The gravel wont damage the edger or the blade, but you will tend to throw rocks.

On the one hand a reverse rotation blade like Craftsman and a few others make has the advantage of throwing any debris or rocks away from the operator. On the other hand, nothing slows or knocks down the rocks, which can be dangerous to others within about 50 feet (and to cars and windows).

I would recommend a rear throw edger with a large blade guard and an addition rubber flap to control throwing rocks. I currently use a Little Wonder 6032 in Jersey, and before that in Southern California had a succession of McLane's and Power Trims.

It think Little Wonder and Power Trim are among the best, but both are pricey (starting $500 and running to about $900 for commercial model with Honda GX engine). McLane is probably better value for the money (for home use) and can be had for about $350 to $400. Make sure you get the 801 or 101 models. The 137 is only slightly less expensive, but has been "dumbed down" considerably, and I cannot recommend.

Lastly, I would avoid either the edgers with vertical shaft engines and twisted drive belts. IMHO they are junk. Also, the little 2 cycle edgers with the tiny 1hp engines are little more than toys. Stay away.

Thank you SO much! Was more concerned with breaking an edger and missed the throwing rocks all over the place part. Really appreciate your taking the time to pass on your experiences. I will use your recommendations to research and find the best edger for us.

Thanks again!
Valerie

If you can find a source for it (it's made in the UK) there's a top-quality professional lawn edger with the fanciful name of "Fred The Edge" that uses a heavy-duty brushcutter line instead of a metal blade. The machine is located against the lawn edge by small, adjustable, vertical rollers and runs on two wide, horizontal, metal rollers. You can adjust the offset of the rollers to pull the machine tight against the lawn edge, so all you have to do is pull the machine along. The engine's a 4-stroke Honda.