Description
The STIHL SHA 56 is a 36 V cordless vacuum shredder and leaf blower designed for routine garden clear-ups. Part of the STIHL AK System, this practical 2-in-1 machine can be changed between blower and vacuum-shredder configurations without tools.
Use blower mode to gather dry leaves and grass clippings into manageable piles, then convert the SHA 56 into a vacuum shredder to collect and reduce the material before disposal or composting. It is available from Masseys as a tool-only machine or as a complete kit with an AK 20 battery and AL 101 charger.
Browse more STIHL leaf blowers and vacuum shredders, or view the complete leaf blower range at Masseys.
Why choose the STIHL SHA 56?
- Two machines in one: switch between cordless leaf-blower and vacuum-shredder configurations.
- Tool-free conversion: change the tubes and rotate the handle without needing additional tools.
- Metal shredder blade: reduces collected leaves and garden material as it enters the bag.
- Variable speed control: adjust the blowing or suction power to suit the surface and material.
- Rotatable handle: provides an appropriate working position in both operating modes.
- Length-adjustable blower tube: helps position the nozzle closer to the ground and can be adjusted to suit the user.
- 40-litre collection bag: provides useful capacity for domestic garden clearance.
- Adjustable shoulder strap: supports the machine during vacuum-shredder use.
- STIHL AK System compatibility: use the same suitable AK batteries across a growing range of domestic STIHL garden machinery.
- No petrol or trailing cable: start working by inserting a charged battery.
Choose tool-only or the AK 20 battery kit
The STIHL SHA 56 is available in two purchase options. Select the correct version from the product options above before adding it to your basket.
| Purchase option | What is included | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| STIHL SHA 56 tool-only | SHA 56 machine, blower components, vacuum-shredder components, collection bag and shoulder strap. Battery and charger are not included. | Customers who already own a suitable STIHL AK battery and charger. |
| STIHL SHA 56 with AK 20 and AL 101 | SHA 56 machine, attachments, AK 20 battery and AL 101 charger. | Customers buying their first STIHL AK System machine or needing a complete ready-to-charge package. |
Already own other AK tools? Explore the STIHL AK System cordless garden-machinery range.
Blower and vacuum-shredder performance
Blower mode
In blower configuration, the SHA 56 produces a blowing force of 8 N and a maximum air velocity of 56 m/s, approximately 125 mph. It is suited to gathering dry leaves, grass clippings, paper and other light garden debris from lawns, paths, patios and driveways.
The adjustable blower tube helps the user maintain a practical working height and keep the nozzle appropriately positioned above the surface.
Vacuum-shredder mode
In vacuum-shredder configuration, the SHA 56 provides an air throughput of 510 m³/h, approximately 300 cfm. Leaves and similar garden sweepings are drawn through the metal shredder blade and collected in the 40-litre bag.
The collection bag attaches to the vacuum tube and has a zip opening to make it easier to empty after use. Recesses around the suction-tube opening help reduce the likelihood of the tube sticking to the ground or collected material.
STIHL SHA 56 battery compatibility and working times
The SHA 56 uses batteries from the 36 V STIHL AK System. STIHL recommends the AK 20 battery for this machine.
| Battery | Maximum working time | Indicative area per charge |
|---|---|---|
| STIHL AK 10 | Up to 12 minutes | Up to 300 m² |
| STIHL AK 20 – recommended | Up to 25 minutes | Up to 600 m² |
| STIHL AK 30 S | Up to 30 minutes | Up to 700 m² |
Working time and area per charge are approximate maximum figures. Actual results vary according to battery condition, material, surface, selected speed, operating technique and environmental conditions.
Need a replacement or faster charger? Browse the available STIHL AL battery chargers.
STIHL SHA 56 technical specifications
| Battery system | STIHL AK System |
|---|---|
| Rated voltage | 36 V |
| Maximum voltage | 40 V |
| Recommended battery | STIHL AK 20 |
| Blowing force | 8 N |
| Maximum air velocity | 56 m/s, approximately 125 mph |
| Vacuum-shredder air throughput | 510 m³/h, approximately 300 cfm |
| Collection-bag capacity | 40 litres |
| Weight in vacuum-shredder configuration | 4.2 kg without battery |
| Weight in blower configuration | 3.2 kg without battery |
| Sound pressure level in vacuum mode | 83 dB(A) |
| Sound pressure level in blower mode | 81 dB(A) |
| Maximum working time with AK 20 | Up to 25 minutes |
| Tool-only manufacturer part number | SA020117100 |
What is included with the STIHL SHA 56?
- STIHL SHA 56 power unit
- Adjustable blower tube and nozzle components
- Vacuum-shredder tube components
- 40-litre collection bag
- Adjustable padded shoulder strap
- AK 20 battery and AL 101 charger only when the complete kit option is selected
Who is the STIHL SHA 56 suitable for?
The SHA 56 is a strong choice for domestic users who want one cordless machine for both gathering and collecting garden debris. It is particularly useful for routine clearance of dry leaves, grass clippings and light hedge cuttings around lawns and hard surfaces.
Masseys recommendation: choose the AK 20 kit when buying your first AK System tool. It provides the manufacturer-recommended battery and a useful balance between working time, weight and cost.
If you only need to blow leaves and do not require a vacuum or shredder, consider the STIHL BGA 60 cordless leaf blower. For longer or more demanding work where petrol power is preferred, compare the STIHL SH 56 petrol vacuum shredder and STIHL SH 86 petrol vacuum shredder.
Important operating guidance
The STIHL SHA 56 is intended for collecting leaves, cut grass and similar garden sweepings, and for blowing leaves, grass, paper and similar lightweight material.
Do not operate the machine in rain or damp conditions. Read the supplied instruction manual before use, follow all safety guidance and wear appropriate personal protective equipment. STIHL recommends wearing hearing protection.
For official instructions and product documents, visit the STIHL SHA 56 UK product page.
Why buy the STIHL SHA 56 from Masseys?
- STIHL Authorised Dealer: obtain product, battery and charger advice before purchasing.
- Tool-only and complete-kit choices: select the package that matches your existing equipment.
- Local support: speak to the Masseys team if you need help choosing between cordless and petrol equipment.
- Aftercare: access garden-machinery servicing and repair support.
- Physical stock checks: call before travelling and the team can confirm store availability.
For product availability, collection information or purchasing advice, call 01283 217133 or view the Masseys contact details and directions.
STIHL SHA 56 frequently asked questions
Is the STIHL SHA 56 a blower as well as a vacuum?
Yes. The SHA 56 is a 2-in-1 cordless machine that can be configured as either a leaf blower or a vacuum shredder. Separate purpose-designed tubes are supplied for the two operating modes.
Does the STIHL SHA 56 include a battery and charger?
It depends on the option selected. The tool-only version does not include a battery or charger. The complete-kit option includes an AK 20 battery and AL 101 charger.
Which battery is recommended for the STIHL SHA 56?
STIHL recommends the AK 20 battery. It provides a maximum working time of up to 25 minutes under suitable operating conditions.
Can an AK 10 or AK 30 S battery be used?
Yes. The SHA 56 is compatible with STIHL AK System batteries. Current guidance gives maximum working times of up to 12 minutes with AK 10, 25 minutes with AK 20 and 30 minutes with AK 30 S.
How heavy is the STIHL SHA 56?
The machine weighs 3.2 kg without battery in blower configuration and 4.2 kg without battery in complete vacuum-shredder configuration.
How large is the collection bag?
The vacuum-shredder configuration uses a 40-litre collection bag.
How does the SHA 56 change between modes?
The tubes can be changed without tools. The handle rotates to provide the correct working position for either blowing or vacuum shredding.
Can the STIHL SHA 56 be used in the rain?
No. The instruction manual states that the SHA 56 must not be operated in rain or damp conditions.
Is the STIHL SHA 56 suitable for wet leaves?
It is best used for dry leaves and similar garden material. Do not use the machine in rain or damp conditions, and always follow the operating instructions in the supplied manual.
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