BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX* 24 in. cordless hedge trimmer with POWERDRIVE, Tool Only (LHT2436B)

Tackling overgrown yard growth calls for reach and cutting leverage, and this cordless hedge trimmer delivers both through a dedicated outdoor power design. Built around a 40V MAX platform, the tool focuses on clearing medium to thick overgrowth without dragging an extension cord across the lawn. It suits homeowners who manage established hedges, wide shrubs, and dense bushes where standard light-duty trimmers struggle to slice through mature stems cleanly.

The centerpiece of the tool is its 24-inch dual-action blade. Dual-action movement allows the blades to work against one another to offer less vibration during use, making longer sessions along extensive fence lines easier on your hands and arms. That long reach lets you shape deep hedges across flat tops and tall sides with fewer passes, while the teeth are spaced to handle branches up to 3/4 inch thick without catching.

To push through those thicker stems, the unit pairs its motor with a Powerdrive transmission. This gearing mechanism provides increased torque for greater cutting power right at the blade teeth, preventing bogging when you move from thin leafy greenery into woody shrub stems. Backing this mechanical drive is an efficient power draw capable of delivering up to 60 minutes of runtime on a compatible battery pack.

Ergonomics play a major role in outdoor yard tools, especially when trimming vertical faces or high corners. A wraparound handle paired with a full-length trigger lets you maintain a comfortable, secure grip in any orientation, whether you hold the tool horizontally, sideways, or angled. This flexibility helps you follow the natural contours of hedges without awkwardly twisting your wrists or losing leverage on the power switch.

The main trade-off is the bare-tool setup. The package includes only the bare trimmer and printed instructions, meaning the 40V battery and matching charger must be purchased separately if you do not already own them. In addition, its fixed 24-inch bar and substantial motor assembly prioritize cutting power and reach over ultra-compact storage.

Verdict: This cordless hedge trimmer is a strong choice for property owners who already use the 40V battery system and need reliable reach for woody branches up to 3/4 inch. If you do not own a compatible power pack or only need to snip soft, tender new shoots, a smaller complete kit will serve you better.

A great fit if you:

• Already own compatible 40V batteries and want an effective bare tool to trim thick bushes without paying for duplicate chargers.
• Need to cut through woody growth and branches up to 3/4 inch thick that stall lighter, entry-level trimmers.
• Maintain long property hedges that benefit from a broad 24-inch reach and up to 60 minutes of working runtime.
• Require a wraparound handle setup to comfortably shape shrubbery at steep vertical angles or awkward orientations.

Consider something else if you:

• Do not own compatible batteries or chargers and prefer buying a complete, all-in-one starter kit right away.
• Have only minor floral shaping tasks and would prefer a lighter, ultra-compact short-reach model.

Confirm on the listing:

• Check whether you have the necessary 40V MAX battery pack and compatible charger on hand, since neither is included in the package.
• Verify that your hedges and decorative bushes have branch diameters within the listed 3/4-inch cutting limit.
• Check the storage clearance in your garage or shed to ensure you have space for a 24-inch blade tool.
• Confirm that the included contents list matches your expectation of receiving one bare trimmer and instructions.

How to compare your options: When shopping for hedge trimming equipment, focus on blade length, maximum branch cutting capacity, and handle ergonomics. This model pairs a generous 24-inch dual-action bar with a 3/4-inch branch capacity, giving it more cutting authority than standard light-duty trimmers. If you compare it against alternative options, weigh whether you need a ready-to-run kit with power packs included or if you want the savings of a bare tool that slots into your existing cordless setup.

Before starting your first yard chore, consult the provided instructions to familiarize yourself with proper handling and the switch mechanism. Ensure your compatible 40V battery pack is fully charged prior to heading outside so you can take full advantage of the tool's runtime potential of up to 60 minutes.

When cutting, let the Powerdrive transmission do the hard work. Approach thicker branches up to 3/4 inch smoothly rather than forcing the blade through the wood, allowing the dual-action teeth to shear cleanly with minimal vibration. Use the wraparound handle to adjust your hand placement naturally as you change trimming angles, which keeps your grip stable whether you cut horizontally across flat hedge tops or vertically down the sides.

After each trimming session, remove the battery pack and follow the care guidance in the instructions. Clearing away caught twigs, leaves, and sap buildup from the 24-inch dual-action blade helps preserve clean cutting performance and smooth operation for future lawn care days.

Does this hedge trimmer come with a battery and charger?
No, it is sold as a bare tool. The package includes the LHT2436 cordless hedge trimmer and instructions, but the battery is not included.

How thick of a branch can this trimmer cut?
It cuts branches up to 3/4 inch thick. The 24-inch dual-action blade and torque-enhancing Powerdrive transmission are specifically designed to slice through stems up to that diameter.

How long will it run on a charge?
It offers up to 60 minutes of runtime. Actual performance during yard work depends on your battery status and the type of material you trim.

Can the tool be used comfortably at different angles?
Yes, it features a wraparound handle and a full-length trigger. This layout is designed to provide a comfortable, secure grip in any cutting orientation, including vertical trimming.

What is the benefit of the dual-action blade?
The 24-inch dual-action blade offers less vibration during operation. This helps you trim hedges, shrubs, and bushes with reduced arm fatigue compared to single-action designs.