Is the STIHL HT-KM right for you?
The STIHL HT-KM Pole Pruner Attachment is a pruning-saw KombiTool designed for cutting elevated branches, removing deadwood and maintaining trees from ground level where the branch position and working conditions allow.
It connects to a compatible loop-handle STIHL KombiEngine using the KombiSystem quick coupling. This allows an existing petrol or cordless KombiEngine to be converted into a fixed-shaft pole pruner without purchasing a separate powered machine.
The attachment has a 30cm / 12-inch guide bar, integrated cutting sight line, lightweight magnesium gearbox and robust branch hook. Its compact 126cm length also makes it easier to transport and store than a complete telescopic pole pruner.
Best suited to: garden tree maintenance, orchard pruning, removing deadwood, cutting overhanging branches and maintaining estates or commercial grounds.
Important: This listing is for the HT-KM attachment only. A compatible loop-handle STIHL KombiEngine and suitable chainsaw chain oil are required separately.
Masseys recommendation: Choose the HT-KM when you already own a compatible STIHL KombiEngine and want to add tree pruning to the jobs it can perform. Customers starting without a KombiEngine should compare the cost and reach with a complete machine such as the STIHL HTA 50 cordless pole pruner.
What is included?
- STIHL HT-KM pole-pruner KombiTool
- 30cm / 12-inch guide bar
- Compatible STIHL saw chain
- Cutting head with magnesium gearbox
- Integrated branch hook
The following are not included:
- STIHL KombiEngine or KombiMotor
- Battery or charger
- Petrol or two-stroke oil
- Chainsaw chain oil
- Extension shaft
- Harness or personal protective equipment
Use a suitable STIHL chainsaw chain oil to lubricate the guide bar and chain. Engine fuel requirements depend on the petrol or cordless KombiEngine selected.
Which STIHL KombiEngines fit the HT-KM?
The HT-KM is designed for loop-handle STIHL KombiEngines and KombiMotors only. It should not be fitted to a bike-handle power unit or assumed to fit a non-STIHL multi-tool system.
Compatible current examples include:
- STIHL KM 56 RC-E petrol KombiEngine – suitable for domestic and regular garden maintenance
- STIHL KM 94 RC-E KombiEngine – a lightweight petrol option for larger gardens and professional users
- STIHL KMA 80 R cordless KombiMotor – AK System power for domestic cordless use
- STIHL KMA 120 R professional KombiMotor – AP System machine for regular professional work
- STIHL KMA 135 R cordless KombiMotor – high-performance AP System power unit
Model availability changes over time. Check the full model name on your power unit or contact Masseys before ordering if you are uncertain about compatibility.
Our STIHL KombiSystem buying guide explains the differences between the current petrol and cordless power units.
Key features of the STIHL HT-KM
30cm pruning guide bar
The HT-KM uses a 30cm / 12-inch guide bar. This provides useful cutting capacity for tree maintenance while keeping the cutting head compact enough for controlled positioning between branches.
STIHL identifies both ¼-inch P PM3 and 3/8-inch P PMM3 chain configurations for the HT-KM. Replacement guide bars and chains must match the chain pitch, gauge, drive-link count and sprocket configuration fitted to the attachment.
Check the markings on the guide bar and chain or contact Masseys before ordering replacement cutting equipment.
Integrated cutting sight line
A sight line on the cutting head helps the operator position the guide bar and judge the intended cut more accurately before the chain enters the branch.
This is particularly useful when the cutting head is elevated and viewed from below.
Lightweight magnesium gearbox
The magnesium gearbox combines low attachment weight with a robust construction. The complete HT-KM attachment weighs approximately 1.3kg before being connected to a KombiEngine.
The final operating weight depends on the selected petrol or cordless power unit, battery and any optional extension or harness.
Integrated branch hook
The branch hook can be used to help move or pull down smaller cut sections after pruning.
It also assists with positioning the cutting head around suitable branches. Do not use the hook to pull large or trapped timber towards the operator.
Quick KombiSystem connection
The attachment connects through the STIHL KombiSystem coupling. This allows users to change from the HT-KM to another compatible KombiTool without replacing the complete engine or motor.
Other useful attachments include the STIHL HL-KM 145° hedge-trimmer attachment for maintaining tall hedges.
Compact fixed-shaft design
The HT-KM attachment is approximately 126cm long. It does not have an integral telescopic shaft, but additional reach can be added using an approved extension where the power unit, attachment and working conditions are suitable.
STIHL HT-KM technical specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | STIHL HT-KM Pole Pruner Attachment |
| Product type | STIHL KombiSystem pruning-saw attachment |
| Guide-bar length | 30cm / 12 inches |
| Attachment length | Approximately 126cm |
| Attachment weight | Approximately 1.3kg |
| Gearbox | Lightweight magnesium gearbox |
| Positioning aid | Integrated cutting sight line |
| Branch hook | Integrated |
| Compatible chain systems | ¼″ P PM3 or 3/8″ P PMM3, depending on fitted configuration |
| Compatible power units | Loop-handle STIHL KombiEngines and KombiMotors |
| Power unit included | No |
| Manufacturer part number | 41822000212 |
| GTIN-13 | 0886661545568 |
Confirm the fitted chain pitch and guide-bar specification before purchasing replacement cutting equipment. Specifications and compatible model ranges can change.
What can the STIHL HT-KM be used for?
The HT-KM is suitable for:
- Pruning elevated branches from ground level
- Removing dead or damaged branches
- Maintaining fruit trees and orchards
- Cutting back overhanging branches beside paths and driveways
- Routine tree maintenance around gardens and properties
- Estate, grounds and municipal maintenance
- Adding pole-pruning capability to an existing KombiSystem
What is the HT-KM not designed for?
The HT-KM is not intended for:
- Felling complete trees
- Cutting branches directly above the operator
- Working close to overhead electrical cables
- Cutting while standing on a ladder or unstable platform
- Using as a conventional handheld chainsaw
- Attaching to bike-handle power units
- Fitting to non-STIHL multi-tool engines
- Cutting material beyond the capacity of the guide bar, chain and selected power unit
Large, storm-damaged, suspended or tensioned branches may require a trained tree professional rather than routine ground-based pruning equipment.
Optional extension and support equipment
STIHL one-metre carbon shaft extension
The STIHL 1m carbon shaft extension adds approximately 100cm of reach to the HT-KM.
It weighs approximately 0.9kg and is designed for use with selected loop-handle petrol and cordless KombiEngines. Adding an extension increases overall length, leverage and operating weight, so it should only be used where the machine remains controllable and the working area is suitable.
STIHL RTS Super Harness
The STIHL RTS Super Harness can help transfer some of the machine weight to the user’s hips during longer periods of pole-pruner or long-reach hedge-trimmer work.
A harness does not remove the need to maintain stable footing, a controlled cutting position and a suitable exclusion zone.
Chain oil and maintenance products
The guide bar and saw chain require dedicated chain lubrication. Check the chain-oil level, chain tension and cutting condition before use.
Replacement chains, guide bars, sharpening products and STIHL chain oil are available separately.
STIHL HT-KM or a complete pole pruner?
| Option | Best suited to | Main advantage | Main limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| STIHL HT-KM | Customers who already own a compatible KombiEngine | Adds pole-pruning capability without buying another motor | Requires a separate compatible power unit |
| STIHL HTA 50 | Domestic users wanting a complete cordless pole pruner | Dedicated AK System machine with telescopic adjustment | Cannot accept other KombiTools |
| STIHL HTA 86 | Professional users requiring adjustable cordless reach | Professional AP System telescopic pole pruner | Higher purchase price than an attachment |
Choose the STIHL HT-KM when:
- You already own a compatible loop-handle KombiEngine
- You want one power unit to perform several garden or grounds-maintenance jobs
- Compact transport and storage are important
- You want the option of adding a compatible extension shaft
Choose the STIHL HTA 50 when:
- You do not already own a KombiEngine
- You want a complete domestic cordless pole pruner
- Telescopic adjustment is more important than interchangeable attachments
View the STIHL HTA 50 battery pole pruner.
Choose the STIHL HTA 86 when:
- You require a professional AP System machine
- You regularly maintain tall trees, orchards or commercial grounds
- You need a rigid telescopic shaft with substantial adjustment
View the STIHL HTA 86 professional telescopic pole pruner.
Part of the STIHL KombiSystem
The STIHL KombiSystem uses one compatible petrol or cordless power unit with interchangeable attachments for different maintenance tasks.
Depending on the engine and attachment selected, one KombiSystem setup can be used for:
- Tree pruning
- Hedge cutting
- Grass trimming
- Lawn edging
- Leaf and debris clearing
- Soil cultivation
- Sweeping paths and hard surfaces
Browse the complete STIHL KombiSystem range to compare engines, cordless motors, attachments and accessories.
Masseys expert verdict
The HT-KM makes the most financial and practical sense for someone who already owns a suitable STIHL KombiEngine.
Its 30cm cutting head, integrated sight line and branch hook make it considerably more specialised than simply fitting a pruning blade to a general multi-tool. The 1.3kg attachment is also relatively compact when separated from the power unit for transport and storage.
The important limitation is that the HT-KM is not a telescopic complete machine. Its working reach depends on the chosen KombiEngine, the operator and whether an approved extension is fitted.
Customers who only need a pole pruner and do not expect to buy other KombiTools may receive better value from a complete HTA model. Customers who already own a KombiEngine can add a capable tree-pruning function without duplicating the motor, fuel system or battery platform.
Why buy the STIHL HT-KM from Masseys?
Masseys is an authorised STIHL dealer based in Woodville, Swadlincote. Our garden machinery team can help confirm whether the HT-KM fits your existing power unit and whether an extension or harness is appropriate.
- Genuine STIHL attachment
- Compatibility advice before purchase
- Petrol and cordless KombiEngines available
- Extension shafts, harnesses, bars, chains and oils available
- Local showroom at 129 Swadlincote Road, Woodville, Swadlincote, DE11 8DA
- Access to our garden machinery servicing and repair department
Browse the complete STIHL machinery range available from Masseys.
Frequently asked questions
Does the STIHL HT-KM include an engine?
No. The HT-KM is a KombiTool attachment only. A compatible loop-handle STIHL KombiEngine or cordless KombiMotor is required separately.
Which STIHL KombiEngines fit the HT-KM?
The HT-KM is suitable for loop-handle STIHL KombiEngines. Current examples include the KM 56 RC-E, KM 94 RC-E, KMA 80 R, KMA 120 R and KMA 135 R.
Does the HT-KM fit bike-handle engines?
No. STIHL specifies the HT-KM for loop-handle KombiEngines only.
How long is the STIHL HT-KM attachment?
The attachment is approximately 126cm long before it is connected to a KombiEngine.
How heavy is the STIHL HT-KM?
The attachment weighs approximately 1.3kg. The total operating weight depends on the selected KombiEngine, battery and any extension or harness.
What size guide bar does the HT-KM have?
The HT-KM has a 30cm / 12-inch guide bar.
Which replacement chain does the HT-KM use?
STIHL lists both ¼-inch P PM3 and 3/8-inch P PMM3 configurations. Check the pitch, gauge and drive-link count marked on the existing guide bar and chain before ordering a replacement.
Can the HT-KM use an extension shaft?
Yes. An approved STIHL shaft extension can be used with compatible HT-KM and KombiEngine combinations. Masseys stocks a one-metre carbon extension designed for the HT-KM and HL-KM.
Is chain oil included?
No. Suitable chainsaw chain oil is required separately for guide-bar and chain lubrication.
Is the HT-KM telescopic?
No. The HT-KM has a fixed 126cm attachment shaft. Additional reach can be added using an approved extension, but it does not telescope like a dedicated HTA 50, HTA 86 or HTA 135 pole pruner.
Can the HT-KM be used without a KombiEngine?
No. The attachment has no independent motor and cannot operate without a compatible petrol or cordless STIHL Kombi power unit.
Safe use and maintenance
Read the instructions for both the HT-KM attachment and the connected KombiEngine before operation.
Before cutting:
- Check the guide bar, saw chain, chain tension and lubrication
- Inspect the attachment and coupling for damage
- Check the branch for tension, decay or damage
- Establish a clear exclusion area for falling timber
- Keep people and animals away from the working area
- Check carefully for overhead electrical cables
- Make sure the ground is stable and free from trip hazards
Do not stand directly beneath the branch being cut. Work from a controlled position and cut large branches in manageable sections where appropriate.
Wear the protective equipment required by the STIHL instructions and the work being undertaken. This may include suitable head, eye, hearing, hand, leg and foot protection.
Stop the engine or motor and disconnect the power source before adjusting, cleaning, transporting or inspecting the cutting attachment.
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