The First Gas Powered Weed Eater (An Advertisement from 1977)

While the first weed eaters were corded electric models, there was an early gas-powered Weed Eater by the original brand. And get this, it was nearly as expensive as the average riding lawn mower was at the time! Let's learn more about the early gas-powered Weed Eater from this advertisement from 1977 from a Birmingham, Alabama newspaper. 

What was the first gas-powered Weed Eater?

The first mass-produced gas-powered Weed Eater was the Model 650 Weedy Gas. It was produced by the original Weed Eater brand. 

What were the specifications of the first gas-powered Weed Eater?

The first gas Weed Eater weighed a whopping 24 and a third pounds, had a 3 horsepower engine, and held 180 feet of cord. It was claimed that it could trim an acre in one hour on average. Get this, they already had brush and saw blade attachments available according to this ad. 

How much was the first gas weed eater?

The first gas-powered Weed Eater was $299.95 which was nearly as much as the average riding lawn mower of the time. And is comparable to cheap commercial models today.

Who invented the Weed Eater?

The Weed Eater was invented by George Ballas in the early 1970’s. The invention was a result of one of his employees getting bit by a snake while he was trimming the lawn. Back then you had to use sheers to trim along the edges of your lawn. It was also marketed without a guard as a lawn care edger.

The first gas-powered Weed Eater, known as the Model 650 Weedy Gas, was introduced by the original Weed Eater brand in the 1970s. It weighed 24.33 pounds, had a 3 horsepower engine, and held 180 feet of cord. It was priced at $299.95, which was quite expensive for its time.

At the end of the day, the Weed Eater was a timeless invention that homeowners and lawn care pros alike depend on to keep our yards looking sharp. Over the years a lot has gone into making the best weed eater. But it started many years ago. If you want to learn more about keeping your lawn sharp check out these landscaping tips. 

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