a power tool that shreds leaves with blades or string. Handheld models suck in leaves and collect the shredded material in attached bags, making them ideal for small amounts of leaves. Larger stand-alone models require raking and piling leaves but can quickly handle larger volumes.

Pros and Cons of Mulching Leaves

Mulching leaves with a mower adds nutrients like phosphorous, nitrogen and potassium to the soil as the leaves break down. Smaller pieces of leaves also add organic matter to the soil, promoting moisture retention.

On the other hand, if mulched leaves are too thick on your lawn, it can smother grass and kill it. “They will form a wet, dense mat,” Martin says. And if you like a pristine lawn free of all debris, you will not like mulching leaves into your grass.

Pros and Cons of Bagging Leaves

Bagging leaves makes it easier to contain and transport leaves for disposal. Some municipalities even offer curbside pickup of bagged leaves. Raking and bagging leaves also protects your lawn from layers of decaying leaves, which can harm the grass through the winter. And for a tidy lawn, nothing beats bagging leaves.

However, raking and bagging leaves is more time-consuming than mulching, and it can also be more expensive if you’re buying bags or paying for disposal. Plus, by bagging, your lawn misses out on the natural nutrients that mulched leaves would provide.

Mulching vs. Bagging Leaves: Which Is Right for Me?

“It’s really situational,” Jeremy Martin of Willow Gates Landscaping says of mulching vs bagging leaves. It will largely depend on the amount of leaves you can expect each fall. “If you live in dense woods as I do, mulching leaves will kill the lawn,” he says. In this case, you’ll need to bag leaves or blow them off the property into the woods.

If you only have a few trees and a moderate amount of leaf cleanup, you have the option of mulching your leaves or bagging them. “If you don’t have a lot of trees, you can mulch leaves, and you’d be fine,” Martin says.

About the Expert

  • Jeremy Martin is owner of Willow Gates Landscaping in Mohnton, Pennsylvania, which he founded in 2005. He shares his passion for the industry by teaching installer courses for retaining walls, concrete pavers, permeable pavers and advance hardscape projects, plus speaking at industry events.

The post Should You Mulch Leaves or Bag Them? appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Tired of Raking Leaves? Plant These Trees Instead https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/tired-of-raking-leaves-plant-these-trees-instead/ Mon, 11 Nov 2024 17:11:04 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?post_type=listicle&p=646560 Discover tree options that require less cleanup.

The post Tired of Raking Leaves? Plant These Trees Instead appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>

Dead Leaves on Tree in Winter

Why Do Trees Lose Their Leaves?

Trees typically lose their leaves seasonally before the winter to conserve water and energy during the dormant winter months. Shedding leaves is also a protective strategy for trees. With fewer surfaces for snow and ice to cling to, there’s less risk of broken or damaged branches. Empty branches also allow winter winds to easily pass through.

Trees will also lose their leaves when they are diseased or stressed.

The post Tired of Raking Leaves? Plant These Trees Instead appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
10 Best Solar Lights and Lanterns to Illuminate Your Campsite Adventures https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/campsite-solar-lights/ https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/campsite-solar-lights/#respond Mon, 11 Nov 2024 09:01:41 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?post_type=listicle&p=539326 Create a cozy ambiance, light up the kitchen area or go exploring in the night woods with our picks for this year's best solar camping lights.

The post 10 Best Solar Lights and Lanterns to Illuminate Your Campsite Adventures appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Luci Solar Powered Candle Ecomm Via Amazonvia merchant

Best Solar Light for Campsite Ambiance

MPOWERD's Luci Candle

MPOWERD’s Luci Candle blow-up lantern flickers like a real flame, but without the fire danger and waxy mess. It gives off a cozy, romantic soft-amber glow, making it our go-to candle for ambient in-tent/in-van lighting. We collapse them and put them on our dashboard while driving to recharge.

They’re also good for illuminating walkways in a non-obtrusive way. They pair nicely with Luci Color, a larger, brighter light with eight color hues.

The post 10 Best Solar Lights and Lanterns to Illuminate Your Campsite Adventures appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/campsite-solar-lights/feed/ 0
Want to Strike Gold? Here’s Why You Need the Minelab Equinox 900 Metal Detector https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/minelab-equinox-900-metal-detector-review/ Thu, 07 Nov 2024 22:28:12 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=644512 The Minelab Equinox 900 is one of the best metal detectors you can buy, according to our editors and a pro detectorist.

The post Want to Strike Gold? Here’s Why You Need the Minelab Equinox 900 Metal Detector appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
If you’re in the market for a metal detector, opting for a model from an established and reputable brand is your best bet, according to Joanna Jana Laznicka, metal detectorist and founder of Focus Speed.

“Opting for trusted brands ensures you receive a quality product backed by reliable customer support,” she explains. When it comes to trusted brands, there are several that Laznicka recommends, including Nokta, Garrett, Bounty Hunter and Minelab. Our team put 11 metal detectors to the test, including the Minelab Equinox 900.

Our expert product testers paid careful attention to details including how easy it was to assemble, its ergonomics and its overall performance. They even brought it to a local beach and were impressed to discover that this expert-recommended model was able to detect gold from farther away than most of its competitors. Heres everything you need to know about the Minelab Equinox 900.

What is the Minelab Equinox 900?

The Minelab Equinox 900 is the latest model in the Minelab Equinox lineup. According to Laznicka, this upgraded version is a versatile metal detector suitable for beach combing, park searching, relic hunting and gold prospecting. It features an 11-by-6-inch waterproof coil, backlit digital LCD display and rechargeable battery. At just 2.85 pounds, it is extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver.

This metal detector is loaded with useful features, including a built-in flashlight, multi IQ frequency setting and vibration feedback for underwater use and hearing impaired users, Additionally, it has multiple terrain-based presets and customizable discrimination patterns.

Priced at $1,149, the Minelab Equinox 900 is the most expensive model we tested. But given its features and overall ease of use, our product testers agree that its worth its weight in gold.

We Tried It

Minelab Equinox 900

This metal detector is loaded with features including gold-specific settings, various terrain-based presets and vibration mode.

Minelab Equinox 900 Features

Minelab Equinox 900

Waterproof

The Minelab Equinox 900 is fully submersible up to five meters (16.4 feet) and vibrates when it detects something underwater.

Terrain-Based Presets

Choose from park, field, and beach. Each search mode has two search profiles to help you find what you’re looking for.

Gold Preset

According to our testers, the Minelab Equinox 900 is one of the few units they tested with a gold setting. It also has two search profiles.

Vibration

The Minelab Equinox 900 vibrates when an object is detected. This is ideal for underwater use and individuals with hearing impairment.

Custom User Profiles

Create up to four user profiles on the machine for personalized settings and functionality.

Backlit LCD & Built-in LED Flashlight

The backlit digital display and built-in flashlight allow you to use the Minelab Equinox 900 day or night.

How We Tested It

Minelab Equinox 900

Product testers Annamarie Higley and Sydney Manning began by assembling the unit, a process they described as easy. “All you had to do is attach the head and slide on the arm cuff,” says Manning. After it was fully assembled and on Higley’s arm, our testers found that they liked the adjustable armrest.

They also liked the rubber on the underside of the handle, which made it easy to grip. However, they preferred the more comfortable foam grips found on other models. Additionally, they questioned how comfortable this metal detector would be overall, given that they were unable to get it tight or flush with Higley’s arm. Aside from these observations, our testers agreed that the Minelab Equinox 900 is very well made and they expect it to last a long time.

Minelab Equinox 900

Our testers began their official testing process with an air test, which is a standard basic functionality test that many companies recommend prior to first use. To perform this test, our team placed the Minelab Equinox 900 on a non-metal surface outside and proceeded to wave a selection of metal items in front of the coils.

These items included a pair of 10k gold earrings, a copper pipe, aluminum foil, pull tabs, bottle caps, a screw and a nail. It was able to detect all of our items from a foot away or less. It detected gold from 8 to 10 inches away. “This is unsurprising because this is one of the few units with a gold setting,” says Higley.

Gold wasn’t the only metal the Minelab Equinox 900 detected. Our team was highly impressed when this metal detector consistently detected various metals from roughly 10 inches away. Moreover, they found that it effectively discriminated against the nail and the screw in one of the terrain-based presets, which most other models were unable to do.

Minelab Equinox 900

While the overall performance of the Minelab Equinox 900 impressed our team, its depth reader left much to be desired. According to Higley, the depth reader was typically incorrect. That said, it still did a great job picking up items that were deep beneath the ground. “We were really impressed how deep this metal detector could detect items, even through a bunch of big buried rocks,” says Higley.

Additionally, our team determined that the screen was not very intuitive. However, they noted that the manual is comprehensive and walks you through everything well.

The Minelab Equinox 900 will set you back $1,149 but our testers agree it’s worth the money. “Not many metal detectors are fitted out with gold-specific settings, but this one is. In fact, it has two gold settingsone for difficult ground and one for normal ground. The fact that this could identify 10-karat gold from 8 inches away and 14-karat gold from 10 inches away really wowed us,” raves Higley.

Pros

  • Has gold-specific settings
  • Nice included accessories
  • Various terrain-based presets
  • Smaller secondary coil head
  • Rechargeable
  • Vibration mode
  • Quality construction

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Not the most intuitive to read

Why You Should Trust Us

In order to help you decide if the Minelab Equinox 900 is the right detector for you, our product testing experts on the product testing team spent approximately 80 hours in our lab getting up close and personal with 11 metal detectors. Several of those hours were spent actively testing the Minelab Equinox 900.

We performed 13 tests on each metal detector and collected roughly 600 data points overall. We also spoke to Joanna Jana Laznicka, metal detectorist and founder of Focus Speed. Laznicka provided expert insight on what to look for when shopping for metal detectors. She also detailed her experience with some of the best models on the market, including the Minelab Equinox 900.

FAQ

Minelab Equinox 900

How deep can the Minelab Equinox 900 detect?

The Minelab Equinox 900 is able to detect items that are buried 8 inches or deeper.

Is the EQUINOX 900 good for beginners?

Yes. Higley and Manning are beginners and were able to successfully operate this metal detector. They had no trouble referring back to the user manual which they describe as comprehensive and easy to follow.

Can the EQUINOX 900 find gold?

Yes! The Minelab Equinox 900 has two gold-specific settings. Our team was able to identify 10-karat gold from 8 inches away and 14-karat gold from 10 inches away.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Detectorists love the Minelab Equinox 900. Most reviewers rave about its quality construction, accuracy and ease of use. Here’s what actual users have to say.

Verified Amazon user The Master Dude is a novice detectorist who is glad he opted for the Minelab Equinox 900. “I just started metal detecting in 2024 and I am so glad I purchased the Minelab Equinox 900. I have gone out detecting some old farms in Pennsylvania and this detector has impressed me every time,” he writes. “I recommend you watch some online videos to see how others have tested the Equinox 900. There are some excellent videos where the video person digs multiple depth holes and places coins in the bottom of each hole. I stand by their results because I have witnessed similar findings. I love this detector and plan to continue using it for many years to come. I also purchased an optional 15-inch coil so I can cover more ground. I feel it increases my productivity in the plowed fields.”

Pj, another five-star reviewer, purchased this metal detector as a gift for their husband and it was a huge hit! “I purchased this Minelab 900 detector for my husband’s birthday after he saw someone using one on the beach. He had another older brand that was years old and this one just blew him away for the ease and accuracy of use,” writes Pj. “He has taken the pro find pin pointer by itself sometimes when we go a short drive to the lake. He is still learning on how to use it because he is old school he is not into ‘tech’ stuff but he will have it all down soon enough.”

And Amazon user Lucinda Griffin is delighted to have upgraded to the Minelab Equinox 900. “There is a learning curve to using this, but that’s the same with any detector. Its preset programs are on point, and you can customize the way you want them,” she writes. “This thing is lightweight, making you swing longer without tiring out, and it is so compact when the shaft is slid up into its three sections. I upgraded from a Whites XLT and a V3i. I thought I loved that V3i, but found a new connection with this Equinox 900. I’ve only just begun to use it, and found 3 dimes and a quarter in my yard that I missed with the V3i. Looking forward to many hunts with this Nox900.”

Better yet, Griffin returned to update her review. “Update…this detector hits hard on silver! 11-inch deep dime and 8-inch deep half dollar, among more dimes. Loving it,” she raves.

The Minelab Equinox 900 vs. Minelab Equinox 800

The Minelab Equinox 900 is the latest model in the Equinox lineup. It’s also the most expensive, running $350 more than its predecessor. Is it worth the extra money? You bet, according to Laznicka. “The Equinox 800 has been known to experience waterproofing issues if left in hot cars, which can damage the seals. It also has a tendency for the coil ears to break. However, both of these issues have been addressed in the newer Minelab Equinox 900 model,” she explains.

Final Verdict

If your budget allows for a top notch metal detector, then this Minelab Equinox 900 is a no brainer. Its gold-specific settings and ability to detect items buried deep in the ground are sure to give you a leg up when it comes to finding buried treasure.

Where to Buy the Minelab Equinox 900

The Minelab Equinox 900 is available for $1,149 at a variety of retailers including Amazon, Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops and Scheels.

We Tried It

Minelab Equinox 900

The Minelab Equinox 900 is superior at detecting gold and deep items.

The post Want to Strike Gold? Here’s Why You Need the Minelab Equinox 900 Metal Detector appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
The Next Big Thing In Gardening: Talking Plants? https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/the-next-big-thing-in-gardening-talking-plants/ Wed, 06 Nov 2024 16:56:34 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=646362 AI is infiltrating every aspect of life as people invent new ways to utilize it. Tom Massey is bringing it to the 2025 Chelsea Flower Show.

The post The Next Big Thing In Gardening: Talking Plants? appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
New gardeners have so much to learn about how to care for their gardens. Selecting the right plants for their hardiness zone is just the beginning. Next they have to learn how to tell when those plants need water, or more fertilizer, or to be pruned. More experienced gardeners are often looking to enhance and expand their skills. No matter your skill level, the Chelsea Flower Show in the UK is an important event for anyone in the gardening sphere.

What is the Chelsea Flower Show?

The Chelsea Flower Show is put on every year by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). Most awards are judged by a carefully curated panel of gardening experts. According to the RHS, that panel generally includes “horticulturalists, garden designers, landscape architects, contractors, head gardeners, journalists or writers, and lecturers.” However, visitors also get to vote on certain awards. This practice allows all facets of the community to judge the gardens.

What’s Unique This Year?

This year, one entrant is aiming to present a futuristic garden: one that can talk back to you. Designer Tom Massey, working with Microsoft, plans to enter a garden that uses AI to communicate its needs. His goal is to embed soil sensors for as many of the garden’s needs as possible. These sensors will connect to a computer that can translate the soil readings into plain answers about what the garden needs.

He hopes that this technology can soon be used at a wider scale to usher in a new era of eco-conscious gardening. If gardeners can tell exactly how moist the soil is, they can be even more precise in their watering, for example. If enough people can implement something like this, Massey thinks, there could be a significant positive impact on water use.

AI and Resources

It is important to note here that generative AI consumes vast quantities of resources. So, we should not utilize it frivolously. According to Cindy Gorton, a contributor to Forbes, the data centers that power generative AI use “cooling towers and air mechanisms to dissipate heat, causing up to 9 liters of water to evaporate per kWh of energy used.” Water is already a scarce resource. It is our duty to be mindful of how we consume it and what we are doing to safeguard it. After all, you can’t nourish a garden without water.

Sources

AI Is Accelerating the Loss of Our Scarcest Natural Resource: Water, Forbes, 2024

The post The Next Big Thing In Gardening: Talking Plants? appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Could This Hack Make Bagging Leaves Easier? https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/bagging-leaves-hack/ Tue, 05 Nov 2024 15:34:51 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=646189 Leaf cleanup can be a daunting task in the fall, but with a few clever hacks, it can become much easier and even enjoyable.

The post Could This Hack Make Bagging Leaves Easier? appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
If raking leaves feels like an endless chore, youll love this clever trick. With just a large plastic bag and a few simple steps, you can quickly gather leaves without constantly bending over or making multiple trips.

A Quick Leaf Cleanup Trick

YouTuber Paris Karnes shared a quick hack to quickly tidy up unsightly leaves from your yard.

First, you shake out a large plastic bag. Then, stand in a wide stance and tightly wrap the bag around your feet. Shuffle your feet through the leaf pile and, with your hands, pull the leaves toward you into the bag.

This will save a lot of time and take some strain off your back from bending down repeatedly to move leaves from the ground to the bag. Its recommended that you wear gloves when handling yard debris.

Other Leaf Cleanup Hacks

One of the simplest ways to streamline leaf gathering is to use a tarp. Spread a large tarp on the ground in the areas where youll be raking and rake the leaves directly onto it. Once the tarp is full, simply drag it to your compost bin or disposal area. This technique minimizes the number of trips back and forth and makes moving large piles of leaves at once easy.

The fastest way to remove leaves from your lawn is with a lawnmower with a bagging attachment. By mowing over your leaves, youll shred them into smaller pieces. This makes the leaves perfect for mulching garden beds, providing natural insulation for your plants during the colder months.

Bagging Leaves vs. Leaving Them

The debate over whether to bag fallen leaves or leave them on the ground often divides lawn care enthusiasts.

On one hand, bagging leaves provides a neat and tidy lawn and helps prevent thick leaf layers from smothering grass. Bagging is also a way to keep yard spaces looking well-kept, especially important in neighborhoods with strict landscaping standards. However, proponents of leaving leaves argue that they provide essential nutrients and act as a natural mulch that enriches the soil and protects grass roots from winter cold.

Left untouched, a layer of leaves can create a blanket on the ground where mold can thrive over the course of a long winter. But when mulched with a mower, leaves break down much faster, adding organic matter back into the ground and creating a healthier ecosystem for the lawn. Also, leaving leaves benefits local wildlife, as it offers shelter for insects and small animals, essential for biodiversity.

For those who want the best of both worlds, mulching leaves on-site can offer a compromiseallowing the leaves to nourish the soil without overwhelming the lawn.

The post Could This Hack Make Bagging Leaves Easier? appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
The Noah Kahan x L.L. Bean ‘Northern Altitude Collection’ is a Love Letter to New England https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/noah-kahan-ll-bean-collection/ Wed, 30 Oct 2024 16:12:41 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=644111 Noah Kahan and L.L. Bean have teamed up for an all-new collaboration that's ideal for chilly New England weather (and 'Stick Season' fans).

The post The Noah Kahan x L.L. Bean ‘Northern Altitude Collection’ is a Love Letter to New England appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Founded in Freeport, Maine, L.L. Bean has been a household name in retail and outdoor spaces for over 110 years. However, the brand has only collaborated with public figures and other companies on limited-edition product lines since 2020 (previous collections include Summersault, Blundstone and Todd Snyder, among others).

Most recently, L.L. Bean teamed up with singer-songwriter Noah Kahan on a capsule collection that includes hats, jackets and the beloved Bean Boots. The pieces were released on October 22, 2024. Ready to shop the collection before it sells out? Check it out below:

The Northern Altitude Collection

Adults' L.l.bean & Noah Kahan Mountain Classic Five Panel HatVIA MERCHANT

L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan Mountain Classic Five-Panel Hat

This hat is made of water- and wind-resistant material (it is also UPF 50+ rated) and features a woven patch touting the collection's name.

Men's L.l.bean & Noah Kahan Signature 1933 Chamois Cloth ShirtVIA MERCHANT

L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan Signature 1933 Chamois Cloth Shirt

Perfect for fall, this soft flannel shirt buttons down the front and has a slim fit throughout.

Adults' L.l.bean & Noah Kahan L.l.beanieVIA MERCHANT

L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan L.L. Beanie

The all-black L.L. Beanie can be adjusted, thanks to the rolled cuff, and is made from recycled polyester.

Adults' L.l.bean & Noah Kahan Hoodie SweatshirtVIA MERCHANT

L.L.Bean & Noah Kahan Hoodie Sweatshirt

Grab this cozy hoodie with the embroidered Noah Kahan and L.L. Bean logo on the front (we give bonus points for the kangaroo pouch).

Men's L.l.bean & Noah Kahan Bean BootsVIA MERCHANT

L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan Bean Boots

Handmade in Maine, these Bean Boots are built to last, thanks to the rubber outsole and waxed canvas upper.

L.l.bean & Noah Kahan Boat And Tote Zip PouchVIA MERCHANT

L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan Boat and Tote Zip Pouch

This zip pouch fits inside a larger bag (ahem, the Boat and Tote bag), and comes emblazoned with the Noah Kahan patch.

Adults' L.l.bean & Noah Kahan Mountain Classic AnorakVIA MERCHANT

L.L. Bean & Noah Kahan Mountain Classic Anorak

Keep the rain out with this water resistant jacket, which comes in both men's and women's sizes.

The post The Noah Kahan x L.L. Bean ‘Northern Altitude Collection’ is a Love Letter to New England appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
19 Inexpensive Landscaping Fixes That Look Pricey https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/cheap-landscaping-fixes/ Mon, 28 Oct 2024 19:51:26 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?post_type=listicle&p=644442 Save some money with these cheap landscaping fixes that look expensive.

The post 19 Inexpensive Landscaping Fixes That Look Pricey appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
water fountain

Add a Small Water Feature

With minimal materials and effort, you can build this beautiful artesian fountain in just two days. Andbonusonce it’s built, you don’t have to worry about maintenance.Here’s how to build it yourself.

The post 19 Inexpensive Landscaping Fixes That Look Pricey appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
The Hidden Dangers Lurking Beneath Your Leaf Pile https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/the-hidden-dangers-lurking-beneath-your-leaf-pile/ Mon, 28 Oct 2024 15:23:37 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=643442 Leaf pile cleanup safety

The post The Hidden Dangers Lurking Beneath Your Leaf Pile appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Oh, fall is a beautiful season. Cooler weather, delicious beverages, and an excuse to wear cozy clotheswhat more could you ask for? As we dust off our cute boots and flannels and settle into the season, we also begin facing this season’s other responsibilities. For me, that looks like piles and piles of leaves.

I live on a beautiful country road alongside both professional landscapers and our green-thumbed neighbors, Patty and Steve. The pressure to keep up is real. But, if you know me, you know that it’s safety first. Ahead, we’ll take a deep dive into leaf pile safety how to keep kids, pets, and yourself safe while maintaining your property.

What Bugs and Animals Hide in Leaf Piles?

According to The Xerces Society of Invertebrate Conservation, leaves provide excellent shelter and habitat for many insects, such as butterflies, moths, and beetles. The Penn State Department of Entomology details how these insects not only promote decomposition and vital nitrogenization of our earth but also pollinate and contribute to necessary plant reproduction. If you’re curious about how to clean up your property as beautifully as Patty and Steve while not disturbing all of this precious buggy ecosystem, check out our other article on whether to rake or leave your leaves alone.

Safety Hazards of Leaf Piles

When it comes to leaf pile safety, there’s more than just the hazard of stepping on a rake. With great biodiversity comes great responsibility. Understanding that there’s a whole world under our leaf piles means well, there’s a whole world under our leaf piles.

Bugs

Those aforementioned bugs can include ones that bite and sting, so be sure to keep a clothing barrier between you and the leaves. This will help reduce some of your risk of getting bitten or stung.

In addition to excellent popcorn, my real-life Boy Scout brother had a number of Scout-branded pamphlets on taking warm showers after camping to wash off ticks. That recommendation absolutely applies here. In the United States, ticks are endemic. Once you or your family are finished playing in or cleaning up your leaves, make sure to put your clothes and your bodies in their respective wash cycles.

Mold

According to health educator and allergist Dr. Maya Gharfeh, “One of the biggest hidden allergens under those leaf piles is mold. If you are mold allergic, make sure to take allergy medications before you head out and wear a face mask while working in the yard this Fall to help prevent allergy symptoms.”

Sharp Objects

Depending on how you gathered your leaves, you may have collected more than just leaves, but also sticks, snakes, and contraband lawn darts. So wear long pants, gloves, close-toed shoes, and any other protective gear that makes sense for whatever you plan to do in those piles.

Leaf Pile Safety Tips

  • Wear protective clothing, such as gloves, long pants, and close-toed shoes, and always keep at least one clothing layer between you and the leaves.
  • Be mindful of any non-leaf debris you may have collected while gathering leaf piles.
  • If you have allergies, consider wearing a facemask.
  • Shower and wash your clothes after leaf pile activities.

For more information, take a look at how to best and most efficiently clean up leaves.

About the Experts

Maya Gharfeh, MD, MPH, is double board-certified in allergy/immunology and pediatrics. She practices in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, where she cares for patients of all ages with allergy, asthma, eczema and immunology needs. She is published in many academic journals and active in several national allergy societies. Dr. Gharfeh is a health educator through her online handle @allergistmama.

Sources

The post The Hidden Dangers Lurking Beneath Your Leaf Pile appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Solo Stove Just Dropped a Portable Grill Kit That Fits Over Your Fire Pit https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/solo-stove-cookout-kit/ Fri, 18 Oct 2024 18:14:14 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=640211 Burgers or s'mores, anyone? Turn your Bonfire 2.0 into a handy dandy grill with the all-new Solo Stove Cookout Kit.

The post Solo Stove Just Dropped a Portable Grill Kit That Fits Over Your Fire Pit appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Ahhh, fall. The time of year that evokes grilled meat, toasty marshmallows and football, football, football. Solo Stove knows that tailgating season means gathering around the grill, and they’re getting in on the action with their latest product: The Solo Stove Cookout Kit. Releasing October 15, the $300 cookout kit transforms your beloved fire pit into a grill in a few easy steps.

Hungry for more? Check out this newest fall staple.

What is the Solo Stove Cookout Kit?

If you’ve ever debated whether you should bring your fire pit or grill to the parking lot tailgate, the Solo Stove Cookout Kit is for you. This kit comfortably elevates your Bonfire 2.0 off the ground and turns it into a grill for cooking, effectively giving you the best of both worlds. It is worth noting that this kit is only compatible (as of now) with the Bonfire 2.0, so don’t try to stick your Yukon in the slot; you’ll be disappointed when it topples over. Perhaps in the future, the brand will release different size options.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Solo Stove (@solostove)

The kit is made of the same durable powder-coated steel Solo Stove uses on its fire pits. It’s also corrosion resistant, so you can feel good spending a couple hundred dollars on a product that’ll actually last outside.

Little ledges pull out on either side of the fire pit holder, ideal for prepping buns or laying out a few condiments. Plus, who doesn’t like a little counter space when they’re cooking or grilling? The legs can also be folded in or out, depending on how high up you’d like the flame to sit.

This foldability also makes it easy to throw the Cookout Kit in your car and set up in mere minutes when you get to your destination.

And for big-time NFL fans, Solo Stove offers Cookout Kit customizations featuring the logo of your favorite team.

Where to Buy the Solo Stove Cookout Kit

Solo Stove Fire PitVIA MERCHANT

Solo Stove Cookout Kit

Ready to turn your Bonfire 2.0 into a usable grill? Secure your own Solo Stove Cookout Kit on the Solo Stove website for around $300. The kit comes with a charcoal adapter, cookout frame and cast iron grill top.

The post Solo Stove Just Dropped a Portable Grill Kit That Fits Over Your Fire Pit appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
How To Create a Low-Maintenance Front Yard Landscaping Feature https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/easy-front-yard-landscaping-feature/ Fri, 18 Oct 2024 15:47:30 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?post_type=project&p=629555 Transform your outdoor space with this easy, step-by-step guide to creating a stunning low maintenance front yard landscaping feature.

The post How To Create a Low-Maintenance Front Yard Landscaping Feature appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>

The first thing to do when planning any garden or landscape feature is to ask yourself what you want out of it. Are you trying to attract birds? Add color or fragrance to the area? Or cover up some unsightly porch or deck footings? For our project, our goal was to create low-maintenance front yard landscaping that would freshen up our space and boost the curb appeal of our home.

I want to be very clear: low maintenance landscape does not mean NO maintenance. A flower bed or landscape feature in your yard is a living thing that will require some attention. As much as we wish low maintenance meant “put it in the ground and you’re done,” that is not the case. At a minimum, you must water and pay attention to how your garden grows. Plants are just like people: some are high maintenance, and some are low maintenance. Do a little homework so you can make your choice wisely, and the whole flower garden season will be easier in the end.

I was very fortunate to have Melinda Myers, a highly regarded landscape designer, on this project. I gained a ton of knowledge and am happy to share some of her insight.

Choose plants for garden

Once you know what you want from your garden, it’s time to determine the plants that will get you there. Myers recommends first visiting your local garden center and reading the plant tags.

“Plant tags are excellent,” she says. “They give you the growing conditions and the size of the plant. Some nurseries are now sharing more information on their website, where you can learn so much more than just the hardiness zone. Will it flower? Is it going to provide interest for songbirds and butterflies? Will it match the color you are looking for?”

Sketch out a plot map that includes the anchor plants you want to plant to get an idea of how the garden will come together. Consider the size of the plants now and how big they will grow. Myers always plans to “use smaller complementary plants and annuals for quick fill until plants grow into the space, so it looks like your garden has been there for a while.”

How To Create A Low Maintenance Front Yard Landscaping Feature Plot Map with flowers and grid

The post How To Create a Low-Maintenance Front Yard Landscaping Feature appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
10 Flowers That Will Thrive in Full Sun https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/flowers-that-will-thrive-in-full-sun/ Fri, 18 Oct 2024 15:07:59 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?post_type=listicle&p=642411 If your garden is all sun and no shade, these plants will add vibrance to your space.

The post 10 Flowers That Will Thrive in Full Sun appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>

10 Flowers That Will Thrive In Full Sun Lantana Gettyimages 163301582

Lantana

These cheery full sun flowers come in a variety of colors. They do best with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Some varieties feature gorgeous multi-colored blooms like the ones pictures here. Others are solid-colored. They handle heat well, too, and are a good choice for landscaping in hot weather.

The post 10 Flowers That Will Thrive in Full Sun appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Hampton Bay Fire Pit Review: Our Experts’ Honest Thoughts https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/hampton-bay-fire-pit-review/ Thu, 17 Oct 2024 14:58:43 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=639537 After putting this popular fire pit through a battery of tests, we have a verdict on the Hampton Bay Fire Pit's value.

The post Hampton Bay Fire Pit Review: Our Experts’ Honest Thoughts appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
A fire pit takes a backyard from nice to elevated, especially during cold weather. The right fire pit aligns with your backyard decor, brings up the vibes, and creates a cozy atmosphere that no one will want to leave when the night is over.

Our team of shopping editors and product testers has taken a dozen fire pits through a battery of ten tests, including the popular Hampton Bay Fire Pit. Specifically, we tested the Hampton Bay Crossridge 30-inch, 50,000-BTU Antique Bronze Gas Fire Pit, which has an average rating of almost five stars at The Home Depot.

We wanted to see if it lived up to its reputation. Read on for our comprehensive Hampton Bay Fire Pit review.

What is the Hampton Bay Fire Pit?

Hampton Bay

The Hampton Bay Crossridge Fire Pit is a 30-inch, 50,000-BTU gas fire pit. It uses a standard propane tank and features a rustic aesthetic with a natural stone tabletop. With its substantial BTU rating, this fire pit can produce strong, tall flames that can be felt from several feet away. Its relatively neutral but attractive design can fit in backyards of many different styles.

Related: Breeo Smokeless Fire Pit ReviewMy Thoughts

Antique Bronze Gas Fire Pit TableVIA MERCHANT

We Tried It

Hampton Bay Crossridge Fire Pit Table

A steel-constructed fire pit table with a natural slate top

Pros:

  • Easy, simple assembly
  • Hidden propane tank and hose
  • No propane leakage
  • Comes with lava rocks
  • Attractive design

Cons:

  • Screen warped and burned
  • Propane tank cover feels cheaply made
  • Heavy to move; may need multiple people

Hampton Bay Fire Pit Features

This fire pit comes equipped with several notable features.

Natural Stone Tabletop

The 30-inch-by-30-inch stone tabletop is sturdy and strong. In fact, it is one of our testers’ favorite features of the Hampton Bay Fire Pit.

50,000 BTU Heat

The high BTU rating means the fire pit produces strong flames.

“On the max setting, the flame is high and deep orange, and it encompasses a majority of the bowl,” says Product Testing Manager Annamarie Higley. It also has one of the strongest low settings of all the fire pits our team has tested.

Enclosed Propane Tank

Your guests won’t even know your propane tank is there: The base of this fire pit serves as a complete enclosure for a standard 20-pound propane tank and its hose. However, we must note that our testers find the base to be “chintzy” and not properly aligned, which makes it feel somewhat out of place compared to the nice, sturdy stone tabletop.

Electric Ignition

This fire pit features an electric ignition that’s easy to use.

“You have to hold down the igniter, then turn the burner knob,” Higley explains. “Once it lights, you let go of the igniter and can adjust the flame size.”

How We Tested It

We put the Hampton Bay Fire Pit through its paces from shopping to set up.

Delivery and Packaging

The Hampton Bay Fire Pit pleased our testing team in several areas, but packaging and delivery were not one of them. Though it was delivered straight to the door with no pallet or freight required, our testers experienced an unpleasant situation upon opening the box.

“On the exterior, this box looked comparable to the rest, but we opened it up to find that lava rocks had spilled everywhere,” Higley said. “The tape on the box of rocks lifted off, so they were scattered throughout the entire box. Because of this, most items were coated in a thin layer of dustvery unpleasant and irritating.”

We felt we needed to mention this in case it’s a frequent occurrence, but it’s entirely possible that this doesn’t happen to you at all.

Assembly

This fire pit was the easiest for our testing team to assemble (moving on from the disastrous packing situation). They experienced some minor hiccups with aligning parts, but overall, it was easy, and the directions were simple to follow.

The steps were comparable to those of other fire pit models our team tested; nothing was out of the ordinary. The weightiness of the stone tabletop is the only thing that might slow you down, says Higley. Our team recorded a setup time of just 35 minutes.

Propane Hookup

The propane hookup was “super simple and easy,” according to Higley. You just screw the hose onto the propane tank. After connecting it, our testing team searched for leaks by spraying connections with soapy water and watching for bubbles as we turned the valve on. They’re happy to report no leakage occurred.

Use

Hampton Bay

Overall, the Hampton Bay Fire Pit is easy to use, although you may encounter minor setbacks. For instance, our team realized that they initially inserted the alkaline battery incorrectly, so they experienced some false starts during which a fair amount of gas must’ve built up in the hose.

“Once we addressed the issue and turned the fire pit table on, the flames were substantial and pretty smoky,” says Higley. “Oops.”

This inexplicably came with a screen that is not mentioned in the manual, on the box or on the website. However, some customer photo reviews feature the screen.

“Theoretically, we liked the screen because the flames felt more contained with it on, which gave us a sense of security,” Higley says. “That being said, it gave off a foul burning-rubber, chemical smell. It also started to warp and even incurred a burn mark after only 15 minutes of use. Without it on, the fire was more aggressive. There’s also no handle on the screen, so it could be dangerous to move and lift when hot because there’s no good way to grab it.”

After investigating further, we realized that this screen might only be intended for use during the initial setup to contain potential sparks from flying. However, there’s no information on the website or in the user manual, so we can’t be sure.

Flames and Heat

The Hampton Bay Fire Pit produces strong, tall flames on the highest setting (50,000 BTUs), which our testers appreciate. However, they note that the flames seem pretty susceptible to the wind.

“The flames move around easily, and it’s a little scary if you’re close to it,” says Higley. “You definitely wouldn’t want to set anything on the edge of the table, despite what vendor images imply.”

Why You Should Trust Us

Our team at Family Handyman consists of subject matter experts in home topics, as well as experienced, dedicated shopping editors and commerce writers who care about helping our readers make the right purchasing decisions for them.

We also have an in-house product testing team that actually shops for, assembles, and uses the products we review. For this Hampton Bay fire pit review, our product testers took the fire pit through a series of tests we’ve standardized for fire pits, looking at criteria such as packaging and delivery, assembly, ease of use, durability and longevity, heat emission, and value.

FAQ

Hampton Bay

How do I ignite a Hampton Bay fire pit?

Most Hampton Bay Fire Pits feature electric ignition, so it should be a simple matter of turning a knob and flipping a switch. However, each model may have differences. Be sure to read the user manual for the model you buy.

How heavy is the Hampton Bay fire pit?

Hampton Bay makes multiple fire pit models, so the exact weight depends on the one you buy. The one we testedthe 30-inch, 50,000-BTU Crossridge modelweighs almost 90 pounds out of the box.

What Other Reviewers and Experts Had to Say

This fire pit has strong reviews on its primary online retailer, The Home Depot. Out of nearly 3,000 reviews, it boasts an average rating of 4.4 stars at the time of writing.

Buyer OCmom called it the “perfect fire pit,” while reviewer Steven said, “Great size, easy to assemble and puts off plenty of heat. Definitely a good addition to your backyard oasis!”

Some buyers noted things they’d change about the model.

For instance, buyer Susan said, “I’ve had this for a few years now. It intermittently goes out after burning for several minutes; after several restarts and turning the knob to the magic position, it stays lit. Rather annoying when trying to relax and enjoy the ambiance. Also the grout between the tiles is cracking and coming apart. When the flame does stay on, it’s wonderful and I love it.”

Overall, most buyers are happy with their purchase and get several years of use out of the fire pit.

Hampton Bay Fire Pit vs. Tiki Brand Fire Pit

Our product testers also tried the Tiki Brand customizable fire pit. The experience was different in some ways but the same in others. For one thing, the Tiki Brand customizable fire pit is, well, customizable. It costs substantially more at $499about double the pricebut a big part of the draw is that it’s customizable with various accessories.

During testing, Higley said, “This will probably appeal to a specific taste. It’s more modern-looking with a streamlined profile. It’s all black with rounded edges. It’s cone-shaped, and you can add a tabletop (included in purchase but shipped in a separate box), which would make it look more similar to the other fire pits.”

Like the Hampton Bay fire pit, the Tiki Brand fire pit was relatively easy to assemble but hard to move due to its weight. Our testers think the Tiki Brand pit has more longevity, as it feels much more durable and hefty. You can read our full Tiki Brand fire pit review for more details on the customizable propane fire pit.

Final Verdict

Our team liked the Hampton Bay Fire Pit for the most part, but they think it might be priced slightly high for it to be a must-buy value.

“It’s not a great value, which is a shame because the screen was a great concept, and the natural stone table top was pretty impressive,” Higley said. It might be worth the dough if you catch it on sale (which it often is). Shop for more fire pits with our guide to the best fire pits on Amazon.

Where to Buy the Hampton Bay Fire Pit

Antique Bronze Gas Fire Pit TableVIA MERCHANT

We Tried It

Hampton Bay Crossridge Fire Pit Table

An antique bronze fire pit table that'll upgrade your patio

The Hampton Bay Fire Pit is available at The Home Depot for about $180.

The post Hampton Bay Fire Pit Review: Our Experts’ Honest Thoughts appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
We Found the Best Electric Coolers After Testing 10 Options https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/best-electric-coolers/ https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/best-electric-coolers/#respond Mon, 14 Oct 2024 18:32:21 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?post_type=listicle&p=639902 We tested electric coolers while camping, working on job sites, hanging at the beach, off-roading, road tripping and more. Here are our favorites.

The post We Found the Best Electric Coolers After Testing 10 Options appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Bouge RV Rocky 55qt Dual Zone 12v Portable FridgeKARUNA EBERL FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Overall Electric Cooler

BougeRV Rocky 55QT Dual Zone 12V Portable Fridge

Pros:

  • Dual-zone
  • Affordable for its capacity
  • Battery/solar option
  • Light for its capacity
  • Rugged look
  • Removable compartment divider

Cons:

  • Small-capacity battery (add-on purchase)
  • No wheels

We’re awarding BougeRV’s Rocky 55-quart electric cooler best in show because of its versatility, size, weight, depth of features and affordability. After testing it out, it’s become our go-to mid-size electric cooler.

Bouge RV Rocky 55qt Dual Zone 12v Portable Fridge

BougeRV’s Rocky series was designed for overlanding, which means multi-day off-road adventures. Testing challenge accepted! Since it’s designed for rough and tumble situations, the Rocky 55 is fitted with a flashy, durable stainless steel exterior that’s strong enough to withstand 664 pounds loaded on top of it. The Rocky is also efficient on power, drawing just 45 watts in eco-mode. As a bonus, the metal casing is also fingerprint resistant, so it stayed looking fresh, even when we did not.

Bouge RV Rocky 55qt Dual Zone 12v Portable Fridge

The Rocky 55 is a true dual-zone model, which means you can assign each of its two compartments to be a fridge or a freezer. It also has a removable divider between them, which we found to be particularly handy when we were trying to fit a rack of ribs and a big bunch of chard. It would also be great for anglers or hunters who needed some extra length to store their catch.

As an upsell, you can buy a 173 Wh battery to run it off of, which can take 100W of solar (panel also sold separately). While most other manufacturers make unrealistic claims about how long their batteries will last under real-world conditions, BougeRV is refreshingly honest and spot-on with theirs: expect it to last only around four hours on eco-mode in hot weather. Of course, as with most electric coolers, you can also run it off of your car’s 12V socket, a regular AC wall plug or a portable power station. If you’re going that latter route, for any sizable electric cooler, plan on about 1,000 watt-hours per day (or better yet, 1,500 to be safe).

The Rocky 55 is also compact and lightweight for its capacity, not much larger on the outside than the Anker EverFrost 30, Bluetti MultiCooler, or EcoFlow Glacier, but with quite a bit more room inside. It’s also about 6 pounds lighter.

The Rocky’s biggest (perhaps only) flaw is that it doesn’t have wheels, making it more awkward to transport. Unless you’re particularly burly, you’ll want to do a team carry with this (and most other electric coolers, for that matter).

BougeRV’s rocky series comes in 41- to 81-quart sizes, and the company also makes several other lines of portable coolers.

Bouge RV Rocky 55qt Dual Zone 12v Portable Fridge

Specs

  • 55-quart capacity
  • Dual-zone, independently assignable
  • 44 pounds
  • AC and DC power
  • Optional pairing with 173 Wh battery
  • Built-in battery compartment
  • Solar charging (100W max, only with battery)
  • 2-year warranty
  • 60-watt average power draw
  • Cooling to -4 degrees F
  • Flush mount aluminum handles
  • Removable compartment divider
  • App control
  • Bottle opener
  • Door-activated LED light
  • Cupholders
  • Drain

The post We Found the Best Electric Coolers After Testing 10 Options appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/best-electric-coolers/feed/ 0
Solo Stove Reviews: We Tested Just About Everything on the Website https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/solo-stove-reviews/ Tue, 08 Oct 2024 16:27:04 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=638532 Our long-time shopping editor has tested and reviewed over a dozen Solo Stove products. Here's what she’d order again.

The post Solo Stove Reviews: We Tested Just About Everything on the Website appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
When it comes to hosting get-togethers, enjoying the backyard is a huge perk. Friends company with autumn leaves falling on the ground, kids playing in the grass and someone grilling food for the crowd can create lasting core memories. Of course, securing the best backyard setup for gatherings isnt always easy. There are a ton of choices when it comes to deck furniture, outdoor grills, fire pits and more.

Luckily, Ive locked down my all-time favorite outdoor fire pit brand: Solo Stove. Ive tested products from various outdoor brands, and I’ve written countless Solo Stove reviews. So far, my favorite smokeless fire pit comes from Solo Stove. Ive spent countless hours testing products from the brand: Fire pits, chairs, patio heaters, you name it. If Solo Stove makes it, Ive (likely) tested it. Heres what you need to know before placing an order.

What is Solo Stove?

Solo Stove is a leading outdoor fire pit brand founded in 2011 by two brothers and a small camp stove. Their mission? To gather family and friends to create good memories. They get it.

Now, the brand has grown to include a variety of smokeless fire pits and pizza ovens, patio furniture, outdoor heaters and outdoor accessories. In addition to the official Solo Stove website, you can find select Solo Stove products on Amazon.

How We Test Solo Stove Products

I have tested over a dozen Solo Stove products in nearly every category, including evergreen, limited-edition and seasonal items. I evaluate each product based on the delivery experience, packaging, assembly, quality, and ease of use. Outfitting your patio or backyard setup with Solo Stove gear can be expensive, so I examine, test and review each product as thoroughly as I can with your hard-earned dollar in mind.

Fire Pits

Fire pits are the bread and butter of Solo Stove and the reason the brand was created. Solo Stove fire pits are a great way to add ambiance and (literal) warmth to your outdoor space, and theyre great for roasting smores and hotdogs, as well as grilling other food items.

When it comes to smokeless fire pits, Solo Stove as a brand is a leading force, creating products that meetand in many cases exceedindustry standards. Each fire pit is made with sturdy, weatherproof 304 stainless steel and designed to funnel smoke upward away instead of outward. Solo Stoves 360-degree Signature Airflow design heats air to burn off smoke, so you dont have to shift around the fire pit to avoid teary eyes and a face full of smoke.

One of our favorite fire pit picks is the Bonfire 2.0, made for the backyard and beyond. In other words, its designed for a permanent or portable fire pit experience. The Solo Stove Bonfire even comes with its own carrying bag, so you can store it safely, load it up, and carry it wherevercamping, tailgating, fall party, you name it. Cleanup is easy, too; the base plate and ash pan are removable, which makes cleaning quick and easy. No special cleaning tools are needed; just lift the base plate to remove the ash pan and dump it.

We also love the Mesa fire pit if youre looking for a smaller, more compact backyard fire experience. It has the same signature stainless steel design as other Solo Stove fire pits (e.g., the Bonfire 2.0), but its miniature and small enough to put on an outdoor table. Getting a fire going only takes a few minutes with the Mesa. Simply place fuel (wood or pellets) into the base of the Mesa, light your fire starter, and youre ready to go!

Pizza Ovens

Did someone say artisan pizza? ThePi Prime is Solo Stoves first gas-only pizza oven, which comes at a price lower than other gas-powered pizza ovens on the market. The Pi Prime pizza oven is quick and easy to fire upsimply hook it up to an external propane tank and turn the control knob on the front to ignite a flame. After the oven preheats, youre ready to launch your Neapolitan pizza creation.

Like most standardoutdoor pizza ovens, the Pi Prime has a 90-second cooking experience, so pizzas cook ultra-fast at super-high temperatures. Once youve nailed launching and turning the pizza without overcooking it, youll be whipping up homemade pies for everyone to enjoy.

If you want to try your hand at wood-fired pizza, theSolo Stove Pi Fire provides the ideal gateway to backyard baking. This portable pizza oven topper fits on top of your existing Solo Stove fire pit. Unliketraditional pizza ovensthat have space for wood at the bottom, the Pi Fire features long legs that elevate it over your smokeless fire pit.

Fhma24 Pi Prime Pizza Oven Mary Henn 01 Ssedit AMARY HENN/FAMILY HANDYMAN

Pi Prime Pizza Oven

Heaters and Lights

Line your patio with sleek, modern torches like the Mesa Torch, a backyard torchlight that runs on fluid. Its a durable, stainless-steel torch made with the famous Solo Stove design, similar to Mesa’s. The weather-resistant steel is painted a semi-matte black to blend seamlessly into any backyard scene. You can choose between two configurations: tall and short. So, your Mesa Torch can light your fence line or be at eye level when youre sitting around the fire pit.

The Mesa Torch has a giant wick, integrated fuel canister and a bezel that fits the snuff cap perfectly for easy extinguishing. Plus, the torch will keep an oversized flame for up to five hours on a single fill. I like to fill mine with a bug-repelling torch fluid to keep mosquitos at bay during the summer.

If youre looking for something to provide a little more warmth than light, the Solo Stove Tower Patio Heateris a pellet-fueled heater that keeps you warm in colder weather.Like the Solo StoveBonfire 2.0fire pit, it issmokeless. It has about a 10-foot heating radius, so its perfect for small to mid-sized patios during chilly (but not freezing) temperatures.

The Tower Patio Heaters hopper box holds about 25 pounds of pellets, and a full hopper box should produce about three hours of warmth. Its perfect if you want a patio heater that doesnt use propane. Pellets are generally easier to store and lighter in weight than firewood. Theyre also typically less expensive than propane and dont pose the same combustion risks as propane tanks.

Fhma23 Solo Stove Patio Tower Heater Mary Henn 01a KseditMARY HENN/FAMILY HANDYMAN

Tower Patio Heater

Furniture

Once your fire pit area is ready to go, youll need seating to kick back and enjoy the crackling flames. Solo Stove is one step ahead. Its sister brand, TerraFlame, has a line of weatherproof outdoor furniture, including the1903 Adirondack modern chair. It combines the classic, timeless design of an Adirondack with new, lightweight outdoor materials. The chair is made of an eco-friendly composite made partially from recycled plastics.

While the chairs materials are resistant to corrosion, the chair is also less prone to chipping and peeling than a chair made of wood. With this Solo Stove chair, you wont have to worry about snagging clothes or blankets on splinters.

Terra Flame recently released new patio furniture, including coffee tables, loveseats and more. Were currently assembling and testing the new furniture for review.

Fhma24 1903 Adirondack Chair Mary Henn 01 Ssedit AMARY HENN/FAMILY HANDYMAN

1903 Adirondack Chair

FAQ

What is the point of a Solo Stove?

Solo Stove fire pits are designed to promote airflow, which creates a more efficient burn with less smoke. They are also portable, so you can sit around the fire anywhere, and help contain the mess (and sometimes unpredictable nature) of a traditional backyard bonfire.

Can a Solo Stove be used on a deck?

Solo Stove fire pits can be used on a wood deck but this requires careful attention. If the fire pit is not properly elevated and insulated or if its misused, the deck can be charred or caught on fire.

You should never leave your Solo Stove fire pit (or any fire pit) unattended on a combustible surface, even while cooling down.

Do Solo Stoves get hot on the outside?

Yes! The outside of Solo Stove fire pits gets very hot, so please be cautious.

Can Solo Stove be used indoors?

You should never use a Solo Stove fire pit indoors, not even theMesa. It is for outdoor use only, so please do not try to use it indoors at your kitchen table. You can, however, use it on outdoor dining tables and end tables.

TerraFlames Smores Bowl uses smoke-free gel fuel and can be used indoors on a table or counter for easy, inside marshmallow roasting.

Why You Should Trust Us

Family Handyman Shopping Editor Mary Henn is an expert in outdoor trends. For almost two years, shes been tracking and testing Solo Stove products through her Solo Stove review series, which is continuously expanding to include various products from the brand.

Shes spent hours extensively testing everything from the brands fire pits to pizza ovens, backyard heaters, patio furniture and more. While Solo Stove is known for churning out quality backyard and fire pit products, Mary tests every product she can get her hands on to ensure that the brands quality lives up to the hype. That way, you can make consumer-informed decisions based on real-life testing before you buy.

The Bottom Line

If youre looking for a well-made, stainless steel backyard fire pit, Solo Stoves got it. The brand manufactures quality products and thoughtful accessories like smores kits, popcorn makers, gloves and so much more. Like many top-tier fire pit brands, some of their products are pricey, but you pay for a fire pit that will be the center of backyard family gatherings for years to come.

Solo Stoves Mesa fire pit starts at $80, while its smallest ground fire pit, the Ranger, retails for $200. Our favorite, the best-selling Bonfire fire pit, sells for $250, while the brands largest fire pit, the Canyon, is $700. Best of all, many Solo Stove accessories are available to elevate your backyard fire pit experience, making Solo Stove unique. The brand offers free standard shipping with a purchase of $99 or more and frequently runs sales and deals sitewide.

The post Solo Stove Reviews: We Tested Just About Everything on the Website appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
How to Install Modern House Numbers for Curb Appeal Flair https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/modern-house-numbers/ Thu, 03 Oct 2024 16:45:32 +0000 Transform your home's entrance with this sleek project that shows you how to create a modern house numbers plaque with a vibrant flower box.

The post How to Install Modern House Numbers for Curb Appeal Flair appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>

Every house has numbers so people and the post can find you. Have you noticed how many people DON’T give their house numbers a DIY creative consideration? Most are satisfied with the numbers the house had from the minute they walked in. For this project, I pondered how a set of numbers on the front of your home can set the stage for what lies beyond the door. From a technical perspective, I designed this project so all of you can say, I can do that! Still, from a design perspective, I want the modern house numbers to boost the curb appeal and speak to the people walking up the door for the first time with a “wow,” all while giving it a cool, modern vibe.

Where To Put House Numbers

Your house number should be displayed at eye level or higher in a location where they are easily visible from the road and free of obstructions, such as tree branches. It is recommended that you use contrasting colors or place them near a well-lit area so they are easily visible in low light conditions. Use bigger numbers the further away your home is from the road.

Project Overview

Modern House Numbers For Curb Appeal Flair

Cutting List

KEYQTY.PARTDIMENSIONS
A1Main panel3/4″ x 6″ x 40″
B3Flower box sides3/4″ x 5-1/2″ x 6″
C1Flower box bottom3/4″ x 4-1/2″ x 6″
D2Panel side trim3/4″ x 1-1/2″ x 40″
E2Panel top/bottom trim3/4″ x 1-1/2″ x 7-1/2″
F4Flower box side trim3/4″ x 1-1/2″ x 6″
G2Flower box face trim3/4″ x 1-1/2″ x 7-1/2″

Overall dimensions: 41-1/2″H x 7-1/2″W x 8-1/4″D

Stain the trim

Stain the trim pieces for the panel and flower box (D, E, F, and G) in a contrasting darker color.

Set the stained pieces aside and allow them to dry while you proceed to the next step. Touch up any exposed ends after the number panel is put together and framed.

To avoid staining the natural-colored wood pieces (A, B, and C) with your fingerprints while you put the piece together, you MUST ensure the dark wood stain is dry before you start to handle it. Also, using oil-based stain will give your wood even more longevity when exposed to the elements.

How To Install Modern House Numbers For Curb Appeal Flair Tfh Housenumb 071124 Ef Step 001b

The post How to Install Modern House Numbers for Curb Appeal Flair appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
The DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum is as Convenient as it is Efficient https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/dr-leaf-and-lawn-vacuum-review/ Tue, 01 Oct 2024 15:24:09 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=637736 We tried the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum, and it's the fastest, most convenient way to keep your yard free from debris all season long.

The post The DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum is as Convenient as it is Efficient appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Fall has officially arrived, which means you’ll soon be dedicating hours to lawn cleanup. That is unless you happen to have one of the best leaf vacuums on hand. Of course, you could rely on your trusty old rake or leaf blower to get the job done, but a leaf vacuum can save you tons of time.

Unlike a leaf blower which blows leaves into manageable piles, a leaf vacuum sucks up leaves and other small debris from your lawn and condenses them intobags for quick and easy cleanup. Many leaf vacuums also mulch everything they suck up, making for easy disposal.

We tested almost a dozen different leaf vacuums and were especially impressed by the quick work the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum made of cleaning up over 30 gallons of leaves. This walk-behind machine has the ability to clean up your yard in no time, leaving you free to enjoy all that this season has to offer. We’re talking trips to the pumpkin patch, cider donuts and cool nights outside at the bonfire. Heres everything you need to know about the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum.

What is the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum?

TheDR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum is a gas-powered, walk-behind leaf vacuumsimilar to apush mower. Its powerfulsuction allows it to clean up huge piles of leaves and other backyard debris.

In spite of its bulk and weightit weighs 120 poundsthis machine is surprisingly easy to assemble. It arrives via freight delivery on a large palette. The lawn vacuum is very securely locked down within the box, with dozens of straps that have to be cut away to get the partially assembled vacuum loose. That said, our testers noted that the vacuum does come mostly put together, so assembly only consists of attaching all of the larger pieces to the main unit.

“It was tricky lifting this beast out of its box, as well as navigating it around with the giant hose continually getting in the way. But again, it was mostly just connecting the large pieces together into one full unit,” says product tester Sheri Kaz.

Another reason we’re so impressed by this machine is that its loaded with extra features, including an onboard chipper, steel impeller, easy bagging system and optional hose kit. You can even adjust the height to best suit wet or dry conditions.

we tried it

DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum

This self-propelled, gas-powered machine has a serrated all-steel impeller and on-board chipper to handle large fall cleanups.

DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum Features

EZ Bagger Leaf Collection System

Rather than having to attach, empty and re-attach a reusable bag every time you fire this bad boy up, the DR Leaf and Lawn vacuum uses standard leaf bags that can be deposited at the curb or in the compost pile. The platform holds the bag, and the support ring provides a crimp bar for quick installation. Plus, the latch keeps it secure. Just be sure to read the instruction manual carefully.

“At first, we were confused about how to secure the bag in place, then Annamarie figured out that you secure the bag from underneath,” says product tester Dylan Fischer.

This leaf vacuum also includes a leaf bag caddie that is attached to the unit. It holds up to 10 standard leaf bags, so you have empties on hand as you make your way around the yard. You can purchase another caddie separately for even more storage. You can also buy reusable leaf collection bags if you prefer.

Serrated Steel Impeller

This tough blade mulches everything that crosses its path. In fact, the brand is so confident in this impeller’s durability that it’s backed by a lifetime warranty.

On-Board Chipper

 Dr Leaf And Lawn Vacuum

An on-board chipper allows you to add branches up to 1.5 inches in diameter for even more thorough cleanups.

Optional Hose Kit

Purchase an optional hose kit to clean hard-to-reach spots up to seven feet away from the machine, such as window wells, beneath shrubs or along the foundation.

How We Tested It

Product testers Sheri Kaz and Dylan Fischer led the charge and set out to see what the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum was really made of. After unpacking and assembling the machine, they added the oil and gas and started it up. Initially, both testers found it difficult to start.

“Dylan couldn’t figure out how to properly work the choke valve, so we had to recruit some city workers,” explains Kaz. “Of course, the guy (shout out to Greenfield City Worker, Bruce!) was able to start it immediately without asking a single question.”

According to our testers, the choke lever on this machine is a piece of metal that the instructions say must be pushed inward. In reality, it needs to be pulled more to the side when starting the engine, then slowly released as the engine revs up.

Once the unit was up and running, we scattered roughly 30 gallons of leaves across two 10-foot by 4-foot rectangles of grass. One rectangle had dry leaves, and the other had damp leaves that had been misted by a hose. Our testers recorded the time it took the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum to suck up each set of leaves on the highest setting.

For both the wet and dry leaf tests, the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum gave an impressive performance, sucking up almost everything in its path in just one pass. They also appreciated how the chipper automatically turns on without you having to do anything, so it’s always ready to be fed sticks.

Fischer notes that this leaf vacuum isn’t too bad when it comes to maneuverability and feels very similar to a push lawnmower.

What wasn’t ideal, however, was the amount of dust that this unit produced.

“This machine spit out a lot of dust behind it, and Dylan was in the direct line of fire,” says Kaz. “He stopped and had to put on safety eyewear.” The team attributes this to the tubing, which spits debris out toward the top of the vacuum instead of the bottom.

Once everything had been sucked up, our testers noted that the contents of the leaf bag had been mulched up very fine and small. They also pointed out that the on-board chipper is a great feature to have.

Pros

  • Handles huge piles of wet and dry leaves
  • On-board chipper works well on branches
  • Direct bagging
  • Steel impeller with a lifetime warranty
  • Cleans large areas quickly
  • You can walk away from this machine and leave it running

Cons

  • Creates a lot of dust
  • Too bulky and stiff to make quick turns

FAQ

How does DR Lawn vacuum work?

During testing, our product testing team found that the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum is quite intuitive. All you have to do is start it up and push it around your yard until all of the leaves and other small debris are gone. Any branches you pick up can be put directly into the on-board chipper. When you’re finished with your cleanup, simply remove the bag and put on a new one for next time.

How long will my DR leaf vacuum run?

Dr Leaf And Lawn Vacuum

The DR Lawn and Leaf Vacuum does not run on a battery. It has a 1.0-liter fuel capacity and a 0.5-liter oil capacity and can hold up to 50 pounds of debris. You can expect this machine to run until it runs out of fuel or has reached capacity.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Verified Tractor Supply Co. user SayCheese writes, “The DR Leaf Vacuum is great! It came on a pallet and needed a small amount of assembly. Only 1/2-inch wrench is required. I am glad I took the advice from others and spent the extra money on the self-propelled. This may sound crazy but, I found operating it to be relaxing. Raking that would take 5-6 hrs. It only took 1-1 1/2 hrs with this machine.”

Kenneth from Little Elm, Texas, is impressed by the performance and convenience of this leaf vacuum and calls it an incredible machine.

“This thing is powerful and vacuums like a champ,” they write on the DR Power website. “However, the real beauty of this machine is its ability to bag in paper bags. Anybody can blow them into a pile, but the pickup is a pain. This eliminates the drudgery of the work and is actually fun. And your neighbors will crowd around wondering what it is!”

And Michael, a 76-year-old from Maryland, calls the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum a fantastic labor-saving machine.

“My usual method has been to blow leaves into a pile, rake onto a tarp, drag tarp to mulch area, run my lawn mower repeatedly over the piles and rake the flakes onto the mulch pile: maybe 6 hours of work 4 or 5 times a season,” they write. “This machine saves me maybe 4 hours each time and lots of sweat. This XTSP has proven this season to be a life-saver. I’m ecstatic, and mention it to everyone!”

DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum vs. Billy Goat Leaf Vacuum

Our experts on the product testing team tested two walk-behind leaf vacuums for comparison sake: the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum and the Billy Goat Lawn & Litter Vacuum. While both units claim to be self-propelled, our team preferred the Billy Goat lawn vacuum’s maneuverability and ability to take quick turns over the stiffer drive of the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum. Additionally, our testers also liked the automated choke lever on the Billy Goat better than the choke lever on the DR.

In terms of performance, the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum cleaned up a large, 10-by-4 area more efficiently than the Billy Goat. The DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum sucked up almost everything in under a minute with just one pass. The Billy Goat, on the other hand, took about a minute and a half and two passes to clear the same amount of leaves in the same area.

The other major difference between the two units is the bag. The Billy Goat Leaf Vacuum comes with a reusable, zipperless bag that is easy to attach and remove. However, it quickly becomes stained and unsightly. The DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum uses standard paper leaf bags that can be closed and put down at the curb or dumped into a compost pile. And if you happen to prefer a reusable bag, you can purchase one separately for the DR for $85.

Final Verdict

“Huge fan of the chipper on this one! Anyone who has to spend a lot of time raking up branches on their lawn will undoubtedly find themselves using this feature a lot,” raves Fischer.

And that’s not the only thing we love about this machine. We’re fans of the reusable bags that are easy to dispose of, the on-board chipper and the steel impeller that mulches leaves and debris as it sucks them up. One thing is for sure: the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum is sure to have your yard clean in no time.

Where to Buy the DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum

The DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum is available for around $1,500 at Tractor Supply Co.,Acme Tools, or Blain’s Farm and Fleet. It includes a few paper leaf bags to get you started.

we tried it

DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum

This powerful and efficient vacuum cleared roughly 30 gallons of wet and dry leaves in just one pass.

The post The DR Leaf and Lawn Vacuum is as Convenient as it is Efficient appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
The Toro Ultra Blower Vac Is the Budget-Friendly Tool to Keep Your Yard Clean All Season https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/toro-ultra-blower-vac-review/ Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:15:04 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=636734 The Toro Ultra Blower Vac is an affordable, efficient way to keep your yard clean all year long. Read our Product Testing Team's review.

The post The Toro Ultra Blower Vac Is the Budget-Friendly Tool to Keep Your Yard Clean All Season appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
You work hard all week long, so the last thing you want to do is spend your precious free time raking leaves. However, leaf clean up is a necessary evil if you want your yard to look neat and tidy during the fall. Using one of the best leaf blowers or leaf vacuums is a surefire way to save yourself hours of work. But using a combo leaf blower and vacuum? It doesn’t get much better than that.

While these 2-in-1 tools sound like they’d be a major investment, they can be pretty affordable. Case in point: The Toro Ultra Blower Vac is a model you can pick up for around $100. We took this budget-friendly blower vac into our Testing Lab to see if it’s up to the task of a fall cleanup. Heres everything you need to know about this model.

What is the Toro Ultra Blower Vac?

The Toro Ultra Blower Vac is an electric leaf blower that also functions as a leaf vacuum. It has a 4-inch cord and a detachable leaf bag you wear on your shoulder while vacuuming up leaves and debris. In our studio, this blower weighed in at 7.45 pounds. Between its lightweight design, two handles and easy-to-use power knob, the Toro Ultra Blower Vac is comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver.

In blower mode, its motor produces a velocity and air volume of up to 340 cubic feet per minute (CFM), shooting air out at 260 miles per hour (MPH). In vacuum mode, it operates at an impressive 405 cubic feet per minute (CFM) and mulches everything it sucks up. While the manufacturer doesn’t specify the bag’s capacity, it had no trouble sucking up the 30 gallons of leaves we spread out. Once you’re finished, simply empty the contents into a disposable bag and you’re free to go about the rest of your day.

Keep reading for a full breakdown of the Toro Ultra Blower Vac’s features and to find out why it’s one of our budget-friendly picks.

we tried it

Toro Ultra Leaf Blower Vac

Affordability, performance and ease of use make the Toro Ultra Blower Vac a worthy addition to your tool collection.

Toro Ultra Blower Vac Features

Versatility

As mentioned above, the Toro Ultra Blower Vac functions as both a leaf blower and leaf vacuum. To switch between functions, simply attach the vacuum tube and bag and press the fan inlet cover into place. No tools required!

Mulching Capabilities

In vacuum mode, the Toro Ultra Blower Vac’s metal impeller shreds debris into mulch and deposits it into the bag. According to the manufacturer, this machine shreds leaves and reduces their volume by a ratio of 8:01. Though still fairly fine, our testers noted that the mulch produced by this blower is larger than that produced by some other models.

Variable Speed Knob

The Toro Ultra Blower Vac has one knob which starts and stops the unit. This knob also adjusts the air speed in both blower and vacuum mode.

How We Tested It

The Product Testing Team, led by associate product testers Sheri Kaz and Dylan Fischer, took the Toro Ultra Blower Vac into the Testing Lab to see whether it could meet the demands of a fall cleanup. They carefully assessed its assembly and setup, as well as its performance as both a leaf blower and leaf vacuum. Of all the units they tested, the Toro Ultra Blower Vac’s user manual was their least favorite. Unclear instructions made assembly more difficult, especially when it came time to attach one piece in particular. “There’s a detached ‘bottom inlet cover’ that needs to be attached, and the directions that supposedly explain how to do so are very poor,” explains Kaz.

Fhma24 Toro Ultra Leaf Blower Vac Annamarie Higley 01 Ssedit

Once they finished their initial assembly, however, the team was impressed by the unit’s ergonomics, noting that the two handles are nice to hold and the built-in cord management system is well designed and secure.

To test the Toro’s performance, our team scattered dry leaves around a yard, then blew them into a designated 4×10-foot area, evaluating the blower’s directional control, ease of use and noise level. According to our testers, this unit performed best when kept at exactly the right angle. “Blowing capabilities are a lot weaker,” notes Kaz. “You need to be at a pretty low angle to get the best performance from this one’s blowing function. Dylan was bent over much of the time when using this machine.”

After they finished blowing the leaves, Fischer and Kaz set out to test the vacuum function on the Toro Ultra Blower Vac. To convert the machine from a leaf blower to a leaf vacuum, they had to swap the blower tube for the vacuum tube and press the fan inlet cover into place. While it seemed easy enough, it required a bit of elbow grease from Fischer. “It was a little finicky to convert the blower to the vacuum. The plastic fittings were not smooth, which made us wonder if we were doing something wrong,” explains Kaz. “We referred back to the user manual several times while using and it took both of Dylan’s hands to press this fan inlet cover into placeit was very stiff.”

Fhma24 Toro Ultra Leaf Blower Vac Annamarie Higley 03 Ssedit

To test the Toro’s vacuum capabilities, the team spread roughly 30 gallons of leaves across two rectangles of grass. One rectangle they covered in dry leaves while the other had damp leaves which they’d misted with a hose. Our testers timed how long it took to suck up each rectangle’s leaves while evaluating the machine’s ergonomics, maneuverability, noise level and more. According to Kaz and Fischer’s report, it took just under three minutes to suck up all of the dry leaves and about one minute to suck up the wet ones. Fischer and Kaz agree that it was much easier to use the Toro Ultra Blower Vac as a leaf vacuum than as a leaf blower.

Despite some setbacks, our Product Testing Team recommends the Toro Ultra Blower Vac to anyone shopping on a budget. Given its low price point, vacuum performance and maneuverability, it’s a great value overall. “The placement of the grip handles allow for solid maneuverability, which ended up being very useful as we had to bend over to get the best performance out of the blowing function,” says Fischer.

Pros

  • Under $100
  • Lightweight
  • Two grip handles enhance maneuverability
  • Versatile power-adjustment knob
  • Sturdy metal impeller

Cons

  • Weak blowing performance
  • Cumbersome to alternate between functions

Why You Should Trust Us

Our editors and testers on the Product Testing Team have years of experience in the commerce space. Many of us are also homeowners or renters with yards of our own to keep clean. We’ve tested dozens of leaf blowers and leaf vacuums including the best backpack leaf blowers and cordless leaf blowers in order to help you make informed decisions before you buy.

FAQ

How does Toro Blower Vac work?

The Toro Ultra Blower Vac pushes out air at a speed of 260 miles per hour (MPH) in order to blow leaves and other debris away from your house, garden and driveway. In vacuum mode, it sucks leaves and other debris in through the main tube. It then finely mulches leaves through a sturdy metal impeller and deposits them into the attached bag. When you’re finished, simply empty the mulched leaves into a disposable bag or compost pile.

How do you turn the Toro Ultra Blower Vac into a blower?

Once assembled, the Toro Ultra Blower Vac is a blower by default. It has a fan inlet cover which is held in place by a quick-release latch. This cover must be attached or detached in order to switch between blower and vacuum functions.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

The Toro Ultra Blower Vac has over 5,650 five-star ratings on Amazon. Here’s what real users have to say about it.

After six months of use, five-star reviewer Gabriel’s Dad calls the Toro Ultra Blower Vac a must have for yard work. “I used this in the fall to vacuum up and disintegrate the leaves that were all over my yard. This thing did it wonderfully,” he raves. “A big pile of leaves piled about 3 feet tall was reduced to a dense pile of pieces that barely came halfway up one of those paper lawn yard-waste bags. Amazing.”

Another Amazon customer and verified purchaser calls this an amazing tool. “As a leaf vacuum and mulcher, it’s a huge time saver. We have two large trees in our front yard and we usually spend six man hours raking and packing leaves every fall. I also run the mower at different times during the fall to mulch smaller leaf drops. I did the whole yard by myself in about three hours, and collected some 400 lbs of leaves,” they write. “The bag looks like it could get heavy, but by the time it’s full, it’s rarely more than 10 or 15 lbs. The leaves are chopped up pretty well.”

And five-star reviewer Lar P swears that in their 60-plus years, this Toro Ultra Blower Vac is the best they’ve ever had. “This thing moves leavesand here is a big tip with this Toro, dont impede the speed with any of the end nozzlesjust let this thing blow unabated, and do the work for you,” they write.

Product Comparison

Our Product Testing Team tested a total of six blower vacuum combos, including the Toro Ultra Blower Vac. They crowned this unit the best budget option for its affordability, maneuverability and performance. Other corded styles we tested were double the price of the Toro. Of course, you could opt for a gas-powered leaf blower or heavy-duty machine like the Billy Goat Leaf Vacuum, but expect to pay upwards of $200.

Final Verdict

The Toro Ultra Blower Vac offers a fast and inexpensive way to keep your yard free of leaves and other debris. This versatile blower vac is lightweight, easy to maneuver and gets the job done. But most importantly, it saves a ton of time, leaving you free to enjoy your days off however you please.

Where to Buy the Toro Ultra Blower Vac

According to the manufacturer’s website, the Toro Ultra Blower Vac retails for $80, though we’ve found it closer to $100 across stores. It’s currently available at Walmart, Ace Hardware, Lowe’s and Amazon.

we tried it

Toro Ultra Leaf Blower Vac

Affordability, performance and ease of use make the Toro Ultra Blower Vac a worthy addition to your tool collection.

The post The Toro Ultra Blower Vac Is the Budget-Friendly Tool to Keep Your Yard Clean All Season appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
8 Outdoor Plants to Get Ready for the Fall https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/outdoor-plants-for-the-fall/ Fri, 27 Sep 2024 19:49:11 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?post_type=listicle&p=637306 Consider putting these flowers, bushes and trees on your fall planting list.

The post 8 Outdoor Plants to Get Ready for the Fall appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>

Holly

Holly

Prized for their shiny, evergreen leaves and red berries, holly bushes are a low-maintenance addition to your garden. Fall is a great time to plant hollies. The cool, seasonal temperatures, followed by months of winter, give them a chance to establish strong roots before facing the heat of summer.

Plan to plant hollies at least six weeks before the first frost to avoid killing new transplants. If wind exposure will be an issue, consider wrapping hollies in burlap to protect them from harsh winter conditions.

The post 8 Outdoor Plants to Get Ready for the Fall appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
The Best Hiking Gear, According to a Hiking Enthusiast and Coach https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/best-hiking-gear/ https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/best-hiking-gear/#respond Fri, 27 Sep 2024 19:38:59 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?post_type=listicle&p=599201 A hiking enthusiast and hiking strength coach shares her gear closet favorites in this guide to the best hiking gear.

The post The Best Hiking Gear, According to a Hiking Enthusiast and Coach appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>

From the sandy scrub forests of South Florida to the desert terrain of New Mexico to the 14,000-foot peaks in Colorado, my Altra Lone Peak hiking boots have successfully taken me everywhere I’ve wanted to goand I plan for them to continue taking me places until I bust a hole through the toe box. (Which, at more than 200 miles, hasn’t happened yet.)

The Altra Lone Peak hikers are wildly flexible, capable of moving with your foot through the entirety of each stride, from toe-off to foot strike. When I’m in my Altra hiking boots, it’s as if I can almost feel the earth beneath my feet; as if I’m hiking barefoot. This checks out, as the Altra Lone Peak hikers are zero-drop hiking boots with an ultra-wide footbed that allows for maximum toe splay.

As much as I love them, I must point out that they aren’t for everyone. If you’ve never worn zero-drop shoes before, it would be a bad idea to buy these and take them out for a hike right away. Individuals accustomed to more cushioned shoes with a substantial heel-to-toe drop should take their time adjusting to the zero-drop style to avoid pain and discomfort.

That said, if you’re anything like me, once you get used to these boots, you’ll never go back. They drain exceptionally well thanks to the breathable construction (I can’t speak for the waterproof version, because I don’t own them); the deep outsole lugs grip slippery terrain like shale and slate; and the extended heel clip provides extra stability with each foot strike.

As these boots are some of the best hiking gear, you can read more about the specifications, pros and cons of the Altra Lone Peak hikers in my full Altra Lone Peak hiking boot review.

The post The Best Hiking Gear, According to a Hiking Enthusiast and Coach appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/best-hiking-gear/feed/ 0
This Craftsman Backpack Leaf Blower Is Two Tools In One, And It’ll Clean Up Your Yard in No Time https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/craftsman-backpack-leaf-blower-review/ Thu, 26 Sep 2024 17:49:13 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=636607 The Craftsman backpack blower is a versatile, 2-in-1 tool with a powerful motor and budget-friendly price tag. Here's our full review.

The post This Craftsman Backpack Leaf Blower Is Two Tools In One, And It’ll Clean Up Your Yard in No Time appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
There’s no denying that fall foliage is a sight to behold–at least while it’s still on the trees. But when all those leaves start to blanket your lawn and gardens, that’s another story. One of the fastest ways to combat a yard full of leaves is by investing in a good leaf blower orlawn vacuum. But if you don’t have the room or the budget for multiple tools, then you’ll want to pick up a leaf blower and vacuum combo.

One of our favorite leaf blowers that also functions as a leaf vacuum is the Craftsman backpack leaf blower. It’s powerful, easy to use and budget-friendly. In order to see how well this Craftsman backpack blower stands up to a mountain of leaves, we sent it to our testing lab for close inspection. Heres everything you need to know about this model before you add it to your arsenal of lawn equipment.

What is the Craftsman Backpack Leaf Blower?

The Craftsman backpack leaf blower is an electric leaf blower. It has a 12-inch cord and is a true backpack-style lawn tool with two straps, making it less cumbersome than a sling bag. This leaf blower boasts a powerful 12-amp motor with a velocity and air volume of up to 450 cubic feet per minute (CFM). When it comes to speed, this tool can shoot air out at 260 miles per hour (MPH).

At under 12 pounds, this Craftsman backpack blower is lightweight and incredibly easy to use and maneuver, thanks to its user-friendly handles. But that’s not the only reason we love it so much. This Craftsman blower also functions as a leaf vacuum.

“Vacuums are effective when cleaning up smaller spaces and tight areas. For example, cleaning leaves in bushes,” explains Francisco Fuenmayor, a handyman and home improvement expert at LocalProBook. “A leaf blower won’t be able to blow the leaves out of there, while blowers are better for quickly moving large amounts of debris across bigger spaces.”

No tools are required to switch this from blower to vacuum mode. In vacuum mode, it sucks up and mulches up to 55 liters of leaves into the backpack. Once the bag is full, simply open it up and dump all of the mulched debris out. Yard work has never been so easy! Keep reading for a full breakdown of the Craftsman backpack blower’s features and to find out why it’s one of the best backpack leaf blowers we’ve tested.

we tried it

Craftsman Backpack Leaf Blower

The Craftsman backpack leaf blower also functions as a leaf vacuum for quick and easy cleanup.

Craftsman Backpack Leaf Blower Features

Versatility

As mentioned above, the Craftsman backpack blower functions as both a leaf blower and a leaf vacuum. In order to switch between functions, all you have to do is switch the tubes and twist open the fan cover. The fan cover is attached to the machine so you don’t lose it, and no tools are required.

Engine Power and Blowing Force

The Craftsman backpack blower is pretty powerful given its size and price point. Its 12-amp motor allows it to clear tough debris like wet leaves and pebbles. It moves air at 450 cubic feet per minute (CFM). “A strong blower with good CFM is great for cleaning hard-to-reach corners and gathering debris from garden beds into neat piles on the lawn,” explains Fuenmayor. Additionally, the Craftsman backpack blower blows air at up to 260 MPH. A higher MPH increases the distance you are able to clear.

Holding Crafstman Backpack

Mulching Capabilities

In vacuum mode, the Craftsman backpack blower’s plastic impeller shreds debris into mulch and deposits it into the backpack. According to the manufacturer, this machine shreds leaves and reduces their volume by a ratio of 12:01. During testing, our testers noted that this blower mulched the leaves very finely.

Warranty

The Craftsman backpack blower is covered by a three-year limited warranty. This means that for three years following the date of purchase or date of delivery of the product (whichever date is later), this machine is warrantied against defects in material or workmanship. This warranty is extended only to the original end-user purchaser of the product. Read more about Craftsman’s warranty policy here.

How We Tested It

The product testing team, led by associate product testers Sheri Kaz and Dylan Fischer, took this Craftsman backpack blower into our testing lab to see what it’s really made of. They looked at how easy it was to assemble and how well it performed as both a leaf blower and a leaf vacuum.

Using Craftsman Backpack 2

Assembly

Our testers ran into some initial hiccups during the assembly process, noting that the plastic pieces didn’t click into place as satisfyingly as they would have liked. However, they describe the process itself as pretty straightforward. Once it was assembled and ready to go, our testers especially liked the ergonomic handles which allowed them to get a good grip before they started blowing.

Leaf Blowing

To test the Craftsman’s performance as a leaf blower, our team scattered dry leaves around the yard, then blew them into a designated 4-by-10-foot area before vacuuming, evaluating the blower’s directional control, ease of use and noise level. Our testers were really impressed by the power behind this blower. However, it was a bit too powerful at times. “It would be nice if there were multiple speed levels, because the one will blow your pile all around as you get closer to it,” says Kaz. Additionally, this leaf blower registered 106.5 decibels. In other words, it’s loud! Ear and eye protection are strongly recommended.

Vacuuming

After they finished blowing the leaves, our testers set out to test the vacuum function on the Craftsman backpack blower. To convert the machine from a leaf blower to a leaf vacuum, Kaz and Fisher had to swap the blower tube for the vacuum tube and twist open the fan cover, which is attached to the machine so you don’t lose it. Though easy in theory, Kaz and Fischer struggled a bit here, noting that the tubes don’t really click into place. But after double-checking the user manual, they were back in business.

Emptying Craftsman Backpack 2

For this test, our testers spread roughly 30 gallons of leaves across two rectangles of grass. They covered one rectangle in dry leaves and the other had damp leaves, which had been misted with a hose. Our testers timed how long it took to suck up each rectangle’s leaves while evaluating the ergonomics, maneuverability, noise level and more.

According to Kaz and Fischer’s report, it took just under three minutes to suck up all of the dry leaves and just over one minute to suck up all of the wet leaves. Upon emptying the bag, they noted that the leaves had been very finely mulched.

Comfort

As for comfort, Fischer points out that the unit itself gets pretty heavy to use for an extended length of time. Luckily, the overall backpack design helped. “The backpack is nice on this one because it’s a full backpack that goes over both shoulders,” he says. “It provides a lot of relief from the weight.”

Overall, our product testing team highly recommends the Craftsman backpack blower. It was a top performer in the lab and is both easy and comfortable to use. “The two-strapped backpack-style bag works amazingly well and should be the standard for all these handheld vacuums. It’s a great way to equally distribute weight and goes a long way to mitigate fatigue,” raves Fischer.

And for less than $100, you simply can’t go wrong.

Using Craftsman Backpack

Pros:

  • Functions as a leaf blower and a leaf vacuum
  • Two-strapped backpack provides relief from the weight of the unit
  • Powerful performance
  • Finely mulches leaves and debris it vacuums
  • Under $100
  • Ergonomic handles

Cons:

  • Not cordless
  • Plastic pieces don’t readily click into place

Why You Should Trust Us

Our editors and testers on the product testing team have years of experience in the commerce space. We’ve tested dozens of leaf blowers and leaf vacuums, including the Husqvarna Backpack Blower, Stihl BR 600 Backpack Blower and the Ego Leaf Blower. And we don’t plan on stopping there! Currently, we are testing more leaf blowers and leaf vacuums to ensure we help you make informed decisions based on real-life testing before you buy.

To further discuss the benefits and uses of leaf blowers and vacuums, we also enlisted the expertise of Francisco Fuenmayor, a handyman and home improvement expert at LocalProBook.

FAQ

What kind of gas does a Craftsman backpack leaf blower take?

This Craftsman backpack blower is electric and does not take gas.

Why won’t my Craftsman backpack blower start?

First, make sure your Craftsman backpack blower is plugged in. The cord on this model is only 12 inches long, so an extension cord may be required.

If that doesn’t work, check the fan cover. “Initially, you have to turn the cover to lock it into place in order for the machine to turn on,” explains Fischer. “We didn’t realized this, so the machine wouldn’t start after several tries. Finally, after about five attempts and referring to the user manual, it seemed that whatever was hanging it up resolved itself and we were able to click the cover into place.”

What kind of oil goes in a Craftsman?

This Craftsman backpack blower does not require oil.

What Other Reviewers and Experts Had to Say

Five-star reviewer Robert T Kennedy appreciates how well this unit cleans his yard without sucking up expensive decorative stones. “I liked the multiple options for the leaf blower,” he writes. “One piece of equipment keeps my lawn, garden, walkways and driveway clean with its powerful motor. Definitely worth the reasonable price.”

Micray, another five-star reviewer, calls the Craftsman backpack blower a back-saver. “This has been such a lifesaver trying to clean up. My backyard had hundreds of those little bitty gumballs, and this has made picking them up so much easier,” they write.

After running into some of the same issues as our product testing team in regards to getting the pieces into place, verified user Girly Gamer is happy to have figured it out. “It ended up working beautifully on the vacuum part which is all I wanted. Great power, bag is comfortable and holds A LOT! It is fairly heavy, but with the two handles, it’s not too bad,” they write. “Saved me big time from raking and bending over to pick up piles of pine needles which had been building up for a year! Even mulched pine cones and twigs fine…”

Product Comparison

Our product testing team tested a total of six blower vacuum combos including the Craftsman backpack blower. They labeled this unit the best overall for its performance, two-strap backpack style and good value. We also tested the Toro Ultra Blower Vac, another corded model which functions as a blower and a vacuum. The Craftsman and the Toro are both similarly sized and priced, there was a significant difference in performance.

The Craftsman backpack blower has a velocity and air volume of up to 450 cubic feet per minute (CFM) and expels air at 260 miles per hour (MPH). The Toro, on the other hand, has a velocity and air volume of 340 CFM in blow mode and 405 CFM in vac mode. And though the Toro boasts the same 260 MPH as the Craftsman, our testers found the Toro’s blowing performance to be much weaker than the Craftsman backpack blower.

Additionally, the Craftsman backpack blower has a two-strapped backpack-style bag which makes it easy to tote around the yard. The Toro has one strap which you can sling over your shoulder. Though not uncomfortable, it’s not as convenient as the Craftsman backpack blower.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to keep your yard neat and tidy, you can’t go wrong with the Craftsman backpack blower. This versatile blower is comfortable, easy to use and powerful enough to get the job done. In short, you can expect your lawn to look like a million bucks all autumn long thanks to this handy backpack blower.

Where to Buy the Craftsman backpack leaf blower

The Craftsman backpack leaf blower is a steal at under $100. You can shop on Amazon where it’s available with free two-day Prime shipping. You can also shop at Lowe’s where it’s available for in-store pickup or delivery.

we tried it

Craftsman Backpack Leaf Blower

The two-strapped backpack equally distributes the blower's weight.

The post This Craftsman Backpack Leaf Blower Is Two Tools In One, And It’ll Clean Up Your Yard in No Time appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Tiki Fire Pit Review: This Versatile Heater Gets Even Better with Smart Accessories https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/tiki-fire-pit-review/ Mon, 23 Sep 2024 15:09:48 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=634805 Want a fire pit that's also a table and a patio heater? Say hello to the Tiki fire pit. We tested this versatile product, and we're obsessed.

The post Tiki Fire Pit Review: This Versatile Heater Gets Even Better with Smart Accessories appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
On a chilly night, theres no time to split logs, build a fire and tend to kindlingyou want warmth, stat! Thats where the best propane fire pits come in. These handy appliances require little assembly; Simply twist open your propane tank and ignite. Easy-peasy.

Our Product Testing Team recently evaluated seven models to find the best options for every backyard. Among their recommendations? The Tiki customizable propane fire pit. After three months of testing, heres why this fire pit (and its handy accessories) earned our stamp of approval.

What is the Tiki Fire Pit?

The Tiki customizable propane fire pit comes from the same brand as the iconic torches. It’s compatible with a standard 20-pound propane tank and puts out 40,000 BTUs. It measures roughly 28 inches on all sides and has a modern, curved look. The sleek, black construction is weatherproof. And its whopping 91-pound weight hints that this fire pit is built to last.

Plus, its customizable with three accessoriesa table insert, glass surround and propane heater attachmentthat allow you to truly make this fire pit your own. Each accessory, sold separately, can be used on its own or in conjunction with other add-ons.

Tiki Fire PitEMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

We Tried It

Tiki Customizable Propane Fire Pit

How We Tested It

Tiki Fire Pit Packaging

Our team has been testing the Tiki customizable propane fire pit since June 2024. First, our Product Testing Team put it through the paces while batch-testing several other gas fire pits. Then, I took it home for long-term testing and to evaluate the accessories.

Initial Testing

Our Product Testing Team began by testing the Tiki alongside our gas fire pit methodology. They weighed it on the following criteria:

  • Setup: Testers begin by reading through the user manual and noting its clarity and helpfulness. Then, they assemble the fire pit and time the process. Finally, they hook up the propane tank and evaluate whether it feels safe and secure, performing a leak test in the process.
  • Specs: Testers measure the length of the propane nose and note those that require external tank storage.
  • Lighting: For models without electronic ignition, testers start fire with an aim-and-flame lighter and note the ease and safety of the process.
  • Warmth: Testers walk away from the fire pit, one step at a time, indicating at what point they can no longer feel the fire’s warmth. They measure this distance with a tape measure.
  • Performance: Testers try the propane fire pit on the lowest and highest settings. They note whether there’s an observable difference in flame size, heat emission, and flame appearance.
  • Safety: If safety features are present, testers try them.
  • Cover and Accessories: If the fire pit comes with a cover, testers cover the pit and assess its quality and ease of use. They note any accessories it comes with.
  • Wind Resistance: Testers use an oscillating fan to simulate wind from a safe difference. They note how the airflow affects the flame.

Right away, our testers liked the sleek, modern look of this fire pit. It has a streamlined profile and an all-black hue that stands out among traditional fire pits. As we discuss further in this review, it also has accessories (sold separately) that convert it into a fire pit table with glass surround and even a patio heater.

Assembly and Setup

Tiki Fire Pit assembling

The assembly process left a lot to be desired. The diagrams in the manual were dark and hard to read, the parts werent labeled, and the corresponding part numbers were long and confusing. Our testers spent quite a bit of time flipping back and forth just to ensure they were on the right track. Despite these setbacks, it still only took about an hour to assemble.

Luckily, the Tiki quickly redeemed itself. Hooking up the propane was very simple. We screwed the hose onto the tank, which was made even easier thanks to a built-in sliding track. At this point, the manual suggests seasoning the lava rocks for 30 minutes on the highest setting. During this process, keep people and pets 15 feet away in case one of the rocks pops.

Lighting and Use

Tiki Fire Pit Lighting and use

The team turned on the fire pit and saw a bright orange flame on the highest setting. Its a bit on the small side, emitting from the vent in the center of the pit. The effect looks similar to, well, a Tiki torch! On the lowest level, the flame is tinyalmost nonexistentbut still throws off a generous amount of heat. Our testers could feel the warmth up to 8.5 feet away.

From a safety standpoint, the flames dance in the wind slightly, but since they come from such a narrow spot, it doesnt feel dangerous. We also reported no gas leaks.

In fact, the gas gauge was one of our favorite features on the Tiki fire pit. Color-coded lines show how much gas you have left in the tank, with red = refill, yellow = low gas and green = gas. No more guesswork! (Or emergency trips to the hardware store mid-smore session.)

However, it is worth noting that we did find some cons with the Tiki. Specifically, the door that allows access to the propane tank. It doesnt hinge open as youd expect and is extremely cumbersome to take on and off. Since you need to open the door to turn the propane on and off with each use, this is incredibly annoying.

The fire pit is also quite bulky, weighing over 90 pounds. Even with the transport wheels, its very tricky to move. We suggest setting it up as close to its final destination as possible. That said, the weight and bulk indicate sturdiness and, hopefully, longevity (we’ll be sure to report back in a year).

Accessories Testing

Tiki Fire Pit Attachment

Each of the three accessoriesthe table, glass surround and propane heater attachmentarrived in its own box.

Table Attachment

I started with the table attachment. It connects to the fire pit with just a few screws and is ready to use after less than five minutes of assembly. The insert that comes with the fire pit fits perfectly inside the table (when not in use, of course) to create a perfectly flush surface.

I love having the option to sit around the fire pit on a cool nightwhile still having a spot to put a drink or a plate. Or, I can keep the fire pit off and use the table as a serving station or extra seating when hosting. This attachment definitely adds to the fire pits versatility, especially in small spaces. For around $200, its not necessary, but it certainly adds to the overall look and enjoyment of the fire pit.

Glass Surround Attachment

Next, I added the glass surround attachment. This one was slightly tricky to build as I couldnt immediately identify which glass pieces were meant for the inner circle and which were meant for the outer. After a little trial and error, I figured it out. Assembly required attaching several screws, then simply placing the surround atop the fire pit.

Right away, I loved the aesthetics of this accessory. It gave the fire pit a high-end appeal that elevated the look of my entire patio. But from a practical perspective, this accessory doesnt do all that much. The flame of the Tiki is already quite contained, even on the highest setting, so theres not much need for added wind protection. If you have curious kids or pets who may be tempted to stick their hands near the open flame, I could see the appeal. But for most users, Id suggest saving the $179.

Propane Heater Attachment

Tiki Fire Pit Warning

The propane heater attachment, however, is worth every penny. On an unseasonably cool Wisconsin day, I pulled this baby out of the box. It was quick to assemble, although this accessory connects to the pit for stability, so you will need to move the lava rocks, which is a bit messy.

After its attached, simply turn the fire pit on, and voila! Instant heat reflection. The glass column fogs up at first but quickly dissipates, allowing you to watch the enchanting flame. My family was visiting the first time we used this attachment, and we were all impressed by how hot it got. After 15 minutes of use, many of us even shed our jackets and blankets. As someone who finds most patio heaters bulky, I love the sleek, glass look of this attachment. Im also impressed that it retrofits to something I can use in spring and summer, too, when I dont need quite as much heat. Of all the Tiki attachments, this ones my favorite. The $299 price tag is high but worth it for cool climates.

Pros

  • Customizable with smart accessories
  • Small yet bright flame that exudes warmth up to 8.5 feet
  • Easy propane hookup
  • Built-in gas gauge
  • Accessories allow for multi-season use
  • Accessories can replace a table or patio heater

Cons

  • Tricky to assembly
  • Hard-to-open propane tank access door
  • No included cover
  • Pricey, especially with accessories

Why You Should Trust Us

Our Product Testing Team knows a thing or two about evaluating outdoor gear. We’ve tried everything from leaf vacuums to expandable garden hoses. For propane fire pits, we reviewed multiple products and ran 10 distinct tests to collect 300 data points. Plus, this isn’t our expert editors’ first time testing the best fire pits. We’ve also evaluated smokeless options from Breeo, Blue Sky, East Oak and Solo Stove.

As for me, I’m the Senior Shopping Editor at Taste of Home, a sister site of Family Handyman. During my tenure, I’ve tested hundreds of products, including the Tiki smokeless fire pit, the Ooni Koda 16 pizza oven, and the best hammocks.

Where to Buy the Tiki Fire Pit

Tiki Fire PitEMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

We Tried It

Tiki Customizable Propane Fire Pit

The Tiki customizable propane fire pit and its accessories are available on the brand’s website, Amazon and Ace Hardware.

The post Tiki Fire Pit Review: This Versatile Heater Gets Even Better with Smart Accessories appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
We Tested the Outland Living Fire Pit, and It’s the Camping Luxury of Our Dreams https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/outland-living-fire-pit-review/ Thu, 19 Sep 2024 19:39:20 +0000 https://www.familyhandyman.com/?p=636242 We tested the Outland Living Fire Pit, and it's the camping luxury of our dreams.

The post We Tested the Outland Living Fire Pit, and It’s the Camping Luxury of Our Dreams appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>
Fire pits bring an ambiance like no other to backyard living spaces and, yes, campsites. If you’re a hardcore ultralight camper, you might scoff at the idea of bringing a whole fire pit to a campsite. A hand-placed ring of rocks usually suffices, but the Outland Living Fire Bowl is a worthy tag-along for campers who’d prefer not to smell like firewood. It’s also a nice fire pit for people who live in small spaces and want a reasonable fire pit for their patio or balcony.

Ahead, learn what our product testing team thinks of the Outland Living Fire Pit after putting it to the test: specifically, seven tests to find out how it compares to the best propane fire pits for heating performance, ease of use, setup, durability, value and more.

What is the Outland Living Fire Pit?

Outland Living makes an entire line of fire pits, from permanent backyard fixtures to portable camping fire pits. The product reviewed here, the Outland Living Standard Fire Pit (formerly Fire Bowl), is an extension of what originally inspired the company to create portable fire pits. The company was founded by two outdoor enthusiasts in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada; they designed a portable propane fire pit to take camping when outdoor agencies implemented burn bans due to forest fire danger. The first model, called the Ban Buster, evolved into the line of portable fire pits available from the brand today.

Outland Living Fire PitTMB STUDIO

We Tried It

Outland Living Standard Fire Pit

Pros:

  • Portable
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • Minimal assembly required
  • Elevates the camping experience
  • Good for small spaces, like balconies
  • Excellent wind resistance

Cons:

  • Somewhat noisy, even at low settings
  • Weather-resistant carrying bag sold separately
  • Manual ignition

Outland Living Fire Pit Features

The Outland Living Standard Fire Pit is stacked with ideal features in a propane fire pit.

Portable and Lightweight

The Outland Living Standard Fire Pit measures just 19 inches long by 19 inches wide by 11 inches high. This makes it an excellent portable fire pit and one of the smallest we’ve tested. It weighs 22 pounds, so it should be pretty easy for any one person to move on their own.

Pre-Assembled

This fire pit arrived mostly pre-assembled; all our testers had to do was secure the legs and pour in the lava rocks.

High BTU Output

The Standard Fire Pit has a maximum output of 58,000 BTUs, which, surprisingly, is one of the highest BTU ratings among all of the propane fire pits we’ve tested, despite this one being one of the smallest.

Durable Materials

The body is constructed of powder-coated, enamel-protected steel, while the valve knob is chrome, and the burners and fasteners are stainless steel.

Pre-Attached Hose

It comes with a pre-attached, 10-foot-long propane hose and regulator, plus a propane tank stabilizer ring.

Lava Rocks

The Standard Fire Pit comes with a 4.4-pound bag of lava rocks. Our testers found this to be more than enough, and they had extra left over for supplementing later.

Safety Valve

This fire pit features an excess flow safety valve, which is certainly a nice feature to have to prevent potential fire hazards.

Manual Ignition

Unfortunately, this fire pit does not feature electric ignition, so you’ll need a lighter to get it going. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s worth knowing, especially if you tend to forget lighters when packing up for camping!

Our Experts Performed 7 Tests

Outland Living Fire Pit measuring lighter length

Our product testing team put the Outland Living Standard Fire Pit through several distinct tests to determine its performance. We looked at a few key factors to determine if this fire pit is worth buying: packaging, delivery, and assembly; durability and weather resistance; heating performance; wind resistance; ease of use and lighting process; hose length; flame consistency; and value.

Our testers shouted from the rooftops that setup was “ridiculously easy,” noting that they had to attach the legs and pour in the lava rocks. Then, it was ready to be connected to the external propane tank via the 10-foot hose.

“After it was connected, we tested for leaks by spraying connections with soapy water and watching for bubbles as we turned the valve on,” our testers said, happily reporting that no leakage occurred.

It must be manually operated with a lighter, and then you can slowly adjust the dial. “The propane tank needs to be turned on very slowly; otherwise, it will trip the excess flow safety valve,” our testers said. “We ran into some trouble with this.”

Despite being such a small fire pit, our testers could feel the heat from the flames up to 11 feet away (though they tested this on a relatively warm day, so perhaps take that with a grain of salt.)

“The flames on the highest setting don’t seem super high; the lowest setting produces flames that are about 1/3 of the height and barely protrude over the edge of the bowl,” they noted.

This is actually a good thing for a camping fire pit, especially if you’re using it during a burn ban. It’s ideal to be able to feel the heat from far away without large flames when in the wilderness.

Dozens of Fire Pits Tested

Our product testing team at Family Handyman has collectively tested dozens of fire pits. Two of our staff members tested the Outland Living Fire Bowl: Dylan Fischer, a professional gear reviewer who regularly builds sets for product testing for Family Handyman and Taste of Home, and Annamarie Higley, the testing lead and daily ops manager at our Family Handyman testing lab. They took this fire pit through seven tests to determine how it stacks up against competition for value, delivery, assembly, ease of operation, heating performance, durability, accessories and portability.

FAQ

Is Outland Living a good brand?

Yes! Outland Living is a reputable brand in the outdoor space. It is best known for its line of portable fire pits, but the brand also manufactures a range of outdoor living space fixtures and furniture.

Who owns Outland Living?

FMI Brands, a parent company holding various small outdoor brands, owns Outland Living. The company is based in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

On Amazon, the Outland Living Fire Bowl has an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, with nearly 10,000 reviews. Reviewer Alex, who left a 5-star review, said: “I went camping during a burn ban and got this fire pit for the campfire. It worked out great. The flames look very realistic, it’s easy to use, easy to transport, and [it] worked out awesome. It puts out [a] decent amount of heat and you don’t smell like smoke. Loved it, will take [it] with me regularly now.”

Reviewers had very few negatives to point out. One buyer noted that the included cover is not waterproof, and he’s worried about when temperatures start to freeze. An alternative, heftier cover might be a good investment if you live in a wet or cold climate.

Outland Living Fire Pit vs. Tiki Brand Fire Pit

Tiki is a well-known brand for outdoor living fixtures and furniture. Our testers also reviewed the Tiki Brand Customizable Propane Fire Pit. This particular fire pit is large and designed to be more or less a permanent fixture in an outdoor space. It’s heavy and hard to move, so it’s not ideal for campers, like the Outland Living Fire Pit. It costs about double the price, but that’s not unexpected given its size.

Our product testing team found the Tiki fire pit more challenging to assemble than the Outland fire pit. Despite being larger, they could only feel the heat up to 8.5 feet away (as opposed to 11 feet for the Outland Living one).

The Tiki brand fire pit is a better choice for buyers looking for a stylish addition to their backyard space and a centerpiece around which to enjoy company. The Outland Living fire pit is a better choice for anyone needing a portable fire pit for camping or just wanting something small and safe for a small patio or balcony.

Final Verdict

The Outland Living Standard Fire Pit (formerly the Fire Bowl) is an ideal portable propane fire pit for campers. It’s also an excellent choice for anyone who needs an efficient, safe option for a small space, like a balcony. Our testers found it easy to assemble and set up. Plus, it produced a good amount of heat despite its shorter flames.

Where to Buy the Outland Living Fire Pit

Outland Living Fire PitTMB STUDIO

We Tried It

Outland Living Standard Fire Pit

The Outland Living Fire Bowl can be found on Amazon, just in time for cozy fall weather.

The post We Tested the Outland Living Fire Pit, and It’s the Camping Luxury of Our Dreams appeared first on Family Handyman.

]]>