STIHL HLA 86 Long Reach Hedge Trimmer (Tool Only)

Why buy the STIHL HLA 86 20″ Long Reach Hedge Trimmer (Tool Only)? Professional cordless long-reach hedge trimmer for landscape maintenance Telescopic shaft adjusts from 260 cm to 330 cm for exceptional reach 50cm (20″) double-sided blades provide a precise, clean cut Cutter bar is adjustable by 115° for vertical, overhead and ground-level cutting Quiet, efficient and low-maintenance brushless EC motor IPX4 rated for safe operation in all weather conditions The STIHL HLA 86 is a telescopic long-reach hedge trimmer specifically designed for professional users tackling demanding jobs. It is ideal for landscapers, gardeners, and grounds maintenance teams who need to cut, trim, and maintain tall and wide hedges with precision and efficiency. As a battery-powered tool, it offers quiet operation, making it perfect for work in noise-sensitive areas such as residential estates, hospitals, or schools. Please Note: This is a tool-only model. The battery and charger from the STIHL AP System are required and must be purchased separately. Professional Performance and Precision At the core of the HLA 86 is a 50cm (20″) set of laser-cut, diamond-ground blades that are double-sided and double-edged for a perfectly clean cutting pattern. The head can be adjusted by up to 115° (from -45° to 70°), providing the versatility needed for vertical, overhead, and ground-level cutting. This flexibility is powered by a high-acceleration EC motor that is not only powerful but also efficient and low-maintenance, ensuring a long service life. Designed for the Professional User STIHL has engineered the HLA 86 for comfortable, prolonged use. Its square telescopic shaft can be adjusted without tools from 260cm to 330cm, allowing the operator to adapt quickly to the task at hand. The machine boasts excellent balance, especially when paired with the recommended AP 200 S battery, which creates a low tilting torque to reduce operator fatigue. An ergonomic control handle with a self-resetting Ergo lever makes operation intuitive for both left- and right-handed users. Furthermore, with an IPX4 rating, this hedge trimmer can be used confidently in rain and wet conditions. Convenience and Portability For professionals moving between job sites, portability is key. The head of the HLA 86 can be folded flat, reducing the total transport length to just 187cm, making it easy to store in a vehicle. The included tip protector prevents damage to the blades when working close to walls or the ground, while the blade scabbard ensures safe transport and storage. STIHL AP Battery System Compatibility The HLA 86 is compatible with the professional STIHL AP battery system. The recommended AP 200 S battery provides an excellent combination of power and balance, delivering up to 144 minutes of runtime on a single charge. The table below shows the maximum working times with various AP and AR backpack batteries. Battery Model Max. Run Time AP 100 up to 72 mins AP 200 / AP 200 S up to 144 mins AP 300 up to 180 mins AP 300 S up to 223 mins AP 500 S up to 268 mins AR 1000 up to 450 mins AR 2000 / AR 2000 L up to 760 mins AR 3000 L up to 1110 mins As an established, authorised UK dealer for STIHL, Sims Garden Machinery has been serving professionals and homeowners for over 100 years. When you purchase from us, you’re not just buying a box. Our trained sales staff are on hand in our Stratford-upon-Avon showroom to help you select the right tool for your needs. For local customers, every machine receives a free pre-delivery inspection (PDI) by our trained mechanics, is delivered personally, and includes a full handover demonstration to ensure you can operate it safely and effectively. This level of service and aftersales support is what sets us apart. Not sure which machine or part is right for you? Our team is here to help. Contact us today for expert advice. Technical Specification Rated voltage 36 V Max. voltage 40 V Power 0.29 kW Recommended battery AP 200 S Battery system AP Stroke rate 3000 r/min Device weight without battery 4.8 kg Cutter blade length 50 cm Tooth spacing 33 mm IP Rating IPX4 Max. device length with tool 331 cm Sound pressure level 76 dB(A) Sound power level 91 dB(A) Vibration level left 2.3 m/s² Vibration level right 1.6 m/s² Why buy from Sims Garden Machinery? Authorised main dealer We are authorised dealers for leading brands, meaning genuine parts, manufacturer-approved training, and warranty support you can rely on. Real people, real support No call centres. No ticket systems. Just a knowledgeable local team you can speak to when you need help. Expert advice — not pushy sales Our team are trained mechanics and product specialists, so you get honest, practical advice based on how you’ll actually use the machine. Established, independent family business We’re a long-standing independent dealer with deep roots in the local area — built on reputation, repeat customers, and word of mouth. Frequently Asked Questions What battery and charger do I need for the STIHL HLA 86? The HLA 86 is part of the STIHL AP System. STIHL recommends the AP 200 S battery for the best balance and performance, providing up to 144 minutes of runtime. However, it is compatible with all batteries in the AP range. The appropriate charger will depend on the battery you choose. Please note both battery and charger are sold separately. How long is the STIHL HLA 86? The HLA 86 features a telescopic shaft, which allows its total length to be adjusted tool-free from 260 cm (approx. 8.5 ft) to 330 cm (approx. 10.8 ft). When the cutting head is folded for transport, the total length is reduced to a more compact 187 cm. Is the HLA 86 hedge trimmer suitable for use in the rain? Yes, the STIHL HLA 86 has an IPX4 rating, certifying it as splash-proof. This means it is designed for professional use and can be safely operated in wet conditions and rain. Who is the STIHL HLA 86 best suited for? This long-reach hedge trimmer is designed specifically for professional users, such as landscapers, gardeners, and grounds maintenance teams. Its extended reach, powerful cutting performance, and quiet battery operation make it ideal for maintaining very tall and wide hedges, especially in noise-sensitive locations like residential areas, hospitals, or schools. User Manuals / Downloads View STIHL Brochure