Trimmer Line: Size & Shape Made Simple

Trimming your yard shouldn’t be guesswork. Whether you’re tidying up the edges or cutting through thick brush, picking the right trimmer line—both in size and shape—can make a huge difference in how fast, clean, and easy the job gets done. Here’s how to choose the best option for your needs.

Line Thickness: What Size Is Right?

Trimmer line typically ranges from 0.065" to 0.170" in diameter. The thicker the line, the more durable and aggressive it becomes—but that also means more strain on your trimmer.

• Light-duty (0.065" – 0.080"): Perfect for trimming grass and maintaining small lawns. Thinner line is flexible and works well with battery-powered or low-voltage tools.

• Medium-duty (0.080" – 0.095"): A great all-purpose size. Strong enough for weeds and edging, but still manageable on most residential trimmers.

• Heavy-duty (0.095" and up): Built for dense growth, brush, and rough conditions. You’ll need a powerful motor to spin it effectively.
  

✅ Tip: Always check your trimmer’s manual to ensure you're within the recommended diameter range.

Trimmer Line Shapes: Pros, Cons, and Use Cases

Beyond thickness, the shape of your trimmer line determines how it cuts, how much noise it makes, and how long it lasts. Here's a breakdown of the most common shapes you’ll encounter:

Round Line

Overview: Simple, versatile, and the most common type.
Best for: General trimming, edging, and around hard surfaces.
Strengths: Durable, feeds easily, and resists breakage on fences or pavement.
Limitations: Less cutting power compared to edged shapes.

Square Line

Overview: Four sharp edges help slice through thick grass and weeds.
Best for: Heavier growth and overgrown yards.
Strengths: Cleaner cuts and better efficiency in tough areas.
Limitations: Wears down faster when used near concrete or stone.

Pentagon Line

Overview: Five cutting edges offer a balance between round and square.
Best for: Medium-to-heavy trimming with more precision.
Strengths: Cleaner cuts than round line, with slightly better durability than square.
Limitations: Slightly less durable than round on contact with hard surfaces.

Twisted Line

Overview: Spiral design that reduces drag and vibration.
Best for: Dense vegetation and extended use.
Strengths: Quieter operation, better fuel efficiency (or battery life), and excellent cutting power.
Limitations: Can be more expensive and tricky to wind onto some spools.

Serrated Line

Overview: Saw-tooth design that “grabs and rips” through thick weeds.
Best for: Tall grass, brush, and stubborn weeds.
Strengths: Very aggressive cutting ability.
Limitations: Wears down quickly and may break on hard contact.

X-Shaped Line

Overview: Sharply ridged with four deep-cutting angles.
Best for: Heavy-duty trimming where precise, fast cuts are needed.
Strengths: High-speed, clean slicing through heavy grass.
Limitations: Slightly more brittle on hard impacts; may need more frequent replacement.

Final Summary & Takeaway: How to Pick the Right Line

To find the best trimmer line for your needs, ask yourself:

• What are you cutting?
  Light grass? Go round. Thick weeds or brush? Try square, twisted, or serrated.

• How big is the area?
  Larger properties benefit from thicker, more aggressive line shapes to save time and effort.

• What tool are you using?
  Not all trimmers can handle thicker or specialized lines. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
  
  

Choosing the right trimmer line is about matching your job to the right shape and size. Whether you're after precision or brute force, there’s a line out there that can help you trim faster, cut cleaner, and work smarter.

Thickness Chart:

Choosing the right trimmer line isn’t rocket science. It’s about matching the size and shape to your needs. With the right setup, you’ll trim faster, waste less line, and keep your yard looking sharp. At ARNS Equipment we sell only the BEST trimmer line on the market! Shop online or visit us in-store today!