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• Position: What's New? - Brief Article

* Some companies are simply old reliables. Year after year, they put out solid, dependable, affordable products--the kind you can always count on. That's how we think of Black and Decker, Towson, Md. The great thing about the folks at B&D is that they're never satisfied, which is why their line of tools seemingly never fails to add a new twist to an old favorite. Specifically, we're talking about the company's Workmate ($99), Flex Tube Blower/Sweeper ($49.99), and Hedge Hog Trimmer ($79.99).

We're well acquainted with Black & Decker's "Hog" series, having reveled in the reliability and power of its Edge Hog edger and Lawn Hog lawnmower. So, when we got wind of the Hedge Hog, we were an easy sell. It's available in 20" and 24" blade lengths, and we immediately opted for the larger size and its 3.0 amp motor. The Hog's dual-action blades move counter to each other, making cutting easier and reducing vibration by 40%. It can handle branches up to three-quarters of an inch thick, a godsend for those of us whose old hedgers constantly were jamming on the thicker bushes. Moreover, the Hedge Hog has soft rubber grips and a full wraparound handle for added maneuverability. Plus, the pigtail and cord lock retention system prevent accidental disconnection.

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Meanwhile, the electric Flex Tube Blower/ Sweeper tackles three of the major annoyances common to most blowers: weight, noise, and lack of control. As for the latter problem, there's a flexible blow tube (that can bend around corners) and a joystick (for one-hand use). Still, if you're old school, it can be used a a straight blower as well. Leaves, grass clippings, and yard debris are no match for the 140-mph blowing force that exudes from this must-have machine, yet the low-noise design won't have your neighbors thinking a jetliner has landed in...