Description
It is part of the STIHL AK System, so a compatible AK battery can be shared with other suitable STIHL cordless garden tools. Select the tool-only option when you already own a suitable battery and charger, or choose the set with an AK 20 battery and AL 101 charger for a complete setup.
Why choose the STIHL HLA 56?
- Useful reach for taller hedges: the machine has an overall length of 210 cm.
- Adjustable cutting angle: the cutter head moves from -45° to +90°, providing a total range of 135°.
- 45 cm double-sided blade: designed for efficient sweeping cuts across hedge sides and tops.
- 30 mm tooth spacing: suitable for regular garden hedge maintenance and annual growth.
- Cordless convenience: no fuel mixing, trailing power cable or direct exhaust emissions during use.
- Compact transport: the shaft separates without tools, reducing carrying length to approximately 115 cm.
- Shared battery platform: compatible batteries can be used across other suitable machines in the STIHL AK System.
STIHL HLA 56 specifications
| Model | STIHL HLA 56 |
|---|---|
| Battery system | STIHL AK System |
| Rated voltage | 36 V |
| Power output | 0.21 kW |
| Recommended battery | STIHL AK 20 |
| Working time with AK 20 | Up to 100 minutes* |
| Blade length | 45 cm / 18 inches |
| Tooth spacing | 30 mm |
| Approximate cutting capacity | Routine annual hedge growth and branches up to approximately 16 mm |
| Stroke rate | 2,800 strokes per minute |
| Cutter-head adjustment | -45° to +90° |
| Overall length | 210 cm |
| Carrying length | Approximately 115 cm when separated |
| Weight without battery | 3.8 kg |
| Tool-only manufacturer part number | HA010112910 |
*Working time is approximate. It varies with hedge density, branch thickness, cutting technique, battery condition, temperature and operating conditions.
Choose tool only or the complete battery set
HLA 56 tool only
Choose the tool-only version when you already own a compatible STIHL AK battery and charger. No battery or charger is included with this option.
HLA 56 set with AK 20 battery and AL 101 charger
Choose the set when you are starting with the STIHL AK System or need another battery and charger. It includes the recommended AK 20 battery and an AL 101 charger, providing a quoted working time of up to 100 minutes under suitable conditions.
Check the selected package before adding the product to your basket so it is clear whether a battery and charger are included.
Key features explained
45 cm double-sided cutting blade
The double-sided blade allows efficient sweeping movements in either direction when trimming hedge faces and tops. Its droplet-shaped teeth help guide hedge growth towards the cutting edges for a consistent finish.
135° adjustable cutter head
The cutter head can be adjusted from -45° to +90°. This lets you select a practical angle for cutting vertical sides, hedge tops and low-growing plants. Always follow the operating manual, wear suitable personal protective equipment and maintain stable footing.
Detachable shaft for transport and storage
The shaft separates without tools, reducing the carrying length to approximately 115 cm. This makes the HLA 56 easier to fit into a vehicle and simpler to store in a garage, shed or workshop. A wall-mounted storage bracket is also supplied.
Adjustable loop handle
The loop handle can be positioned to suit the user and the cutting task, helping maintain control when moving between the sides and top of a hedge.
Blade-tip protection
The tip protector helps reduce accidental contact between the end of the blade and hard surfaces such as walls, paving and the ground.
STIHL AK System compatibility
The HLA 56 uses STIHL AK System batteries. A compatible battery can be shared with other suitable STIHL cordless machines, reducing the need to own a separate battery and charger for every tool. Always check STIHL’s recommended battery for each machine.
Explore the full STIHL AK System range.
Is the STIHL HLA 56 right for your hedge?
The HLA 56 is particularly well suited to:
- homeowners maintaining established domestic hedges;
- tall or wide hedges that are awkward to reach with a standard hedge trimmer;
- regular maintenance of privet, conifer, laurel and mixed garden hedging;
- customers who already own compatible STIHL AK System tools;
- users who want cordless operation without a trailing electrical cable; and
- gardens where lower operating noise is preferable to a petrol hedge trimmer.
It is not intended to replace a pole pruner, chainsaw or heavy-duty professional hedge trimmer. Use suitable loppers or another appropriate pruning tool for thick, mature or heavily woody branches rather than forcing them through the hedge-trimmer blade.
Before trimming, check the work area for nesting birds and other wildlife. Hedge cutting may need to be postponed when active nests are present.
STIHL HLA 56 vs HLA 66
| Feature | STIHL HLA 56 | STIHL HLA 66 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery platform | AK System | AP System |
| Typical user | Domestic garden maintenance | Frequent or professional use |
| Blade length | 45 cm | 50 cm |
| Overall length | 210 cm | 205 cm |
| Head adjustment | 135° (-45° to +90°) | 115° (-45° to +70°) |
| Transport design | Shaft separates without tools | Fixed shaft with folding cutter bar |
| Best choice when | You want an accessible AK System machine for routine home use | You need an AP System machine for more intensive workloads |
View the STIHL HLA 66 long-reach hedge trimmer or browse all our long-reach hedge trimmers.
Masseys expert verdict
For routine domestic hedge maintenance, the HLA 56 offers a useful balance of reach, manageable weight and battery runtime. The detachable shaft is a genuine advantage when storage or vehicle space is limited, while the AK System makes most sense for customers who already own compatible STIHL domestic cordless tools.
Its main limitation is cutting duty: this is a maintenance hedge trimmer, not a machine for removing thick, mature wood. Customers with frequent commercial work or more demanding hedges should also compare it with the STIHL HLA 66 and other AP System models.
Why buy the STIHL HLA 56 from Masseys?
- STIHL authorised dealer: genuine STIHL machinery supplied through an approved retailer.
- Knowledgeable advice: help selecting the correct tool, battery and charger.
- Local support: advice and aftersales assistance from our Woodville store near Swadlincote.
- Established workshop: access to our garden machinery servicing and repair department.
- Useful comparisons: see alternative STIHL cordless and long-reach models before buying.
For help choosing the correct hedge trimmer, call 01283 217133 or visit Masseys at 129 Swadlincote Road, Woodville, Swadlincote, Derbyshire, DE11 8DA.
Frequently asked questions
Is the STIHL HLA 56 suitable for tall hedges?
Yes. Its 210 cm overall length and adjustable cutting head make it suitable for many tall and wide domestic hedges. Actual working reach depends on the user’s height, hedge position and cutting angle. Always work from stable footing and follow STIHL’s operating instructions.
How long does the HLA 56 run with an AK 20 battery?
STIHL quotes up to 100 minutes with the recommended AK 20 battery. Actual runtime varies with hedge density, branch thickness, cutting technique, battery condition and temperature.
Can the STIHL HLA 56 cut thick branches?
The HLA 56 is intended mainly for routine hedge maintenance and annual growth, with an approximate cutting capacity of around 16 mm. Use suitable loppers, a pole pruner or another appropriate tool for thicker woody branches.
Does the tool-only HLA 56 include a battery and charger?
No. The tool-only machine is supplied without a battery or charger. Choose the set when you require an AK 20 battery and AL 101 charger.
Which battery is recommended for the HLA 56?
STIHL recommends the AK 20. Other compatible AK System batteries may operate the machine, but working time, balance and weight will differ.
Is the STIHL HLA 56 telescopic?
No. The standard shaft does not telescope. The machine has a fixed working length of 210 cm, although the shaft separates for transport and storage.
Does the shaft separate for transport?
Yes. It separates without tools and reduces the carrying length to approximately 115 cm.
Can the STIHL HLA 56 be extended?
STIHL offers a dedicated 50 cm shaft extension for the HLA 56. Only use accessories specifically approved for this model. KombiSystem attachments and HTA 50 pole-pruner components are not compatible.
Can I use the HLA 56 battery in other STIHL tools?
Yes. A compatible AK System battery can be used in other suitable STIHL AK System machines. Check the recommended battery for each tool before use.
Explore related ranges
- STIHL hedge trimmers
- Cordless hedge trimmers
- Long-reach hedge trimmers
- STIHL hedge trimmer buying guide
Product specifications checked against current STIHL GB information on 11 July 2026. Manufacturer specifications, accessories and package contents can change. Check the selected variation and current product information before ordering. See the STIHL HLA 56 manufacturer page for additional technical and safety information.
Elevate your hedge trimming experience with the Stihl HLA 56 Long Reach Cordless Hedge Trimmer. Watch the HLA 56 video.
jmcgoo –
I’ve used this for more than two years on big laurel and Lillandia hedge. You need good shoulders. One battery is more than enough to do multiple hedges and still have 80% left. If you buy two batteries you have two to look after. The batteries are still amazing after two years. Blade cleaning of sap matters when you put them away for the season.