Keeping a good strimmer head on your STIHL machine is like keeping a sharp blade on your lawnmower. If you’re like me – managing big grass estates where trimming isn’t just an afterthought – then you already know how important it is to have the right head on your grass trimmer. But for those just getting into it, or maybe looking to replace their worn-out head, here’s everything I’ve learned over the years.
I’ll be honest – when I first started in estate maintenance over 20 years ago, I thought a strimmer was a strimmer. As long as it spun, it worked, right? Wrong. The first time I tried cutting around the borders of a long driveway with the wrong head, I spent more time untangling line and wrestling with the machine than I did actually trimming.
STIHL makes a range of heads like the AutoCut, PolyCut, and SuperCut, each suited to different kinds of work. The AutoCut heads are great for general trimming, PolyCut is ideal when you’re dealing with coarser vegetation or overgrown grass, and SuperCut is good for neat, clean edges without hassle.
These heads are tough, but they’re not invincible. If you’ve noticed any of the following, it might be time for a replacement:
On large jobs, I inspect mine every few weeks – it saves downtime later on.
Here’s the deal: you can get cheaper compatible heads online, but I’ve found they rarely match the balance and durability of the real thing. One compatible I tried on my FS 94 literally flew apart mid-job. Not worth the risk.
Genuine STIHL replacement heads are better balanced, last longer, and just work better. And when you’re doing full days of strimming around trees, signs, fence posts and flower beds – you want something you can trust.
If you’re in Dublin, I can’t recommend A-Z Hire enough. They’re a STIHL-authorised dealer based in Dublin 12, and they stock a wide range of replacement heads for STIHL strimmers and grass trimmers. Best of all, they know what they’re talking about. I’ve popped in many times for advice and always left with the right part – not just whatever was on the shelf.
They also sell online through their site, azhire.ie, so if you’re not nearby, you can still get what you need.
Now I’ve nothing against garden centres, but I’ve often found they only stock a limited range of STIHL products. And when it comes to replacement strimmer heads, it’s not one-size-fits-all. The advice you’ll get at a STIHL dealer like A-Z Hire is worth its weight in gold.
Not all STIHL strimmer heads fit all STIHL machines. Here are a few examples to help:
If you’re not sure, A-Z Hire will check compatibility based on your trimmer model.
When I’m cutting tight borders or around formal gardens, I stick with the AutoCut heads – they’re tidy and clean. For rougher estate edges or near ditches, I’ll switch over to PolyCut – those polymer blades fly through thicker stuff without needing constant line feed.
It’s not complicated, but it can be tricky if it’s your first time:
I always wear gloves and eye protection – a lesson I learned the hard way.
Trust me – once April rolls around, STIHL replacement heads can be hard to find. I always keep at least two spares in the van, especially before summer contracts kick in. It’s a small cost that saves big headaches.
You can, but I don’t recommend it. You’ll likely get poor balance and might even void your warranty.
For regular use, once or twice a season. If you hear rattling or see cracks – don’t wait.
Depends on the model – A-Z Hire can help you match it.
If you’re wondering where can I buy replacement heads for STIHL strimmers or STIHL grass trimmers, take it from someone who’s done the rounds: go to a proper STIHL dealer like A-Z Hire.
They’ll make sure you get the right fit, genuine parts, and honest advice. Whether you’re managing a country estate or just trying to keep your garden tidy, a good head makes the job faster, cleaner, and way more enjoyable.
Don’t wait until yours fails – get a backup head now, and keep your trimming season smooth.
