We’re the very first to get our hands on the brand new STIHL BR 800 backpack blowers. At least we’re the first outside the STIHL camp to do so. This new blower delivers more than 900 CFM of air volume, and it creates a wind velocity of more than 230 mph. For the true measure of work, we’re impressed with the 41 Newtons of force. And it’s not just about power with these units. STIHL has added a few impressive features as well.
Recently, news has spread of other companies releasing big blowers, and it seems that STIHL didn’t want to be left out. They’ve done a great job at keeping this under wraps. Redesigning a whole new blower and engine, then manufacturing it, before anyone finds out – impressive.
This blower made our Best Backpack Blower Reviews list! Check it out!
STIHL BR 800 Magnum – 80cc Punch
The heartbeat of the new STIHL BR 800 blowers is a new 79.8cc engine that cranks out more than 4.4hp. Are you kidding me, already?! That’s like strapping a go-kart to your back. STIHL designed a brand new blower housing and impeller to work with the new power plant. They didn’t just stick an 80cc engine on the STIHL BR 700 Blower, they engineered a completely new system.
Side Start Technology
Ok, this is what every lawn pro has been waiting for, for a long time. No longer do you have to take your backpack blower off to restart. The new STIHL BR 800 blowers are available with the side-start technology. Rather than a T-handle pull start on the rear of the blower, the unit gets a wand that protrudes toward the operator, on the left side of the machine.
It’s not only about the placement and type of handle, either. They incorporated their easy-start system with the pull of the rope, as they use on some of their STIHL chainsaws. Using this was a breeze – no joke. Pull the handle slowly to find top-dead-center (compression stroke on the engine – ready to fire), a quick pull, and it started right up.
STIHL BR 800 – Models C and X
As before in the BR 700 line, the STIHL BR 800 series gets a model c and x. The C model gets the adjustable nozzle, while the X gets a stationary nozzle, with your choice of long or short. The X shaves some weight off, which is especially noticeable while swinging back and forth. The X may be the right choice if you’re concerned with weight and ergonomics.
Transport Clips
Another nice feature of both models is the clip on the housing, which you attach to a metal ring that connects to the blower tube. This aids in stress relief for the handles and tubes, especially during transport, on the trailer, or in a truck.
Stihl BR 800 Backpack Blower Specifications
- Displacement: 79.9 cc
- Engine Power: 4.4 hp
- Weight: 23 lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 67.6 oz
- Blowing Force: 41 Newtons
- Max Air Velocity: 239 mph, 912 CFM
- Sound Pressure Rating: 78 dB(A)
Bottom Line
It’s always fun to be the first at something, especially when it involves high-revving engines and 912 CFM of thrust at your fingertips. The new STIHL BR 800 backpack blower is no joke. Compared to the BR 700, there’s a significant difference in power being delivered, which should translate into more work being done. The leaf-blowing season is right around the corner, so these new units should find some real workouts very soon.
Expect to pay somewhere in the $700 range, depending on how you outfit your STIHL BR 800.
