WORX WG896 12 Amp Electric Lawn Edger: features, specs and who it suits

The WORX WG896 is a corded electric lawn edger and trencher. It cuts a clean vertical line where grass meets a path, driveway or flower bed, and WORX also says it can be used to bury wire. It's a push-along tool built around a 12 amp motor and a 7.5-inch blade.

What an edger does

A string trimmer cuts grass from above, while an edger slices down into the soil along a hard edge. The result is a crisp boundary that stops turf creeping over paving. Doing it regularly keeps lines tidy, and the same cutting action can open a shallow trench, which is why WORX describes the tool as an edger and trencher.

Motor and blade

WORX says the 12 amp motor spins the 7.5-inch blade at 4,700 revolutions per minute. Amps describe the current the motor draws, so a higher figure generally points to more cutting power under load. The company describes the blade as heavy-duty steel with serrated edges, which it says gives clean, straight lines. A wear indicator shows when the blade needs replacing.

Three cutting depths

The edger cuts down at 1 inch, 1-1/4 inches or 1-1/2 inches (about 25, 32 or 38 mm). A shallower setting suits routine maintenance along an established edge, while a deeper one is typically used to re-cut a line that has grown over. Check the settings against the thickness of your turf and the soil you have.

Cutting line indicator

A cutting line guide helps you keep the edger travelling straight along the edge. Following a visible guide is easier than judging a line by eye, particularly along a long driveway.

Shaft and handle

The shaft is adjustable and fitted with a D-grip handle, so people of different heights can find a comfortable working position. WORX says assembly is simple. The tool weighs 14 lb (about 6.4 kg), which the brand describes as light enough to push easily. Overall dimensions are 22.6 x 14.1 x 11.0 inches.

Maintenance

WORX notes that clearing clogs and replacing the blade are both straightforward, with one firm instruction: always unplug the edger first. Follow the manual for all blade changes and wear protective gear, including eye protection and sturdy footwear.

Power supply

Because the edger is corded, you need an outdoor-rated extension cord of suitable gauge and length if the work area is far from an outlet. The manual will state the recommended cord. Keep the cord clear of the blade, and use a protected outlet where your local codes call for one.

What to check before you buy

• The distance from the nearest outdoor outlet to the longest edge, and the extension cord you'd need.
• Which of the three depths fits your turf and soil.
• Whether you're edging straight lines or tight curves, since a push edger works best on long straight runs.
• Where blade replacements come from, and how often to expect them with your soil type.
• Storage space for a tool of this size.
• Protective gear and any local rules on noise or hours of use.

The short version

• A corded edger and trencher with a 12 amp motor and 7.5-inch steel blade.
• WORX says the blade turns at 4,700 rpm.
• Three depth settings: 1, 1-1/4 and 1-1/2 inches.
• Cutting line guide, adjustable shaft and D-grip handle; weighs 14 lb.
• Unplug before clearing clogs or changing the blade, and follow the manual.

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