Description
Stihl FS 38 Petrol Strimmer
A lightweight petrol strimmer designed for easy garden maintenance
The Stihl FS 38 petrol strimmer is a compact, lightweight grass trimmer built for homeowners who want a simple, reliable tool for maintaining lawns and edges. If you need a petrol strimmer for a small garden that’s easy to handle and dependable, the FS 38 is one of the most proven entry-level options in the Stihl range.
Available from Masseys, with expert advice, setup support, and aftercare.
View all of our petrol strimmers, or by brand and see the Stihl strimmers.
At a Glance
- Best for: Small gardens and light maintenance
- Power type: Petrol (2-stroke engine)
- Key benefit: Lightweight and easy to use
- Use case: Lawn edges, borders, light grass
- Not for: Thick vegetation or large areas
What Is a Petrol Strimmer?
A petrol strimmer (petrol grass trimmer) uses a small 2-stroke engine to spin a nylon line for cutting grass and weeds.
Petrol vs Cordless vs Electric
- Corded electric strimmer:
Limited by cable length - Cordless strimmer:
Convenient and quiet, but limited by battery runtime - Petrol strimmer (FS 38):
- No cables or charging
- Consistent power output
- Ideal for unrestricted movement
For users who want simple, reliable performance without battery concerns, petrol remains a strong option.
Why Buy from Masseys?
- Expert advice on choosing the right strimmer
- Setup guidance and usage tips
- Aftercare and servicing support
- Genuine Stihl products with warranty
Key Features
- Lightweight design (~4.2 kg) – one of the lightest petrol strimmers in the Stihl range
- Reliable 2-stroke engine (27.2 cc) – consistent cutting performance
- Loop handle control – easy manoeuvrability in tight areas
- AutoCut C 6-2 head – simple line feed system
- Primer pump system – easier starting
- Compact build – ideal for small gardens and storage
Performance Breakdown
Real-World Use
The Stihl FS 38 petrol grass trimmer is designed for:
- Lawn edging
- Trimming around borders and obstacles
- Light grass maintenance
It is not designed for heavy-duty work, but excels in simple, regular garden tasks.
Ease of Handling
- Lightweight construction reduces fatigue
- Loop handle allows precise control
- Compact size makes it easy to store
Ideal for homeowners who want a no-fuss petrol strimmer.
Starting & Operation
- Primer pump helps reduce starting effort
- Straightforward pull-start system
- Simple controls
This makes it accessible even for users new to petrol tools.
Position in the Stihl Range
The FS 38 sits as:
- Entry-level petrol strimmer
- Focused on ease of use
- Ideal for occasional to regular domestic use
FS 38 vs FS 40
Comparison Overview
| Feature | FS 38 (This Model) | FS 40 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Size | 27.2 cc | 27.2 cc |
| Power Output | ~0.65 kW | ~0.7 kW |
| Weight | ~4.2 kg | ~4.4 kg |
| Starting System | Primer + pull start | Easier starting system |
| Usability | Simple, basic | Improved ergonomics |
| Best For | Small gardens | Slightly more demanding use |
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose FS 38 if:
- You want the lightest petrol option
- Your garden is small
- You need a simple, budget-friendly tool
Choose FS 40 if:
- You want slightly more power
- You prefer improved starting and ergonomics
The Stihl FS 38 is ideal for simplicity and ease of use
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2-stroke petrol engine |
| Displacement | 27.2 cm³ |
| Power Output | 0.65 kW / 0.9 hp |
| Weight (dry) | 4.2 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 0.33 litres |
| Total Length | 147 cm |
| Cutting Head | AutoCut C 6-2 |
| Handle Type | Loop handle |
| Sound Pressure Level | 94 dB(A) |
| Sound Power Level | 109 dB(A) |
| Vibration (L/R) | 5.7 m/s² |
Who Is This For?
Ideal For:
- Homeowners with small gardens
- Light trimming and edging
- Occasional to regular use
- Users wanting a simple petrol solution
Not Ideal For:
- Thick vegetation or overgrown areas
- Large gardens
- Professional or heavy-duty use
Price & Buying Considerations
The Stihl FS 38 price UK places it in the entry-level petrol strimmer category.
It offers:
- Excellent value for domestic users
- A reliable alternative to cordless tools
Contact Masseys for current pricing and availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Stihl FS 38 used for?
It is used for light grass trimming, edging, and general garden maintenance.
Is it good for small gardens?
Yes, it is specifically designed for small to medium domestic gardens.
FS 38 vs FS 40 – which is better?
The FS 38 is lighter and simpler. The FS 40 offers slightly more power and improved ergonomics.
Is petrol better than cordless?
Petrol offers continuous power, while cordless is quieter and lower maintenance.
Does it come with a cutting head?
Yes, it typically includes the AutoCut C 6-2 head.
Related Products
- Stihl FS 40 petrol strimmer
- Other petrol strimmers
- Strimmer line and accessories
- Garden maintenance tools
Is the Stihl FS 38 Worth It?
If you want a lightweight, reliable petrol strimmer for simple garden maintenance, the Stihl FS 38 is one of the most proven options available.
It delivers:
- Easy handling
- Consistent performance
- Low upfront cost
- Trusted Stihl reliability
Buy the Stihl FS 38 from Masseys today or contact our team for expert advice on the best strimmer for your garden.
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