Alpina B44D brushcutter review

I have purchased an Alpina brushcutter. It's a B44D.

First impressions are very favourable.

Having used Tondu, Stihl, Kawasaki and Husqvarna in the past, I was a little dubious about buying an Alpina. (although I had an Alpina chainsaw for many many years and loved it).

Why buy an Alpina in the first place? I was attracted by the price of just €219.00.

This is (arguably) a professional grade machine. It certainly feels like it when handling it. The engine also sounds and feels robust when using.

I've just two minor gripes.

1. The deflector shroud is large - I always took the deflector off of our machines at work - and digs into the grass causing the machine to twist in my hand and thus creating gouges in the grass. I don't have good quality grass so I can live with it but it's a niggle. I've had a lot of experience with using stimmers/brushcutters and pride myself on the finish I can create.

The finish created is disappointing. Does anyone else discard the deflector?

2. The harness is OK but the padded thigh protection doesn't hang where it's required. Subsequently I've got a bruised thigh.

I've tried adjusting but I cannot get the pad into the right place. I can live with this but it's a niggle.

However, the price meant the purchase was a no brainer.

Anyone else use Alpina?

Replies

PRO

Harry@VWGS May 20, 2016 at 8:34pm

Hi Phil, looks very similar to one of my old Allen brushcutter i used to have, was a good machine, with ref to the deflector I usually discard the the bottom half if it detaches, and if not I hacksaw the bottom off, mainly so I can extend the cord, yeah I know, my bad but it's a damn sight quicker and a much more even finish without it, will add though that I only do this on my small engined loop handle machines, no bigger than a KM94RCE engine, on my brushcutter i leave as is, I don't alter it in anyway from when it leaves the factory, two much torque and power to mess with ... :-)
- PRO
  
  Phil Voice > Harry@VWGS May 20, 2016 at 9:18pm
  
  Thanks for feedback Harry.
  
  I don't think the deflector detaches but I'll check.
  
  Never thought about cutting but I suppose it's easy enough to slide the deflector up the shaft a little way.
  
  I have to say that the deflector kept my trousers clean. Back in my work days I'd usually wear over trousers for heavy strimming.
  
  I also like to extend the cord so I'm not sure I'll persevere with the deflector.
PRO

Seth Burgess May 20, 2016 at 9:41pm

Does it have a Kawasaki engine? Looks very similar to a Stiga.

Alpina might also be under the GGP brand?