Description
STIHL HS 87 R: Professional Cutting Power for Thick Hedges
The STIHL HS 87 R is a professional petrol hedge trimmer developed for substantial pruning, cutting back dense growth and maintaining large, mature hedges. Its 75cm/30-inch single-sided blade and high-cutting-force R configuration make it particularly well suited to thick, woody and overgrown hedge material.
Unlike a fine-finishing hedge trimmer, the HS 87 R prioritises cutting force and control through demanding growth. It is an appropriate choice for professional landscapers, grounds-maintenance teams and experienced users managing extensive hedges.
- Best for: Thick, dense and overgrown hedges
- Blade: 75cm/30-inch single-sided pruning blade
- Engine: 22.7cm³ STIHL 2-MIX petrol engine
- Cutting style: Large-volume pruning and hedge reduction
- Users: Professional and demanding private use
Explore our complete range of STIHL hedge trimmers or compare other petrol hedge trimmers available from Masseys.
Why Choose the STIHL HS 87 R?
High Cutting Force for Dense Growth
The HS 87 R uses STIHL’s R cutting configuration, which is designed to provide the cutting force required for substantial pruning and large-volume hedge work. Its wider-spaced cutter teeth and pruning-focused drive help it work through thicker hedge material more effectively than a high-speed fine-trimming model.
75cm Single-Sided Pruning Blade
The 75cm/30-inch blade provides excellent reach across broad or tall hedges. Its single-sided design is particularly useful for long, controlled cutting passes, while the blade guard helps move loose clippings away from the cutting area.
This product is supplied with the 75cm single-sided blade. It is not the double-sided HS 82 R model and it is not offered on this page with a 60cm blade.
STIHL 2-MIX Petrol Engine
The 22.7cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine produces 0.70kW of power while combining strong professional performance with efficient two-stroke engine technology. The petrol power unit provides consistent cutting performance without the battery-runtime or cable restrictions associated with other power systems.
STIHL Anti-Vibration System
STIHL’s anti-vibration system reduces the transmission of engine and cutting vibrations to the handles. This improves control and helps reduce fatigue during longer periods of professional hedge maintenance.
Practical Starting and Maintenance Features
The HS 87 R includes a manual fuel pump, electronic ignition and a tool-free fuel cap to make routine operation more straightforward. Its long-life air-filtration system is designed to extend cleaning intervals when the machine is used in dusty hedge-cutting conditions.
STIHL HS 87 R Technical Specifications
| Model | STIHL HS 87 R |
|---|---|
| Product type | Professional petrol hedge trimmer |
| Recommended use | Large-volume pruning, hedge reduction and dense growth |
| Engine | STIHL 2-MIX two-stroke petrol engine |
| Displacement | 22.7cm³ |
| Power output | 0.70kW / 1.0hp |
| Blade length | 75cm / 30 inches |
| Blade type | Single-sided pruning blade |
| Stroke rate | 3,200 strokes per minute |
| Tooth spacing | 38mm |
| Approximate weight | 5.5kg without fuel |
| Manufacturer part number | 4237 011 2991 |
| Fuel type | Correct petrol and two-stroke oil mixture as specified in the STIHL instruction manual |
Specifications should always be checked against the supplied machine and current STIHL documentation before use.
Who Is the STIHL HS 87 R For?
The HS 87 R is a strong choice for:
- Professional landscapers and grounds-maintenance teams
- Large, established or overgrown hedges
- Seasonal hedge reduction and substantial pruning
- Long cutting runs where a 75cm blade improves reach
- Experienced users who require petrol power and professional durability
It may be more machine than required for a small domestic hedge that is trimmed frequently. For regular shaping, fine finishing or lighter growth, a faster trimming model or one of our cordless and petrol hedge trimmers may be more appropriate.
Our STIHL hedge trimmer buying guide explains the main differences between the available blade styles and power systems.
STIHL HS 87 R vs HS 87 T and HS 82 R
| Model | Blade style | Primary application | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|---|
| STIHL HS 87 R | 75cm single-sided pruning blade | High-force, large-volume pruning | Thick, dense and overgrown hedges |
| STIHL HS 87 T | Single-sided trimming blade | Faster, finer trimming and shaping | Regularly maintained hedges and a cleaner finish |
| STIHL HS 82 R | Double-sided pruning blade | Powerful cutting from either side | Renovation work and varied cutting positions |
Choose the HS 87 R when cutting force and long, controlled pruning passes are the priority. Choose the HS 87 T when speed and a fine finish are more important. Consider the HS 82 R when a double-sided blade is preferable for working around several faces of a hedge.
Fuel and Maintenance
The STIHL HS 87 R is a two-stroke petrol machine and must be operated with the correct fuel mixture specified in the instruction manual. Incorrect or stale fuel can cause poor starting, running problems and engine damage.
Browse our selection of two-stroke oil and machinery fuel. For cleaner storage and reliable starting after periods of inactivity, consider our information about Aspen alkylate fuel.
Routine maintenance should include checking the cutter blades, air filter, fuel system, fasteners and gearbox lubrication in accordance with the STIHL manual. Masseys also provides garden machinery servicing and repairs from our workshop in Woodville, Swadlincote.
Important Operating Considerations
- Wear suitable eye, hearing, hand, leg and foot protection.
- Inspect the hedge for wire, posts and other hidden objects before cutting.
- Do not force branches into the cutter teeth.
- Use loppers or a suitable saw for branches that are too large for the hedge trimmer.
- Check carefully for active bird nests and wildlife before starting work.
- Read and follow the supplied STIHL instruction manual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the STIHL HS 87 R single-sided or double-sided?
The STIHL HS 87 R sold on this page has a 75cm/30-inch single-sided pruning blade. Customers requiring a double-sided professional hedge trimmer should consider the STIHL HS 82 R.
What does the R version mean?
STIHL’s R cutting variation is configured for high cutting force and large-volume pruning. It is intended for substantial, dense hedge growth rather than high-speed fine finishing.
What is the difference between the HS 87 R and HS 87 T?
The HS 87 R is designed for demanding pruning and thicker hedge growth. The HS 87 T uses a trimming-focused cutting system intended to produce a finer finish on regularly maintained hedges.
Does the HS 87 R have a rotating rear handle?
No. The HS 87 R is a single-sided professional pruning model. Rotating rear handles are associated with selected double-sided hedge trimmers and should not be listed as a feature of this machine.
Is a 60cm blade available on this product page?
No. This listing is for the 75cm/30-inch HS 87 R. The product title, attributes, specification data and order information should all refer to that configuration.
Can the STIHL HS 87 R cut thick branches?
It is designed for thick and woody hedge growth, but it is not a replacement for loppers, a pruning saw or a chainsaw. Branches that cannot enter the cutter teeth freely should be removed with a more suitable tool.
Is the HS 87 R suitable for domestic use?
It can be used by experienced private users managing large or mature hedges, but its size and professional pruning configuration may be excessive for small hedges or light routine trimming.
What fuel should I use?
Use the petrol and two-stroke oil mixture specified in the supplied STIHL manual, or an appropriate ready-mixed alkylate fuel approved for the machine. Never use straight petrol in a two-stroke engine.
Buy the STIHL HS 87 R from Masseys
Choose the STIHL HS 87 R when you need a professional 75cm petrol hedge trimmer for demanding pruning, mature hedges and substantial seasonal cutting. Order online or contact the Masseys team for advice on model selection, fuel, protective equipment and ongoing workshop support.
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