I had an Old Green Machine with a split shaft that did great work with quality string trimming or hard blade trimming with both. I later learned the shafts were too short caused me to bend my back vs standing straight. Now I use a longer dedicated Echo for each. Plus, I have learned Mid Commercial Cable Shafts are stronger vs shying away to the Heavy Solid Shaft.

The old saying and proof in many cases was Dedicated Tools Were Better Than Multi Tools. With the Split Shafts, I feel quality has improved (vs owning/using) if itâÂÂs a Commercial Grade Tool.

I have no direct experience but my next door neighbor has a Stihl multi tool that doesn't seem to give him problems. He mostly uses it for weed whacking or exchanging to a scary looking circular saw blade that he uses to cut low limbs and saplings.

My neighbor has a Multi-Purpose-Tool (from Sears) that he uses at walking speed to String Trim, Hard Blade Edge and Blower on a Ground Level Shaft.

I have a combo Echo edger and trimmer that have worked well for a few years. I did not want to be doing double duty with engines. Pay more for better stuff if you can aflord it. And get an easy pull start.