• Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • About Us
  • Privacy / Disclaimer
  • Contact Us
  • Contributing Writers
  • Site Directory

Chainsaw Journal

Expert Advice on the Modern Home, DIY, Power Tools & Outdoor Power Equipment to help you make intelligent buying decisions.

  • Generators
    • Portable Generators
    • Portable Power Stations
    • Inverter Generators / Quiet
    • Educational
  • Chainsaws
    • Cordless / Battery-Powered
    • Corded-Electric
    • Gas-Powered
    • Chainsaw Reviews
    • Education / How-to
  • Power Equipment
    • Log Splitters
    • Snow Blowers
    • Wood Chippers / Shredders
    • Portable Table Saw
    • Leaf Blowers
    • Lawn Mower
    • Miter Saws
    • Outdoor Cooking
  • Workshop Tools
    • Shop Heaters
    • Woodworking tools
    • Table Saws
    • Automotive
    • Air Compressors
  • Pools
    • Robotic Pool Cleaners
    • Pool Pumps
    • Pool Heaters
  • Indoor Home
    • Air Conditioners
    • Vacuum Cleaners
  • Informative
  • Kids
  • Blog
Home » Blog » Black & Decker LST136W Review – 40V Max String Trimmer

Black & Decker LST136W Review – 40V Max String Trimmer

Last Updated: January 31, 2023 / at: 10:49 pm

Black & Decker LST136W 40V Max Lithium String Trimmer
A well-made string trimmer — and very affordable.

The Black & Decker LST136W string trimmer is an extremely popular garden tool that homeowners seem to absolutely love, and for good reason. The true gauge of a quality tool, or any product, is how well it fares over time. Any tool can be impressive on day one but what about day 421? Well, the good news is that the LST136W battery powered weed eater has proven itself in the wild — in this case, the lawn and garden.

Table of Contents —
  1. LST136W 40V Battery System
  2. The LST136W Trimmer Has Great Design Features
  3. More Battery Powered Weed Eater Options
    1. *Discontinued : GreenWorks 21242 G-MAX | 40V String Trimmer

The LST136W truly demands to be at the top of your list — and I’m going to tell you why.

First, let’s clarify: A string trimmer seems to go by many names, including weed wacker, weed eater, whipper snipper, weed whip, edge trimmer, line trimmer, and strimmer. Yes, it’s exhausting just listing them all, never mind remembering them. In this article I’ll be referring to the name I like the most —  a string trimmer.

Far too many consumers tend to overlook the importance of freedom of mobility when it comes to using tools. When I was a kid, battery powered tools were virtually non-existent. I know for a fact that my parents never owned one. My fathers yard tools were either gas powered or corded. I have many memories of using our string trimmer and constantly cursing under my breath while managing the extension cord. I know, it’s a first world problem but since we have options why not make the best possible choice.

Black-&-Decker-LST136W-40V-Max-trimmer-Lithium-detail-
Lightweight at only 7.8 lbs. Easy to use, low maintenance & reliable.
"Buy from Amazon" button

The Black & Decker LST136W strikes an excellent balance between power, performance, affordability, effectiveness and battery longevity. The LST136W will handle all of your grass trimming needs — assuming your backyard isn’t a jungle — and it easily converts to a highly efficient edger in seconds, with its built-in attachment. Trimming grass from the sidewalk or walkways is a breeze with the Black & Decker LST136W.

Watch the video below to see this trimmer in action. The video demos the 36V model but it’s identical to the newer 40V model. In fact, the batteries are fully compatible between the 40V LST136W and the discontinued 36V LST136 string trimmer.

YouTube video

I love the Power+ Command dial that allows you to adjust the level of power you need so you can get the most out of the powerful 40V lithium-ion battery. If you need to trim thick weeds and overgrowth then set it to maximum power, but when the your demands are light then knock it down to minimal power so you don’t waste battery juice when you don’t need it. It’s a nice design feature that gives you more power and control over how you work.

Let me just add, variable power dials are not exclusive to Black & Decker, as you’ll see later in the article when I write about the GreenWorks 21242 GMAX (40V) and the Toro 51488 (48V). You’ll notice many common features between trimmers but what really matters is how all the features come together in one cohesive package. The LST136W exceeds on all fronts.

You’ll be happy to know that it also has a telescopic handle allowing you to adjust the height to suit your needs. For some reason most of the online literature doesn’t included this detail.

LST136W 40V Battery System

The battery has a real-time LED system that shows you exactly how much power is left in your battery as you work. If you’re a regular reader of Chainsaw Journal you’ll know what I’m going to say next: Buy a second battery! You won’t regret it. As you know, the last thing you want to be thinking about when you’re working in your yard is how much battery is left. The only downfall of this string trimmer, as with any battery powered trimmer, is battery life.

You’ll probably get about 30 minutes if you run the trimmer on the highest power setting; and if you operate it on the lowest level you should get about one hour of usage. These are just guidelines but it gives you an idea of how much time you can spend working. Basically, you won’t be working longer than an hour on one battery charge, that’s why I recommend a second battery (LBXR2036), which is superior to the one you get in the box. You’ll need it if you have a large yard with lots of overgrowth and weeds.

Luckily the LST136W comes with a fast charger which enables you to recharge your battery in under two hours. That’s quite fast, but if you have big jobs to do on a regular basis then you should get the backup 40V battery (LBXR2036).

The LST136W Trimmer Has Great Design Features

Black-&-Decker-LST136W-40V-battery-weed-eater
Packed with features that will allow you to work more efficiently.
"Buy from Amazon" button

The Black & Decker LST136W has a few other features I want to touch upon. It has a proprietary transmission that Black & Decker refers to as “PowerDrive.” Essentially this mechanism optimizes the power from the motor to the cutting string, optimizing that amount of power it delivers.

Black-&-Decker-LST136W-40V-battery-trimmer
Yes, you’ll need a few spools of strings nearby so you don’t run out.

Also, the LST136W has an automated feeding spool which feeds the trimmer line whenever it’s needed. Sometimes it’s the little things that make a big difference. It can be annoying to have to start and stop while you’re working, which is why I think this feature is a nice touch that will make your work flow a little smoother.

The Black & Decker LST136W is designed to give the average homeowner a string trimmer that provides a complete solution at a reasonable price. It delivers enough power to tackle all of your grass trimming jobs around the house, and the convenient built-in edger will ensure that your yard looks great at the end of the day.

The only Achilles heel of the LST136W, as with any battery powered tool, is that battery life is limited to about one hour, depending on the power setting you use. If you think you need more than an hour to complete your yard then I suggest buying an extra battery. On the other hand, if you need a string trimmer that can run for long periods of time then I suggest one of the following models:

  1. Budget Gas: Poulan Pro PP25CFA 17-Inch 25cc
  2. Best Gas: Husqvarna 128DJx 17-Inch 28cc
  3. Corded Electric: GreenWorks 21212 10-Amp 13-Inch

Either way, it’s hard to go wrong with the Black & Decker LST136W. I think it’s an excellent choice for the majority of homeowners. The overall customers satisfaction on the product is consistently high so don’t listen to me, trust the majority. The LST136W is certainly one of the best string trimmers to keep your yard trim, cultivated and sharp around the edges..

Don’t forget the extra string. You’ll probably be needing it over the course of Spring and Summer.

Black-&-Decker-AF-100-3ZP-LST136W-replacement-string
You’ll need extra string if you want to get some work done.
"Buy from Amazon" button

You can view or download the manual if you want to learn more. The manual for the LST136 is the same as the LST136W. They are identical.

Included: LST136W trimmer/edger; LBXR36 40-volt MAX lithium-ion battery; LCS36 fast charger; one AF-100 spool; guard.

Features:

  • 3 year warranty.
  • Powerful 40-Volt lithium-ion battery.
  • Choose the amount of power you need to extend battery life.
  • PowerDrive transmission optimizes the power from the motor.
  • Automatic line feed spool.
  • Quiet and easy to start.
  • Quickly converts to edger by simply turning the shaft.
  • Weight with battery installed is 7.8 lbs.

More Battery Powered Weed Eater Options

If you’re not sure if the Black & Decker LST136W is for you then you may be happy to know that you have a couple other excellent alternatives to consider. I like to give my readers options because everyone has different needs to consider when making a decision.

I wholeheartedly recommend the LST136W due to its exceptional overall build quality, ergonomics, maneuverability and its excellent battery power system that enables you to work without having to wrestle with wires.

But, it’s always good to know you have options, so without further adieu, here are two more powerful battery-powered string trimmers that would also do a great job of taking care of your grass trimming needs.


*Discontinued : GreenWorks 21242 G-MAX | 40V String Trimmer

Replaced by : GreenWorks 21362 G-MAX 40V (includes 4Ah battery + charger)

GreenWorks-21242-G-MAX-40V-battery-String-Trimmer
Highly versatile and maneuverable for tight areas.

The GreenWorks GMAX 40V (21242) Lithium-Ion Cordless Trimmer/Edger is also a great choice for homeowners. It has a head that swivel to multiple position so you can get the best angle when cutting and trimming. It has a built-in edger and a variable speed trigger that allows you to easily adjust the amount of power you use.

As you can see, there are a lot of similarities between this GreenWorks trimmer and the Black & Decker LST136W.

GreenWorks-21242-G-MAX-40V-battery-String-Trimmer-detials
Ergonomic, powerful and easy to use. A good option for your yard trimming needs.

Replaced by : GreenWorks 21362 G-MAX 40V (includes 4Ah battery + charger)


It comes with a 4 Ah lithium-ion battery that will last you up to 50 minutes of running time. This also has an automatic single line feed while allowing you to adjust the cutting path from 10″ to 13-inches.

GreenWorks makes excellent power tools for homeowners and you’ll be happy to know that GreenWorks GMAX 40V 21242 comes with a 4-year warranty on all parts and services. It’s always nice to see a company stand firmly behind their products.The battery has a 2 year warranty.

Includes: String Trimmer, Starter Spool, GMAX 40V 4AH Battery and Charger and Owner’s Manual. 

Here are more features that you might want to know about:

  • Easily converts from trimming to edging and gliding walk behind wheels.
  • Comes with a flower guard that allows you to trim around your flower bed or other sensitive areas without harm.
  • Ergonomic Design for User Comfort: Adjustable shaft design provides up to 67” of total length to accommodate each user for optimal comfort.
  • Weight: 8.59 lbs.
  • 40V Lithium-Ion Battery power won’t fade after charging.
  • 3-position pivoting head for optimal trimming angles.
  • 90 degree rotating head with edging wheel for walk behind edging.
  • Compatible Only with G-MAX 40V Battery Models 29462 and 29472

Toro 51488 48V | Dual Line String Trimmer

Toro-51488-48-Volt-MToro-51488-48-Volt-Max
Recommended for heavy-duty jobs around the home.
"Buy from Amazon" button

The Toro 51488 is powered by an impressive 48V lithium-ion battery system, making it the most powerful string trimmer on my list. If you need power and want a clean running trimmer then this is probably the product you want.

One thing that I haven’t mentioned yet in this article is that with a battery powered weed eater you don’t have to deal with the fumes of a gas model, or the noise issues. Trust me, you won’t annoy your neighbors when you decide to start working at 8am.

It’s not just about the freedom of movement that these battery powered string trimmers provide you, there are many reasons why battery power is an ideal choice — unless you have large heavy-duty weed trimming and clearing that needs to get done, in that case, buy a gas string trimmer. You have to fit the tool to the jobs you want to accomplish not the other way around.

This is a dual-line trimmer making it more efficient and effective at cutting weeds and trimming grass. Also, this is a slightly heavier trimmer at 9.2 lbs but still very accessible and lightweight for anybody to haul around from an hour or two.

If you need a heavy-duty string trimmer then I would have to recommend this model just because it’s powered by a 48V battery and it’s a dual-line trimmer. This Toro 51488 will give you excellent power and will be able to handle slightly more demanding jobs around your yard.

Learn more at Amazon.

Features:

  • 3 year warranty.
  • Weight: 9.2 lbs.
  • Battery Charger with Storage Mode: Keeps the battery at a 40% charge while in storage.
  • Adjustable assist handle for optimal balance. Foam grip for extra comfort.
  • Cast Aluminum Head increases the overall lifespan.
  • Variable Speed Control to maximize battery life.
  • Automated 13″ dual feed trim line. Adjusts as you work.

Last Updated: January 31, 2023 at 10:49 PM / by Chainsaw Journal

Primary Sidebar

🐭 Quiet Backup Power

2023 Reviews – Best Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator / Top Rated Models

2023 Reviews – Best Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator / Top Rated Models

Last Update ► March 23, 2023

Choosing the best dual-fuel inverter generator is a little more difficult today than it was only a year ago as many new, high-quality models have entered the market, & they're fantastic...

🌍 Clean Energy Chainsaws

Guide to the Best Electric Chainsaws for 2023 — Expert Reviews

Guide to the Best Electric Chainsaws for 2023 — Expert Reviews

Last Updated February 6, 2023

You'll find a lot of differing opinions on what the best electric chainsaw is. The reason is because there is no right answer. I know, this might...

🐶 Keep A Tidy Yard…

Reviews : Best Resin Shed in 2023? Backyard Storage, Big & Small

Reviews : Best Resin Shed in 2023? Backyard Storage, Big & Small

Last Update ► February 26, 2023

Resin backyard storage sheds are a great addition to any home or garden. Made from durable, weather-resistant materials, these sheds offer a convenient and secure way to store tools, equipment, and other outdoor essentials.

🪑 The Craft of Wood Turning

Reviews – Best Wood Lathes from WEN, JET, Powermatic & More

Reviews – Best Wood Lathes from WEN, JET, Powermatic & More

Last Update ► March 21, 2023

There are some tools that separate the best from the rest. I consider a wood lathe to be one of these. A machine that shows you’re a true craftsman. If you’re interested in buying the best wood lathe, you have my greatest respect. Using these machines, you’re able to turn perfectly molded ornate pieces, cut precision holes for screwless joins, and a lot more.

👂🏼 Quiet RV Power

2023 Picks : Best RV Generator | Quiet Inverter & Power Stations

2023 Picks : Best RV Generator | Quiet Inverter & Power Stations

Last Updated March 12, 2023

What's the best RV generator for you in 2023? Lucky for you, big brands offer some exceptional inverter generators in a wide range of power output and price points. So, don't worry, there's something here for everyone. I'm focusing on inverter generators because it's essential to have a quiet generator for your RV

☄️ Home Emergency Backup

2023 Reviews : Best 9500 Watt Generators / New Models with CO Sensors

2023 Reviews : Best 9500 Watt Generators / New Models with CO Sensors

Last Update ► January 5, 2023

Look no further, above you will see the Westinghouse WGen9500c generator --- one of the best 9500 watt generators you can buy. Period!

🔥 Intelligent Pool Heaters

Review Guide − Best 400,000 BTU Pool Heater / NG + Propane

Review Guide − Best 400,000 BTU Pool Heater / NG + Propane

Last Update ► February 15, 2023

Back in 2020 I'm sure a lot of us wondered if we'd ever make it to 2023, and here we are. We made it! The world is slowly going back to normal and now we're looking to find a fast-heating and energy efficient, 400,000 BTU pool heater. Why?

🐱 The Future is Cordless

Best Cordless Chainsaw 2023 Buying Guide – Chainsaw Journal

Best Cordless Chainsaw 2023 Buying Guide – Chainsaw Journal

Last Update ► March 7, 2023

What's the best cordless chainsaw for 2023? If you're smart you'll take our advice and choose from our list of fantastic battery-powered chainsaws.

🌲 Firewood Facts…

2023 : How Much is a Cord of Wood? — & More Firewood Facts.

2023 : How Much is a Cord of Wood? — & More Firewood Facts.

Last Updated February 24, 2023

This article focuses on the always popular topic of firewood. It’s an essential thing for many people. Wood, we need it.

💨 Prepare for the Worst

2023 REVIEWS : Best Portable Power Station for CPAP / Top Picks

2023 REVIEWS : Best Portable Power Station for CPAP / Top Picks

Last Update ► February 14, 2023

What's the Best Portable Power Station for a CPAP? If you're using a CPAP machine at night the last thing you want to worry about is having the power go in the middle of the night ---

🌟 Clean, Portable Power

2023 Reviews : Best Camping Generator & RV / Quiet Inverter & Battery Power

2023 Reviews : Best Camping Generator & RV / Quiet Inverter & Battery Power

Last Updated March 7, 2023

Generators come in a variety to types, which you may or may not be aware of. Everyone has different needs when it comes to choosing the best camping generator their needs. The question is how much power do you need? What's your budget? Are you looking for an inverter generator or a portable power station?

🪑 For Work or Play

Reviews – What’s the Best Table Saw Under $1000?

Reviews – What’s the Best Table Saw Under $1000?

Last Updated February 10, 2023

A good portable table saw can easily be had for under $1000, but you won't be able to find a quality cabinet saw for that amount. This guide will save you a lot of time.

☄️Never Let the Power Die

Reviews— Best Dual Fuel Portable Generator / Gas & Inverters

Reviews— Best Dual Fuel Portable Generator / Gas & Inverters

Last Update ► February 12, 2023

What's the best dual-fuel portable generator in 2023? Well, like the answer to most questions in life, my answer is, "It depends."

🔥 Affordable Log Splitters

Reviews of the Best Log Splitters under $1000 for Winter 2023/23

Reviews of the Best Log Splitters under $1000 for Winter 2023/23

Last Updated March 21, 2023

A log splitter is the evolution of the axe in the same way that cars are the evolution of horse drawn carriages. If you use a lot of firewood in the winter then investing in a high quality log splitter is probably a wise choice.

🌒 Whisper-Quiet Clean Power

2023 Update : Westinghouse iGen4500 Review / iGen4500c CO Sensor

2023 Update : Westinghouse iGen4500 Review / iGen4500c CO Sensor

Last Update ► March 6, 2023

Well, the Westinghouse Electric Company built their first commercial electric power station in 1886 to supply Great Barrington, Massachusetts. Since then...

💎 The Most for your Money

2023 Reviews : Best Chainsaws for the Money  / Top Value Models

2023 Reviews : Best Chainsaws for the Money / Top Value Models

Last Update ► March 10, 2023

We have a chainsaw for a wide range of applications and budgets. I know the needs of consumers vary and there's no such thing as the "best" chainsaw for everybody. Whether you have a budget of under $100 or over $300 to buy a PRO-grade chainsaw, I have options for you to consider.

❄️ For Heavy Snow…

2023 REVIEWS – Husqvarna ST224 2-Stage vs TORO 60V Cordless

2023 REVIEWS – Husqvarna ST224 2-Stage vs TORO 60V Cordless

Last Update ► March 12, 2023

In this Husqvarna ST224 review you'll see why this has been a top selling two-stage snow blower for years ---

🔋 Compare New Explorer PRO

REVIEW — Jackery Explorer 1000 + PRO E1000 / Best Solar Power Station

REVIEW — Jackery Explorer 1000 + PRO E1000 / Best Solar Power Station

Last Update ► March 11, 2023

Welcome to my review of the the Jackery Explorer 1000. Jackery stands out as one of the best manufacturers of portable battery power stations and solar generators.

🍀 Shred Yard Debris

Reviews : Best Chipper/Shredder in 2023 — Gas & Electric

Reviews : Best Chipper/Shredder in 2023 — Gas & Electric

Last Updated February 22, 2023

What's the best chipper/shredder for 2023? Keeping your lawn neat, tidy and clean requires a lot of work and tools. A chipper/shredder is one of better ways to spend your money for your home, alongside of a generator, lawn mower and chainsaw.

🔥 Time to Split Firewood

Reviews – Best 22 to 30-Ton Log Splitters / New Top Rated Models

Reviews – Best 22 to 30-Ton Log Splitters / New Top Rated Models

Last Update ► March 11, 2023

Welcome! 2023 is a great year to buy a log splitter. New machines are here for us to discuss. The Swisher LS22E is one of the best 22-ton electric log splitters available today. You can see it above. It's a standout among the crowd of "me too" models. It's a 120V electric 22-ton splitter and works with any standard home outlet.

👩🏻‍🦰 Watch Out Trees!

2023 Review — Husqvarna 460 Rancher / Top Rated Gas Chainsaws

2023 Review — Husqvarna 460 Rancher / Top Rated Gas Chainsaws

Last Update ► March 16, 2023

The 460 Rancher is designed for homeowners, farmers and ranchers who have a need to fell large trees in a single cut (or two), to cut firewood or to harvest large timber.

🍂 Ergonomic Leaf Blower

2023 Reviews : Best Backpack Leaf Blower / Top Rated Models

2023 Reviews : Best Backpack Leaf Blower / Top Rated Models

Last Update ► March 4, 2023

I think you'll be surprised to learn that in 2023, reputable brands are making cordless backpack leaf blowers that are equal to, or more powerful than many gas backpack leaf blowers --- and they're cheaper.

🍰 Generator Sweet Spot

Reviews — Best 7500 Watt Generators for the Money / New Models

Reviews — Best 7500 Watt Generators for the Money / New Models

Last Update ► January 24, 2023

As far as value, you won't find a better overall generator than this WGen7500 series from Westinghouse. For starters, Westinghouse has been in business since 1886 so they know how to make generators, among other things. For 2023, this is the best 7500 watt generator for homeowners looking for emergency backup power.

💡 The Power of 3 Fuels

Reviews : Champion 100416 vs DuroMax HXT — Best Tri-Fuel Generator

Reviews : Champion 100416 vs DuroMax HXT — Best Tri-Fuel Generator

Last Update ► February 20, 2023

A tri-fuel generator is quite a novel concept. I’m sure not too many folks are aware they even exist. Hybrid generators have become common. Most of us know a bit about dual-fuel generators. These can run on propane or gasoline, making them very convenient. An obvious question, I’m sure many of you are asking has to be: What is a tri-fuel generator?

👷🏼 For DIY & Construction

Reviews : What’s the Best Jackhammer in 2023? Electric & Pneumatic

Reviews : What’s the Best Jackhammer in 2023? Electric & Pneumatic

Last Updated February 21, 2023

What's the Best Jackhammer for you? How much breaking force do you need? For work or for home? We cover a wide range of jackhammer's so you can choose the one that matches your needs (and budget)

🥾 Heavy-Duty Generators

Reviews : Best Jobsite Generators  — Buying Guide : OSHA / GFCI

Reviews : Best Jobsite Generators — Buying Guide : OSHA / GFCI

Last Updated March 1, 2023

2023 has been an incredible year for the portable generator market. The biggest brands have been releasing innovative new models at very competitive prices. The Champion PRO 100430 is a new commercial generator, packed with practical features you'll need if you're a contractor.

⚡️ Powerful Generators…

2023 Reviews : Best 12000 Watt Generators | New Top Rated Models

2023 Reviews : Best 12000 Watt Generators | New Top Rated Models

Last Updated January 23, 2023

What do you need it for and what's your budget? We take a deep dive and review many great 12000W generators.

✨ Versatile Generator

2023 Reviews : Best 240 Volt Inverter Generators / New Models

2023 Reviews : Best 240 Volt Inverter Generators / New Models

Last Updated March 19, 2023

If you’re looking for a 240V inverter generator, it can be challenging. There simply aren’t too many on the market. This buying guide and review is the best place to begin your search for a 240V inverter generator.

Footer

DMCA.com Protection Status
  • Return to HOME
Do Not Sell My Personal Information

1199 Marinaside Crescent, Vancouver, Canada
T: 604/437/8033

© 2014–2023 • Chainsaw Journal • Affiliate Disclaimer • —Stay Strong

  • This site contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase with our product links we may receive a small commission at NO COST TO YOU.(Learn More)