6 Best Gas Leaf Blowers – (Reviews & Buying Guide 2021)

Do you spend half of the fall raking your yard of leaves, with a painful back and sore hands at the end of the exercise?

A gas leaf blower makes preparing your yard for the cold months easier, faster and stress-free. With a gas leaf blower, you do not have to spend the weekend raking and getting your hands dirty. You do not need to bend to get stubborn leaves out of crevices as the gas leaf blower efficiently removes the leaves from the lawn, gutter, kitchen window, and patio and allows you to build a heap of leaves for a bonfire or onto a tarp for onward delivery to the dumpsite.

Several gas leaf blowers are on the market, but you need a brand that can deliver the best quality with minimal maintenance and fuel efficiency. Our gas leaf blower reviews provide everything you need to know to get the one that will provide the highest return on investment.

To check out in-depth reviews of all the best gas leaf blowers head over to our guide.

Best Handheld Gas Leaf Blowers

1. Makita BHX2500CA Commercial Gas Handheld Blower

Clear large or small piles of debris with ease using the Makita 24.5cc MM 4-Stroke Engine Blower. This 9.8 lbs blower is lightweight and compact in design.
With its 4-stroke technology, the Makita blower operates from a fuel-efficient engine that also meets emissions regulations from the EPA and CARB. The 17.7-ounce fuel tank does not require a fuel mix, reducing the risk of spills and messes. The Makita blower is user-friendly with its soft handle grips allowing the user to feel less vibration.

Users will appreciate the quick start Makita has included in this blower that has a mechanical automatic engine decompression system. Using the Makita 4-Stroke Engine blower is not only quieter than many of its competitor blowers, but it can also be used for longer durations due to the convenient cruise control that reduces operator fatigue. A commercial grade, low compression engine Makita blower has the maximum airspeed of 145 mph, giving enough power to clear lawn and garden work easily.

Read the full review: Makita BHX2500CA Commercial Grade Handheld Blower

Check The Latest Price on Amazon!

2. Hitachi RB24EAP 2 Stroke Gas Powered Handheld Blower

The Hitachi RB24EAP is a lightweight handheld blower designed to make big cleanup work easier and faster. Powered by a 23.9 cc commercial-grade engine ,the gas-powered blower creates an air velocity of 170 miles per hour and also produces an air volume of 442 cubic feet per minute. Therefore, effectively delivering enough power to clean up large and small debris.

Whether for yard-wide autumnal leaf clearing or removing grass clippings on the patio after mowing the lawn, the Hitachi RB24EAP does not disappoint. At 8.6 pounds, the lightweight design of this blower gives it spectacular maneuverability and its two-finger throttle lever makes even the most difficult tasks effortless.

A 2-stroke 1.13-horsepower engine with advanced low-emission features to reduce its carbon footprint to the barest minimum powers the impressive machine. Another big plus for the Hitachi RB24EAP is its 7-year consumer warranty and 2-year warranty for non-rental commercial purposes. With industry-leading technologies, durable materials, and unbeatable performance, the Hitachi RB24EAP delivers more than its size.

Read the full review: Hitachi RB24EAP Commercial Gas Leaf Blower

Check The Latest Price on Amazon!

3. Husqvarna 125B Handheld Blower

Don’t let savage looks put you off- this gas leaf blower is actually quite a sweetie. With 425 cfm and 170 mph wind speeds, it’s more than suitable for domestic tasks and is intuitive to use for first-time buyers. We particularly liked the way the start rocker resets after you kill the engine, preventing you from frustrating minutes trying to start an engine whose kill-switch is still engaged. Cruise control makes for easy use, and you can adjust the length of the blowing tube to suit your height and garden.

An air-purge bubble makes starting the 2-stroke engine easier, and 120 dB rating, while louder than electric models, shouldn’t upset the neighbors too much. Anti-vibration dampers make the unit pleasant to use handheld, while the 9.6lbs weight isn’t too bad to carry around. A close to 17 fl oz tank seals the deal.

Read the full review: Husqvarna 125B Handheld Blower

Check The Latest Price on Amazon!

4. Tanaka TRB24EAP 2-Cycle Gas Powered Handheld Leaf Blower

Tanaka have long led the power tool industry with a more-than-attractive 7-year warranty offer, and this gas-powered leaf blower is no different. It’s one of the lightest gas leaf blowers currently on the market, weighing in at only 8.6lbs despite the 3.9cc commercial 2-stroke engine, but still provides an impressive 441 cfm and 170 mph. This unit sits astride the dividing line of the advanced homeowner to low grade professional with ease.

This model features a clean, easy start and an engine designed to significantly lower emissions. A larger throttle, made for two-fingered use, makes operation simple too. With great balance and a lighter-than-average weight, this is a great gas leaf blower for smaller yards, but up to the challenge of large yards too. All in all, a great investment for those looking for a light and easy to handle gas blower.

Check The Latest Price on Amazon!

5. Remington RM2BV Ambush 2-Cycle Gas Leaf Blower

The Remington RM2BV is a gas-powered leaf blower and vacuum combo equipment for all your outdoor tasks. The handheld leaf blower is powered by a 27cc 2-cycle engine, which can produce air speeds up to 205 mph and air volume up to 450 cfm for effective and also rapid cleanups.

It also comes with a large capacity vacuum bag, which makes yard cleanup faster, more efficient, and less messy. The extended output nozzle makes it easier to reach the ground without bending and maneuvering into tight spaces is easy due to its handheld design and lightweight construction.

The QuickStart technology makes for an easy and effortless starting, and the translucent fuel tank lets you work for long hours while checking on the fuel levels. Additionally, the variable throttle with cruise control offers increased user control for higher efficiency during cleanup operations. The Remington RM2BV is lightweight, powerful and comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

Check The Latest Price on Amazon!

6. Poulan Pro PRB26 Powerful Gas Handheld Blower

The Poulan Pro PRB26 is a powerful gas-fired handheld leaf blower with many beneficial features. At 8.6 lbs., the Poulan Pro PRB26 is powered by a 26cc two-cycle engine, which consequently produces airspeed up to 200 mph and airflow up to 470 CFM.

The product features a standard choke carburetor and spring-assisted starting system. It is a powerful leaf blower perfect for clearing debris, grass, leaves and also other outdoor tasks. Furthermore, it performs well even under intense use.
The Poulan Pro PRB26 features trigger-operated variable speed control and cruise control for easy operation.

It has a reduced level of vibration and a comfortable, soft-grip handle which exerts low pressure on the user during operation. This gas-powered blower delivers a powerful airflow, impressive usability, lightweight design, and versatile application. The Poulan Pro PRB26 is durable, ergonomic and comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

Check The Latest Price on Amazon!

7. Husqvarna 125BVx 2-Cycle Gas Handheld Leaf Blower/Vacuum

Maneuver around those tight yard jobs with the Husqvarna 125 BVx 28cc 2-Cycle Gas Handheld Leaf
Blower/Vacuum. This lightweight Husqvarna weighs under 10 lbs. making it extremely convenient to use throughout your lawn.

With a 170-mph air velocity along with 470 CRM air volume, the Husqvarna is not only powerful but somewhat quieter than expected. The stop switches with an automatic return which resets to the on position make for a minimal effort start every time. The speed throttle allows the user to set at variable speeds with the cruise control option.

Experience an easier time clearing grass clippings or mulching leaves due to the smart features on the Husqvarna. Being vacuum capable, debris is more than just blown, it can be mulched easily with this Husqvarna. The high velocity this blower and vacuum perform a powerful job at clearing along with being able to run for a long time.

Read the full review: Husqvarna 125BVx Gas Handheld Leaf Blower

Check The Latest Price on Amazon!

8. Poulan PLB26 Powerful Gas Handheld Blower

The Poulan PLB26 is a powerful gas handled blower that makes outdoor chores fast and easy. The blower is equipped with a 2-stroke 26cc gas engine with a standard choke carburetor, and spring assisted starting system,. Which, as a result, delivers airspeed up to 190 mph and airflow up to 430 CFM.

It features trigger-operated variable speed control, which makes it easy to work with any size of debris removal in the yard, garden, patio or curb. The Poulan PLB26 features a soft-grip handle for comfortable operation and the lightweight, and durable design. Consequently, making it highly maneuverable even in tight spaces.

This handheld blower only weighs a meager 9.5 pounds, comes with a powerful engine. Also, it offers immense versatility that makes it suitable for a variety of yard applications. Whether you are clearing your yard of the deluge of foliage after the fall season, removing grass clippings after mowing, blowing debris off your porch or patio or removing stray leaves on the kitchen window or gutters; the Poulan PLB26 has the power and maneuverability to deliver maximum value always.

Check The Latest Price on Amazon!

Gas Leaf Blower Buying Guide

When shopping for a high-quality and durable gas leaf blower, look out for qualities that will make your choice the best for your needs.
Consider factors such as the size, noise level, durability, ease of handling and other vital factors that will make your investment worthwhile.

Choosing to buy a gas leaf blower will cost you money and running expenses. You could have continued to rake your yard, but it takes too much time, and energy and several tasks require your attention, especially when you are preparing for the fall and winter.

However, you need to know the right qualities to look for in a leaf blower. Gas powered leaf blowers offer more utility compared to electric versions as they offer longer operation time and you do not have to worry about recharging the machine or short cables.

The Top 7 Things to Consider When Buying a Gas Leaf Blower

If you have decided to get a gas leaf blower, the following are things you must consider to get the best gas-powered leaf blower for all your outdoor needs.

1. Power

   One of the most important factors to consider when buying a gas leaf blower is power. If your yard is sizable or you intend to use it for your walkways or driveways, then a small handheld unit is all you need.
   Most gas-powered leaf blowers are heavy and offer immense clearing power. The engines of gas leaf blowers are rated in cubic centimeters or cc which can range from 28 to 50 cc depending on the type and size.

   Two-stroke engines with horsepower ratings of 0.75 to 1.5 usually power gas leaf blowers. The machines produce airspeed between 150 to 200 miles per hour. Consequently the higher the cc, airflow and horsepower rating of the engine; the higher its clearing power.

   If you have a large yard or your work involves clearing mulch or wet leaves and debris, you need a gas-powered leaf blower with a higher airspeed rating of around 180 to 200 miles per hour. Therefore, whatever you do, be sure to understand the amount of power you need in your gas leaf blower and the size that can deliver your needs.

2. Noise Level

   When you are shopping for a new leaf blower, make sure to check the noise ratings. Gas leaf blowers tend to be noisier compared to electric leaf blowers due to their combustion engine and a higher rate of operating. Check out our improved and expanded corded electric leaf blowers buyer’s guide!

   If you have to use your gas leaf blower in a residential area, the noise level might disturb your neighbor, and this can lead to complaints and even legal action against you. In some communities, the residents association restricts the use of gas leaf blowers to certain periods while some communities ban its use outright.

   Most gas leaf blowers have decibel ratings on the box so you can know what you will be dealing with when you get home. Check acceptable noise levels with your state and local authorities as well as your community association to know the ideal decibel limit to look out for in your gas leaf blower.

3. Weight

   Consider the weight of the machine, especially if your yard requires extensive leaf blowing tasks. A heavier leaf blower will make working for a long stretch difficult as the weight bears down on you. However, a backpack gas-powered leaf blower may be easier to work with for prolonged periods since the design helps to distribute the weight evenly.

4. Variable Speed

   The variable speed option is important if you want to use the machine around delicate plants such as in your garden. With variable speed, you can reduce the blowing intensity while working with sensitive plants and switch to cruise control while clearing leaves and debris on the yard.

5. Accessories

   Gas leaf blowers can come with a variety of accessories such as vacuum, storage bag, mulching, and others. If you need any of these add-ons, make sure the machine you buy supports the accessories. A gas leaf blower with vacuuming can help reduce your yard work considerably as it not only blows but also vacuums and deposits the leaves into a bag at the same time. However, there is a higher chance of the machine being clogged with debris.

6. Engine Type

   Do you prefer a two-stroke or four-stroke engine? While four-stroke engines do not require mixing the gas with oil, have lower emission levels and offer a smoother operation, they are also heavier and more expensive. Conversely, two-stroke engines are more affordable, lighter and easier to maintain.

7. Nozzle Shape

   Does the machine come with the right nozzles? Generally, flat flared or swiveling nozzles work more efficiently for clearing leaves. The best you can get is a machine with different nozzle options, which you can change to suit different operations.

Gas Leaf Blower Types

The three main types of gas leaf blowers on the market are the handheld, backpack and walk-behind machines. Each of these types has unique designs and uses. Therefore, when shopping, be sure to also check the best leaf blower for your needs. Let us consider the main features, pros & cons of each type of gas leaf blower.

• Handheld Gas Leaf Blowers

  Handheld leaf blower units come in a compact and lightweight design suitable for one hand operation for increased maneuverability, comfort and ease of use. They are ideal for removing leaves, dust, sawdust, debris, and also light snow. These units will last as long as the fuel permits and offer a fast and efficient way to clean small lawns and yards, porches, decks, gutters, and patio.

  Pros

  • Lightweight and mobile
  • Require small storage space
  • Versatile and easy to use
  • Affordable
  • Low noise
  • Maneuverable

  Cons

  • Low power
  • Not suitable for heavy clearing

• Backpack Gas Leaf Blower

  These machines come with attachments that allow the user to wear them on the back. Backpack leaf blowers are usually heavier, but the weight rests on your back and shoulders, allowing you to work for longer without feeling fatigued.
  These leaf blowers are perfect if you require longer run time and more power. They are ideal for sizable lawns, fields, garages, large yards with many trees, large shops and any large space that needs cleaning. Furthermore, backpack leaf blowers can blow off heavy and wet leaves, metal shavings, snow, pebbles, and twigs.

  Pros

  • More power to blow off larger particles, wet leaves and snow
  • Can work for longer periods

  Cons

  • More expensive
  • Bulkier
  • Requires more storage space
  • Noisier

• Walk Behind Gas Leaf Blower

  If your yard is in the hectares and plays host to several trees, a walk behind gas leaf blower is the perfect machine to make your yard clean. Walk behind leaf blowers are powerful machines with wheels for mobility so that they can easily cover a large area within a short period.

  These machines pack a heavy punch and can remove leaves, snow, trash, cardboard, twigs, pebbles, metal trimmings, puddles of water among others. Because of their larger size, many walk behind blowers are equipped with four-stroke engines, making them run more smoothly and quietly than smaller 2-stroke engine blowers.
  Most people do not need to walk behind blowers as they are designed for heavy-duty tasks in places such as parks, stadia, farms and large communities. They are mostly used by landscaping companies.

  Pros

  • Powerful engine
  • Can handle most types of debris

  Cons

  • Expensive
  • Heavy and requires large storage space.
  • Can be noisy

Most people certainly need a handheld gas leaf blower. However, a backpack blower will reduce time and energy spent on yard work if you need to cover a lot of ground. For owners of large expanses of land, public facilities and communities, the tremendous power and mobility of the walk behind gas leaf blower can make all the difference.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Gas Leaf Blowers

Gas leaf blowers offer high-level performance compared to electric variants. However, they still have a few shortcomings. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of gas-powered blowers.

Advantages of Gas Leaf Blowers

• Power:

  The biggest advantage of gas leaf blowers is their higher power, which therefore allows them to clear large spaces quickly. It is for this reason that they have become the preferred machine for most lawn and landscaping services companies.

• Mobility:

  Because they carry their fuel in tanks, gas leaf blowers do not suffer the limitation, which cable lengths cause in electric variants. Whether handheld, backpack or walk behind, you have the freedom to move about your workspace while using a gas-powered leaf blower.

• Longer Operation:

  Gas leaf blowers deliver for longer as you can top up the fuel when the level drops. Thus, you can work for longer without fear of running out of fuel.

Disadvantages of Gas Leaf Blowers

• Size:

  Gas leaf blowers are generally heavier and bulkier due to their increased power output. It can become laborious to work with gas leaf blowers, especially if you need to cover a lot of ground.

• May Require Special fuel-oil mix:

  2-stroke gas leaf blowers often require mixing the gasoline with engine oil at a specific ratio. However, the manufacturer usually provides a calibrated cup for measuring the right amount of oil per liter of fuel.

• May Have Difficulty Starting:

  Gas leaf blowers with standard choke starting system may be difficult to start if you do not have any prior experience with such systems. However, it becomes easier after the first time.

• Noise:

  These machines can be noisy, especially the big versions. Be sure to buy gas leaf blowers with an acceptable noise limit for your neighborhood.

• Maintenance:

  These units require more maintenance due to the many moving parts that cause wear and tear.

• Emissions:

  Because gas leaf blowers burn fuel, they produce fumes, which can harm the environment. The good news is that most brands now utilize advanced technology to reduce emission levels to the barest minimum.

How to Maintain a Gas Leaf Blower

A gas leaf blower makes clearing the yard less like a chore, fast and easier. However, you need to keep your blower in top form to continue enjoying its service. If you care about your gas leaf blower’s health, the following are necessary.

3 Gas Leaf Blower Maintenance Tips for Maximum Performance

1. Pre Use Maintenance Tips

   If your blower uses a two-stroke engine, be sure to know the right mix of gas and oil for the machine. Your user manual usually contains the specific ratio of gas to oil although most use a 50:1 mixture. You risk damaging your engine if you use an incorrect ratio or no oil at all.

   Also, check the air filter for any debris or wear. You should service the air filter after every 10 hours of use by cleaning and recoiling it to ensure your machine continues to deliver a high-level performance and hence, keep the engine in good condition. Before starting the blower, prime it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. In-Use Care

   Don’t mishandle the leaf blower to prevent damaging some of its parts. Do not run the machine on maximum power for long periods to reduce the strain on the engine.

3. Post-Use Maintenance

   Remove any form of debris from the machine after use to prevent the blocking of the airflow. Allow the blower to cool for some time, and then wipe off any dirt with a damp cloth. Be sure that the hoses are in good condition and contain no cracks or splits. Replace damaged or worn hoses and reconnect loose spots.

   Keep the machine in a cool, dry and ventilated place out of the weather. Store gas leaf blowers engine-side down. Protect the vacuum tube always to prevent breakage. Check your spark plug if the machine has problem starting, stalls, or after every 25 hours of use. Change the spark plug according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Change the oil and gas after storing the gas leaf blower for a long period.
   Regular maintenance will ensure that your gas-powered leaf blower continues to serve you for many years to come.

How to Fuel and Start a Gas Leaf Blower

Owning a gas leaf blower is not as important as knowing how to operate it efficiently. However, after unboxing their gas-powered leaf blower, many people discover they do not know how to use the machine. The following are some of the things you need to know about fueling and starting a gas leaf blower.

• Before attempting to start your gas-powered leaf blower, check the machine to make sure nothing is out of place. Check the fuel and air filters for blockages and be sure that the impeller has no cracks or obstructions.
• First of all, understand the correct gas and oil ration if your machine uses a 2-stroke engine. Most gas leaf blowers that use two-stroke engines need a gas and oil mixture at 50:1 ratio. Be sure that you measure the oil and gas accurately. Too much oil could spoil the spark plug and make the engine smoke during use, and too little can reduce lubrication in the engine. Also, use the correct oil to avoid ruining the engine.
• Once you have gotten the oil and gas ratio correctly, shake the can to allow the two liquids blend properly before pouring the mixture into your leaf blower’s fuel tank.
• Open the choke and prime the machine the recommended number of times, usually six times. Once you have pulled the primer bulb, leave the choke midway between the open and close mark.
• Next, pull the starting cord. You might need to pull the cord up to five times to start the engine. When the engine starts, allow it run for 10-30 seconds before changing the position of the choke to open position. Repeat this process if the engine dies out after some time and let the machine run for an additional 10 seconds before moving the choke lever to the open position.

How to Use a Gas Leaf Blower Effectively & Safely

Once you have bought your leaf blower, assembled it and gotten the right oil to gas ratio, it’s time to try your hands on the machine. However, how do you use a gas leaf blower effectively?

Proper Use of Gas Leaf Blowers

• To use your gas leaf blower properly, you must know how to handle it. First, understand the right way of holding or strapping the machine during use.
• Next, start blowing from one end of your yard. It is better to work in one direction to prevent spreading leaves in areas you covered before. You can also start at the edges and work towards the center, especially on windless days.
• Understand the topography and landscaping of your home, and use it to your advantage.
• As you move, swivel the nozzle from side to side to cover more ground as you go. Be sure to point the blower at a slight angle to the ground to prevent blowing the leaves under your feet.
• The wind is an important factor on days you want to blow. Therefore, blow in the wind direction always.
• Your leaf blower may not be able to remove all the leaves at a go. Use your rake or broom to remove the stubborn leaves that remain on your yard.

The Best Time to Use Your Gas Leaf Blower

For best results, blow on windless days when the leaves are dry. Dry leaves are lighter and will not stick to the ground, reducing the airflow you need to get them into a heap.
Also, remember your neighbors. Gas-powered leaf blowers are notorious noisemakers that can cause problems between you and neighbors. Be considerate and choose times when people are not around. Check noise restriction with your local council or community association. In some places, gas leaf blowers may not be allowed at certain periods, so it pays to know the local rules.

Safety Tips When Using a Gas Leaf Blower

Go through your user manual before attempting to use your gas leaf blower. While you may be familiar with a blower, it is wise to go through the user manual to have a better understanding of how the machine works.

• Before operating your blower, be sure to wear protective gear. You need ear guards to protect your hearing, eye shields to protect your eyes from flying debris, gloves to reduce the impact of the vibration on your palms, long sleeves and trousers as well as rubber boots to protect your skin.
• If you are working in a dry and dusty environment, wear nose masks to protect your lungs.
• Remove any sharp objects from the vicinity you want to blow. Also, be sure there are no humans or animals within 15 meters of the yard where you want to work. Cars, motorcycles and any other thing, which projectiles can damage, should also be moved out of the area.
• Set the blower to a suitable power. You do not need the machine to run at full blast if you are clearing dry leaves or working in the garden.
• It is safer to blow before applying chemicals to your yard as the machine can blow the harmful substance into your nostrils or against your body.
• For faster and more effective blowing operations, divide your yard into small sections and gather the leaves into smaller piles. That way, you do not strain yourself trying to cover too much ground at once.
• Maintain a single direction when blowing leaves, lest you blow debris on places you already covered. Blow the leaves on a tarp for easy evacuation to the dumpsite. You can also get a vacuum option with a bag to reduce time spent on packing.

To get to the farther reaches of your garden, check out the cordless leaf blower reviews!

FAQ

• When Is the Best Time to Use Leaf Blowers?
  Dry, windless days when the neighbors are not around are best for using blowers.
• Can I Use Leaf Blowers to Clean the Gutter?
  The leaf blower can be used to clean the gutter, windows, and even clear debris out of tight spaces in the home.
• Which Gas Leaf Blower Is Ideal for Me?
  The power and size of the leaf blower you need depend on the amount of work you need to do. Most people with mid-sized lawns have everything they need in a backpack gas-powered leaf blower.

Wrap Up

Everything you need to know about the best gas leaf blower can be found in our comprehensive guide. These machines come in various shapes and power ratings and are designed to handle specific types of leaf blowing tasks.
Before choosing any gas-fired leaf blower, you should consider the weight, power, noise level, nozzle, and size. It is also essential to know the best way to operate the machine as well as using protective gear whenever you operate the leaf blower. Hope you enjoyed this post of gas leaf blower reviews!