Kobalt 80V Cordless 16-inch Straight String Trimmer — 2nd Gen Bare Tool, High-Torque

The Kobalt 80-Volt Max 16-inch Straight Cordless String Trimmer (bare tool, 2nd generation) is a high-torque, battery-powered line trimmer designed for efficient edging and trimming without the weight or emissions of a gas engine.

If you’re updating your lawn-care kit and prefer a powerful, lightweight cordless trimmer that accepts Kobalt 80V batteries (sold separately), this 2nd-generation straight-shaft model delivers improved balance, responsive throttle control, and a 16-inch cutting swath for tidy borders and hard-to-reach areas. It’s built to pair with Kobalt’s 80-volt battery platform so you can share power across tools, reduce vibration, and skip gas mixing and cords.

How does this trimmer perform on common yard tasks?

The 80‑Volt Max motor produces strong RPMs for slicing through grass and light weeds, while the 16-inch cutting path balances speed and maneuverability. The straight shaft offers reach for under shrubs and around obstacles, and the head accepts standard dual-line trimmer line for quick reloads.

• 16-inch cutting swath for efficient edging and trimming
• Straight-shaft design for extended reach beneath shrubs and fences
• High-torque brushless-style motor characteristics for responsive cutting
• Compatible with Kobalt 80V battery platform (battery not included)

What are the convenience and user-control features?

The 2nd-generation model focuses on ergonomics and ease of use: a comfortable handle position, simplified trigger control, and a lightweight bare-tool format let you add the battery size that fits your job. The head is designed for quick line advancement so you waste less time reloading and more time trimming.

• Lightweight bare-tool body lets you choose battery capacity for runtime
• Ergonomic handle placement reduces fatigue during extended use
• Simple bump-feed or quick-load head options for fast string replacement
• Tool-free adjustments for angle and balance on many models

What maintenance and safety should I plan for?

Routine upkeep is minimal compared with gas trimmers: keep the cutting head clean, replace trimmer line as needed, and inspect the shaft and guard for damage. Use appropriate PPE—eye protection and long pants—when operating and remove the battery before performing maintenance.

• Inspect and replace worn trimmer line regularly
• Keep guard free of debris to maintain performance and safety
• Store indoors and remove battery when not in use
• Follow Kobalt safety guidelines in the included manual

How does the bare-tool format affect buying decisions?

Buying the bare tool saves money if you already own Kobalt 80V batteries or want to customize runtime with different battery sizes. If you don’t have any 80V batteries yet, factor in the cost of compatible batteries and chargers when comparing to bundled models.

• Bare-tool price is lower but requires Kobalt 80V battery and charger
• Choose higher-capacity batteries for longer runtimes on larger yards
• Interchangeable battery platform works across Kobalt 80V tools
• Consider battery weight and balance when selecting capacity

Who is this trimmer for? Homeowners with medium to large yards who prefer cordless convenience and already use or plan to adopt the Kobalt 80V battery ecosystem will appreciate this 2nd‑generation straight cordless string trimmer. It’s a strong option for users who want a nimble tool that reaches tight spaces, minimizes vibration, and integrates with a multi-tool battery collection, while those seeking an all-in-one package should remember batteries and chargers are sold separately.