The STIHL FS 56 RC-E is an easy-start petrol brushcutter for maintaining larger gardens, grassed areas and awkward spaces around trees, borders and obstacles. It combines a 27.2cc STIHL 2-MIX engine with a manoeuvrable loop handle and STIHL ErgoStart technology.
This model produces 0.85kW of power and is supplied with an AutoCut C 26-2 mowing head for line trimming. It is a practical step up from lighter domestic grass trimmers for users who want additional cutting performance without moving to a heavier bike-handle machine.
Browse our complete range of STIHL strimmers and brushcutters, compare other petrol strimmers, or view all strimmers and brushcutters.
Why choose the STIHL FS 56 RC-E?
- Easy starting: STIHL ErgoStart reduces the effort needed to pull the starter cord.
- Reliable petrol performance: The 27.2cc STIHL 2-MIX engine produces 0.85kW or 1.15hp.
- Precise control: The loop handle makes it easier to work around trees, fences, borders and other obstacles.
- Line head included: Supplied with an AutoCut C 26-2 mowing head for cutting grass and general trimming.
- Harness included: A single shoulder harness helps support the machine during longer jobs.
- Approved-dealer support: Available with product advice and workshop support from Masseys.
What does Masseys think of the STIHL FS 56 RC-E?
At Masseys, we think the STIHL FS 56 RC-E is one of the strongest choices for homeowners who want more cutting ability than a lightweight domestic strimmer without stepping up to a heavier professional brushcutter. The loop handle makes it easy to control around trees, borders and fencing, while ErgoStart is a worthwhile feature for anyone who prefers a smoother, lower-effort starting action. We would particularly recommend it for medium to larger gardens, longer grass and regular maintenance work. For very dense scrub, extensive rough ground or daily commercial use, we would usually advise moving to a more powerful model.
What is included?
- STIHL FS 56 RC-E petrol brushcutter
- AutoCut C 26-2 mowing head
- Single shoulder harness
- Appropriate guard for the supplied cutting attachment
A metal grass-cutting blade is not included with this version. Only use STIHL-approved cutting attachments together with the correct guard and mounting components specified for the machine.
Who is the FS 56 RC-E suitable for?
The FS 56 RC-E is particularly well suited to:
- Maintaining medium and larger domestic gardens
- Cutting longer grass that is demanding for a lightweight electric trimmer
- Trimming around trees, walls, fencing and garden furniture
- Maintaining path edges, banks and irregular grassed areas
- Users who prefer a loop handle for close control
- Users who want an easier-starting petrol machine
For regular work in very dense vegetation, extensive rough ground or prolonged professional use, a more powerful model may be more appropriate. See our STIHL strimmer and brushcutter buying guide for help selecting the correct machine.
Key features
STIHL ErgoStart
STIHL ErgoStart uses an additional spring between the starter cord and crankshaft. This reduces the speed and force required when pulling the starter, helping the engine start with a smoother, more controlled action.
27.2cc STIHL 2-MIX engine
The 27.2cc two-stroke engine produces 0.85kW or 1.15hp. STIHL 2-MIX technology is designed to provide useful cutting performance while controlling fuel consumption and exhaust emissions compared with conventional two-stroke engine designs.
Loop handle
The loop handle supports accurate movement when working in confined areas or around obstacles. It is a particularly useful configuration for trimming beside trees, fences, raised beds and other garden features.
AutoCut C 26-2 mowing head
The included AutoCut C 26-2 is a dual-line mowing head designed for grass cutting and general trimming. Its line can be advanced by tapping the head on the ground while it is rotating.
Multi-function control handle
The main engine controls are positioned on the handle so they can be operated without repeatedly moving your hand away from the working position.
Technical specifications
| Specification | STIHL FS 56 RC-E |
|---|---|
| Engine type | STIHL 2-MIX two-stroke petrol engine |
| Engine displacement | 27.2cc |
| Power output | 0.85kW / 1.15hp |
| Manufacturer-stated weight | 4.8kg without fuel, cutting tool or guard |
| Handle type | Loop handle |
| Starting system | STIHL ErgoStart |
| Supplied cutting attachment | AutoCut C 26-2 mowing head |
| Harness | Single shoulder harness included |
| Fuel type | Two-stroke petrol mixture |
| STIHL part number | 41442000200 |
| GTIN / EAN | 0886661778126 |
STIHL FS 55 R vs FS 56 RC-E vs FS 70 C-E
| Model | Power | Weight | Handle | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| STIHL FS 55 R | 0.80kW / 1.02hp | 4.4kg | Loop | Lighter general grass trimming and close work around obstacles |
| STIHL FS 56 RC-E | 0.85kW / 1.15hp | 4.8kg | Loop | Users wanting additional output, ErgoStart and precise loop-handle control |
| STIHL FS 70 C-E | 0.90kW / 1.22hp | 5.4kg | Bike | Covering larger open areas with a broader sweeping cutting action |
Weight figures are manufacturer-stated machine weights and have model-specific exclusions. Check the individual product page and operating instructions before comparing transport or fully equipped working weights.
Which model should you choose?
Choose the STIHL FS 55 R if low weight and straightforward grass trimming are your main priorities.
Choose the STIHL FS 56 RC-E if you want a loop-handle machine with slightly more power and the easier STIHL ErgoStart starting system.
Consider the STIHL FS 70 C-E if you regularly work across larger, more open grassed areas and prefer a bike-handle configuration.
Fuel and two-stroke oil
The FS 56 RC-E uses a two-stroke petrol mixture. Use fresh unleaded petrol mixed at the ratio specified in the operating manual with a suitable high-quality two-stroke engine oil.
View STIHL HP two-stroke engine oil or browse our complete oil and fuel range. Pre-mixed alkylate fuel can also help reduce problems caused by storing ordinary petrol for extended periods; see our guide to Aspen fuel.
Maintenance and workshop support
Routine maintenance should include checking the air filter, spark plug, fuel system, cutting attachment, guard and starter mechanism in accordance with the operating manual.
Browse available STIHL service kits or read about our garden machinery servicing and repairs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the STIHL FS 56 RC-E suitable for long grass?
Yes. It is suitable for cutting grass and maintaining longer growth that may be demanding for a lightweight electric trimmer. Extremely dense scrub, thick woody material or sustained professional clearance work may require a more powerful machine and a different approved cutting attachment.
How much does the STIHL FS 56 RC-E weigh?
STIHL states a machine weight of 4.8kg without fuel, cutting tool or guard. The complete working weight will therefore be higher once the machine is fuelled and fitted with its cutting equipment.
Does the FS 56 RC-E include a mowing head?
Yes. This version is supplied with an AutoCut C 26-2 dual-line mowing head.
Does it include a harness?
Yes. A single shoulder harness is included.
What does RC-E mean?
The “R” identifies the loop-handle configuration. The “E” identifies STIHL ErgoStart, which is designed to reduce the effort required when starting the engine.
Can the FS 56 RC-E use a metal blade?
The machine can use selected approved cutting attachments when it is equipped with the corresponding guard, mounting hardware and accessories specified by STIHL. A metal blade is not included with this version. Contact Masseys before changing attachment type so compatibility can be confirmed.
What fuel does the FS 56 RC-E use?
It uses a two-stroke petrol mixture. Follow the ratio and fuel-quality instructions in the STIHL operating manual, and do not use old or contaminated petrol.
Is it suitable for working around trees and fences?
Yes. Its loop handle makes it easier to position the cutting head accurately around obstacles than a wide bike-handle configuration.
Buy the STIHL FS 56 RC-E from Masseys
Order the STIHL FS 56 RC-E online or contact Masseys for help choosing the correct brushcutter, cutting attachment, fuel and protective equipment for your work.
For product advice, availability or workshop support, please contact Masseys.
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