If you’re looking for a powerful and portable trimmer that can handle serious yard work, you’ve likely come across the Dewalt DCBL722P1. This cordless string trimmer promises pro-level performance without the hassle of gas or a cord, and in this Dewalt DCBL722P1 review, we’ll see if it lives up to the hype.
As a gardener who’s used everything from basic electric trimmers to heavy-duty gas models, I put this tool through its paces over several seasons. I wanted to know if it could really replace a gas trimmer for tough jobs like clearing overgrown ditch banks and managing thick, woody weeds. Here’s my honest, hands-on analysis.
Dewalt DCBL722P1 Review
Let’s start with what you get in the box. The DCBL722P1 is a “tool-only” kit, meaning it comes with the trimmer itself, a 15-inch cutting swath attachment, and the bump feed head. You’ll need to provide your own Dewalt 20V MAX or 60V FLEXVOLT battery and charger, which is great if you’re already invested in the Dewalt ecosystem.
The first thing you’ll notice is the build quality. It feels solid and well-balanced, with a comfortable grip and intuitive controls. The shaft is adjustable, which is a nice touch for users of different heights. It’s not the lightest trimmer on the market, but the weight is distributed well to reduce arm fatigue.
Power and Performance: Does It Cut It?
This is the big question. The DCBL722P1 is powered by Dewalt’s 60V FLEXVOLT battery system. For the toughest jobs, I highly recommend using the 60V battery. The power is genuinely impressive.
With a fresh 9.0Ah FLEXVOLT battery, this trimmer chewed through everything I threw at it:
* Thick Grass & Weeds: It sails through tall, dense grass without slowing down.
* Woody Stems: It handles saplings and tough weeds like pokeberry and blackberry brambles much better than most cordless trimmers.
* Bump Feed System: The bump feed works reliably. A quick tap on the ground advances the 0.095-inch dual-line smoothly.
It’s not quite as powerful as a top-end 40cc gas trimmer in continuous, heavy brush, but it gets very close. For 95% of residential and even many commercial tasks, it’s more than sufficient. The lack of fumes, loud noise, and pull-start hassle is a massive win.
Battery Life and Runtime
Runtime depends heavily on the battery you use and how hard your working the tool. Here’s a realistic breakdown from my testing:
* With a 60V FLEXVOLT 9.0Ah Battery: I got about 45 minutes of mixed-use runtime, including some very heavy cutting. For general lawn edging and light trimming, you could expect longer.
* With a 20V MAX 5.0Ah Battery: Runtime drops significantly under heavy load, to around 20-25 minutes. It’s fine for quick clean-ups, but for a big job, you’ll want the bigger battery.
Having a couple spare batteries is the key to uninterrupted work. The tool’s power does fade as the battery depletes, which is normal for cordless tools.
Ergonomics and Ease of Use
This is where the Dewalt shines. The switch from a gas trimmer to this feels like a liberation.
* Startup: Just insert a battery, press the safety lock, and pull the trigger. It starts instantly, everytime.
* Noise & Vibration: It’s significantly quieter than gas, allowing you to work early or late without disturbing neighbors. Vibration is minimal, which is easier on your hands and arms.
* Weight & Balance: The balance point is near the handle, making it easier to control for extended periods. The adjustable shaft lets you find the perfect length.
Converting to an Edger
One of the best features is the quick-change capability. Converting the trimmer to a wheeled edger takes less than 30 seconds. The process is straightforward:
1. Ensure the tool is off and the battery is removed.
2. Press the shaft release button near the head.
3. Twist and pull the trimmer head off.
4. Align the edger attachment and push it on until it clicks.
The edger works well for creating clean lines along driveways and walkways. It’s not a dedicated commercial edger, but for homeowner and landscaping use, it’s extremely effective and saves you from buying a separate tool.
Maintenance and Storage
Maintenance is blissfully simple compared to a gas engine. Here’s your basic routine:
* Keep the air vents clear of debris.
* Occasionally check for loose bolts or screws.
* Clean the shaft connection points before attaching heads.
* Store the tool (without the battery) in a dry place.
You’ll never need to change oil, clean a spark plug, or deal with stale fuel. This alone is a huge time-saver.
Pros and Cons: A Quick Summary
Pros:
* Exceptional power for a cordless tool, rivaling many gas trimmers.
* Quiet, fume-free operation.
* Instant start and no pull-cord hassle.
* Quick-change system for converting to an edger.
* Excellent build quality and ergonomics.
* Integrates perfectly with the Dewalt 60V/20V battery platform.
Cons:
* Tool-only kit requires a substantial investment in batteries.
* Can be heavy with a large FLEXVOLT battery attached.
* Runtime with smaller 20V batteries may be insufficient for large properties.
* The bump head can occasionally tangle if line is advanced too aggressively.
Who Is This Trimmer Best For?
The Dewalt DCBL722P1 is an ideal choice for:
* Homeowners with medium to large yards who want pro-level power without gas engine maintenance.
* Dewalt platform users who want to expand their cordless tool collection.
* Landscapers or groundskeepers needing a reliable, quick-to-use secondary trimmer.
* Anyone tired of the noise, fuss, and fumes of a gas trimmer but not willing to compromise on performance.
It might be overkill for someone with a tiny, simple lawn. And if you have acres of very heavy brush to clear constantly, a high-end gas trimmer might still be your best bet. But for the vast middle ground, it’s a fantastic option.
Final Verdict
After months of use, the Dewalt DCBL722P1 has become my go-to trimmer. It eliminates the biggest pain points of gas tools while delivering nearly the same performance. The convenience of cordless operation, combined with the robust power of the 60V system, makes yard work noticeably less of a chore.
The ability to quickly switch to a capable edger adds tremendous value. While the upfront cost—especially if you need to buy large batteries—is significant, the time and frustration saved on maintenance are worth it. For most serious gardeners and landscapers, this tool is a reliable and powerful workhorse that gets the job done efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What battery is best for the Dewalt DCBL722P1?
For maximum power and runtime, use a Dewalt 60V FLEXVOLT battery (like the 9.0Ah or 6.0Ah). You can use a 20V MAX battery, but power and runtime will be reduced, especially under heavy loads.
Can this trimmer use metal blades?
Yes, Dewalt offers optional metal brush cutter blades that are compatable with this tool. Always ensure the tool is off and the battery is removed before changing attachments, and wear appropriate safety gear.
How do you load the trimmer line?
The bump head uses a common “quick-load” system. Remove the spool by pressing in the tabs on the sides, wind about 20 feet of 0.095-inch line onto the spool following the directional arrows, thread the ends through the eyelets, and snap the spool back into the head.
Is the Dewalt string trimmer powerful enough to replace gas?
For most users, yes. It comes very close to the performance of a mid-range gas trimmer. Only users with extensive, continuous heavy-duty brush clearing might still prefer a top-tier gas model.
What is the warranty on the DCBL722P1?
Dewalt typically offers a 3-year limited warranty on the tool itself, a 1-year warranty on the attachments, and a separate warranty on their batteries. Always check the packaging or Dewalt’s website for the most current warranty information in your region.